The Plymouth Shopper December 2014

SHOP LOCAL SAVE POUNDS

Peverell

8,600 copies delivered in Peverell, Mutley and Mannamead Peverell woman prepares to tackle one of the Wonders of the World for charity

Sarah’s Great Wall challenge for St Luke’s Sarah Gorehas from Peverell will face the challenge of a lifetime next year when she takes part in a charity walk on the Great Wall of China.

December 2014

Win a two night break courtesy of

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE • DIAL THE EXPERTS • What’s On in the area • Community Job Shop

• Legally speaking • Local history feature • Cross Rhythms

HAT-TRICK OF AWARDS FOR CARE HOME - SEE P2 Vouchers on pages 3 and 5

Sarah Gorehas...preparing for the big challenge

She will be one of a group of fund-raisers taking part in St Luke’s Great Wall of China Overseas Challenge in April. She hopes to raise thousands of pounds to help fund the vital work undertaken

by St Luke’s each year.

FULL DETAILS ON PAGE 23

Baby Frankie first in UK to undergo spina bifida surgery in the womb • Delicious Cakes & Savouries • Baked locally at our premises • Cocktail pasties in all your favourite flavours

Why not try one of our Luxury Christmas Log Cakes?

We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year This is three month old Frankie whose mother Gina from Devonport was the first woman in the UK to be funded by the NHS to have surgery on an unborn baby with spina bifida - FULL STORY ON BACK PAGE

St Luke’s launch coffee morning appeal - page 7

Call one of our Pilgrim Members now

Our Shop in Plymouth City Market 01752 222518 Bakery shop at Burringdon way Ind Estate 01752 781742

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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

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

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

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.

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The Plymouth Shopper

Mannamead care home scores a hat-trick environment with their voice at the heart of every action they undertake. I believe as a team we have worked diligently to accomplish this.”

Staff from Lelant Nursing Home in Mannamead are celebrating after scooping three awards at the regional finals of the Great British Care Awards.

Marie-Claire was celebrating a double success as she triumphed once again to win Care Home Activity Coordinator for the second year running. She said: “All activities have focused on individual choice and these have been linked to exploring life histories and fulfilling end of life wishes.

Sue Wills, Marie-Claire Foale and Annette Fleet all won awards in recognition of their outstanding contribution to nursing care.

Sue Wills, the manager at Lelant said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won three awards. We never imagined for one minute that all three of us would be successful. We have worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of the elderly service users within our facility and as a team we have taken great strides to improve end of life care for those who are advancing in years and receiving palliative care.”

Susan led her team to success winning “The Dignity in Care Award” jointly with activities co-ordinator MarieClaire Foale.

The judging panel said, “Susan and Marie-Claire demonstrated their passion and commitment to giving people a voice at any stage in their life. It is evident, listening to the work undertaken at Lelant, that hours and energy have moved this unit from a clinical,

Ian Taylor managing diretor of Pilling Care Homes pictured with Sue Wills manager, Marie-Claire Foale activities co-ordinator and Anette Fleet nutrition manager

institutional nursing unit to a home that meets the needs of the residents irrespective of age or condition.

An inspirational project delivered by inspirational advocates for dignity and respect.”

Marie-Claire said “I am over the moon at the outcome of these awards. We have worked enthusiastically as a team to build an environment which enshrines best practice. We actively promote dignity, choice and rights as our core principles and believe that in order for our service users to lead a dignified life, they must feel empowered to do so.

“This can only be achieved in a transparent and safe

The judging panel said, “Marie-Claire’s ability to create an amazing experience for each of the residents she supports, as they come to the end of their lives shone through. A truly amazing person and a well deserving winner!”

The Nutrition and Hydration Award was won by Annette Fleet who fought off stiff competition to bring the trophy home to Plymouth. Annette’s ideology supports the theory that nutritional care requires determining a person’s individual preferences and cultural needs.

She believes that food and drink is fundamental to quality of life and is critical to health and wellbeing. The judges agreed that Annette’s passion and dedication for putting residents first shone through whilst providing a balanced and varied diet for all.

Million-metre row to give meningitis the heave-ho A personal trainer whose friend’s son suffered brain damage from meningitis is hosting a million-metre row to give the disease the heaveho.

Craig, 37, said: “It’s going to be a tough challenge and we underestimated the distance, but we will finish ASAP for Harry.

At just 14 months, Harry Pannell, of Mutley, could not walk, talk, see and hear within hours of contracting meningitis in January 2007.

Louise praised the group’s gruelling effort. She said: “We want to help Meningitis Now, to thank them and spare others suffering, so come and watch – any donations are welcome. I also urge everyone to learn the symptoms and trust their instincts.”

The fighter spent nine days in intensive care and is still unable to talk, has learning difficulties and needs daily medication to prevent fits.

But Harry, now nine, defied doctors’ expectations by relearning to walk within six weeks, regained his sight within three months and hearing over time.

His dad Greg, 34, said: “It was so fast – life was normal and suddenly we’re in hospital watching Harry hooked up to tubes and monitors.

“Harry was walking, talking, getting on with things and then it was like someone pressed reset and he was a newborn.

“We were told that another half-an-hour without medical attention and he’d have died.”

Mum Louise Murphy, 38, said the family received “valuable” help from Meningitis Now, formerly Meningitis Trust, including financial and emotional support.

To aid the fight, her personal trainer Craig Adams, of Plymouth, and three friends at the city’s McCaulay’s gym started the 621-mile challenge on Monday, November 10. They hope to finish in around a month.

“We don’t mind the aches and pains as long as we raise as much as possible for the charity in Harry’s name.”

Meningitis survivor Harry, left, with mum Louise and younger brother William

Greg and Louise thought Harry was teething or had a virus because he had a high temperature and looked lethargic.

happened to Harry sadly shows how fast meningitis can strike, often with few or only flu-like symptoms.

They consulted a doctor twice and NHS Direct, which recommended antibiotics, Calpol and pain killers. Louise slept in his room and during the night he vomited.

“His bravery to battle back is amazing. We thank the family and everyone taking part in the million-metre challenge for helping us.”

At 7am the couple could not wake him, so rang an ambulance and arrived at Derriford Hospital within 12 minutes. The baby was transferred to Bristol Royal Children’s Hospital the same day, where he spent nine days comatose.

For more information on the event, visit www.Craigpt. net. To donate and for more on the disease, visit www.

MeningitisNow.org.

Pilgrim Patchers create Remembrance Day quilt

Greg said: “He’d a bacterial infection in the brain, no one knew how much he’d be affected. We took it hour by hour – hanging on every word the medics said.

“It’s been a slow recovery and it’s ongoing, but we feel lucky he’s still here.”

Meningitis Now founder Steve Dayman MBE, who launched the UK’s meningitis movement after losing his baby son Spencer to the disease in 1982, added: “What

Plymouth Guild offering carers free dementia insight workshops Free three hour dementia insight workshops for any carer who is supporting someone who has dementia are being offered by Plymouth Guild.

The workshop covers types of dementia, the most common early symptoms, speech and behavioural changes, how sight may be affected and ways to overcome some of the problems this may cause, ensuring fluid intake and a balanced nutritional diet, recognising simple cost-effective changes that can enhance the environment and looking after yourself as a carer.

The workshops are held on a monthly basis at the Plymouth Guild premises at 156 Mannamead Road.

For further information or to book a place please contact Ellie Cannon on 01752 256020 or email chp@ plymouthguild.org.uk

A Remembrance Day Quilt has been made for Mount Gould Church by a group of ladies called the Pilgrim Patchers. The group, which was formed four years ago made blocks which were then sewn together into the quilt now on display in the church.

The group has been so successful that there is now a newly-formed Thursday morning group, who have decided to call themselves The Goulden Girl Stitchers For more information please contact: Pat King 01752 240560

“Carry each other’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Galatians 6:2”

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Congratulations to the winners of the Barbican Theatre competition which appeared in our September edition. First prize went to Mrs Sharp of Boringdon Hill while the six runners up prizes were won

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS

Southway Playcare After School and Holiday Club Southway Community Centre, Southway PL6 6TB. After school club from 3pm £5 per hour; holiday sessions 8am to 6pm £18 per day; 10am to 6pm £12; 8am to 3pm £12; 10am to 3pm £8. Ofsted Reg No EY398796. Daily sessions throughout the summer holidays. For details contact Hayley or Wendy on 01752 703581.

The Imaginators Various dates Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Fun, free sessions for pre-school children and their parents/carers. 10.30am to 11.30am on Wednesdays during term time. Advance booking is essential on 304665.

Pensioners and 50 Plus Action Group Forthcoming events Dec 12. Schoolchildren singing - 11am to 12.45pm at the King’s Tamerton Community Centre, Plymouth. Members free for all events, everyone over 50 welcome. For more details please contact Mrs Margaret Williams on 01752 350498.

Sleeping Beauty Dec 3 to Dec 6 Annual pantomime by the Touchwood Theatre Company at Devonport Playhouse.

Directed by Sam Pomeroy and featuring the classic story of Princess Beauty, the evil Carabosse, filled with well known songs and a script written by local Plymothian Nick Anderson, nightly at 7.30pm, plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm Tickets: £9.50 & £8.50 plus other reduced prices. Box Office: 606507 or 07999 639888 Christmas Fayre Dec 6 St Aidan Church, Ernesettle 11am-2pm. Refreshments, Christmas stalls, for children - Teddy Tombola and name a snowman. Bring children to see Santa and receive a present All proceeds will be donated to the campaign for disability awareness.

Early Choral Music Concert Dec 6 Featuring the Resonet Chamber Choir at The Church of Christ the King, Notte Street, Plymouth at 6.30pm. Treat yourself and unwind in the run-up to Christmas, with this concert ofsublime music from centuries gone by.

A modest donation to charity would be most welcome.

In Search of Christmas Dec 7 Crownhill Methodist Church Drama Group present a play ‘In Search of Christmas,’ as part of the evening service at 6.30pm. All welcome. Please phone 292118 for more details.

Christmas Concert Dec 8 Presented by Plymouth Community Choir at the Salvation Army Congress Hall, Armada Way, Plymouth. Tickets £3 on the door. Followed by festive refreshments. Raising money for WaterAid. 7.45pm.

Christmas Disco Dec 12 For adults with learning disabilities, friends and family welcome. Stonehouse Creek Community Centre, King’s Road, Plymouth. 6.30pm-11pm Tickets £7 per person, disco and buffet included, raffle with great prices to be won. Details Cheryl Wotton 01752 704670 email: cheryl.wotton@yahoo.com Christmas Tree Festival Dec 13 and 14 St Budeaux Methodist Church from 10am to 7pm on Saturday and 2pm to 3pm on Sunday followed by a Carol Service at 4pm. Refreshments will be served throughout the weekend.

Christmas Concert Dec 13 Brent Singers perform their Christmas Concert under the direction of their new musical director, Philip Arkwright at 7.30pm in St.Petroc’s Church, South Brent when they will be singing Part 1 of Handel’s Messiah and the Hallelujah Chorus together with eight carols for Christmas. Jason Smart will be on the organ and soloists will be Lesley Jamison (soprano), Cheryl Stead (contralto), Robert Woodford (tenor) and Ian Wintersgill (bass). Tickets are priced £5 (under-16s free) and available from choir members or at the door (or phone 01752-892703).There will be a retiring collection for the charity Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Cards for Good Causes Until Dec 16 Multi charity Christmas card shop, Plymouth Guildhall Monday-Saturday 10am to 4pm

`• continued on page 6 4

The Plymouth Shopper

Rhyme Times Central Library Monday from 11am; Thursday from 2pm Crownhill Library Tuesday: 2.15pm to 2.45pm Efford Library Tuesday: 10.30am to 11am Ernesettle Library Saturday: 11am to 11.30am Estover Library Tuesday: 3.30 to 4pm Laira Library Wednesday: 10.30am Peverell Library Monday from 2pm; Friday from 11am Plympton Library Thursday from 2pm;Saturday from 10.30am (Under 5s club) Plymstock Library Thursday from 2.15pm St Aubyn (Devonport) Library Saturday from 11am St Budeaux Library Thursday from 10am Southway Library Wednesday from 10am Stoke Library Wednesday from 10.30am to 11am (term time only) West Park Library Monday: 10am to 10.30am Story Times Central Library: every Wednesday from 11am (storytime and crafts) Crownhill Library: first Saturday of the month from 11am Plymstock Library: every Saturday from 10.30am (age 4+) Tothill Library: first Tuesday of the month from 3.45pm to 4.15pm 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.

Make a Difference Support Group Mondays During term time 10am to 12 noon at the Virginia House Centre, Palace St, Peacock Lane, Bretonside. Open to any parent/carer of child/children with additional needs either diagnosed or still going through the process who can get to us.We can be found at make a difference Plymouth parent support group on Facebook or anyone interested can contact me on 07599 996389.

Pensioners and 50 Plus Action Group Every second Friday We are a growing group of people (over the age of fifty) who meet every second Friday of the month. We usually have speakers, from local Members of Parliament, to companies like South West Water and local councillors etc.

Meetings are held in the Wolseley Trust Community Building in Wolseley Road, Plymouth (next door to Sylvia’s Café), behind the Co-operative and Lidl Superstores, just down from Milehouse traffic lights. We welcome anyone over the age of 50 to attend these meetings, and the social events, so come and meet us and see what we do. For further details please contact Mrs Margaret Williams on 01752 350498.

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.

Circle Dance 2nd, 3rd and 4th Mondays of the month. Yealmpton Circle Dance Group. The Regency Room, Kitley House Hotel, Yealmpton. 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.

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.

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

Big Noisy Christmas event from the Big Noise Chorus The Big Noise Chorus will be bringing its exciting and enthusiastic presence to Mutley Baptist Church for a new concert of songs, ‘Let it be – A Big Noisy Christmas’ on Friday December 12.

Joined by the talented choir from Pennycross Primary School and The Four Tones from Torbay Big Noise Chorus the choir will feature the usual lively repertoire of songs from Queen to the Beatles as well as seasonal favourites, to uplift and inspire.

The Plymouth Big Noise Chorus continues to grow in enthusiasm and popularity with more than 90 members. They sing mainly to support local 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.

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.

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

New families welcome. Please call Kate Timonthy 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 7.30 - 9.30 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.

charities and, together with the other choirs in the group, have raised over £60,000 for good causes in the past 5 years.

This Christmas they are supporting Mutley Baptist Church’s Charity ‘Go Nepal’ to aid their campaign to raise money to send volunteers to Nepal.

Go along and enjoy this not to be missed concert and put some sparkle in your Christmas!

Tickets are available from the church or online at www. bignoisechorus.co.uk priced £8 for adults, and £5 for children. The doors open at 7pm and the performance begins at 7.30pm.

Early booking is recommended, as the concert was very popular last year!

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.

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.

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.

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. Contact Dave Crawford 01752 407047 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.

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 1.45pm 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 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.

St John Ambulance Mondays: Cadets – For children aged 10-18 years at St

`• continued on page 6

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FESTIVE EVENTS AT FORD PARK Ford Park Cemetery will be celebrating Christmas with two special festive events.

The first is on December 3 when the annual Carol Service will be held in the Chapel. The event starts at 6.30pm and features readings, carols and a Christmas poem. The traditional service will be led by Father Tim Thorp and features the Widey Court school choir.

Tickets to include refreshments, which will be served in the Visitor Centre after the service, cost £4 and are available from the Cemetery office (weekdays only) from 10am to 3pm on 01752 665442.

The final event for the year is a ‘first’ at Ford Park.

Entitled ‘Illuminated Christmas Village’ the event takes place on December 6 and 7 and features many miniature properties set on a magical snowy backdrop.

The cafe will be open selling mince pies and cream and other Christmas fare for visitors to enjoy. The Visitor Centre will be open both days between 2pm and 6pm with admission £2 for adults in aid of Cemetery funds. Entry is free for children.

Raising awareness of dementia A Plymouth company specialising in care for the elderly is organising a special event to raise awareness of dementia.

Free estimates call 01752 769832 or 07846 475217

UK’S LARGEST INDOOR PLAY CENTRE

First Care South West is hosting a one-day Dementia Awareness Day at its premises in The Millfields on December 3 which will be attended by invited professionals including CHC specialists, nursing staff and solicitors for the elderly.

First Care South West was established five years ago

by Jeannette Roberts, a non-practising solicitor, who represents clients in the South West, assisting with requests/reviews/appeals relating to NHS Continuing Healthcare Funding and local authority social care needs assessments.

Jeannette is a Dementia Champion who provides free Dementia Friends Information Sessions in the Plymouth area to local groups and companies.

She said: “The whole day is aimed at raising awareness on dementia and to enhance the service we provide to our clients with dementia or brain injuries and their families, with the latest research and evidence-based practice, together with advice and guidance in this area of expertise from the experts mentioned above.”

p Contact Jum rmation. fo in e for mor

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS `• continued from page 4 Gabriel’s. New members are always welcome to all the groups. For details about Cadets and Adults contact Neil on 07880 723248.

`• continued from page 4 Christmas Concert Dec 19 Music of the Night Chorale Foundation & Orchestra at 7.30pm Roland Levinsky Building. Guest choirs include Plymouth Phoenix Chorale and Ridgeway School Chamber Choir.

Tickets £10 from Pat Anstey on 01752 365580 Community Candlelit Carol Service Dec 21 4pm at Crownhill Methodist Church featuring traditional nine lessons and carols, followed by drinks and mince pies. All welcome. Phone 292118 for more details.

Carols from the Bandstand Dec 22 Devonport Park from 6pm. Refreshments available from the Pavilion Park Cafe. In the event of bad weather it will be held in the community room at the rear of the cafe.

Carol Singing in Crownhill Dec 24 Carol singing by members of Crownhill Methodist Church in Crownhill Village in aid of Action for Children. 9am to 12 noon. All welcome to join in with carols. Phone 292118 for more details.

Christingle Service Dec 24 Traditional Christingle Service at Crownhill Methodist Church at 3pm. All welcome. A Christmas Eve service followed by Holy Communion will take place at 11.30pm. Please phone 292118 for more details.

Family Christmas Service Dec 25 10.30am at Crownhill Methodist Church Family Service. All welcome.

RASC/RCT/RLC Association AGM Jan 14 The annual meeting of the Corps Association will be held the Army Reserve Centre, Derriford, starting at 7.30pm.

The Corps Annual Dinner will be held on January 30 at the Boringdon Park Golf Club, Plympton 7pm for 7.30pm. Details 01752 769169.

Babes in the Wood Jan 16 and 17 Traditional family panto presented by Kadcat - Keyham And Devonport Community Amateur Theatre, a community based group. The shows are 7.30pm on Friday and Friday and 2.30pm and 7.30pm on Saturday St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, Outland Road, Plymouth. Tickets are £6 for adults & £5 for concessions and can be purchased from the ticket hotline on 07410 917742.

Arts Week at National Marine Aquarium The National Marine Aquarium is preparing to be awash with creativity with the return of Arts Week. Taking place from the December 1 to 5, Arts Week will welcome school children from across the region for a full day of fun and creativity.

Now in its seventh year, Arts Week offers a variety of arts based workshops, including sessions with the Aquarium’s Resident Artist and drawing classes with divers, using the amazing creatures as inspiration. All sessions have been developed to include a variety of cross curricular skills, as well as being fun and interactive.

Dr David Gibson, Managing Director of the National Marine Aquarium, commented: “We’re really looking forward to hosting another Arts Week. It’s always great to see the children engaging with our hosts and workshops and being inspired by the array of marine life we have here at the Aquarium.

“Arts Week is such a good opportunity for their imaginations to run wild – it’s fascinating to see the art work they produce. We look forward to welcoming schools from Plymouth and beyond to Arts Week next month.”

Arts Week costs £7 per pupil, which includes a sketchbook, two workshops and a dive show.

For more information on Arts Week at the National Marine Aquarium, please visit www.national-aquarium.co.uk or call 01752 275 233.

6

The Plymouth Shopper

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 Lst 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 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.

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.

Toddlers Group 9.30am every Tuesday at St Michael’s Church in Albert Road, Stoke and 9.15am every Wednesday at St Barnabas Church in St Barnabas Terrace. Term time. All welcome just turn up!

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.

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

Plymouth Unitarians Sundays Do you long for a church which accepts that there is value in all the great religions but allows its members to decide what to believe? Do come along and decide if it is right for you. Sunday at 11am at the Unitarian Church, Notte Street.

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.

Plymouth Electronic Organ and Keyboard Society Meets 3rd Monday of the month Parkway Sports and Social Club, Ernesettle Lane, Ernesettle, Plymouth at 7.30pm. Players and listeners more than welcome to join our friendly club for an evening of music.

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.

£8m art college workshop official opening Plymouth College of Art celebrated the formal opening of its new £8m workshop spaces by welcoming special guest Sir John Sorrell, a leading ambassador for arts in the UK. One of the key figures in UK design, founder of the Sorrell Foundation, and the brains behind the London Design Festival, Sir John Sorrell gave a speech at the opening of the college’s Craft, Design and Fabrication Workshops, heralding the importance of creative education and the creative industries to the UK. “I believe that places like this are incredibly important to this country,” said Sir John Sorrell. I’m really delighted to be here and I want to say congratulations to everybody who makes this great art school what it is.”

The evening event was attended by a selection of special VIPs, including MPs, councillors, staff,

Sir John Sorrell (right) pictured with Professor Andrew Brewerton, principal of Plymouth College of Art

alumni, local businesses, artists and key industry links – while all students and staff celebrated the opening at an afternoon event.

The college’s new workshops house the Jewellery Design studios and Printed Textile workshop spaces, as well as the new FabLab (FabLab Plymouth), are seen as a significant demonstration of the college’s long-term dedication to physical facilities in arts education.

A significant part of the college’s

The Plymouth Laryngectomy Club (PLC) The Plymouth Laryngectomy Club (PLC) aims to offer support and understanding to Laryngectomees, and their families and carers, in the Plymouth area. Are you a Laryngectomee, or do you know someone who is? We also invite any other Head & Neck Cancer patients to become members of PLC. Why not get in touch and come and join us? Club Members usually meet at 10.30 am on the second Tuesday of each month. One month we meet at the Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre at Derriford and the next month we take a trip somewhere… anywhere! For further information, please contact Geoff Read on (01752) 563800 07745 819 828 (text only).

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 Family Time First Saturday of the month All welcome at the free family cinema club from 10 am with tuck shop & coffee bar at St Budeaux Church Community Hall, The Green, off Crownhill Road, Higher St Budeaux.

The films, all suitable for 5 to 11year olds, finish at 12 midday and are followed by family time in the games hall & cafe until 2 p.m. For further information please contact Lyn on 01752 706728 Weekly Bingo Thursdays Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Jude’s 7pm.

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

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.

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.

Sequenced Dance Saturdays St Gabriels Church Hall, Hyde Park 7.30pm to 10pm

new workshop is the FabLab – Fabrication Laboratory – equipped with the latest in digital design machinery that students as well as local businesses can use to produce a vast range of objects.

The FabLab features advanced 3D scanning and printing technology, including a £40,000 3D printer, meaning students across Fashion, Fine Art, Crafts and more can easily scan objects and create, interesting sellable items.

Modern Sequence Dancing Tuesdays and Wednesdays Sequence dancing for all. Further details 01752 493311.

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.

Plymouth Proprietary Library Writers Group First Saturday of the month Located in the oldest library in Plymouth the group covers a wide range of genres in fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Encouragement is given in creative writing at all levels in the ambience of the oldest historic institution in the city (Est 1810). Full benefit of literary events and facilities is given to library members. Group meets 10am to 12 noon.

For details call 01752 660515.

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.

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);

`• continued on page 8

BUSINESS PROFILE – By Karen Pilkington

St Luke’s launches new coffee morning fund-raising appeal St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is inviting individuals and groups to hold a coffee morning in February. Raising over £14,000 last year, St Luke’s are encouraging homes, groups and businesses to help make this year even bigger.

Assistant community fundraiser at St Luke’s, Rebecca Bristow said: “We want everybody in Plymouth, Tavistock and the South Hams drinking coffee, socialising and raising money for St Luke’s.

St Luke’s coffee mornings had a bit of a makeover last year with the introduction of a new fundraising pack. The free coffee morning pack includes a poster to promote the event, recipes for some scrumptious cakes and fun games to play to ensure the St Luke’s coffee morning stands out from the rest.”

Stuart Coombes - runs the cake bakery side of the business

Pilgrim Pasties - the people’s favourite!

Pilgrim Pasties started in Plymouth just six years ago by husband and wife team Paul and Lisa Coombes and fellow Director Darren Burgess, although they have over 45 years of experience in the trade.

The company is committed to continuous nutritional research ensuring modern recipes for healthier lifestyles, and this ethos is echoed in their attitude to food air miles as well – a healthier planet benefits everyone!

“Our pasties are our biggest seller”, Stefan Humphrey, sales director, is proud to mention, “and we can guarantee to get ingredients from field to beautiful cooked and hand crimped pasties in under four hours”.

Meat is bought locally and all the veg comes from growers in Torpoint. Pilgrim Pasties has its own factory premises in Walkham Business Park, Burrington Way, Honicknowle where all the veg is prepped fresh ready and then baked into the genuine article, using a special

St Luke’s have also made it really easy to pay in funds raised after the event with an online payment facility.

Last February, while the whole community was uniting to host a coffee morning, St Luke’s were providing specialist care for 839 patients; at home; in hospital and at the Turnchapel hospice.

These patients were living locally and would have directly benefited from the money raised through a coffee morning. Nearly 650 of these patients lived in the Plymouth – including Plympton and Plymstock – coffee mornings made it possible for 278 of these patients to be cared for in their own home.

A total of 75 patients had access to specialist care from the rural areas of Dartmoor (Tavistock and Yelverton), 68 in the South Hams (Ivybridge, Brixton, Modbury) and a further 51 people as far as Kingsbridge and Salcombe. One in five local people will be diagnosed with a terminal illness at some point in their lives. By

It is, already, a remarkable success story, creating jobs and employment sustainability, and benefiting from some unassuming but brilliant sales strategies from the team of Directors.

Being a baker is a royal profession – it takes an exceptional type of person to commit to the 4am production start times every day, but Paul and Lisa must have carried this out with gusto as it hasn’t put son Stuart off at all. Stuart now runs the cake bakery side of the business making their own high quality bread and specialising in donuts, and all types of cakes, pastries and sausage rolls and also supplying bite size buffet food to order for all your party requirements.

New for 2015 is an orange ‘spotty’ collecting box to take pride of place on the coffee table!

hosting a St Luke’s Coffee Morning it can make a real difference.

“We need to raise over £4 million each year to continue to offer this expert care to local people for free and we can only do it with your help,” added Rebecca; To request a coffee morning pack call 01752 246597 (Mon-Fri, 9am to 5pm)

family recipe. and delivered by the company from 6am that day.

The business has diversified to help sustainability and growth. Fresh prepared vegetables are also delivered wholesale to schools and other greengrocers, and stew packs are created to sell on to the general public, all products weighed and packaged to the customers requirements.”

“We are also the main distributor for Braces bread, so we can deliver our own products to supermarkets and local shops in the South West too with a service that extends to Coombe Martin in North Devon.”

As Stefan says, “the more products you can deliver and sell to the customer the better. It also enables us to provide a free delivery service, six days a week, which keeps costs down for our regular customers.”

However their main passion remains their own products.

Pilgrims Pasties were voted the peoples favourite in Plymouth– no mean feat in the Pasty capital of the world.

They are now the main suppliers to Argyle and Albion for supporters to enjoy on match days.

They also are on sale in many local independent retailers, Londis and Premier Shops – so its great to know how fresh these products really are (just ask next time you pick up a paper and a pint of milk, if what you see on the counter are the genuine Pilgrim article).

There’s also a market stall in the Plymouth City Market and an outlet next door to the bakery and pasty makers in Walkham Business Park, Burrington Way. So whether you need to get large amounts of fresh tasty food quickly to satisfy crowds of hungry people, or just have a Christmas party you want to cater for at home.

Pilgrim Pasties is the local choice that offers exceptional flexibility along side a remarkable array of products all under one service with just one contact for you to deal with.

George Kenneth...preparing Christmas cake ingredients

The office number is Plymouth 778132 for corporate enquiries, and for individual customers please call either outlet on 781742 or 222518 or email enquiries@ pilgrimpasties.co.uk Office opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm (not everyone works bakers hours!)

The Plymouth Shopper

7

CHRISTMAS EVENT IN FREEDOM PARK The Cafe in the Park and Friends of Freedom Park are teaming up with How 2 Celebrate to put on a lively festive event in Freedom Fields Park on Saturday December 13.

This will include various craft and table top stalls, Santa’s grotto, Christmas music, inflatables and children’s activities. There will also be a visit by Ponderosa Pony Rescue with some of their ponies. The event will raise funds for the pony rescue group.

The day-long event runs from 11.­30am untill 4­.30pm to be followed with a party theme in the evening at the cafe from 6­.30 pm. This will include seasonal music, fine food and mulled wine. All are welcome to go along for a family friendly community event. For more details contact Jonathan on 07722 308462.

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS `• continued from page 6 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, 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 Healing Rooms Mondays Christian based prayer for healing, open to everyone. Every Monday from 7.30pm – 9pm. The Chiropractic Centre, 152 Mannamead Road, Plymouth. Details 07941 670794.

Amber McCarthy of Liberty Pearl - enjoyed an awardwinning year

Successful year for Plymouth photographer Plymouth photography company, Liberty Pearl, is celebrating after a hugely successful inaugural year, which culminated in it being named as a best wedding photographer regional finalist by the 2015 Wedding Industry Awards.

The company, owned by Amber McCarthy, has seen great success in its first year of business. Amber photographed 27 weddings and 20 pre-wedding photo shoots in some of the most beautiful and unique locations locally and across the globe.

With 16 years’ photography experience Amber decided to leave her nine to five job at Plymouth University and establish her wedding photography business late in 2013, and hasn’t looked back since, shooting weddings in Mainland Spain, Ibiza, Scotland, London and closer to home across the South West.

Her natural, unobtrusive and relaxed style of photography has seen Liberty Pearl photography flourish. The company was born from Amber’s dream to dedicate more time to nurturing her creativity and to her daughter, who the company is affectionately named after.

Of the experience Amber said “I have been so lucky to have seen my ideas turn into a flourishing wedding photography business. I am equally as lucky to have worked with some amazing couples in some beautiful locations.

“I feel that my decision to work on my business fulltime has benefitted me in so many ways. This year has been an exciting and enjoyable journey”.

8

The Plymouth Shopper

Director appointed to oversee Plymouth’s £21m International History Centre project

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 at 10 am till 11.30 am. For more information ring the church office on 01752 708090.

Harbour Centre Recovery Café Fridays Female-focused social group for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Tea, coffee, regular activities promoting

Paul Brookes - will lead project

The planned £21m Plymouth International History Centre in the heart of the city has a new director who will drive forward the development.

Plymouth City Council has announced that Paul Brookes will be taking on the pivotal role of History Centre programme director to create an exceptional new attraction on North Hill.

Throughout his career Paul has taken the lead on many culture and arts projects across the country, including being the project director for the building of a new visual arts gallery, education centre and archives in East London, Rivington Place.

Most recently Paul was the executive producer for the Milton Keynes International Festival, and was previously director for Bradford’s European Capital of Culture 2008 campaign and was executive director of the UK 1998 Year of Photography and Digital Imaging.

Councillor Peter Smith, deputy leader of the council said “We are delighted to announce Paul’s appointment because it marks another major milestone for the Plymouth International History Centre.

“Paul has demonstrated in his career that he has the skills and expertise to bring together all of our most valued and fascinating historical collections and treasured assets and turn the development into a national class cutting-edge project. We are placing this important project in very safe hands.”

even wider exhibition and events programme.

The History Centre will see the refurbishment and expansion of the existing City Museum and Art Gallery into a cultural centre three times its existing size, doubling the number of visitors and creating around 500 jobs.

The Plymouth International History Centre is now in its development phase preparing detailed plans that will be re-submitted to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) in April 2016. The building works will then begin with the Centre due to open in 2020 as the flagship building to mark the Mayflower 400 celebrations.

Talking about his new position Paul said: “This is an incredibly important project for Plymouth. We will be renovating and restoring the fine architecture of Plymouth’s museum and art gallery, and creating a unique visitor attraction and legacy project for Plymouth that will be unparalleled in the South West.

“This will include a new contemporary extension that will house the Plymouth and West Devon Record Office, and the archives of our partners, the South West Film and Television Archive and the South West Image Bank.

“In addition we will be restoring St Luke’s Church and enabling the History Centre to develop an

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 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 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 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 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

“I am honoured to be working on a partnership project which will also include the University. The Centre will take pride in re-interpreting the stories of Plymouth, its people and its proud history, inspiring visitors to think again about what the city and the wider region has to offer.”

During this phase Paul Brookes will be overseeing and coordinating the technical and architectural design for the centre with consultants Atkins, one of the world’s leading design, engineering and project management firms who were appointed in October.

The appointment of both Atkins and now the programme director follows initial support from the HLF, which included a £940,300 development grant as part of the successful bid of £12.8m towards the Plymouth International History Centre.

people to meet and share experiences. For more information contact David on 07722 019423.

Emmanuel Tea Break Fridays New members welcome to join our club for mainly over 60s, meeting at Emmanuel Church Hall, Mannamead, on Fridays at 2pm. We have a programme of varied indoor activities.

For more details call Mike on 669408.

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 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 and accompanist needed. For details call Darell Jago on 01752 266434.

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

Meets every Monday from 7pm to 9pm. Contact

`• continued on page 20

Multi-award winning hospital worker: ‘15 years ago Derriford saved my life – now I can give something back’ changed I would get upset. I used to get really down. I’d forget things and get very angry with myself. I didn’t understand why I couldn’t do things.

Chris Oliver was seven years old when he was knocked over by a motorbike which left him in a coma, initially unable to walk and talk, and with a lifelong acquired brain injury. His family were told by medical professionals that he may never be able to hold down a job or work full-time.

Chris was supported into work by Social Enterprise, Pluss, who have helped over 500 people with disabilities and health conditions into work across Plymouth.

“I am much more confident now I am in work. I started here in July 2013 but it was a six month temporary contract. I was really happy but I was on a mission to show them what I was worth. I was determined and did extra shifts. Then in December I was offered a permanent contract. This was my first ever full-time permanent job and I felt that all the hard work had finally paid off. I went out for a meal to celebrate with my family.

Chris, however, had other ideas! Chris, now 22, is a General Porter with Serco at Derriford Hospital. His amazing ability to communicate with people has resulted in him winning four awards for outstanding patient care.

Chris has recently won Serco’s ‘Outstanding Newcomer’, ‘Employee of the Month’ and ‘Star’ awards, Pluss’ ‘Achiever of the Year 2014’ award, and was also a finalist in Serco’s national Star Awards.

Chris said: “My job involves delivering breakfast supplies to the wards, taking people down to the x-ray department and taking equipment around the wards.

“I love my job. I am very good at talking to people. I just like hearing the different stories people have to tell and I find they talk to me.

When I am taking a patient somewhere in a wheelchair I say, if I’m going too fast, let me know. I say ‘I used to be fast but now I am old, I’m 22’, and they laugh. It makes their

Chris Oliver at work at Derriford Hospital

journey around the hospital easier.

“I’m hard working, always willing to stay on and help out. I’m always prepared to try my best at everything and am always half an hour early for every shift. I do find making plans difficult so I use calendars and cork boards to prompt my memory. I also carry a notepad so I know what I am doing.”

Despite his charm and popularity, life has not always been easy for Chris.

“My disability has affected me over the

years. When I was younger, I would say silly things. At first, I thought I made people laugh then I got the sense that people were laughing at me, not with me. I used to get bullied, called names, even assaulted on the bus. I thought they were my friends. They used to say things about my scar so I started to grow my hair longer.

“I didn’t like loud noise and had one-to-one help at school. I would get distressed if things didn’t go according to plan. Mum would plan the day ahead for me but if it was

“When I was nominated for the Serco awards I was surprised but pleased that I was achieving something with my hard work.

I was in the lift and could see a gentleman struggling. He stumbled, so I insisted he sit down and took him to the ward personally.

Someone was watching and said to my boss ‘I don’t know who that young man is but his manners are impeccable’. I have also had letters thanking me for being a gentleman; polite, considerate and caring.”

Louise Pelley, front of house co-ordinator at Serco is over the moon. She said “Chris is an ideal employee; enthusiastic, always willing to try new things and to help anyone

no matter what time of the day - he could be about to clock off but he would rather stay to help. He is always on time, never late.

“Chris is just so friendly to everyone. If a patient is upset, shouting or abrupt, Chris always manages to calm them down. He has a real gift with people and having an employee like Chris makes the hospital a more positive place. Patients come in and get this lovely young chap to take them to their appointments – it changes the way people think, the perception is positive and we get really good feedback. He is such a lovely guy, really passionate about the work he does.

“Our Serco slogan is ‘Bringing service to life’. Chris does this every day – he is bubbly, outgoing and always willing to go the extra mile – every day, not just sometimes.”

Chris adds “Working has changed my life in so many ways. I get up every morning, I can say ‘I’ve got to go to work tomorrow, I work at Derriford’. I am proud of myself. I’m not going to stop now; I am going to continue to make people happy and show what I can do. I don’t ever want to sit at home; I want to show people that even with an acquired brain injury, I can do this.

“I was here, at this hospital, 15 years ago and this job is my way of giving something back. Derriford saved my life and I now I can make a little difference to people’s lives in return.”

The Plymouth Shopper

9

Talented apprentice Laura scoops £1,000 Pitch2Win prize City College Plymouth graduate Laura Taylor from Ham has secured second place in the national Pitch2Win competition.

The Pitch2Win competition was officially launched this year and has been set up

by Dulux Decorator Centre to encourage and support entrepreneurship within the painting and decorating industry.

Laura, currently an apprentice at Rogers Decorators, received a cash prize of £1,000 to purchase business-related items, as well as preferential Dulux Decorator Centre cash account terms, PR support and vouchers to use in her local Dulux Decorator Centre, along with a full set of personalised work wear.

Having successfully made it through the initial shortlisting process, Laura, 21, suitably impressed a panel of industry experts with her business pitch at the ‘Dragons’ Den’-inspired final, which was held at AkzoNobel’s new 100,000sq metre world-class paint manufacturing headquarters in Ashington.

Laura said: “I’m extremely passionate about what I do and starting up my own business has always been a dream for

me, as I can’t imagine doing anything else with my career other than painting and decorating. Thankfully, the Dulux Decorator Centre Pitch2Win competition has really given me a head start and I am really grateful to them. It is fantastic they have such an opportunity to give someone like me a helping hand.”

Organiser of the competition and Dulux Decorator Centre’s marketing manager, Beverley Whitehead comments: “The more training opportunities and support for start-ups we can provide, the more we can help the industry thrive. Setting up your own business can be daunting and demanding. The idea behind the competition is to provide a pool of resource and support to ambitious entrepreneurs really wanting to take that step and launch a successful painting and decorating enterprise.”

Open to UK-based painters and decorators who qualified in the last three years, Pitch2Win also embraced career changers and more mature professionals of varying backgrounds and circumstances. The competition has helped narrow the gap between education and industry in practice, building on partnerships with colleges across the UK.

Laura Taylor from Ham who won a £1,000 prize after finishing as runnerup in the Pitch2Win competition organised by Dulux Decorator Centre

Buying local is now a priority

Big increase in City Council’s spending with local businesses Almost half of Plymouth City Council’s spend – 45 per cent – is now with local businesses compared to just 16 per cent in 2011/12, thanks to a concerted and sustained effort by the council’s procurement team to make sure they buy local.

Significant changes to the way the council buys services locally has created more than 220 jobs in the city as well as brought more spending power back into Plymouth.

The figures have been unveiled as part of the city’s Plan for Jobs results, which has already reached its 2,000 target.

They also show that in the same timescale (over two years) the amount of contracts and goods being bought locally from small and medium business has gone from four per cent to 37 per cent.

Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Mark Lowry said: “This is an incredible result and is making a difference to families in and around Plymouth. Thanks to changes in our practices and increased support, more businesses are becoming more confident in pitching for work or business with us – and getting it.”

A centralised buying team was set up and measures to simplify complex buying systems and give local companies a chance include: • Increasing the council’s low-value thresholds from £75,000 to £100,000 so that the council needs only three quotations rather than to carry out a lengthy tender process • Changing contract standing orders so that at least two of the three quotes are from local suppliers, and where possible, all three quotes are local • Aiming to pay small and medium sized business suppliers within 15 days rather than the standard 30 days.

• Supporting suppliers in how to do business with the 10

The Plymouth Shopper

council by running training and meet the buyer events

• Supporting suppliers with registration on the Sell 2 Plymouth portal for lower value procurements and the south west portal where tender opportunities for public sector and partners are advertised • Work with the Plymouth Chamber of Commerce to provide tender training for their members • Provide specific tender training targeting local suppliers via the S2P portal • Embedding Social Value Act requirements into tender documents and procurement guidance manuals – this means considering the social, economic and environmental impact as part of the contract criteria.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “This is a great example of how our Plan for Jobs works.

“We set out to increase the amount of local purchasing to keep more of Plymouth’s wealth in the city – and it has paid off – not just for us, but for over 600 businesses in the PL postcode area that have benefited from this.

“Procurement does not exactly sound exciting – but thanks to this continual and persistent push to change how we do things, hundreds of businesses and in turn their staff now have more money.

“That’s what growth is all about and we are delivering it.”

David Shephard, Devon Regional Chairman, of the Federation of Small Businesses said at a recent award scheme that a number of authorities were currently streamlining their procedures.

He said: “In particular we commend Plymouth for their current work in engaging with the FSB locally in Plymouth, the Chamber and other organisations in seeking to implement a more beneficial working relationship.”

The council is also working alongside other partners in the public sector to make sure as many publically funded organisations as possible help local businesses and make the most of the local supply chain.

PLYMOUTH

The Plymouth Shopper

11

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The Plymouth Shopper

Support your local businesses

Give some body the attention they deserve this Christmas

By Karen Pilkington It’s so easy at Christmas to overlook the ones who make it all happen – we know adverts show happy women gallantly preparing turkeys with one hand, whilst simultaneously nursing babies, wrapping last minute gifts, pouring drinks and nodding sympathetically to Great Aunt Mildred’s tales of her many health woes.

However, if your very own Christmas maker is looking a little frazzled with the build up to the festive frenzy, we have just the local treat to leave her feeling wanted, appreciated and loved.

Vikki Rolfe of the Body Temple specialises in the ultimate Spa Experience Pampering Gift. For an amazing 2 and ½ hours your loved one will have Vikki’s undivided attention and excellent skills lavished upon them in complete privacy

• continued on next page

Vikki Rolfe of Body Temple

Hyde Park Pharmacy Putting patients at the heart of everything we do We operate a new scheme, Pharmacy First, which promotes self care for patients who would not ordinarily pay for their prescriptions, and encourages people to visit their pharmacy first. The scheme has been designed to make healthcare more accessible, easing pressure on GPs, walk in centres and out of hours services so that those services have more time to help their patients with more serious conditions.

Opening Times Mon – Fri: 9-7pm Saturday: 9-6pm Sunday: 10-6.30pm Closed Christmas Day Boxing Day New Years Day

Winter Ailments Service Alows access to a limited range of NHS funded over the counter medicines to support self care for people who would not ordinarily pay for their prescriptions.

Minor Illness Service We can supply a limited range of prescription only medicines to treat bacterial conjunctivitis, impetigo, nappy rash, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, and oral thrush.

Emergency Supply Service Local patients who can’t access their GP service and visitors to the area can obtain an urgent supply of their regular prescription medicines.

Please come in and talk to us to see if you fit the criteria to access these services.

Your pharmacy team are highly trained and qualified health care professionals who can help you with your health problems and will offer you a private space to talk about your symptons, no need for an appointment. If it is more serious, then they will direct you appropiately.

Enabling you to get the right care at the right price at the right time.

Hyde Park Pharmacy 71-73 Hyde Park Road, Mutley, Plymouth, PL3 4JN

Tel - 01752 663216 Fax - 01752 256854

hydeparkpharmacy@poolearth.com www.poolearth.com The Plymouth Shopper

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Support your local businesses

Yvonne’s Florist Hyde Park Pharma FREE DELIVERY in Jan 2015 in PL3 + PL4 on orders over £25 with this advert

30 Mutley Plain Plymouth PL4 6LD 01752 664864 www.yvonnesfloristplymouth.co.uk Ladies, Gents and Children welcome Ltd

Frances

HAIR & BEAUTY SALON V Gift ouch availabelrs e for H All aspects of Hairdressing

Langstone Road Peverell PL2 3LY

01752 250801 07891 909846 www.hydeparkelectrical.co.uk

& Beauty Services in a relaxed environment

air and Bea uty

more to offer than Hyde Park is well known for its businesses who have gone the extra mile in promoting community and sustainability in the local area.

Hyde Park Pharmacy is known and loved for its aspirational ethos to value every single one of its customers. Whether you are looking for a quirky Christmas gift, or have some more serious health matters on your mind, the pharmacy is fully committed to providing advice and care without charging you a penny.

At Hyde Park you are always more than a customer, you are also their patient and your health and well being is really important to them.

Their ethos to provide old fashioned individual care means they can respond to many of their patients needs in exactly the same, completely confidential way that their GP will.

01752 778162

hydeparkelectrical@yahoo.co.uk

www.franceshairandbeautysalon.com

We wish all our customers Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Get Ready for the PARTY SEASON!

Dermalogica treatments Sienna X Spray Tan Fake Bake Original Tan High Brow Tinting O.P.I Manicures & Pedicures Clean & Easy Waxing Threading Makeup

For all your electrical and solar needs

OPENING TIMES

Mon–Sat 9:30am-5:30pm

Support your local Pet Shop!

Pop in and see us!

We stock all major brands of dog, cat, small animal foods and accessories - Supreme, Burgess, Lilys Kitchen and James Wellbeloved to name just a few.

Weston Park Road, Peverell Call 01752 783481

Email: mail@bellas-pets.co.uk Website: www.bellas-pets.co.uk

Features advertising in the Plymouth Shopper newspapers reaches over 62,000 homes across Plymouth. Why not give your business a boost and call the Shopper sales team on 01752 225623.

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The Plymouth Shopper

- 10% OFF TANNING IN DECEMBER - GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Opening Hours Tues-Sat 6a Peverell Park Road

01752 222688

A wide selection of Christmas wreaths are available at Hyde Park Florist where Vannessa Hickie and Sharon Harraway will be pleased to serve you. Hyde Park Florist will be celebrating 22 years in Hyde Park next March

• continued from previous page with no interruptions, no phones, no Christmas lists and definitely no turkey!

Starting with a dry body brush,ex-foliation and body cleanse and condition, the treatment includes a full facial, and a massage of back,neck, shoulders, legs, arms and scalp. This pampering treatment will leave the lucky customer on cloud nine brimming with radiance inside and out.

Vikki, is a remarkable young women and an great example of how hard work and dedication really pays off. At just 21 she was already working in a local business, when she discovered that she would have to relocate urgently due to unforeseeable circumstances.

As she had fallen in love with Hyde Park, Vikki decided to take the bull by the horns and set herself up as her own business in premises in Hyde Park that had just come on the market. Indeed

Support your local businesses

acy has so much n prescriptions!

Merry Christmas from everyone at West Financial Management!

~ Savings ~ Pensions ~ Life Insurance

Fully behind the Pharmacy First scheme being rolled out by NHS New Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, Hyde Park Pharmacy is able to offer not just advice but also treatment for certain minor ailments, including being able to issue prescription only medicines without the patient needing to visit their GP. Hyde Park Pharmacy has some of the longest opening hours around, including Saturday and Sunday , and can offer these type of consultations on a drop in basis.

So if you suddenly find that you have mislaid your medication, or have forgotten to bring tablets with you as you’ve come to visit for Christmas, or are at all worried or feeling under the weather, a trip to Hyde Park Pharmacy could alleviate a lengthy wait for a GP’s appointment or a visit to A&E. And in much nicer surroundings too – you can even pick up some great gifts.

If you would like a complimentary meeting at our Peverell office to discuss your current and future financial plans ring us on 01752 228382 or email tina@westfm.biz Registered address: 1 Lockyer Road, Plymouth, PL3 4RL. Registered in England and Wales Number 4985517. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

CHRISTMAS ORDERS

Est 1971

Taken now for quality meats including free range geese, local turkeys, creedy carver ducks and chickens, west country beef, pork and lamb. Orders also taken for exotics, ie.Venison and pheasant.

Opening times Monday 8am - 4pm Tue, Thur, Fri 7.30am - 4pm Wednesday 7.30am - 1pm Saturday 7:00am - 1pm

79 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth For our personal attention phone 01752

664582

Pre-Christmas week - Free delivery within a 3 mile radius on orders over £25 (Subject to availability)

Ladies

Gents

OPENING TIMES:

01752 228 608 www.hydeparkhairshop.com

Nicola Hurst has been established for over 8 years, with 2 boutiques selling jewellery, glass, ceramics and other gift items; all hand made in the UK; all exclusive to Plymouth and now available to buy online at www.nicolahurst.co.uk Nicola makes jewellery on the premises.

Commissions and repairs undertaken.

One of the great benefits of owner run businesses is that customers can be assured that they are getting the very best service. Vikki prides herself on being able to offer her customers her absolute attention and care, and promises to make the entire visit one where the customer really does come first.

Wishing all my Customers a Happy Christmas and Healthy New Year.

65 Hyde Park Rd Plymouth PL3 4JN Tel: 01752 228000

NH2

In the last eight years, Vikki has put her heart and soul into her business and has built great relationships between herself and her customers.

Regular exhibitions showcasing new jewellers - visit Nicola's shop today!

NH1

Vikki’s client who passed on the information was just establishing her own Hyde Park Business next door!

Cottage 1, Residence One Royal William Yard, Plymouth PL1 3RP Tel: 01752 831748

www.nicolahurst.co.uk

She has created a truly beautiful, serene environment where you can instantly feel relaxed and pampered, even if you are just popping in for an eyebrow wax or a spray tan, or have the time to really indulge in Vikki’s renowned facials and body treatments.

Kitchens ¦ Bedrooms ¦ Bathrooms FRE DeliveE on or r y over ders £15

Let’s hope Vikki can also get her own indulgent time to feel loved and appreciated at Christmas time too. We certainly feel she deserves it!

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with any sandwich purchased.

Expires 16/1/15. T&Cs apply.

Closed 19th Dec - 5th Jan 2015

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• Eat-in or take-away • Business lunches • E&OE • Freshly made to order •

See our advert on this page

5 Beechwood Avenue Mutley, Plymouth PL4 6PN

T. 01752 267 609 E. wilphys@icloud.com www.wilphys.co.uk

YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR LIVELIHOOD!

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Hyde Park Kitchens

• Individually designed contemporary kitchens from conception to completion • 3D design using the latest software

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• Latest Dekton surfaces available, believed to be the most versatile finishes on the market

Freshly made to order is our thing

stevebunch@hydeparkkitchens.co.uk ¦ www.hydeparkkitchens.co.uk

PL4 6PN

63 Hyde Park Road ¦ Plymouth ¦ PL3 4JN ¦ 01752 242951 The Plymouth Shopper

15

Ten top tips on avoiding a Christmas debt hangover Plymouth has higher levels of debt than any other local authority in the South West and is the 48th most indebted out of 406 Local Authority Areas nationally.

(Source Money Advice Service Indebted lives: the complexities of life in debt November 2013) During the period from April 1 and September 30 this year the Advice Plymouth drop in and telephone service worked with 590 clients who presented with debt issues including: rent and mortgage arrears, Council Tax, gas and electricity arrears, water arrears, personal loans, credit cards, payday loans, door to door lenders.

By Claire Bower of Advice Plymouth

Christmas is always the time of year when there is a big temptation to overspend. The following top tips can help you to budget and have a better looking bank balance to start 2015.

Top Tips Plan early for Christmas: Work out how much you are going to spend on each person - and stick to it.

Don’t forget the everyday bills: Remember that rent, the mortgage, utility bills, food bills and other existing debts still have to be paid– and the consequences can be severe if they’re not.

Don’t bank on an overdraft: If you need more money, don’t just run up an overdraft without talking to your bank first - it will work out much more expensive.

Keep things simple: If you can afford to pay for your goods outright by cash, cheque, or debit card, don’t be persuade to take out extended credit agreements unless they really do work out cheaper.

Shop around: Try as many places as possible to find the best price. Buy what you want and not

what other people say you need.

Buy safe to be safe: Whatever the deal, whatever the temptation, don’t buy from unauthorised traders and don’t borrow from unauthorised lenders.

The initial savings and convenience may prove to be false economy.

Read the small print: Check for hidden extras in any credit agreement. Work out the total amount payable. Ensure that the monthly instalments are within your budget before signing. Interest free credit can seem attractive, but if you don’t pay on time, or miss a payment, you could have to pay a lot more.

Do your own credit checks: Some cards charge high interest rates, but provide interest free period or discounts. Budget for all these costs and put the payment dates in your diary.

Be organised: If you’ve borrowed money don’t forget that it won’t be long before you have to make a payment. Make sure you pay on time, even if it is only the minimum, or you will be faced with additional charges.

Start planning and saving for next Christmas: Once Christmas is over, it’s worth looking at what you did well and what you didn’t.

Learn from your mistakes and start planning how you will do things differently next year.

The best advice is to seek help or information early to deal with financial worries before they become problem debts.

We are always here to help you through difficult times: Drop-in at: Ernest English House, Buckwell Street, PL1 2DA Opening times Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 9am – 5pm Thurs 9am – 8pm Telephone on: 01752 520052 or 08444 111 444 Lines open: 9am to 8pm and Saturday 9am to 12 noon Online at: www. adviceplymouth.org.uk

Natalie Roach (right) pictured in action with crew Alex Pickles

A meteorologist from Plymouth who went to Eggbuckland Community College brought home a full set of medals from the tri-service Dinghy Sailing Gold Cup Championships.

Her endeavours have meant that she has just been nominated as one of the Royal Navy’s Sports Personalities for 2014.

Leading Seaman Natalie Roach who works in the Met Office at Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, won every one of the seven races during the Inter-Services Asymmetric Fleet Racing Championships.

The annual event was held at the Army Inshore Sail Training Centre based at Thorney Island. 17 boats competed in the Gold Cup: five from the Royal Navy, nine from the Army and three from the RAF. Natalie helmed her boat and her crew was Petty Officer Alex Pickles who is an Aircrewman based at RAF Marham.

Natalie is very proud of her achievement, she said: “We won seven out of the seven races over the weekend, but we were challenged all the way and had three of the other boats hot on our heels. As well as the seven medals, we won trophies for becoming the Inter-services Champions, Royal Navy Champions and the first 2000 which is the type of boat we sailed in.”

Lucky seven for Plymouth sailor Natalie The seven medals that Natalie won at the Navy Gold Cup were the icing on a successful racing season, as she explained: “We have maintained our 100 per cent record for this season by winning this event, as we have won all of the Inter-Service level events this year. I am the Captain of the Royal Navy Dinghy Sailing Team, so results like this help to keep that status! It helps a little working in the Culdrose Met Office because I can look at the weather forecast and plan my tactics accordingly!“ As well as using her meteorological skills to forecast the weather for the aviation community at RNAS Culdrose (the team is especially essential during the winter months), Natalie is also in the process of putting a winter training programme together so that she is ready for her next event - the Royal Navy Inter-Command Sailing Championships in February 2015.

Scouts on the wagon in city!

VISITORS STAYING LONGER AND SPENDING MORE IN CITY Visitors are staying longer in Plymouth and spending more money which is good news for the local economy and businesses.

The annual visitor numbers for 2013, released by Destination Plymouth, show that visitors to the city have increased their length of stay to an average of 3.3 nights and that their average spend has risen from £158 per night to £172 per night.

Overall visitor spend within the city has grown by 7 per cent to £337 million per annum which reflects the city’s visitor strategy to encourage longer stays and increased dwell times from visitors through events and development of cultural activities including sport.

These figures are in line with the wider Devon and South West destinations including Torbay and Exeter who all showed increases in visitor spending despite slight drops in day visitor numbers overall.

Duncan Currall, chairman of Destination Plymouth, confirmed the news that overseas visitors have also risen and said: “Overseas visitors to Plymouth saw a significant rise with 44 per cent increase year on year and increase in spend of 30 per cent which could be due to the ‘after effect’ of the 2012 Olympics with a general lift in overseas visitors which has been seen nationally.

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The Plymouth Shopper

“The Visitor economy is worth over £337 million pounds annually to Plymouth and supports over 8,625 jobs which is 7 per cent of the local economy and this number has grown again in the last year by over 80 full time equivalents within the sector”.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, re-iterated the importance of the tourism sector for the city adding: “The visitor economy is a vital component of Plymouth’s business community bringing over five million visitors to the city annually and providing excellent employment opportunities for the local community in leisure, retail, hospitality, accommodation and attractions.

“Many of these jobs provide skills which will be of huge value throughout working life and the City Council is keen to continue to support our local businesses to continue to grow the economy locally as we head towards the Mayflower 400 commemorations in 2020.”

Plymouth hosted a Tourism and Visitor Economy conference in Delivering Excellence on November 20.

Held at The Rhodes@ The Dome Destination Plymouth arranged 12 key speakers to provide motivational presentations throughout the day including Ken Robinson CBE, Chairman of the Tourism Society Policy and Advocacy Group and Board member of the Tourism Alliance.

Youngsters from the 9th/21st Plymouth Beavers, Cubs and Scouts pulled a wagon around Plymouth City Centre to raise funds for their new headquarters at Tavy Lodge off Mutley Plain.

The Scouts pulled the wagon while the Beavers rode in style – ringing their bells!

Parents went along to marshal the wagon route and hold the collecting tins, while the cubs gave out stickers to people for their donations.

Penny Armstead from the 9th/21st said: We were absolutely delighted with the £186.50 that we raised. It couldn’t have gone better. The weather was superb and the people of Plymouth continue to demonstrate just how generous they are in supporting young people.

“The pavement cafe areas were full with people pleased to watch the wagon go by and wave at the children and of course, the children loved seeing who could be first to reach the donors to give them a sticker!

“The Scout Association slogan is ‘Join the Adventure’ and our wagon pull featured the slogan ‘raising funds to create new opportunities and new adventures’.

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With its gorgeous setting, tranquil atmosphere and comprehensive range of therapies and treatments, combined with professional and friendly service.

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Spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, we offer an exceptional Brasserie and Upper Deck Bistro. Our chefs continually create exciting menus, including interesting and unique dishes, with our ‘buy local’ policy.

For your chance to win this amazing prize just answer the question below: How many bays does our Driving Range have?

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01752 848668 • www.china-fleet.co.uk

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Please send your completed entry coupon to China Fleet Country Club Competition, The Plymouth Shopper, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4PY by the closing date of 23/12/14. Please answer the question and enter your name and contact details below.

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Our services include: • tree work • hedge & shrub maintenance • • lawn care & grass cutting • pond care • • weeding • creation of flower & veggie beds • • trellis work • shed & greenhouse work • • window cleaning • gutter & fascia cleaning • • rubbish removal • general garden tidying • • fencing & gates • patios & decking •

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17

MONEY MA££ERS with Steve Carey

We only use the highest quality Natural & Organic Products.

Full Groom includes Claws clipped.

Ears and Anal Glands cleaned.

Hand Stripping for appropriate Breeds.

Fully Insured.

Pick up and drop off service by appointment only as dogs are never caged.

Christmas is a time for.....?

Opening Hours Monday to Friday 10:00 until 19:00 Saturday 10:00 until 13:00

A friendly & reliable service provided throughout.

Tel: 01752 510458 - Mob: 07989067029 22 Edgecumbe Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4NL

Thornbury Villa Residential Care Home for the Elderly

What does Christmas look like for you?

tight, explain that to your loved ones.

Many of us will have fixed ideas of what Christmas is all about. I guess most of us would answer:

When you go shopping, leave the credit card at home. Either take the cash with you, or, if you want to be more secure, take a debit card. You could open up a separate bank account, and put in enough money to cover the budgeted spend from step one above.

Then, once it’s gone, you cannot spend any more. Leave behind all the cards linked to other accounts.

Time with friends/family, food, drink, presents, time off work etc.

All these things are great, but in our enthusiasm to’“make the most of our time off’ we can make some serious mistakes with our money.

The dangers Most of us want to give our loved ones our best. Whether that’s the present of their dreams, the time of their life, or the best meal they’ve ever had, this desire can override our natural caution.

Christmas is time when the advertising/retail industry goes mad.

I walked into one retailer at the end of September, and the baubles were already going up!

So I want to remind us all, of a few tips and techniques we can employ to ensure that December’s great time does not come at the cost of a year of misery.

Five tips for a Happy New Year 1. Set a budget It is so easy to overspend, so work out what you can truly afford, and stick to it. If money is

‘Somewhere Special Enough To Call Home’ For information contact Jacky & Jim Van Deijl 128 Peverell Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4NE

Tel: (01752) 262204

3. Make a list It can be great fun asking people for a list of their preferred presents. It gets children particularly excited, and you could combine it with a letter to Santa to enhance their enjoyment. It will give you a good idea of what to buy, how much it might cost, and the chance to shop around (in the shops or online) well before the day.

4. Avoid the ‘bargains’ Well maybe not the bargains, but the impulse buys. More often than not, impulse buys are not essentials. If they were, you’d plan the purchase.

5. Get creative Not easy for an accountant to say that, as

creative accountancy has negative overtones (remember Tesco!)

Having got the lists, can you make something for someone that they would really like? It’s a non-starter for me, but others are much more talented, and we have some great shops in Plymouth selling the “raw materials” for your creative ideas.

Conclusion Putting some of these tips in practice may not give you the “best Christmas ever” but they’ll certainly help avoid an “Unhappy New Year”.

So have a great Christmas, and spend wisely.

Pupils in Plymouth are to learn about the importance of saving money and how to avoid getting into financial difficulty, as part of a new scheme aimed at stemming the spiral of debt.

The project is a joint initiative between Plymouth City Council, Hope and City of Plymouth Credit Unions, Barclays, and local schools to educate young people on managing their finances. It is hoped the scheme will help break the cycle of debt in Plymouth, a city in which 30% of the adult population are over-indebted (12% higher than the national average). According to the Money Advice Service report Indebted Lives (November 2013), Plymouth is 48th worst out of 406 local authority areas for adult debt.

All year 11 pupils (aged 16) are being given £10 at the beginning of the year to also open a Credit Union account. The Year 11 scheme has been funded from government funding allocated to local authorities for welfare assistance, although this funding is being discontinued in 2015/16. Although this funding will not continue next year it is hoped that the impact and legacy of this scheme will last at participating schools for some time after.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives, Housing and Community Safety, said: “As a cooperative council we encourage people to save with credit unions, particularly at a time when Government cuts, both to our funding and to welfare budgets, combined with the rising cost of living, is having a detrimental effect on Plymouth resident’s quality of life.

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You could leave that account open, and transfer small amounts into it during 2015, ready for next Christmas.

COUNCIL SPLASHES OUT ON £10 VOUCHERS TO ENCOURAGE YOUNGSTERS TO SAVE

Under the scheme pupils will be visited by representatives of Barclays and the two Credit Unions to help develop their financial skills.

In addition, all year 7 pupils (aged 11 and 12) who started at a Plymouth secondary school this year are being given £10 to open their own Credit Union savings bank account, with an additional £10 at the end of the school year if they still have a minimum of £10 in the account. This scheme is being funded by the general council reserves.

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2. Leave the credit card at home

Cllr Penberthy and Cllr Lowry (centre) with pupils and staff from Lipson Academy and Stoke Damerel Community College

“This is a fantastic way to raise awareness of the work of credit unions, engage young people in the city and encourage them to think about financial issues and in particular, more affordable and ethical alternatives to payday lending.

“It is estimated that up to 9,000 adults in Plymouth take out Pay Day Loans annually; this is 51,000 loans a year at a cost of £8.8million in interest and charges to residents.”

Barclays’ involvement will see local staff using their knowledge and expertise through its Five Million Young Futures programme to help young people develop their financial skills alongside the Credit Unions which are accredited by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS).

The projects are part of the Life Skills programme and the Credit Unions are accredited by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). The training sessions will focus on budgeting, saving, borrowing avoiding scams and how to use basic bank accounts. The Council aims to break the cycle of debt by improving financial

literacy, budgeting and saving skills amongst residents, focusing on our children as tomorrow’s savers and takers of loans.

A number of schools across the city have already signed up to the scheme. Claire Burnard, business manager for Stoke Damerel Community College, said: “We’re very pleased that Stoke Damerel Community College has been invited to work with the council, Barclays and local Credit Unions as part of the School Credit Union Scheme.

“Initiatives like this are an important, practical addition to our students’ financial education and will enhance their understanding of monetary matters which can only be of benefit to them in the future.”

Tracey Downes, assistant principal at Lipson Cooperative Academy, said: “Lipson Cooperative Academy is delighted to take part in this scheme which gives our pupils the knowledge and information they need to effectively manage their finances, an essential life skill. It is vitally important that students understand personal finance and are able to make ethical choices.”

THE CHRIS COLE

Experience

The fragility and power of love From all of us at Cross Rhythms we wish all our listeners, readers and supporters a massively wonderful, exciting and peaceful Christmas.

Christmas is primarily about the gift from Father God of His Son Jesus, not the gift of Santa Claus – sorry kids. Santa was based on a Christian Bishop called Saint Nicholas also called Nikolaos of Myra, who was a historic 4th-century Christian saint and Greek Bishop of Myra. Because of the many miracles attributed to his intercession, he is also known as Nikolaos the Wonderworker.

Love Him, hate Him or even treat Him with indifference, but it is really hard to ignore Him. I’ve spent enough time around folk who having hit their thumbs with a hammer or encounter painful experiences, cry out almost involuntarily shouting His name, Jesus Christ!!!

worldview, a very important holiday celebrating the birth of Hope in human form.

History teaches us that the Christian faith seems to flourish in the hearts and minds of its’ followers when its core values are challenged.

This is now happening all over the world where Christian communities, especially in the Middle East are being severely and evilly persecuted.

We see this everyday on the national and international news networks and the internet.

times which we all encounter.

Now it is usually Easter where we as Christians recognise the tough times of our faith through the death and resurrection of Jesus on the cross, but consider the vulnerability of God’s plan for hope and redemption to come to earth.

Because the nativity story helps our children understand the reason for the season we forget the incredible vulnerability in which Love was born in Bethlehem 2000 years ago.

Even as I write this, Cross Rhythms is birthing a radio station in Bethlehem and it is a vulnerable process, but it endures in the darkness because it is connected to the power of heaven.

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Life can be messy with many ups and downs, but Christ promises things in this life which we can rely on. Although God tells us in the Bible that he has no favourite children we read on and discover that it is possible to attract His favour as we align and follow Him.

and thus became the model for Santa Claus, whose modern name comes from the Dutch Sinterklaas. So Nikolas would be the first to say, I do these miracles in the name of Jesus Christ

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Our prayer is for those in the Middle East who need some good news will be It is the Christmas season again and blessed through this new radio station for those who hold to a Christian as I hope you have been listening to Cross Rhythms in Plymouth or in the internet.

Chris Cole, is the founder of Cross Rhythms charity. He is also a Fellow He had a reputation for secret of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Listen to his Cross Rhythms Merry Christmas and may you gift-giving, such as putting be encouraged as you face the Experience programmes on 96.3FM or online at www.crossrhythms.co.uk/ coins in the shoes of those challenges of the New Year. plymouth who left them out for him,

New standards for home care in Plymouth New standards are to be put in place in Plymouth for people who require care at home.

Plymouth City Council is working together with NHS Northern, Eastern, Western (NEW) Devon Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to drive up standards in domiciliary care. Council Cabinet agreed in principle to a new improved contract in November.

Under the proposed new contract, which will incorporate home care, rapid response, dementia support and integration with health where necessary, there will be a number of minimum standards: • All home visits will last a minimum of 30 minutes • Rapid response service to provide care within two hours where identified

On

I believe God is not only Goodness personified in Jesus, but He wants us to succeed in life even during the tough

• All staff will be paid at least the Living Wage • Care staff will be paid travel time between each visit • Only those staff who request zero hours contracts will have them • Full induction, and high quality, ongoing supervision, training and appraisal for all staff Councillor Ian Tuffin, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We are delighted to have approved this new contract which will provide home care services that are person centred and promote independence, choice and control for the individual.

“Too often we hear of poor quality care in the news but this new contract shows that both the Council and the local NHS are determined to drive up standards in the city. This is good news for both those receiving care and those who work in the local care sector.

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“The new contract will aim to be flexible and innovative in our response to people’s wide ranging needs. We want to help people to live independently, stay healthy and recover quickly from illness, and have the best quality of life possible, irrespective of illness or disability.”

Fiona Phelps, head of partnerships commissioning for Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “This new contract is an excellent example of partnership working between local commissioners to ensure individuals receive a consistent and quality service. This supports our commissioning intention of ensuring access to high quality sustainable services to care for people at home.

The next step will be to award the new contract to the successful tender, with an aim for a new service to be in place from April 2015.

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS Saturday of the month (4 miles), ending with a pub lunch. `• continued from page 8 Membership Secretary 01752 231139 Website www.clubfocusplymouth.co.uk Snack N Chat Tuesdays Friendship group for the bereaved and lonely from 11am to 12.30pm in the Coffee Corner at St Andrew’s Church.

Community project run by trained counsellors and a student in training. Go and have coffee, tea, chat and a slice of home-made cake. All for 50p per session.

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.

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

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

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.

St Budeaux Tennis Club The Club has vacancies for new members, both senior and junior. Come along for free visits and see the facilities.

Three all weather courts (two floodlit). All standards of play from beginners to league level. Cost only £60 a year for adults and £15 for juniors. Coaching available. For details call 01752 365526 or e-mail dwilliams66@toucansurf.com 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 Plymouth Local Exchange Trading Scheme (LETS) Every second Saturday of the month (except August ) New members are always welcome. Meet in the Unitarian church hall in Princess Street from 2pm till 3.30pm. We exchange goods and services using our own currency ‘the plum’. For further details phone 706582 or visit the website www.plymouthlets.org.uk 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.

Plympton Natural Healing Centre Fridays Free healing and relaxation service at Harewood House, Plympton from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. A non-invasive process promoting balance and equilibrium. No appointment necessary. For details call 01752 837383.

Plymouth Community Choir Mondays Choir meets from 7pm to 8.45pm at Salvation Army, Armada Way, Plymouth. New members welcome. Details from Alison on 01363 774324 (www.alising.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.

Widewell 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 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 20

The Plymouth Shopper

Talented artisans on show at city Christmas Market Two young women from Plymouth have organised a Christmas market for young, local artisans at the Rumpus Cosy and Radiant venue in Derry’s Cross.

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

Rosie, 24, said: “After graduating I found it increasingly difficult to promote and sell my craft in an environment that complemented my products. I decided to create one myself, and when I pitched this idea to Emily, she immediately jumped on board!

“Being a fellow young designer, she appreciated my frustrations and agreed that an exhibition of artisan craft, with a focus on contemporary products was something that was missing in Plymouth, ” said Rosie.

With a wide variety of exhibitors, from florists to illustrators, potters to carpenters and even a chef, Native Makers Christmas Market is set to be filled with festive activities and tasty food! make new friends. For details call Bridget on 01752 408951.

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.

Korean War Veterans (BKVA) Second Tuesday of the month For the benefit of men and women of all ranks who served in the Korean War 1950-53, or for the benefit of their widows and dependants. Branch meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 11.45am at Raffles, 5 Ermington Terrace, Mutley, followed by an excellent ‘pub lunch’ at 12.30 There is a large car-park opposite. New and old faces will be made most welcome, especially the wives of present and past Korean Veterans.

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.

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.

Traditional English Dance (Morris) Wednesdays The Plymouth Morris Men meet at the City Bus Social Club Milehouse every Wednesday from 8pm till 10pm from Now until May the 1st when their dancing out season starts.

They are looking for some men to help take forward the Sherborne dance tradition. It is great fun and a good way to keep fit and have a great social life. To find out more contact us via the website www.plymouthmorrismen.org.uk, phone Dan on 07794 848 425 or just turn up and give it a try. No previous experience necessary.

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 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).

Table top sale and coffee morning Every second Saturday every other month St Budeaux Methodist Church, Victoria Rd 10-2pm, £5 per table. Free entry with a small donation for epilepsy and Autism charities. April/June/August/October.

Plymouth Art College illustration graduate, Emily Dymond, who is 23, and Falmouth University textile design graduate Rosie Drake-Knight established ‘Native Makers’ after recognising a mutual desire for a high quality selling platform in Devon.

“This event is an opportunity to appreciate the hard work, incredible technical ability and skilled craftsmanship that young people in the South West have to offer. We are lucky to have gained the support of Rumpus Cosy and Radiant space, who have kindly agreed to host our event alongside their Christmas Grotto.”

For an application and information, call Rusell on 01752 266608.

The Market is on Sunday December 7 from 10am to 5pm and free to attend.

Craftsmen and women can still apply to exhibit at Native Makers if they are aged 30 and under and are based in Devon or Cornwall. Apply via email with images of work and a brief description of their craft rosie@hellorosie.co.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, or any other class advertised on www.wutanplymouth.co.uk. Tel. 07949 839088 Whist Drive Wednesdays Plymstock Parish Hall, Church Road, Plymstock at 2pm 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 Mums and Babies Group Tuesdays From 10 am till 11.30 am at Hope Baptist Church Hall, Peverell Corner, Plymouth. Mums and Babies is an informal group which offers support and friendship to new and old mums with babies up to 8 months old. Our sympathetic group leaders will spoil you with endless tea,coffee and biscuits whilst you relax. There is a charge of £2 per session. For details ring the church on 01752 708090.

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 Dartmoor Rambling Club Exercise by walking and talking, with our club. Wednesday walks 8 to 10 miles by public transport. Weekend walks 8 to10 or 10 to 12 miles by car share or public transport.

Dartmoor, countryside, coast. eg. Fox Tor, Crow Tor, Bore Hill, Dewers Tor, Teignmouth, Cadover, Three Barrows.

Call Russell on 01752 266608 for more info.

National Trust Plymouth Centre Make the most of your NT membership and join the NTPC for even more activities. During the winter there are talks given at Saltram and lunches and other activities. In the summer there are coach outings to NT properties, houses and gardens. The walk group has walks on the first

Tots Time - St Judes Mondays Looking for somewhere to take your toddler? Tots Time provides crafts, toys, bikes, snacks and singing for all 3 year olds and under, and a friendly welcome for their carers.

Monday mornings during term time from 9.00 to 11.30, St Judes Church on Beaumont Road at a cost of £1.50. Just turn up! Call 01752 224178 for more details.

Plymouth Life Centre Community Table Tennis Club Thursdays Adult only table tennis every Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and 9pm to 10pm, must be over 16 unless by invitation. Run by ETTA Plymouth Development Coach Mike Naylor, the club offers friendly, fun and affordable table tennis sessions that cater for all abilities. There are 15 tournament tables with two robot feeders that are fun but challenging coaching aids where you can take the 20 ball robot challenge. All equipment is provided, there is no need to book so just turn up on the night and see Diana. Prices are £3 per hour or £5 for 2 hours. For further details contact Mike on 07792 849945.

Coffee Afternoon Thursdays Mainstone Community Centre hold a weekly coffee afternoon every Thursday at 2pm 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.

Councillor Advice Surgeries Saturdays Meet your local St Budeaux Councillors Bowie, Damarell and Wheeler. Every Saturday 1030 to 12 at the St Budeaux Library St Budeaux Square. If you have a problem with Council Services or wish to discuss a matter in your area please drop in for advice.

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.

Barne Barton Coffee Morning Wednesdays (term time) For parents of children going through the process or already diagnosed with special needs or disabilities. If interested ring 01752 365658.

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 Market Stalls First Saturday of the month College Road Primary School, Keyham 1.30pm to 3.45pm.

Clothes, jewellery, cards, cakes, knitted goods, toys, and more. Details 07948 315198.

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

`• continued on page 22

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • `• continued from page 20

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.

Katherine now a member of SFE Katherine Millman, a solicitor at Plymouth based solicitors Howard and Over has been accepted as a member of the national association Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE).

on legal issues including, tax planning, wills, enduring powers of attorney, long-term social and health care and other retirement issues.

SFE is an association of lawyers who specialise in legal services for older people and their carers.

Barne Barton Thursday December 4 8.30am - 7pm Drop-in to discuss new doctors surgery provision, Tamar View Community Centre, Miers Close Colebrook, Newnham & Ridgeway Monday January 19 7pm Colebrook Community Centre, Peacock Meadow, Plympton Derriford West & Crownhill Monday December 8 6pm Windsor House, Conference room 2, Sendalls Way Eggbuckland Thursday December 11 7pm St Edward’s Church Hall, Church Hill Ernesettle Wednesday March 11 6.30pm St Aidan’s Church, The Green Goosewell Tuesday February 17 9.30am The Staddy, Staddiscombe Road, Plymstock Higher Compton, Mannamead & Mutley Joint Meeting Tuesday January 20 6.30pm Quaker House, Mutley Honicknowle & West Park Thursday December 11 6.30pm Tesco Café, Transit Way Lipson & Laira Thursday December 11 6.30pm Lipson Community College, Bernice Terrace Manadon & Widey Tuesday December 9 6pm Crownhill Library, Crownhill Village North Prospect & Weston Mill Friday December 5 1.30pm Venue to be arranged Plympton St Maurice, Underwood & Yealmpstone Thursday January 8 6pm Plympton Library, Harewood, Ridgeway Plymstock & Radford Wednesday January 14 7pm Plymstock Library, Horn Cross Road Southway Tuesday January 20 6.30pm Southway Library, Southway Drive Turnchapel, Hooe, Oreston & Mt Batten Tuesday January 6 7pm Hooe Baptist Church, Hooe Road 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.

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 if £3 per session. No previous experience necessary.

For more details telephone 318087.

Members of SFE have a wealth of experience within this key legal area and they are required to have spent a substantial amount of time working for elderly clients.

The aim of this national association is to improve the knowledge and service provided

Katherine Millman

details of our events or to hire the Hall, contact Lyn Crews on 01752 706728 or email lyn.crews@talktalk.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.

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.

Badminton Club Fridays Non league club meets on Friday evenings at Whiteford Road, Plymouth. Players wanted, of any age over 18. For further details contact rcbeasley@btinternet.com 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.

Blaze Family Fun Morning Second Saturday of the month St Budeaux Baptist Church, Fletemoor Road from 10.30am to 12.30pm Plympton Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild First Monday of the month (except January) Any interested ladies are welcome to join us for meetings with speakers, events, tea and biscuits! 2pm at Harewood House, Plympton. Call Joan on 01752 336167 for details.

Coffee Morning and Book Stall Thursdays Crownhill Methodist Church 10am to 11.30am. Join us for a cup of tea or coffee, biscuit and a chat. All welcome. For details ring Pat on Plymouth 700404.

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.

Monthly lunches Last Wednesday of Month (except December) St Budeaux Church Community Hall from 12.15pm to 2pm.

Lovely homemade soup, roll & cakes, a cup of tea, good company and all for £3. What more could you want to brighten your day? Plenty to do as you browse the Jigsaw Library and have a go at the quiz while you eat. For more

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

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The Plymouth Shopper

Howard and Over provide a variety of specialist legal services and has a team of lawyers who specialise in legal issues for the elderly. Katherine Millman’s membership of SFE will provide clients with the assurance that Howard and Over has wide ranging expertise in providing legal services for older people.

Katherine said: “ I have been specialising in legal services for the elderly for several years, and am looking forward to continuing my development in this area so that I am able to give my clients and colleagues first class legal advice in a field of law which is constantly evolving, as the requirements of the elderly population change.”

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.

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. Nov 22 ‘For Such a Time As This’ with John Swanstone. For details visit www. thefillingstation.org.uk or contact Les and Di Wood 01822 854877.

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 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 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.

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 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.

Organic Gardening course Thursdays New course started in May based at Keyham Green Project.

Thursdays 9-30am-3-30pm. The course will help teach learners about organic gardening and develop design skills in a beautiful green space in the heart of Keyham. Places are limited: please ring Sandie Morrison on 569340 to book your place email kgpcentre@hotmail.com or for more details about Permaculture email Tess Wilmot.eclipse.co.uk Plympton Painting Group 2nd and 4th Monday of the month, at 7.15pm Painting workshops and demonstrations by professional artists, and meet in the Annex to the RC Church in Vicarage Road at 7.15pm. For further info please call 336461 or email ronscreech@onetel.com 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 Memory Cafe, Devonport Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month A new memory cafe has opened in Devonport. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Plymouth, the cafe is for people with memory problems and their carers. The cafe, which is located at the Salvation Army Hall in Haddington Road is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm. The cafe is open for social, music, film, discussion and company.

Exercise Classes Thursdays and Tuesdays 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 1.30pm-3pm. 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 Plympton Gardener’s Association First Thursday of the month Harewood House, Plympton. at 7.30pm. Talks, competitions, plant sales, discounted seeds and other gardening sundries.

New members are always welcome.

Sounds Musical Theatre Company Wednesdays Founded in 1911, we are a friendly, diverse group of

`• continued on page 24

Sarah all set for challenge of a lifetime A Peverell woman has decided to walk the world’s most famous wall – all in the name of St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.

Sarah Gorehas signed up for St Luke’s Great Wall of China Overseas Challenge, next year.

“The Great Wall of China is certainly no holiday” said Sarah. “It is going to be both a mental and physical challenge. 12 days covering over 60km, walking through remote areas where tourists often don’t venture, scaling walls via a rope ladder and walking along impassable paths where part of the wall has crumbled away, are just some of the obstacles I will face.”

The challenge takes place from April 4 to 15 and will give Sarah the opportunity to tackle the longest structure ever built by humans. Sarah will be starting her journey at the Old Dragon’s Head, the far Eastern point where the wall meets the Ocean. She will see spectacular sunsets, hike into the mountains, stay with locals, spend a night camping on the wall and trying traditional unusual food.

£3,500 is very achievable. And it is not too late to sign up!”

Sarah has worked for St Luke’s for 14 years and knows first-hand how important the money generated from overseas challenges contribute to patient care. “None of us know when we may need the specialist care from St Luke’s. One in five local people will be diagnosed with a terminal illness at some point in their lives. This means that one day we may all be affected. For me this is a fantastic way to help St Luke’s care for local people, whilst I get to take part in a once in a lifetime experience, something that not only challenges me but gives me the opportunity to do something rewarding for someone else”.

Sarah is now calling out to the local community to support her main fundraising event, a Charity Dinner Dance to be held at The Holiday Inn, Plymouth on Saturday February 7. “It’s the perfect way to have a great night out and make a difference to the patients of St Luke’s” said Sarah.

Sarah has to raise £3,500 before she can even put one step on the wall, but isn’t daunted by the fundraising challenge ahead and wants to encourage new people to join her team.

Tickets are £35 per person which includes a drink on arrival, 3 course meal and entertainment from Local Band Sky Walkers and DJ Kevan Kennedy. There will also be a raffle and fun games played between courses.

“If you put your mind to it, are organised and are willing to put in the work, it is amazing how achievable raising £3,500 is. For example a bag pack can raise £300, a Coffee Morning £200, or a Ball which on occasion can raise in excess of £5,000. Once you break it down

If you would like to join Sarah in China, please visit www. stlukes-hospice.org.uk/china

If you are interested in attending and helping to support St Luke’s Hospice please contact Sarah Gore on sarahstlukeschina@gmail.com or phone 07855 719086

School leavers Great careers start here

If your child is 16 or 17 and has left school, what are their options?

Do they wish they had a job, a career, money in their pocket? With a range of options, courses and support, City College Plymouth can help!

Enrol on a full-time course starting in January We have an exciting range of full-time courses starting in January 2015: bricklaying, business, construction multi-skilled, English and maths, games development, hair and beauty, health and social care, hospitality, IT, painting and decorating, plastering, plumbing, travel and tourism, plumbing and many more.

Take an Apprenticeship Studying this way means they can earn a wage and get on-the-job training in the workplace. We have over 100 vacancies with local employers to choose from!

Join a pre-employment programme For those not ready for a College course, Apprenticeship or employment, we offer a range of programmes which will improve confidence, problem solving skills, teach young people how to work as part of a team and develop their employability skills, whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

Next steps …

College Information Evenings To find out more pop into one of our College Information Evenings.

You can talk to staff and discover what City College Plymouth has to offer.

Kings Road, Devonport Wednesday 17 December 4.00pm – 6.00pm Tuesday 6 January 4.00pm – 7.00pm

City College Plymouth ...

for education and training that works!

16-17 year olds who apply for a course at the event will receive a £10 LOVE2SHOP voucher!

125 YEARS Est. 1889

The Plymouth Shopper

23

£8000 DONATION PAYS FOR VITAL HOSPITAL EQUIPMENT The Jonathan Thurston Epilepsy Fund has donated £8000 to the Neurophysiology Department at Derriford Hospital, which has enabled the department to purchase a new EEG machine.

Jonathan, who died in December last year at the age of 29, had lived with epilepsy since the age of 15 and sadly died from a seizure during the night.

Although he was not a patient of the hospital, his family, who live locally, have set up the trust in his memory to raise money to help treat local people with epilepsy and have so far raised thousands of pounds.

Janet Thurston, Jonathan’s mum said: “In memory of Jonathan, we wanted to donate something that would help others who have epilepsy, as 600,000 people in this country have the condition.

“Various events took place to raise the money, including golf days at Yelverton Golf Club and Richmond Golf Club in London, a quiz night organised by Lloyds Bank in

Plymouth and fund raising by many friends and family.”

The new PSG (Polysomnography) machine, which records the electrical activity of the brain as well as numerous other physiological variables and has video recording, is a big advance over the previous equipment as it enables capture of many more EEG channels, which is extremely useful in differentiating nocturnal events caused by seizures from those caused by other sleep disorders.

Nigel Hudson, neurophysiology service manager said: “Epilepsy is the most common serious neurological disorder and although its effects are life changing, it is not very high profile in terms of charitable giving.

“It is therefore very gratifying that the Thurston family have seen fit to do some fund raising and donate the money to Derriford Hospital, enabling us to purchase this machine.

We are all very thankful.”

A small brass plaque has been placed on the machine to thank the Thurston family for their generosity and their energetic fund raising efforts, which have generated over £8000 to enable this purchase.

Work under way on new helipad at Derriford Work has started on the construction of a new helipad at Derriford Hospital.

The new landing facility will take approximately seven months to build and should be operational by May 2015, allowing a wider range of aircraft to land on site and

Syd Jamieson, Vanguard poject manager leads the way at the turf cutting ceremony for the new helipad

being accessible 24 hours a day.

Nick Thomas, director of planning and site services, said: “The new facility is a really key investment for the hospital. Not only is it going to allow us to land some of the bigger helicopters on site, but it’s also going to allow us to support night time flying so the air ambulances will be able to land here 24-7.

“It’s really important for the hospital as it reinforces our specialist role within the peninsula, both in terms of major trauma care but also getting very poorly medical patients to us quickly. It also supports our wider specialist role across Devon and Cornwall and further afield.

“It’s really exciting and we’d like to thank all of the stakeholders who have been involved: Devon Air Ambulance, Cornwall Air Ambulance, the college of St Mark and St Johns and Devon Diving Research Centre.

Probably most importantly of all and in particular, a big thank you to the HELP charity, who have raised half of the money that’s going to pay to build this new facility.”

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR

CUDDLE UP THIS

Christmas WITH A GREAT BOOK

`• continued from page 22 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 Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston. Join us from November onwards for rehearsals for Rogers and Hammerstein’s Carousel. Visit the website www. soundsmusicaltheatrecompany.co.uk for more information.

Plympton Moving On Stroke Club Alternate Wednesdays Meet at Pocklington 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. We have a full programme of events booked for the remainder of 2014, and we are soon to decide on a venue for our Christmas lunch. At the first meeting in 2015 we will celebrate our 2nd anniversary will a buffet and a cake. Next meetings Oct 1 and 15. Contacts Tony Stoneman 07834276371; Steve Sargent 07944691482 and Gloria Ward 01752 776978.

Sequence Dancing for All Saturdays St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Hyde Park Peverell, 7.30pm to 10pm. With tea and biscuits. Everyone welcome.

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The Plymouth Shopper

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.

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.

RASC/RCT/RLC Association Various dates The corps association will hold meetings next year on March 11, May 13, July 8, September 9 and November 11 at the Army Reserve Centre, Derriford at 7.30pm. New members welcome. For more information call 01752 769169.

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 Fuschia and Geranium Group Second Tuesday of the month We meet at Harewood House, Plympton Plymouth £1.50 for visitors there is varierty of speakers new members always welcolme contact Sam Brown plymouth 297239 or marie kay 343386 or www.pfgg.co.uk

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Thursdays Tavy Lodge Scout Centre, off Lisson Grove, 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.

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

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 2pm for approximately 1 hour to discuss chosen books and swap other reading experiences. You would receive a very warm welcome to any new mambers. Please ring 01752 513197 for further details.

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

Male Carers Drop in Meets twice a month Held at Elspeth Sitters House, Hoegate St, Plymouth.

10.30am to 12.30pm. Carers can bring along the person they care for and they will be looked after while the carer has a break. December 4 and December 18. 2015 dates to follow.

AERIALS AND TV REPAIRS SIGNAL AERIALS - Freeview specialist • Registered digital installer • 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 BETTER BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

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

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A&S Bathroom & Kitchen Solutions - All aspects of bathroom and kitchen installation including • Plumbing • Electrics • Tiling • Plastering • Carpentry • FREE quotation, competitive prices. Call Alex 07855 436873 PAUL JOHNSON ROOFING & BUILDING New roofs • Repairs • General Building work • Fascias • Guttering • All work guaranteed Competitive rates • FMB Award Winner

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pnjohnson@hotmail.co.uk www.pnjohnson.co.uk DE’COR - BUILDING & MAINTENANCE Interior and Exterior Painting and Decorating • Wall and Floor Tiling • Basic Plumbing • Guttering and Fascia Cleaning • General Exterior Cleaning • Fencing • Groundwork • Most Work Considered Gary Rogers: 01752 946770 • 07845746991

CDW PROPERTY LTD DESIGN - CONSTRUCT - RENOVATE - MAINTAIN

Specialising in Renovation and Refurbishment For all your property needs

Call Colin on 01752 847 600

info@cdwproperty.co.uk JOHNNY KEMP BUILDING & ROOFING

All roofing and building work undertaken • Plastering • Carpentry • Joinery • • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Decking • Tel: 01752 366293 Mob: 07989601875 Email: johnnybuild@hotmail.co.uk 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 www.dhewlettpm.co.uk

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

Trading standards approved.

Tel: 01752 267567 - Mob: 07967150441 terryclarke2009@hotmail.com

CARPENTERS ALL WOOD INSTALLATIONS Bathrooms • Bedrooms • Kitchens • All associated plumbing, electrical and tiling work • Bespoke joinery work • Box frame windows • Doors & staircases • Counters/Bars/Computer Stations/ Reception Desks. Tel 01752 348648 07704 448835 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

CHIMNEY SWEEPER LEIGH MILLARD CHIMNEY SWEEP

IT & COMPUTING

Tel: 01752 318022 Mob: 07941 928857 Web: www.millardsweep.com All flues and chimneys swept • Certificates issued Fully insured • Competitive prices Professional service • Clean and reliable

CUTEC Need IT support for your business?

Cutec specialises in offering a complete range of business IT services. Visit our website for more information. www.cutec.co.uk - 01752 231760

CLEANING SERVICES

LOCK SMITH

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

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All Hours Locksmith - 24 hr Locksmith • Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting • Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs • Replacement Glass • Free Quotes • 7 Polzeath Gardens, Plymouth PL2 3SZ Tel 01752 777844 Mob 07989 599969

MOTOR REPAIRS

CAROLINA BLINDS & CURTAINS

I FIX MOTORS

Quality at discount prices Free measuring & fitting • Huge range of blinds & curtains • Vertical • Venetian • Rollers • Pleated etc.

Tel: 01752 698787 carolinablindco@hotmail.co.uk

5 star member of the good garage scheme. Search online to see all our feedback. All makes and models repaired and serviced.

Paul Simpson 59 De La Hay Av, Plymouth, PL3 4HT 01752 565578 • ifixmotors@hotmail.co.uk

www.carolinablindsandcurtains.co.uk

ELECTRICIANS CTC ELECTRICAL SERVICES Domestic electrical work • Showers • Sockets • Security Lighting • No Job too Small 162 Holmwood Avenue, Plymouth PL9 9EX Tel 01752 405514 Mob 07774 430451 HYDE PARK ELECTRICAL LTD

Solar Panel and Electrical Engineers Fully registered and Insured 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 15 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 / 01752 770771

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 BUDDS TREE SERVICES All aspects of tree-care, hedging and planting services.

Call us today for free, friendly advice.

24 hour call out: 07833130639 or 01752 698145 Email: david@buddtreeservices.co.uk www.buddtreeservices.co.uk R.J.B GARDEN SERVICES LTD Landscaping • Decking • Fencing • Patios • Turfing • Garden Maintenance • Hedge & Grass Cutting 43 Faringdon Road, St Judes, Plymouth PL4 9EP Tel: 01752 319510 Mob: 07985 040658 Web: rjbgardenservices.com

GLASS & GLAZING BEACON GLASS & GLAZING Local Family Business • Double Glazing Repairs and Maintenance • Locks, Handles & Hinges • Misted Sealed Unit Replacements • Silicone and Rubber Replacements • Letterboxes • Cat Flaps FREE ESTIMATES 01752769832 / 07846475217 www.beaconglassandglazing.co.uk

PAINTERS & DECORATORS A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • 50 Camborne Close, Plymouth PL5 4PE Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.asdecoratingandmaintenance.co.uk 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 A R PLASTERING AND BUILDING SERVICES INTERNAL: Including skim over artex • EXTERNAL: Including sparring and rendering COVING • High Quality Workmanship Friendly and Reliable 25 Years Experience Tel: 01752 211869 Mob: 07843527074 Email: arplastering@hotmail.co.uk 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 PLUMBER OFFERING 45% DISCOUNT UNTIL 2015 VAT free + 25% discount on labour and materials. Local, friendly & reliable. 30+ years experience. Numerous references on request.

Genuine 24hr emergency service. Free quotes and advice.

CLIVE GAVIN AND SON PLUMBING AND HEATING 01752 959236 07803 320 755 B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job to 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 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 07879 404282 Web www.moorheat.co.uk

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 0790 6706 799 www.trbheating.co.uk trbheating@live.co.uk MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • No job too small • No VAT • 24 hour emergency call out • Senior citizen discounts.

Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429

A. PRITCHARD PLUMBING & HEATING

Gas Safe Registered • Boiler Changes • Central Heating Systems • All Plumbing Work • All Work Guaranteed

Tel 01752 203354 Mob 07968 949558 ROOFING 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

VETERINARY EDMUND SHILLABEER BVSC MRCVS

Your local caring vet, Est. 1970 10 Peverell Park Road, PL3 4NA Also at Elburton, call 01752 662 312 www.edmundshillabeer.co.uk

WASTE REMOVAL KSR Licenced Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE (excludes TV’s, Computer monitors, fridges or freezers).

Cheap rates for OAPs, Scrap Metal Cleared For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940

WINDOWS & DOORS 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 BEST QUALITY WINDOWS Doors, windows and all aspects of UPVC undertaken Tel: 01752 607373 Email: bqw1@ymail.com www.bestqualitywindowsltd.net Quality House, St. Levan Road, Ford, PL2 3AF RJ Holland - UPVC Specialist Repairs • Maintenance • Glass Units Installer of UPVC Windows and Doors since 1975 Tel: 01752 567249 or 07850 772325

Don’t forget to mention Dial The Experts when you contact one of these advertisers The Plymouth Shopper

25

A century of fun at the fair on The Hoe Regular fairground attractions appear on Plymouth Hoe every year especially during the school holidays. The fair has been visiting this part of the city for well over 100 years.

The original site was at West Hoe and popular rides back then included the Helter Skelter, the motor car switchback, the carousel and the swing boats. There were also rifle ranges, a coconut shy and stalls where you could throw a ball to win prizes.

Many of the photos shown here come from Hancock’s Fair which was touring in the late 1800s onwards.

Hancock’s Fair of 1910 included side-shows, roundabouts, switchbacks and competitions including a beauty show, a baby show and a wrestling match.

Also appearing that year was Professor Bianchi who was described as ‘the greatest foot equilibrist in the world.’

The fairground was destroyed by fire during 1913 as suffragettes protested against the arrest of Mrs Pankhurst. The Western Gazette of Friday 9th December 1913 reported:

‘A large timber yard in Richmond Walk, Devonport, was totally destroyed by fire on Monday morning and great damage was done to property adjoining belonging to Hancock’s World Fair. Suffragettes literature was found on the scene of the outbreak, which is the place where Mrs Drummond and other militants recently awaited the landing of Mrs Pankhurst from America, not knowing that she had

The fair at West Hoe complete with helter skelter

Derek Tait looks back on the history of fun fairs on The Hoe. Derek has had many other books published including Plymouth at War; Images of England: Plymouth; Saltash Passage; Memories of St Budeaux; Plymouth Hoe; Mount Edgcumbe; Plymouth Tales From the Past; Plymouth Through Time; Saltash Through Time and Rame Peninsula Through Time.

Derek’s website can be found at www.derektait.co.uk Alderman G Scoble stated: ‘I have had

The fair at West Hoe with the Pier in the background already been arrested.

Some of the occupants of the World’s Fair’s vans had narrow escapes. Miss Hancock was in great distress on Monday. ‘We are completely ruined,’ she tearfully told a press representative. ‘About £3,500 worth has gone and we have not a penny of insurance.

Times have been very bad lately and we thought we might save the premiums. When the suffragettes were here to rescue Mrs Pankhurst, I said they were brave women and I got into trouble for it. I think now that they are only cruel, selfish women.’

Hancock’s Fair must have recovered from their plight as reports in local papers show them still touring in the 1920s.

By the 1930s, the fair had a new venue but not all were in favour. In June 1935, the council deliberated about allowing the fair on the main part of the Hoe during Regatta week.

a good experience of fairs and I have reached the conclusion that the public desires these fairs. Much of the sting of the old complaints has been removed. Instead of blaring trumpets, we will have the sweet music of amplifiers. There will be no nuisance except chip-potato paper and a few things like that. Seeing that we have a Lord Mayor now, we should celebrate the occasion properly with a fair on the Hoe. Nothing would be more enjoyable than to see members of this council on the hobby horses. If the fair is a necessary evil, let us have it on the Hoe.’

However, Alderman Cornish was less than happy with the proposal. He stated: ‘If you have any sense

of decency, you will not allow this orgy to be perpetrated on what visitors call one of the finest places in the world. An alternative would be to have the fair in the Guildhall Square.’

The motor switchback and carousel

wisdom, decided to allow the fair to take place.

Over the years, the fair has lost none of its appeal and the rides featured are many and varied. Throughout the 1970s, one of the most popular touring fairs was Whiteleggs which will be remembered fondly by many.

As a kid I loved such rides as the dodgems, the cyclone, the waltzers, the big wheel and the big dipper but it would take a lot to get me on one of them nowadays!

Alderman G P Dymond also objected stating: ‘I remember the last time this fair was held on top of the Hoe, it was said ‘Never again!’ The disfigurement lasted so long that people were disgusted to think that we allowed the fair to take place on the Hoe at all.’

Other councillors protested about the ‘hooliganism and loose play’ at the fair on previous years but it was suggested that there should be full police supervision.

After listening to all of the arguments, the council, in its The hugely popular swingboats

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.

CLEANERS – Professional, reliable home helper/ cleaners needed in Plymouth and Saltash, DBS/CRB preferable and own car. Hours to suit, good rates of pay.

Call Claire 07801 931987 HAIRDRESSER - Dudes are looking for an experienced Barber/Hairdresser wanted on self employed basis full time or part time call Rob 07791234404 VOLUNTEERS - Plymouth Natural Health and Healing Centre is looking for a Receptionist, no experience necessary. Travel expenses paid. 175 Outland Road, Plymouth PL2 3PY. Please email plymouthnaturalhealthandhealing@hotmail.com or call 01752 770048.

VOLUNTEERS - The Scout Association The 9th/21st Plymouth Scout group are looking for new adult volunteers to work with Beavers/Cubs/Scouts. Full training given. Lots of opportunities for trying new activities and CV building. We have our own scout centre on Mutley Plain. If you’re at a loose end on Thursday evenings, come along and join the adventure. Contact Jan: 07527687804 or 9th21stplymouthscoutgroup@gmail.com 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 CRB, we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Maureen on 01752 227828.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE РVolunteer with Plymouth Highbury Trust as a Citizen Advocate and you can support someone with a learning disability to have a quality of life that most people take for granted.  We offer flexible hours and full training and support. Call Kate on 01752 753719 VOLUNTEERS - YMCA Plymouth currently has volunteering opportunities in its coffee bar and working in its grounds undertaking grass cutting and gardening.The coffee bar needs help on weekdays between 1200-1400 and on some Saturdays and Sundays. The grounds work would be any time between normal daytime hours Monday-Friday.

All volunteers are entitled to free use of our gym and class facilities.For more information please contact Vic Hibbert on 01752-761004 or e mail at vic.hibbert@plymouthymca.co.uk CARE WORKERS - Allied Healthcare are eager to speak to care workers who can work in Plymouth, Torpoint, Saltash and surrounding areas. Staff benefits include Guaranteed hours contracts & Full training; Full time working hours on a 4 day on/off rota; Part time and weekend work available; Up to 28 days paid holiday (including back holidays); Amazing discounts in well known high street stores; Free AA cover for 12mths. Hourly rates from £8 per hr plus enhancements for 30/45min calls and weekend working. Contact Stacey on 07866 599039 stacey.beggs@ alliedhealthcare.com OCCASIONAL COMPANION AND DOG WALKER – For a 10 month old Shih Tzu. Quiet, friendly, good natured little chap would love some company and short, slow walks when owner is working occasionally.

Someone in St. Judes/Lipson area would be ideal. Fee to be discussed. Please ring 01752 603620 or 07792188509.

VOLUNTEERS - Volunteering at Plymouth Mind.

Come and get involved with Plymouth Mind to celebrate its 30th year. We have opportunities for fundraisers, artists, musicians, gardeners, and those who are looking for work experience. Contact Lesley@plymouthmind.com GENERAL - How committed are you to making your dreams a reality? I’m looking for hard-working, dedicated people with a real drive to succeed. Part-time work around your current commitments working alongside a global leader in the health and well-being industry. Quality, ethical products, full training and support. Anne 07815 778656 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 CRB, we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Lynda on 01752 227828.

HOST FAMILY - Needed for students for three months. Good rate of pay. Please contact Glynis on 07808 894927 (evenings).

VOLUNTEERS - Green spaces are essential in a big city. Moor View Park, just off Mutley Plain, is one such green space, recently awarded the Green Flag for upkeep and community events. Volunteers needed to help build on the ongoing vision for this park . Email jeannehinton@ talktalk.net or ring 674885.

SUPPORT WORKER - Exciting opportunities have arisen to join Lifeways Plymouth as a Support Worker.

You will be required to work some unsociable hours on a shift basis within the Plymouth and surrounding areas. In return we offer a competitive salary, training and much more. To apply please co ntact Sue on 01752 777222.

GENERAL – Children’s Hospice South West are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work in their shops in Plymouth (City), Plymouth (Mutley Plain), Totnes and Tavistock. If you would like to gain experience in different areas of retail and could spare a few hours email plymouthshop@chsw.org.uk or pop into your local shop MUTLEY – Retail Volunteers needed for Plymouth cats protection charity shop 91 Mutley Plain, Plymouth. Come and join our fun team of cat lovers, telephone Claire 255 193 VOLUNTEER - Could you be a volunteer for a carer who cares for someone with Dementia? Do you have patience, empathy and time to spare? If so you could be just who we are looking for. Training and on going support for you. If so Please contact Ellie Cannon for further details on 01752 256020

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Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop 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.

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The Plymouth Shopper

Legally Speaking By Greg Yates of Howard & Over Solicitors

Roof top drama leads to claim for damages...

Below is a recent letter to a prospective client.

“I am writing to you following your recent visit to my office.

You asked if we were prepared to accept your personal injury claim on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. This is a scheme whereby we receive additional costs if we win your case but obtain nothing if we lose.

I understand that you want to pursue a claim for personal injury while visiting somebody’s house. Before we take a case on this basis we have to assure ourselves that your claim has a decent prospect of success.

I regret to say that some aspects of your accident give me some cause for concern. Can I outline them in this letter?

Can you please explain what you were doing on the roof of the house?

I understand that often workmen do have to work on roofs.

However, usually scaffolding is erected, ladders are put in place and, where appropriate, safety harnesses are worn.

Such work is usually done in daylight.

You told me that you had arrived at the house late on Christmas Eve. It was dark and you informed me that you were looking for the chimney for the purpose of delivering parcels.

I have to say that this explanation caused me some confusion. Experience has shown me that the best way of delivering parcels is by taking them to the door of the property. Doors permit easy entrance to and exit from a property, chimneys do not.

Another aspect that gives me cause for concern is that you did not bring the parcels to the house in a van. Instead you brought them with a number of reindeer and a sleigh.

These, I understand, were also on the roof.

You told me that you were not trespassing.You felt you had been invited because when you finally fell down the chimney you found a glass of sherry, mince pies and some carrots for the reindeer placed on the mantelpiece.

Previous deliveries during the course of the evening had also provided food and drink. From this I had to assume that you had drunk a large number of sherries prior to arriving at the house where the accident occurred.

I am sorry that you did suffer some injuries in falling down the chimney. However, I have come to the conclusion that we cannot take on your case as it has little prospect of success. You have engaged in a hazardous activity by being on the roof with the reindeer. Other safer alternatives were available. You had clearly been drinking a considerable amount of fortified wine. In summary, it appears that the injury was caused solely by your negligence rather than anything the house owner has done.

I am sorry we cannot help you. Can I also add the owner of the house has written to us saying he is going to sue you for damage to his roof. Have a Happy Christmas.”

£2m boost for Plymouth Science Park Plymouth Science Park’s plans for growth have received a major boost thanks to a significant loan from Plymouth City Council of just under £2 million.

The council’s investment board has approved a loan of £1.98 million to expand the science park, which is the biggest in the south of England.

The loan will help unlock further funding from the Heart of the South West Local Economic Partnership and pave the way for 190 permanent employment opportunities in cutting-edge IT related industries as well as over 110 construction jobs during the build phase.

The science park, which is jointly owned by the council and Plymouth University, is working with the local economic partnership to develop a project which aims to create high-quality office and business accommodation to encourage growing high-end businesses in the technology and IT market sectors in the city to flourish.

If full funding is secured, the Phase 5 expansion of the science park entails building 11 high quality business units geared to modern IT business work environments as well as altering one of the existing buildings, to make it more appropriate to the needs of developing businesses at the science park and freeing up much needed start-up spaces.

The council has committed to the loan, which is being made through its investment fund – a fund set up as part of Plymouth’s Plan 4 Jobs scheme.

Council leader Tudor Evans said; “Plymouth Science Park is the biggest science park in the south of England and is a key player in getting Plymouth’s name on a global stage.

Offices at 114/116 Albert Road, Devonport, Plymouth and 254 Dean Cross Road, Plymstock Tel: 01752 556606 Also at 61 Fore St, Ivybridge Tel: 01752 690123

Plymouth Science Park is home to a community of 75 businesses employing upwards of 750 people, ranging from one man start-ups to multi-national corporations.

Companies range from computer software developers such as Carbon Pixel, and Argans, which has contracts with the European Space Agency.

“We need to keep supporting all the amazing businesses that are there and encourage more to come into the newly-expanded park so that it can carry on helping Plymouth to punch above its weight.

Generating a combined turnover of £100 million, the park is designed to create opportunities for tenants to share knowledge and expertise in their fields as well as offer cross-sector business opportunities.

“This is about creating jobs and incredible opportunities for our young people – especially graduates – in really exciting fields of IT, creative and digital industries, medical and health care, advanced engineering as well as research and development.”

Now that the Council’s investment board has approved the business case, the proposal will be considered by local economic partnership and the University.

Simon Chamberlain, Chair of the Science Park Board said: “This is brilliant news and I’m delighted the Council is showing its commitment to Plymouth Science Park and all the businesses within it.

Plymouth University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Regional Enterprise, Professor Julian Beer said; “As co-owner of the Science Park, Plymouth University has played a lead role in its growth and success to date and continues to be committed to its future in developing the park’s potential to enhance the economic prosperity of the city and region. The University welcomes the support from the Heart of the South West LEP and will carefully consider how to take advantage of the proposed funding offer.”

“We recognise there is other funding to secure but we are very pleased the council has been so committed to helping us secure jobs in this way and we look forward

Design and procurement processes are already planned out, so if all goes according to plan work could begin as early as autumn 2015.

The loan from the council will be matched funded for a verbally confirmed £3 million grant from the Local Growth Fund. The capital cost of the expansion is £6.97 million.

City College students take part in local community project

Students from City College Plymouth recently took part in a community project working with the Shekinah Mission and Hamoaze House.

The students worked extremely hard over eight days, giving up their half-term break to focus on helping their local community.

Working collaboratively, students had to identify areas of need within their local area.

All of the students are taking part in the National Citizenship Service (NCS) programme delivered in partnership with City College Plymouth and Plymouth Argyle Football Club.

“The group highlighted homelessness and substance misuse as social issues, hence making contact with Shekinah and Hamoaze House. I was extremely impressed by their dedication and energy and I know that the group were keen to represent a more positive stereotype of young people in our society today.”

NCS brings together young people from different backgrounds and helps them to develop greater confidence, self-awareness and responsibility.

It encourages personal and social development by working on skills like leadership, teamwork and communication.

The students spent their time helping to clear land at Hamoaze House in order to start a ‘Growing for Life’ project, a project

which is run by a partnership between the Shekinah Mission and Hamoaze House.

‘Growing for Life’ aims to provide social reintegration and an opportunity for young people to realise their potential and raise personal aspirations through meaningful activities, learning, and team work.

Student Jacob Nettleship, 16, said:

• Photographer • Decorator • Cleaner • Taxi Driver • Florist • Beautician • Gardener • Plumber • Child Minder • I.T. • Builder • Caterer • Hair Stylist • Tattooist • Artist • Web Designer • Musician • Jewellery Maker • Fitness Instructor

YOU NAME IT - WE’VE HELPED THEM For over 10 years, Working Links has talked to hundreds of people about becoming self employed. We have provided them with the confidence, support and encouragement they needed to become their own boss.

“NCS has helped me impact the local community in a meaningful way, whilst also allowing me to grow personally within a tightly knit group of people.”

The NCS is a government funded project, which allows teenagers to impact the local community, whilst also allowing them to develop personal skills.

Training officer at the College, Daniel Payne added: “The NCS group was made up of 16-18 year old students from several schools from the Plymouth area.

The NCS participants also took part in helping to paint a mural in a local café which is being created by the Shekinah Mission and the Plymouth College of Art.

All we expect from you is enthusiasm and an open mind... why not give it a go? Be someone who can say ‘I’m glad I did’ rather than, ‘I wish I had’ Come along and meet the team at the Plymouth Guildhall on

Mon, 22nd Dec 11am-1pm Live Reindeer, Santa & Elves, Presents, Face Painting & More.

One to One Support • Courses Workshops • Support Finding Finance

Howard & Over wish you a very Happy Christmas and 2015.

Howard & Over LLP

to getting confirmation of other funding in the near future.”

Come along to one of our ‘taster’ sessions on any Thursday afternoon from 1pm till 2pm at Working Links, Cobourg House, Mayflower Street.

For more information, telephone 01752 672007 or text ‘BOSS’ to 60060 or email EnterpriseCoaching@workinglinks.co.uk

Pop along to an Enterprise Club

Or at a venue near you, Please telephone for details on 01752 672007 • Devonport Job Centre • Old Tree Court Job Centre • Efford Library • St Aubyn Library • St Budeaux Library • Ernesettle Library • Working Links Offices, Mayflower Street • Central Library

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 or by post to: The Plymouth Shopper, 28, Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY. The Plymouth Shopper

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Baby Frankie’s ground-breaking surgery while still in the womb counselling and speaking to family, friends and Shine (the charity for spina bifida), Gina and Dan decided that the repair in the womb would offer their baby a better chance of reduced disability than having the surgery after birth, which is the standard treatment for babies with spina bifida.

Sat with her doting parents and smiling at the camera, eleven week old baby Frankie Lavis, is still totally unaware of the revolutionary operation she had before she was even born.

In May this year, Gina Beddoe, 35, and her partner Dan Lavis, 39, from Devonport, went to the Maternity Unit at Derriford Hospital for a 19 week scan. It was at this appointment they were told that it looked as though their unborn baby had spina bifida, a fault in the development of the spinal cord and surrounding bones, which leaves a gap or split in the spine.

The following day they returned for an appointment with Consultant in Fetomaternal Medicine, Dr Ross Welch, who confirmed that their baby did have spina bifida.

“The options given at that time were not to continue with the pregnancy or to repair it afterwards. He sent us away to think about, obviously it was quite a shock,” said Gina.

For Gina and Dan the decision to keep their baby was immediate. Dan said: “We didn’t even have to ask each other whether we would continue with the pregnancy.

“For us, it was the right decision,” added Gina. “We have very good support from friends and family and as our other children are seven and 16 we felt we could cope with another child with extra needs. But everyone’s circumstances are different.

Everyone makes the decision that is right for them, this was our right decision.”

At home after their appointment, the couple

looked up spina bifida online and that was where they learned about fetal spina bifida repair before birth.

“I only found positive things about it on the internet and I read about the in-utero surgery. So when we came back in to discuss the options I asked about the surgery and was told that it wasn’t done in the UK. “Dr Welch said that he could look into it for us if that was the route we wished to take. At that point, about 20 weeks I still wasn’t 100 per cent sure. It is big surgery to go through and Dr Welch explained that it was extensive surgery, not an easy five minute thing,” added Gina.

The couple thought about it for a further couple of weeks and after receiving

At 22 weeks pregnant, Gina told Dr Welch and his team that she wished to go ahead with the surgery and so Dr Welch, a former president of the International Fetal Medicine and Surgery Society, contacted Professor Jan Deprest in Belgium, who leads one of only four centres in Europe that performs the operation.

team to ensure the operation could take place. Fortunately, the operation was approved by NHS European Cross Border Funding agency within 30 minutes of the request being made and the couple were able to meet the costs of their flights and accommodation.

“We went across to Belgium when I was 24 weeks pregnant,” explained Gina. “I nearly changed my mind; I just felt it was too much.

Our flight was delayed which didn’t help matters and once we got there it was just test after test.

“The team over there were fantastic and they spoke the best English they could but we couldn’t read the signs; it was so overwhelming. We got back to the room and I just said ‘I can’t do this, I just want to go home.’

“Then Dr Welch and two colleagues from Derriford came out and I also spoke to a mum in the Netherlands who had had the surgery there and showed me her video and that put me at ease a bit and I started to see the surgery as an opportunity.”

This type of surgery needs to be performed before 26 weeks so arrangements were quickly Dr Ross Welch with colleagues Sharon Lister and Ruth made by the Rice, pictured with delighted parents and Frankie Derriford

chips chips with dip cod haddock hake plaice china sole lemon sole scampi

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The open surgery was performed in June and took two hours and involved more than 20 surgical staff. To access the baby’s spinal lesion, the surgeon had to cut through Gina’s abdomen, uterus and into the amniotic sac that held the baby.

Dr Welch said: “One of the main difficulties with open fetal surgery is ensuring the membranes and embryotic sac doesn’t move away from the uterine wall so they have to staple it into place.

“During this procedure one of the surgical team has to hold baby so their back is out of the sac but they remain face down in the fluid, which is continuously topped up throughout the procedure.

“If baby gets cold or dry then the reflexes can trigger and baby will start to breathe and that of course reverses the whole fetal circulation into an adult circulation. If that happens then there’s no going back.

At 24 weeks that was not an outcome we wanted,” said Dr Welch.

The repair was carried out and in this case, due to the size of the opening of the spine the surgical team had to use an artificial skin substitute to cover the wound.

Gina was in hospital in Belgium for ten days and when she returned home she was on strict orders to reduce activities and rest as much as possible. She was

also seeing Dr Welch and his team on a weekly basis.

As delivery must be by caesarean section following surgery, Gina was booked in for an elective section at 36 weeks pregnant, for the beginning of September.

However, a week before her planned date, Gina’s waters broke and baby Frankie was delivered at Derriford Hospital. “She decided to come a week earlier,” said Gina. “I did keep saying she wanted to be an August baby. She was very keen to come early and we had her here.

“We wanted her to be born here, where everyone who had been with us all the way through was. We were more confident with that.”

Frankie did have a skin graft from her thigh a few days after delivery, to cover the artificial skin patch and a shunt fitted when she was three weeks old after fluid started to build up in her brain. But Gina and Dan are hopeful that the prenatal surgical repair has helped secure a more independent future for their daughter.

Gina is the first woman in the UK to be funded by the NHS to have this procedure. “I strongly believe that if we hadn’t been at Derriford Hospital we would never have got the option of the surgery,” said Gina.

“We know that she’s the first baby in the UK to have the surgery and we also know that there are many more babies who could qualify for the surgery but it’s not being offered as an option at the moment. Maybe because it’s abroad, maybe because it’s a big operation and commitment but we knew it was the right option for us. It might not be for everyone, and I completely understand that, for us though it was the right thing. The proof is in what she can do now.”

More than two months later, Frankie is just like any other baby.

“The only difference being is that she likes to sleep on her belly,” Gina added. “When she was first born she couldn’t go on her back because of the skin graft so she’s now got a preference for that. Apart from that, if you saw her, you wouldn’t know. There’s no outward sign that she has spina bifida and there’s certainly no sign that it’s as large as what it is.”

It’s too early to know if she might walk but Frankie has sensation in the underside of her foot and according to Dr Welch, the strength in her legs is normal. The couple will have to wait to see if Frankie will require any neurosurgery or physiotherapy and also how she will meet targets, such as crawling, but for now everything looks fine.

“There was no guarantee that the surgery would be helpful. It is high risk,” said Gina.

“You have to have bed rest afterwards and it was quite a stressful time and you don’t know the outcome. We were lucky. Frankie is perfect.”

For further information about spina bifida visit the Shine Charity website at www. shinecharity.org.uk

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