The Plymouth Shopper January 2016

Compton & Crownhill

SHOP LOCAL SAVE POUNDS

Chance to join running groups - see page 11

8,000 copies delivered in Compton, Crownhill and Manadon Major development for north of city

Plans for 2,000 new homes

Health centre and school to be built

January 2016

Get in shape with our great competition - See page 13 for details

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

• Advice Plymouth • Charity news • Cross Rhythms

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

STAGECOACH INVEST £5M ON NEW BUSES - PAGE 9 Vouchers on page 3

Up to 2,000 new homes, plus a new school and health centre, could be built on a new development at Woolwell.

Agreement can begin between Plymouth City Council has helped pave developers Hannick Homes (who will the way for the new development, which drive the project forward), Plymouth City is in the South Hams area but on land Council, and South Hams Council. part owned by Plymouth City Council.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that we can move this exciting project forward, which will provide much needed homes including affordable housing.

“Along with some 2,000 new homes there will also be the necessary infrastructure, including a new health centre and school.”

The decision means a Collaboration

The council owns 29 acres of the land, which will be sold once planning permission has been secured. This will enable the council to reinvest the capital receipts into frontline council services.

The total area of the new development could be up to 228 acres.

Plymouth City Council will work with partners to approve the masterplan but South Hams will be the authority to approve planning permission.

Work starts on new school

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www.noahsonline.co.uk Students from Plymouth Studio School joined with representatives from the world of sport, tourism and education to mark the start on-site of their new £4.2 million state-of-the-art school and high performance sport centre recently.

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USEFUL

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.

2

The Plymouth Shopper

Crash victim raises £6000 for intensive care charity A young woman who was seriously injured in a car accident near Plymouth has raised over £6,000 as a ‘thank you’ to staff in Derriford’s Intensive Care Unit.

Charlotte Greaves, aged 24, surprised staff on the Pencarrow Intensive Care Unit after presenting a cheque for £6,036 for the Spring Intensive Care Charity.

In April 2014, Charlotte had a serious car accident whilst travelling home from Plymouth to Portsmouth. Suffering 13 broken bones, a punctured lung, liver lacerations, a brain haemorrhage and a shattered pelvis, which had to be operated on, Charlotte spent 11 days in intensive care after being put into an induced coma.

After spending a total of three and a half weeks at Derriford Hospital before being transferred to Portsmouth, Charlotte has been determined to raise as much money as possible for the charity.

Charlotte said: “Had it not been for the treatment that I received from the staff on the Intensive Care Unit at Derriford Hospital, I wouldn’t be here today. With the help

Crash victim Charlotte Greaves (centre) presents her cheque to members of the Pencarrow Intensive Care Unit team

of my family and friends, I have been concentrating on fundraising for the Spring Intensive Care Charity and I am overwhelmed that I managed to raise over £6000, I really never expected it!

“I am so grateful to ICU for saving my life and for the care and support that they gave to not only me, but to my family as well. I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone that has kindly donated to help raise such an incredible amount.”

Debbie Redding, senior sister on Pencarrow ICU, said: “I would like to thank Charlotte for her fantastic fundraising efforts. All of the staff on the unit were shocked after being shown the amount and hearing how hard she has worked to achieve it.

“We will now be able to send some of our staff on training days and refurbish the relatives’ room, which will make such a difference to so many families. We cannot thank her enough.”

St Luke’s rapid response team eases pressure on hospital beds this winter Team provides an effective solution to enable patients and their families to receive the care they need in the place they want. It’s also a good option for the NHS to deal with the greater demands being placed on them, in particular in relation to the inappropriate use of acute care beds.

Against the backdrop of new data showing acute pressures on discharging patients from NHS hospitals, St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth has supported 332 people with end of life conditions to avoid unnecessary hospital stays in the last 12 months.

According to the recently released figures from the Nuffield Trust the need to care for just 3.6% of all patients – often frail or elderly people who the system was not ready to discharge despite their medical treatment being finished - took up more than a third of all bed capacity in acute hospitals in England last year.

The data released by the hospice today covers the work of its rapid response community care team, or Crisis Team, which is working in partnership with local health services to support patients at home when it’s thought their possible

“It’s a great example of our commitment to improve local services so that people who have a terminal illness have fair access to care, and that this care is based on individual needs.

The team does this by providing a 72-hour window of specialist support needed to either stabilise symptoms or facilitate prompt discharge from hospital – in turn, freeing up beds.

assists and supports families and carers, who may be under immense pressure, to respond to a rapidly changing situation. It costs on average £2,000 per patient for St Luke’s to run the service, which is entirely funded from charitable donations.

Alongside these efforts to relieve stress on local services the Crisis Team also

St Luke’s director of clinical services, George Lillie, explained, “The Crisis

care outcome would be a hospital admission.

“We can clearly see the difference our Crisis Team have made in their first 12 months of operation and I thank the local community for giving their financial backing.

“For every £2,000 raised, will enable us to help another local person in time of a crisis, giving them access to the specialist care they need and avoiding unnecessary admission to hospital.

Please continue to show your support.”

For more information visit www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/crisis

Work starts on new £4.2 million studio school and state-of-the-art high performance sport centre Students from Plymouth Studio School joined with representatives from the world of sport, tourism and education to mark the start on-site of their new £4.2 million state-of-the-art school and high performance sport centre recently.

Olympic swimmer and studio school coach, Antony James, and British Diving champion Rhea Gayle, helped to make the official concrete pour. They were joined by representatives from the school’s sponsor organisations, Principal Phil Davies of City College Plymouth, and Professor Cara Aitchison, Vice-Chancellor of the University of St Mark & St John.

The two-storey, three block building, which is being built by Kier Construction Western and Wales will include a high performance sport centre equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and a medical lab for sport physiotherapy, power testing, functional screenings and physiological monitoring. It will also include an indoor laser pistol shooting range suitable for modern pentathlon training and Olympic lifting platforms. A science laboratory, sixth form space and multi-use atrium are also included.

The school has been designed for students looking to get ahead in their careers in the sport, tourism and events sectors by combining academic qualifications and professional qualifications with employability and enterprise skills.

Matthew Lennon, principal of the Plymouth Studio School said: “We’re delighted that the new building is now underway and our students of all abilities will be able to benefit from the top level facilities which it will offer to help them reach their full potential.”

The space is ideally suited to small class sizes, flexible timetables and individual approach to learning.

“It will also provide sport students with the world-class equipment, monitoring, coaching and science facilities needed to help them reach peak performance and pursue careers as sport coaches, therapists, scientists and physios’. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with our partners when it comes to putting Plymouth on the map for excellence in sport, tourism and events,” added Matthew.

Some of the state-of-the-art equipment in the new high performance sport centre will also be used as a ‘Smartgym’ to help all Plymouth Studio School students

develop mental focus, team-working, self-control, confidence and evaluation skills – all important in gaining a head-start in skills needed for the workplace, higher education and enterprise.

The Plymouth Studio School opened its doors this September to its first Year 10 and Year 12 students based in temporary accommodation on the University of St Mark & St John campus. A total of 300 students will attend the new school, with the next intake of 100 students starting in September 2016.

Student executive director for Plymouth Studio School, Year 12 Joe Tibbetts comments:“Plymouth Studio School is already providing me with a brilliant opportunity to combine my A levels with high level swimming training, so it will be fantastic to have both the learning facilities and sport performance facilities together in our own new building next year.”

The new building is due for completion by the autumn of 2016.

Students looking to start at Plymouth Studio School in September 2016 need to apply now. Sign up for the next open evening on January 21 at www. plymouthstudioschool.co.uk.

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£400,000 for new starter homes in Plymouth Plymouth will be receiving more than £400,000 to help pave the way for new starter homes The Government has announced a grant of £407,825 to help Plymouth City Council prepare the groundwork for 27 starter homes.

The national Starter Homes Initiative aims to help young first-time buyers (below 40 years of age) to purchase a home with a minimum 20% discount off the market place.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “We are pleased to receive this funding which will help towards providing new housing in the city.

“The grant will help pay for clearing and site preparation for the new homes, at the former Whitleigh Community Centre site.

“As well as bringing forward development on a stalled site and providing more housing, this will bring back into use a site that has been subject to vandalism and antisocial behaviour since the Whitleigh Community Centre closed in 2008.

“Plymouth City Council is committed to tackling the housing crisis, with 13,000 people currently on the housing register, and is looking at all options to deliver new housing, with the majority of developments on brownfield sites.

“The Starter Homes initiative, that enables people to be able to buy homes at 80% of market value will certainly help some people onto the housing ladder, however, there are still many more people living in Plymouth who would not be able to afford even that and we need to do more to help them. That is why we are working with housing providers to deliver a wider mix of affordable homes to rent as well as purchase to help meet a range of housing needs in the city.”

For more information on Starter Homes visit www.new-homes.co.uk/starter-homes/

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3

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS

Plymouth Snow Globe Until Jan 3 Plymouth City Centre, Armada Way Gardens. Head to Armada Way Gardens, step inside the giant snow globe and create your own Christmas scene. Have your picture taken and remember this moment forever - you could even create your own Christmas card with the picture!

Nutcracker Trail Until Jan 4 Plymouth City Centre, Armada Way. Santa has been busy touring Plymouth getting lots of toys for all the boys and girls this Christmas. On his travels he has left behind 20 Nutcrackers who have been told to find out what presents children are asking for.

RASC/RCT/RLC Association AGM Jan 13 This is a revised date for the annual meeting of the association. The meeting will be held on at 7.30pm at the Army Reserve Centre, Derriford Plymouth, all assoication and new members welcome. We would also like to remind members that the corps annual dinner will be held at Boringdon Golf Club Woodford Plympton (7pm for 7.30pm) on January 29 Tele 01752 769169 for further details. For any welfare problems please call 01752 343492 or write to the army reserve centre (c/o RASC/RCT/RLC Assoc) Benefit Event: Plymouth Homes for Veterans Crownhill Fort Jan 22 Fundraiser event at the beautiful venue of Crownhill Fort Main Magazine to benefit local homeless charity: Plymouth Homes for Veterans. Tickets are £10 / person to include buffet dinner (catering and bar provided by Orange Chilli), entertainment from The Tamar Concert Choir and The Plymouth Mayflower Chorus.

Gardeners Call My Bluff Jan 25 Plymstock Gardening are holding a social evening with Gardeners Call my Bluff and finger buffet at 7.30 pm at Plymstock United Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston.

Non members welcome £1 Contact number 01752 407578 Plymouth Winter Ice Rink Until Jan 31 Plymouth City Centre, Armada Way. Get your skates on and wrap up warm as the winter ice rink provides an authentic Christmas experience.

Rock N Roll Party Feb 5 Featuring DJ Mike Haywood at Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill from 8.30pm to 11.30pm Organised by Friends of Ford Park Cemetery. Tickets £5 can be purchased from the Cemetery Office (weekdays only) tel 01752 665442 or on the door on the night.

War Games Feb 6 to Jun 18 Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery Explore the fascinating relationship between conflict and children’s play, with this major touring exhibition from the V&A Museum of Childhood which gives an insight into the way toys have been influenced by warfare from the 1800s to the present day. With toys and games including Risk, G.I. Joe, classic toy soldiers and action figures, as well as photographs and archive records, ‘War Games’ represents different sides of conflicts from around the world. As Plymouth marks the 75th anniversary of the Blitz, this thought-provoking exhibition reveals the sometimes surprising links between play and wider attitudes towards warfare, and delves into the secret history of toys as propaganda and espionage. Admission free.

Green Book Club Feb 18 Guest speaker is Rosamonde Burch, sustainable schools advisor and project facilitator at Sustainable Futures CIC and the subject will be Ecological Ethics by Patrick Curry. The meeting is from 6.30pm to 8pm in Room 405 of the Babbage Building, Plymouth University.

Snowflake Winter Run Feb 21 The Cancer Research UK Plymouth Snowflake Run challenges people to keep running through the winter by taking on a 10km run, while raising vital funds to help beat cancer sooner. A great challenge to fundraise for Cancer Research UK. Experience the Snow Zones, Polar Bear Hugs, Show you’ve got what it takes to conquer the cold, A great reason to keep running all year, electronic chip timing system with results texted to mobile phones after completing the race.

4

The Plymouth Shopper

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

Central Library Weekly on Tuesday afternoons 2pm to 3.30pm Peverell Library Fortnightly on Thursdays 10.30 to 12 noon Plymstock Library Fourth Friday of the month Plympton Library First Wednesday of the month 2pm to 4pm Southway Library Last Thursday of the month 2.30pm to 3.30pm Stoke Library Third Monday of each month 2-4pm West Park Library Second Wednesday of each month 2 to 4pm Kreative Kidz Thursdays Pre school messy play sessions, overalls provided, different activity each week, meet new people make new friends £3 per child includes tea/coffee for adults. 12.30pm to 1.30pm To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

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

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

Baby and Toddler Group Friday mornings in term time St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross 10am until 11.30am. Large selection of toys, a craft table and the session concludes with nursery rhymes and action songs.

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

Carers Hub & Active Life 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Join a gentle health walk around historic Plympton. Are you a carer? Would you like to feel healthier, happier, meet people and have some fun? This walk is open to carers and the person they care for (if they wish to come). We meet at 10.30am outside Plympton Library and the walk ends with the opportunity to purchase refreshments and have a chat (session finishes at approximately 12.30pm). Well behaved dogs welcome! For details contact Larissa Milden at Plymouth Guild’s Active for Life service on 01752 201891 Performance Training (5-25s) Barbican Theatre’s dance and theatre workshops enable young people to build their confidence and learn new skills and techniques alongside professionals. Visit www. barbicantheatre.co.uk or call 01752 267131.

Pavilions VIP suite is just the ticket Gig-goers at Plymouth Pavilions can upgrade their night out to a VIP package thanks to a sponsorship deal with Skills Group.

The Plymouth-based apprenticeship provider is supporting Pavilions Priority, which helps create a more relaxed experience for visitors, for a second year running.

Customers who sign up to Pavilions Priority get their own dedicated VIP area with bar, complimentary drink and bar nibbles, cloakroom, plus the added bonus of early entry into the arena.

They can also return to the priority lounge area during intervals and after the show rather than join the queues at the arena bars.

Skills Group marketing director, Anna Boulting, said: “Skills Group is delighted to be continuing our association with Plymouth Pavilions by supporting the Pavilions Priority VIP experience for a second year.

“Ensuring that our clients, whether they are apprentices or employers, always receive VIP treatment is at the heart of everything we do, so supporting this initiative was an easy decision.

“As an apprenticeship training provider, we are constantly looking for innovative ways of telling more people about apprenticeships and the benefits they afford both the young people and the companies that take them on.

Our link with the Pavilions Priority experience will, I hope, continue to raise awareness of Skills Group and apprenticeships.”

Gavin Marshall, general manager at Plymouth Pavilions, St Budeaux Square Club Meets last Wednesday each month.

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

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

Toddler Group meets every Friday during term time from 1.30pm to 3pm. A small friendly group with lots of activities for the children, it’s a chance to chat and make new friends. For more details of both events contact Debbie on 215632 Tuesday Coffee Morning St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross. The church cafe is open from 10 am until 12.30 on Tuesday mornings, selling coffees/teas/cake/biscuits, also locally produced organic honey and preserves.Come along to chat, read the newspaper or join in at the puzzle table.

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

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

RASC/RCT/RLC Association The remaining meeting for 2015 will be 11 Nov all at the army reserve centre Derriford at 7.30 pm. The association’s general meeting will be held on Wednesday 13 January 2016 at 7.30pm. The corps annual dinner will be on Friday January 29 2016 at the Boringdon Golf Club Woodford

Gavin Marshall, general manager of Plymouth Pavilions and Anna Boulting, marketing director of Skills Group

said: “We are delighted that our relationship with Skills Group continues to flourish and look forward to working with them in 2016.”

Plympton (7.00pm for 7.30pm) full details later For any welfare problems please call 01752 343 492 or write to the army reserve centre derriford plymouth (c/o RASC/RCT/ RLCAssoc) The Pensioners & Fifty Plus Action Group Second Friday of the month A growing group of people (over the age of fifty) who meet at the Wolseley Trust Community Building in Wolseley Road next door to Sylvia’s Café, behind the Co-op and Lidl superstores and just down the road from Milehouse traffic lights, from 10.30am to 1pm. We have guest speakers ranging from local members of Parliament to companies like South West Water. We would also welcome anyone over 50 to our social events on most Fridays at the Kings Tamerton Community Centre, Plymouth when we have singers, choirs and musicians entertaining us, from 2pm to 4pm.For more information please contact the Secretary Mrs Margaret Williams on 01752 350498 Mayflower Offshore Rowing Club Various dates We meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 9.30am at Richmond Walk Devonport.

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

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

Full speaker programme to be found on pfgg.co.uk. Contact Marie 343386 for more information Community Dance Classes Exim have weekly Toddle Together dance classes on Mondays at Plymouth School of Creative Arts on Mondays from 9am to 9.45am. Parent/carer toddler sessions open to all ages crawling to four years. £3.50. Children’s contemporary dance (6-10 years) Thursdays in term time at Plymouth School of Creative Arts 4.30pm to 5.30pm. £4.50 per class. Adult just for fun contemporary dance at the same venue 6pm to 7pm Thursdays. £4.50 per class. Also Spaceshot dance classes every Wednesday at St Aidan’s Church, Ernesettle every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm. A mixture of street dance, fitness and contemporary. Free.

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

Ready2Work Work Club open to all. Fridays: 1pm to 4pm

• continued on page 6

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Countdown to work starting on new coach station The countdown to work starting on Plymouth’s new bus station is well and truly underway with final designs tweaks being submitted.

The project team is submitting a planning condition amendment as a result of improvements to the design and look of the site.

The amendments include a new pedestrian ramp to make it easier for people with disabilities and parents with prams to get between the car park and Cornwall Street following feedback from the City Centre Company.

Cladding will be put on the wall surrounding the entire site rather than just along part of it.

‘Somewhere Special Enough To Call Home’

Further amendments are also being made to the coach ramp following consultation with National Express to make it easier for coaches to manoeuvre.

For information contact Jacky & Jim Van Deijl 128 Peverell Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4NE

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet member for finance and assets and city centre champion said: “We have pledged to keep the existing car park open in the run up to Christmas, but once it is over the contractors will be hitting the ground running from January 4.

Tel: (01752) 262204

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“We are keen to keep those who may be affected by the works as much information as possible ahead of work starting.”

The new coach station will have seven coach stands to serve National Express and Megabus. Features include real time passenger information systems, blue badge holder drop-off bay, customer help points, ticket machines, toilets, cycle stands, CCTV and ornamental lighting.

The old Lloyds Bank building in Armada Way will be transformed into an indoor ticket office and waiting room, with toilets, comfy seating, ‘real time’ information screens, ticket office and a food and drink concession.

There will also be a car park with blue badge holder bays and drop off and pick up taxi/private hire bays.

Contractors South West Highways are this week sending out letters to businesses around the site to give them details of the work and talk through logistics about access and bin collections. They have submitted a request for a temporary Traffic Regulation Order which, if approved, will result in the entire site being closed while the work takes place.

They have also taken a lease out on the former Ritzy nightclub on Mayflower Street as a site office and stakeholder drop in.

Project manager Adrian Perry from South West Highways added: “It is a city centre site and we are anxious to make sure that our neighbours – both business and residents – do not experience too much inconvenience while we carry out the work. We will minimise the disruption caused by closing the site by working with businesses on granting essential access, deliveries and bin collections.

Childcare - Open To Everyone

7 Ofsted registred childcare settings offering Full day, Pre schools, holiday clubs and under 2 years care.

We have free funded places available for 2,3 and 4 yr olds.

Eggbuckland 01752 796079

Widewell 01752 788345

29 Bellamy Cl, Plymouth (holiday play sessions available)

1 Tiverton Cl, Plymstock (children from 18 months)

Goosewell 01752 403394

Torpoint 01752 812970

Goosewell Rd, Plymstock

Plymstock 01752 481152 Stokingway Cl, Plymstock

Trevorder Cl,Torpoint (children from 18 months)

Plympton 01752 337817

Hillcrest Cl, Plympton Full day care. (holiday play sessions available open 50 weeks a yr, 0-8yrs)

Crownhill 01752 769606

Crownhill Fort Rd, Plymouth.

Full day care. (open 50 weeks a yr, 2-6yrs)

From September 2015

the Crownhill branch will be open 7.00am - 6.00pm daily, 50 weeks a year

01752 788 345 - Administration Office jackandjillschildcare.co.uk

The project has seen additional costs and fees since the business case was set out last year, some of these costs and a delegated decision has been signed this week authorising the extra spend of £557,000.

The new coach station will replace the outdated one at Bretonside, which is being redeveloped as part of a major investment package proposed by British Land, the owner of Drake Circus and the UK’s largest listed retail landlord.

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Brightening up the office with a year of fundraising It was a pleasure to meet up with Andy Sewell recently who has been a well-known face in the local business community with a long career in marketing in sales and marketing, writes Karen Pilkington.

After spending the last three years working for local media, he has now joined forces with Bright Solicitors, a local family owned law firm specialising in down to earth advice to Plymouth’s business community, from owner operated SMEs to international firms.

Committed to represent the firm at marketing events, Andy has joined at an exciting time.

• continued from page 4 Dance Yourself Fit Every Friday morning 10.30 to 11.30 at St. Budeaux Community Centre.If you want to get fitter or simply love to dance, come along and join our friendly class.for details contact Jackie 01752 950306 Solaris Yoga Enjoy vital relaxation, strengthening and toning muscles.

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

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

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

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

Bright Solicitors was formed in September 2006 by father and son John and Andy Price, so to celebrate its 10th anniversary they were looking for a charity to support with a series of events held in 2016.

Andy was privileged to meet Peter Jordan at a networking event, where he heard his first- hand account of the rapid deterioration caused by brain tumours.

As an aggressive cancer killing more children and younger adults than any other, research into finding a cure has been slow; not least because it currently receives only 1% of the national spend on cancer research.

Peter went on to explain that Plymouth is host to one of just four laboratories in the country specialising in research.

The Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry has a team working from the Science Park in Derriford led by Professor Oliver Hanemann who has a world-leading track record in researching low-grade brain tumours occurring in teenagers and adults.

By identifying and understanding the mechanism that makes a cell become cancerous, the team explore ways in which to halt or reverse that mechanism.

Each laboratory costs over £2000 a day to run and keep this vital research going, which is why Bright LLP has decided to nominate the Brain Tumour Research Charity as its Charity of the Year.

A key fund raising event in planning is a running and cycling relay from Roscoff in France to Concarneau, one hundred miles down the coast. It already has a lot of support from Bright’s young and enthusiastic workforce, spurred on by Andy’s fanatical zeal for personal fitness.

“I do admit to being an addicted bootcamper,” confesses Andy, “training in Hartley Park three times a week and running in between.

“I find it relaxing to do something physically demanding after work, and enjoy the idea of inspiring others.

Andy and his colleague Charlotte Baxter have managed to get a team of 20 to commit to the adventure which will take place during April. In fact it was originally her idea to do a cycle challenge with her partner that has now changed to a much bigger event involving more participants He is looking for sponsorship from local businesses and individuals and has set up a Just Giving page www. justgiving.com/Bright-Solicitors. This is just one of a series of intrepid events planned by Brights.

“We aim to think outside the box as much as we can,” explained Andy, alluding to the lack of pin stripe suits in the office.

“Our team is a good mix of young and experienced, and with everyone mucking in together in open plan offices, we aim to be relaxed and easy to deal with, without compromising on excellent service, speedy communication, and avoidance of legalese.”

6

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS

The Plymouth Shopper

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

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

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

Tamar View disco 7pm to 9.30pm once a month Monday evenings. Highbury Disco Tuesdays and Fridays subs £2 each week. St Budeaux disco £2 each week on Thursday evenings 6.30pm to 9.30pm at St Budeaux Community Centre. The Special Olympics Plymouth and District at YMCA Kitto centre on Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm £15 membership £2 each week. Plymouth Boccia Mondays from 11am to 12 noon at the Life Centre £2 each week. Wednesdays from 10.30am to 11.45am at the Life Centre £2 each week. Saturdays from 10am to 11am at the Jan Cutting centre £3 each week National Trust Plymouth Centre Make the most of your Trust membership by joining the Plymouth Centre for even more activities. During the winter there are talks. This summer there are coach visits to: July to Berkeley Castle in Gloucester, August to Dartmouth for their Regatta, September to Chedworth Roman Villa.

Membership is only £4 per person or £6 for two people at the same address. For more information and an application form call Russell on 01752 266608 Age UK Plymouth Bridge Fridays Friday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm at Elspeth Sitters House, Hoegate Street, Plymouth. Do you play bridge and would like to join a friendly, social group. £2 per session which includes tea and biscuits. Details phone 776881.

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

Plymouth Children’s Theatre Workshop Saturdays A theatre company for children and young people aged 6 to18. Try your hand at performing, set design and construction, costumes and props, stage make up and much more. Ford Baptist Church Saturdays 1 till 4. Tots 3 - 5 years 12 till 1. www.plymouthchildrenstheatreworkshop. co.uk or 07760467857 or see our Facebook page Plymouth Karate Academy Various dates Based in Faraday Mill Cattedown the club is managed by Sensei Stuart Hick (4thDan), Sensei Jon Eaton (3rdDan) and Senpai Luke Irving (2ndDan). With more than 45 years

Plymouth in the TV spotlight for helping veterans back into work Plymouth is in the national TV spotlight again as a new series for BBC Two, presented by Alex Polizzi, highlights the pioneering work in the city to help veterans back into work.

The presenter has been filming in Plymouth over the past few months for the new BBC Two series ‘Alex Polizzi: Hire Our Heroes’. A number of ex-servicemen are followed in the documentary which features the Corporate Covenant, which is run by Plymouth City Council and works with local businesses to help veterans find employment when they leave the armed forces and return to ‘Civvy Street’.

The series, which has been made by locally based Twofour comes hot on the heels of a two part Antiques Roadshow in Plymouth’s Royal William Yard and the recent filming of the new Comic Strip Presents… film in Plymouth’s iconic Civic Centre.

Veterans are 60 per cent more likely to be unemployed than their civilian counterparts, and, where leaving

adjust back into everyday life and find new careers.”

Councillor Philippa Davey, Cabinet Member for Safer and Stronger Communities for Plymouth City Council, said: “We are delighted that Plymouth’s fantastic work with the Corporate Covenant is being featured in this documentary.

Plymouth has very strong military links and Plymouth City Council is committed to supporting veterans as they make the transition from the armed forces back into civilian life.”

the armed forces is accompanied by mental illness – as is thought to be the case for one in five veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan – the discrepancy can be even worse.

Councillor Pauline Murphy, Plymouth’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “We hope that the programme will help inspire other areas to look at how they provide support to the armed forces as all too often when veterans come back into their local communities they are not given the help they need to

combined experience all of the instructors are CRB checked, and teach Shotokan karate. With many advantages to learning karate, instructors teach traditional skills and Self-Defence with genuine applications to modern day situations. Students often say that they feel self-confident; have increased discipline, improved fitness levels and co-ordination. But above all, they all agree its great value for money, fun and a fantastic way to meet new friends no matter what age you are. Tuesday /Thursday Kids only Karate class 6.15- 7pm; Tuesday/Thursday Adult Beginners - Intermediate - Advanced from 7pm onwards ; Saturday Morning class Kids Karate class 10am onwards. For more info: Stuart Hick 07970379268 or stuart.hick@plymouthkarateacademy.co.uk Pray Plymouth Every Wednesday morning Organised by Churches Together in Plymouth from 7am to 8am at Open Doors Language School, 14-15 ,Woodland Terrace Lane, Greenbank, Plymouth. Breakfast from 8am to 9am. Details 01752 249187.

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

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

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

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

Additionally, social lunches with wives and guests are held at various venues throughout the year. Currently, vacancies exist for new members and anyone interested, should contact the secretary, Gerald Hendrick, on 01752 514942 Coffee Morning and Book Stall Thursdays Crownhill Methodist Church hall from 10am to 11.30am. Join us for a cup of tea or coffee, biscuit and a chat. All welcome.

For details ring Carroll on Plymouth 960746.

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.

Heather Ogburn, who manages the Corporate Covenant for Plymouth City Council, said: “The series will be a great opportunity to showcase the pioneering work we are doing here in Plymouth with the Corporate Covenant, helping veterans to find a new career and restore their sense of purpose.”

Alex Polizzi said: “I would like to congratulate Plymouth City Council for its work on the Corporate Covenant, they have shown the way forward and other areas could definitely learn from this.”

The programme ‘Alex Polizzi: Hire Our Heroes’ started in December on BBC2.

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

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

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

Aden Veterans Calling all Aden Veterans. Did you know that the Aden Veterans Plymouth Branch meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at the RAOB Club in North Hill at 7.30pm. Why not go along and meet like-minded people.

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

Details from Samantha on 0790 555 2318.

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

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

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

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

• continued on page 8

Plymouth’s shore success in double funding award Plans to breathe new life into parts of the city’s stunning waterfront have been given a boost from the Coastal Communities Revival Fund.

A project to tidy up unused Edwardian bathing facilities to the east of Tinside and transform shore side buildings into a unique location for pop up shops in the summer can now get off the ground, thanks to a £50,000 grant.

Artist’s impression of the new building

Student flats plan for former Comet shop site

Initial work will involve making the area wheelchair accessible, installing missing safety railing, cleaning and painting railings and putting in wrought iron gates over two alcoves to make them safe for businesses to use in the summer months.

Plans to convert the former Comet retail building in Mayflower Street to create 60 student flats with commercial premises on the ground floor have been submitted to Plymouth City Council.

While over on Mount Batten, work can begin on securing and making safe the historic Mount Batten Tower, thanks to another grant of £50,000.

The fund will also help initiate a study into how to make more of the monument and to encourage the public to interact with it.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “Quite simply, we have one of the best waterfronts in the country, with spectacular views and amazing features that other cities would bite our hands off for.

“We have steadily been investing and making improvements where we can. Mount Batten tower is now lit at night, Smeaton’s Tower and Mayflower Steps are now lit up and are helping us to truly celebrate the best assets of Britain’s Ocean City.

“Lots of ideas have been bubbling up about how to make more of the waterfront, but all of

The application has been made by Aspire Student Living 3 Ltd who want to convert the building and add a four storey extension within the existing site.

The Edwardian bathing facilities which has secured a £50,000 grant

them require funding, so it’s great to get some money to get the ball rolling on some exciting projects.”

A letter from the Department for Local Government and Communities said there were 222 bids for the fund with the funding three times oversubscribed, it added: ‘your project demonstrated it was one of the very best.’

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership chairman, Chris Arscott said: “We’re delighted to have secured this funding for two exciting development areas within Plymouth’s Waterfront. These projects will help to

generate further vibrancy, increase footfall and enhance the experience for visitors to Britain’s Ocean City.”

The development will consist of building an additional four floors on top of the existing two, creation of space for shops, restaurants and other commercial activities, student accommodation providing 79 bed spaces and associated infrastructure.

The building has been empty for a number of years follow the collapse of High Street retailer Comet.

Tree-mendous collection returns Plymouth City Council is putting on a special collection to pick up all the real Christmas trees once the festive period is over.

The council will be running its tree collection scheme from the weeks beginning Monday January 11 and January 18 will run until Thursday January 21.

All people have to do is to put the trees out next to their bins or bags and a crew will pick it up on the day their rubbish and recycling is collected.

The tree rounds will operate separately but will be timed to make sure it is on the same day as people’s bins are out. In total, three crews will be out and about in trucks picking up the trees and a further two with a shredder.

Last year over 13 tonnes of fir and pine trees were picked up and taken to Chelson Meadow to be chipped.

Anyone who misses their round will have to take their tree to Chelson Meadow and Weston Mill Recycling Centres to be chipped’

cityplym.ac.uk/events

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7

£2m plan for Derriford Hospital Interchange Plans to improve Plymouth’s second busiest bus interchange have been submitted by Plymouth City Council.

The Derriford Hospital interchange scheme, estimated to cost just over £2 million, will convert the existing one-way bus link through the hospital to allow buses to travel in both directions.

It will also create separate taxi and passenger drop-off points and provide three additional bus stops.

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

The Heart-of-the-South-West Local Enterprise Partnership – the body responsible for allocating funding for largescale transport schemes across Plymouth, Devon, Torbay and Somerset – has recognised the regional importance of the scheme with a £1.4 million award from its Growth Fund.

The remaining funding will be provided by the council and the Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust. If the planning application is approved, construction is planned to start in the New Year and will take around nine months.

The Derriford Hospital interchange scheme is part of a ‘master plan’ of highway improvements that will help unlock development and deliver 9,000 new jobs and 3,000 new homes in the north of the city.

Other schemes include the proposed Forder Valley Link Road, which was recently earmarked to receive £22.5 million from the Growth Fund, as well as the new Marjon Link Road, which opened in September.

Crownhill Fort hosts fundraiser for Homes for Veterans Plymouth Homes for Veterans are holding a charity event at Crownhill Fort in January.

Funds raised will benefit former service personnel who have become homeless.

The event is on January 22 in the Main Magazine at Crownhill Fort and includes a buffet dinner, entertainment from the Tamar Concert Choir and the Plymouth Mayflower Chorus and a raffle with great prizes.

Tickets for the event, which runs from from 6pm to 10pm, cost £10 and can be purchased in advance from www. eventbrite.co.uk/e/benefit-event-for-plymouth-homesfor-veterans-tickets-19490282961. For more information contact Annamaria Farkas on 07788 535587

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • continued from page 6 Plymouth Shakespeare Society Meets twice a month from September to May at the Burgess Hall (behind the Unitarian Church) Notte Street, Plymouth from 2.30 - 4.30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Further details call 257764.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. Details Dave Crawford 01752 407047 Country Music Venue First Friday every other month At the Aggie ‘Opry’. Agaton Club, St Budeaux. Top country acts being booked. Details 01752 362240.

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

Colebrook, Newnham & Ridgeway Monday January 18 7pm Colebrook Community Centre, Peacock Meadow, Plympton Higher Compton, Mannamead & Mutley Joint Meeting Tuesday January 19 6.30pm Compton Methodist Church, 2 Revel Road Plympton St Maurice, Underwood & Yealmpstone Thursday January 21 6.30pm Plympton Library, Harewood, Ridgeway Ernesettle Wednesday March 9 6.30pm St Aidan’s Church, The Green Honicknowle & West Park Thursday March 17 6.30pm Tesco Café, Transit Way 8

The Plymouth Shopper

Seed experiment is out of this world

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

Details 07967 313285.

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

Coffee mornings Last Wednesday of the month Run by the Highbury Trust Community Support Service, Outland Road between 10.30am and 12.30pm. All members

The Year 7 Rocket Science group and Christine Jarvis, Learning Support teacher, wish Tim Peake luck before his launch into space

Students from Stoke Damerel Community College have been taking a special interest in British astronaut Tim Peake’s launch into space.

The Year 7 students gathered to watch Tim’s launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

The group is part of Rocket Science, an educational project launched by the RHS Campaign for School Gardening and the UK Space Agency.

It’s a horticultural experiment to grow seeds which have been to the International Space Station (ISS). The seeds are among 2kg of rocket seeds flown to the ISS in September on Soyuz 44S and will spend several months in microgravity before returning to Earth in March 2016.

The students are already fascinated by Tim Peake and have been counting down to the launch and following him on Twitter.

“They have been so excited about the launch watching on television before coming into school today and have been on tenterhooks until the launch,” said Christine Jarvis, learning support teacher who is co-ordinating the of the public welcome to attend. For details 01752 753711 Community Activities Various dates Evening events at Keyham Community Sports Hall, Drake Primary School, Saltash Road. Monday: Karate classes suitable for children/families and adults. 5pm to 8pm; Tuesday: Keep fit classes. Making exercise fun and easy to do. 6.15pm to 7.15pm; Wednesday: Yoga classes.

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

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.

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.

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

Plymouth Radio Club

Second Tuesday of every month.

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

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

Tennis Club Mannamead Tennis Club, Eggbuckland Rd welcomes new

project at the college.

The students will be given a packet of seeds from space and will grow them alongside ones which haven’t and measure the differences over seven weeks. It is just one educational project from a programme developed by the UK Space Agency to celebrate Tim’s Principia mission to the ISS and to inspire young people to look into careers in STEM subjects including horticulture.

“The students won’t know which packets contain which seeds until all the results have been collected and analysed,” said Mrs Jarvis. “We are very proud to be part of Rocket Science. The students are so keen to receive their seeds and begin the exciting task of planting and monitoring them.

“The group is already responsible for an area of the school garden where they grow a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers,” said Mrs Jarvis.

“This project will really enhance their learning and understanding of how food of the future may be grown.”

The group are preparing for their own mission by following the movements of the ISS and noting when it passes over Plymouth. members. 4 hard courts and 2 grass courts. Coaching available. Contact info@mannamead.org.uk or phone 773652.

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

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

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

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

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

• continued on page 14

£5 million investment announced

Travel meet-up

Fleet of new buses launched across Plymouth network

by Stagecoach Stagecoach South West is investing £5 million in 26 new buses for its Plymouth network. Buses will go into service across January 2016, with the majority of the vehicles featuring free Wi-Fi, allowing customers to connect, share and play on the move.

Ten buses will be allocated to The George, Milehouse and Coypool Park & Ride sites, completely replacing the existing fleet. All ten will feature free WiFi and leather seats and will come in a distinctive new livery.

Plymouth operation. The acquisition has provided passengers with a number of benefits including more reliable timetables, earlier morning and later evening journeys and the introduction of new cross-city links.

The remaining 16 buses will run on the operator’s 1/X1 service, connecting Plymouth with Tavistock and on Service 3, connecting Plymouth with Dartmouth.

The majority of these vehicles will also feature free Wi-Fi.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said: “The launch of this new fleet is good news for Plymouth and for bus passengers.

Bob Dennison, managing director of Stagecoach South West, said: “I am delighted to announce the launch of our brand new vehicles for Plymouth, making our customers journeys even more comfortable.”

The £5 million investment comes just three months after Stagecoach South West announced its acquisition of certain assets of First Devon & Cornwall’s

“It’s great to see investment in new, modern vehicles for these services, which will help encourage more people to use public transport in and around the city.”

As well as investing in the new buses, Stagecoach is also introducing a revised timetable on 1/X1.

The timetable starts from January 3 and will help improve overall reliability on the busy Plymouth to Tavistock route.

Plymouth people who have a passion for travel are invited to attend the next Plymouth Travel Meet-Up in January.

The group is for people who love travel and want to meet up with like-minded people who share the passion to take trips to destinations in Europe and around the world.

The event takes place at The Treasury in Royal Parade and starts at 7pm and offers a friendly environment to enjoy a bit of travel chat - a travelthemed happy hour.

There is no charge to attend, just pay for your own drinks or food.

The team of Evening Ambassadors

Evening Ambassadors pilot starts in Plymouth A new pilot scheme to help keep people safe on nights out in Plymouth’s Waterfront Business Improvement District (BID) has been launched.

The Evening Ambassadors is a joint scheme funded by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Plymouth City Council, the Safer Plymouth Partnership, and the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner.

The Ambassadors patrol the area and are available for help and support, and use a radio network to report any issues directly to the council’s CCTV Control Room. The council has a network of 325 CCTV cameras and the CCTV Control Room can alert other partners to attend any incidents as required.

The scheme is a six week pilot and one of a

number of initiatives launched by the city’s new Evening and Night Time Economy (ENTE) co-ordinator Michael Connor, to tackle anti-social behaviour and help people have a good time on nights out in Plymouth.

Councillor Philippa Davey, Cabinet Member for Safer and Stronger Communities for Plymouth City Council, said: “Following my Halloween night out observing the operation for the Evening and Night Time Economy with Michael Connor and Sarah Gibson, Waterfront Manager, the pilot is very welcome.

“The Evening Ambassadors is a fantastic new initiative and will support other work we do to ensure local people can enjoy nights out and minimise anti-social behaviour. It is a great example of what can be achieved through partnership working, and the fact they are linked in with the council’s CCTV Control

Room, which is monitored 24/7, is a great advantage.

Michael Connor started in the Plymouth role in October having worked in a similar post in Coventry, and as part of the role he will champion the needs of licensees, work with police, council and partner agencies.

Michael said: “We want to work with local licensees and with those using their services, to ensure they have a good night out, keep safe and address any problems at the earliest opportunity. Working with the council staff in the CCTV control room will be key to the success of this scheme – they are our eyes and ears, and our lifeline too. They are a great team and do an excellent job.”

Initially the Evening Ambassadors pilot was due to run until the end of December but there may be a potential for it to be extended.

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The Plymouth Shopper

9

Pitching for pitches

Plymouth is pitching its long term plan for sport pitches across the city as part of its vision of a healthy city as well as a great place to live The city council has carried out an extensive survey of what the city has as well as what it could need for the future and it has teamed up with local and national partners produce a Plan for Playing Pitches in the city.

The plan outlines the priorities for football, rugby, cricket and hockey in the city and contributes to delivering the objectives for sport and health improvements in the award winning Plymouth Plan.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet member for Streetscene said: “Playing pitches are hugely important in helping the city achieve its strategic objective to ‘deliver a healthy city’ and make Plymouth a great place to live.”

Skills Group training co-ordinator James Gilbert, with Tellus College work placement officer, Nikki Foster, and the Slovenian visitors at Skills Group’s engineering and automotive training centre in Langage

There are 187 pitches including 60 adult football pitches, 30 youth ones and 30 adult rugby pitches. Football is, unsurprising, the most popular pitch sport in Plymouth.

There are 387 teams – 138 adult male, 13 adult females,

134 youth males, 22 youth females, 80 mixed mini-soccer teams.

A comprehensive Plan for Playing Pitches has been drawn up which sets out key priorities for the city such as forming a steering group, including representatives from South Hams and West Devon to identify projects and sites to meet needs of local people regardless of boundaries.

The aim is to also develop a partnership with educational institutions to enable community use agreements to be drawn up with colleges and schools across the city, so that community teams have better access to facilities. The plan also sets out a list of pitches and work needed in order to improve their quality by introducing better maintenance, and drainage regimes.

Councillor Vincent added: “This sets out what we need to look at and where we need to turn our attention to when budgets permit. We’ve already made a start on the to-do list and have collaborated with the Football Foundation, Sport England and Plymouth University to invest £500,000 in the Staddiscombe Playing Fields this year.”

Slovenian visitors explore UK engineering training Plympton-based Skills Group played host to a party of Slovenian engineers at their engineering training centre in Langage earlier this month, as part of a visit organised by Tellus College.

Skills Group is an apprenticeship training provider, and works with a number of top local employers to support the development of apprentices in a number of sectors.

Last year Skills Group refurbished its engineering and automotive facilities with new industry-standard equipment.

Visiting Engineering Lecturer, Aleksander Vršcaj, said: “It is very interesting to see how other countries approach their vocational training. The facilities at Skills Group are very impressive, and it is good to hear that engineering employers still value the toolmaking skills that underpin the different specialist areas.”

The apprentices trained by Skills Group spend one day each week at the training centre working alongside specialist trainers in either engineering (maintenance, mechanical manufacturing, operations, fabrication and welding) or automotive (vehicle maintenance, repair, body repair and body paint). Skills Group also offer learn2work, a pre-apprenticeship programme designed to provide an overview of the many career opportunities within the sector and prepare young people for an apprenticeship or employment.

Tellus College has arranged the Slovenians’ visit as part of a fact-finding trip to explore how engineering and automotive training is delivered in the UK. They intend to bring over a group of Slovenian students to the West Country next year to participate in training and work placements with top local engineering companies.

James Gilbert, Skills Group’s engineering training coordinator, said: “It’s always a pleasure to show off the Skills Group facilities, especially as we have recently invested in refurbishing the workshops.”

Nikki Foster, a Tellus College work placement officer, said: “This group of Slovenian lecturers were keen to find out about engineering training in the UK as they are aiming to send their students on work placements under the EU’s Erasmus+ scheme next year. We are confident that the visit to the Skills Group facility has demonstrated that Tellus College can offer the students an enjoyable and valuable experience in Plymouth.”

Skills Group provides apprenticeship training for business administration, care and early years, construction, engineering and automotive, hairdressing, sport and leisure, and teaching and education. The provider currently has over 180 vacancies across Devon and Cornwall, which can be seen on its dedicated recruitment website, www.apprenticeships4me.com.

10

The Plymouth Shopper

STARTING WEEK BEGINNING MONDAY 4 JANUARY

If you’ve ever thought about running, but aren’t really sure how to start, here’s your chance! Why not come along to our running groups for runners (or not) of any level! Whether you’ve never run a day in your life, or you have set your sights on a 5K or 10k goal, everyone is welcome. First session is free.

Suitable for beginners including walkers Day Monday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Wednesday Saturday

Time 6pm 5.30pm 7pm 9am 7.15pm 9.30am

Mee ng Point Frank Elford Sports Derriford Health and Leisure Centre Seven Stars Inn St Peters Primary School ( ladies only ) Plymouth Life Centre Plymouth Life Centre

Suitable for all abilities including beginners Monday Tuesday Tuesday

6.15pm 9.30am 6pm

Brickfields Sports Centre Saltram House Plymouth Life Centre

Sign up in January for only £20 for 10 weeks and receive a free high vis vest, technical t-shirt and water bottle.

For more in formation and to book call the Sports Development Unit on 01752 307008 or email nyrene.dudley@plymouth.gov.uk

Suitable for runners who can already run for 30 minutes Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Sunday

6.15pm 7pm 7pm 6.15pm 9.15am 8am

Plymouth Life Centre Coombe Dean School Coypool park and ride car park Sainsbury’s supermarket Marsh Mills Saltram House car park Saltram House car park ( Men only )

FIRST SESSION FREE

People invited to join Plymouth running groups

Plymouth residents who want to get active this New Year and improve their health need look no further.

Plymouth City Council’s sports development unit is looking for people to join its new running groups – and the first session is free.

With over a dozen sessions to choose from on various days and times, starting couldn’t be simpler.

Each training group is designed to develop running ability and promote a noticeable improvement week on week. With a mixture of activity sessions and road runs, the courses are designed to be challenging, fun and enjoyable.

Leaders will be on hand to motivate and give tips on everything from running style to suitable clothing and footwear.

The running groups are suitable for all abilities and are open to men and women over the age of 16.

For more information about dates and times please visit the website www.plymouth.gov.uk/runninggroups Or contact Plymouth City Council Sports Development Unit on 307008 or email nyrene.dudley@plymouth.gov.uk

Try walking the Nordic way with free tasters Plymouth City Council’s Sports Development Unit and Nordic Walking UK are offering Plymouth people the chance to try something a little bit different this New Year, with their new Nordic Walking sessions.

It’s a bit like walking with trekking poles, but instead of putting the poles in front of you, you plant them behind you and propel your body forward.

Developed in Scandinavia in the 1950s, Nordic walking works the upper part of the body as well as the legs and is great for improving cardiovascular fitness. It uses 90 per cent of the body’s muscles, burns many more calories than ordinary walking and can be effective in weight loss programmes.

It’s recommended by fitness experts and health professionals because it is an effective all-over body workout, is suitable for all levels of fitness and has low impact on knees and joints.

Getting started is easy and too good an offer to miss! Go along to one of the free taster days to find out more.

Nordic Walking taster This 45 minute free taster session will help participants understand just how beneficial Nordic walking can be and how it is far more than just walking with poles! There are sessions as follows Monday January 11 12.30pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club Wednesday January 13 4pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club Wednesday January 13 6pm Central Park, Milehouse Saturday January 16 11.30am Central Park, Milehouse Saturday January 16 2pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club After the free taster participants can take advantage of a special new year offer and sign up to one of the following four week Learn to Nordic Walk courses for just £10 (normal cost £45 ) Monday January 18 12.30pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club Wednesday January 20 4pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club Wednesday January 20 6pm Central Park Saturday January 23 11.30am Central Park, Milehouse Saturday January 23 2pm Derriford Health and Leisure Club Places are limited and booking is essential via the website On The Go Nordic Walking www.onthegonordicwalking.co.uk All equipment will be provided.

The Plymouth Shopper

11

MONEY MA££ERS with Tony Jopson

So here it is - 2016

NEW YEAR FINANCES Citizens Advice Plymouth works with the Money Advice Service Debt Advice Project (MASDAP) and between January and November last year they had 979 debt enquiries.

This is only over one project, in one organisation of the four branches of the Advice Plymouth Partnership. As you can see Citizens Advice is no stranger to the problems people face regarding debt and there’s usually an influx of enquires after the Christmas period. In January last year 96 debt enquires were received as part of MASDAP. Christmas is a fantastic time of year to celebrate love and family, however there’s always a temptation to overspend and for many people they simply can’t afford to.

This overspending and mismanagement of finances leads to debt across the board for all expenses.

A common problem seen at Advice Plymouth around Christmas is Credit Card debt, which people are unable to pay back. More than three out of four of Britons surveyed by National Debtline said they used a credit card to pay for presents.

The more prominent and perhaps more concerning issue is when an individual can’t afford to pay household bills such as council tax and utilities due to overspending at Christmas. The National Debtline survey found that 1 in 20 - around two and a half million people - missed a payment on everyday household bills in order to fund Christmas spending.

These debts alone are stressful enough, but coupled with credit card debt it’s easy to see how an individual can feel overwhelmed by expenses they can’t

afford to pay back.

This situation can quickly become very serious and if you’re in this situation you should get advice from the Advice Plymouth Partnership straight away.

Sorting out debts can be complicated and creditors can sometimes be difficult to deal with but an adviser will be able to help you work out what’s the best thing to do. Call 03444 111 444 to begin finding a way forward.

Planning, budgeting and organisation are key to avoid getting into debt at Christmas and beyond. Debts can easily become a way of life if you’re not careful so be prepared! Here are Advice Plymouth’s top ten tips for managing spending: 1. Plan early – create a budget 2. Don’t Forget the everyday bills – this is how debt occurs; thinking you have money to spend and nothing to spend on utilities 3. Keep things simple – pay outright by cash, cheque or debit card. Don’t take out extended credit agreements unless they really do work out cheaper 4. Don’t rely on an overdraft – talk to your bank first 5. Buy safe – don’t buy from unauthorised traders or borrow from unauthorised lenders 6. Shop around – find the best price 7. Do your own credit checks – compare credit card terms. Budget for all costs and put payment dates in your diary!

8. Read the small print – hidden extras may appear in any credit agreement 9. Be organised – if you’ve borrowed money it won’t be long before payment is due and pay on time!

10.Start planning and saving for next Christmas.

New trucks doing the rounds New refuse trucks are now out and about in Plymouth as part of a five year programme to replace ageing vehicles and keep maintenance costs down.

A total of 14 vehicles will be on the streets from this month with a further 12 to be delivered next April.

The 26 tonne Dennis bin lorries will be used to pick up the rubbish from 119,000 properties across the city. The trucks cover around 10,000 miles a year and can take over 10 tonnes of household rubbish at a time.

The new fleet means the council won’t need to rely so much on hire vehicles, it will cut maintenance costs as well as reduce the amount of time trucks are off the road and standardising the fleet means the garage can reduce its stock of spare parts.

easier access to some areas of Plymouth where we had difficulties in some of the older fleet. The replacement programme – which will cost £4.2 million over two years – with achieve a saving of around £1 million over five years.

The new fleet is part of the council’s ongoing improvement package for its waste and recycling services. It has successfully introduced glass recycling into people’s door step recycling collection scheme – leading to an extra 898 tonnes of glass in a year.

The council has also upgraded its materials recycling facility at Chelson Meadow. The facility now allows for the separation of all the materials which are collected in green bin including glass.

The new vehicles will have a rear steer capability and narrow chassis which allows for 12

Well another new year is upon us – and the reality of those resolutions we may have made loom large…….no more chocolate, lose weight, join a gym, reduce Facebook time, make a bigger effort to get on with relatives etc.

is 50 – gulp! Even I’m a little older than this…

Any resolution we make requires discipline to maintain – at the end of the day it is up to us if we keep to these resolutions – we decide – it is not the government’s fault or our spouses’ fault or our friend’s fault or even God’s fault if we don’t follow through and do what we say we will.

I’ve quoted this before but it is worth repeating. When G K Chesterton and a number of other prominent authors were asked by The Times newspaper at the turn of the 20th century to write an essay headed ‘what’s wrong with the world’, he wrote a simple insightful response thus:

Here’s another suggestion for 2016 – let’s reduce as much of our debt as we can and even clear it completely if possible. ‘The borrower is the servant of the lender,’ says a well respected book and this is true at individual and international levels.

Dear Sirs

Not that the example of debt reduction is set well by our government or even Europe as a whole. UK plc continues to be in debt and absolute debt levels continue to rise, albeit the annual national deficit may be reducing – it is still an annual DEFICIT. But then the UK is expensive to run, and we seem to have developed a culture in which many people think it is their “right” to expect the government to pay for endless healthcare, infrastructure improvements and welfare benefits. Maybe now is a good time to take stock and be thankful for what we do have in this country. I read this week that the average life expectancy of a male in Burundi

I am Sincerely yours, G K Chesterton He was right – except he could have added ‘and so is everyone else’ - it is human beings who are responsible for the problems of the world, directly or indirectly, with our selfish attitudes, borrowing and consumption patterns.

So here’s my New Year’s suggestion - let’s resolve to be more responsible in 2016 in as many ways as possible – it will involve personal discipline but for instance, let’s lead by example to our children by making wise decisions to reduce debts and manage our money better; we could also make specific plans in other areas such as to reduce food wastage, to eat more healthily and exercise more.

If enough individuals and families do all these things, society will be affected. Have a great 2016!

Useful numbers for those with debt problems: Christians Against Poverty (Plymouth) 0800 328 0006 (freephone) CAP Money website: www.capmoney.org.uk Plymouth Focus 01752 669785 www.plymouthfocus.co.uk Citizens Advice (Plymouth) 0844 8269717 Tony Jopson, FCA Insolvency Consultant, 246 Peverell Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4QG 01752 775068

New affordable flats opened on former Job Centre site A new set of 30 affordable flats on the former Job Centre site in Plymouth is now complete.

Asa House is the name of the site in Hoegate Street, which is the result of a partnership between the Chapter 1 Charity, the Homes and Communities Agency and Plymouth City Council.

The site was officially opened by Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing, and offers a mixture of nine two-bedroom flats and 21 one-bedroom flats, providing accommodation for around 40 people. The Job Centre site had been empty for around 10 years.

The total cost of the scheme was £3.5m, with £1.05m from the Homes and Communities Agency’s Empty Homes scheme, £150,000 from Plymouth City Council and the remainder of the funding from Chapter 1.

Councillor Chris Penberthy said: “I am thrilled to be able to open Asa House, which will provide much needed affordable housing for up to 40 people in Plymouth, in a previously wasted space.

“Asa House is an excellent example of partnership working between Chapter 1, the Homes and Communities Agency, and Plymouth City Council.

“The council, through its Plan for Empty Homes, is doing everything within its power, working with housing providers and the Homes and Communities Agency, to make better use of vacant buildings, and over the past five years we have helped to bring almost 500 previously unused homes back into use.

“The Plan for Empty Homes also aims to bring

The Plymouth Shopper

So individuals have debt and the nation has debt. As I’ve said before a nation is made up of its individuals. If we take more individual responsibility then our nation will change. We can’t expect “the government” or “the heath service” or “the benefits agency” to meet all our needs and solve all our problems.

Councillors and representatives from Plymouth City Council and Chapter 1 at the official opening of Asa House

a further 200 empty homes back into use in the city.”

and provide much needed housing for local people.”

Joseph Main, chief executive of Chapter 1 Charity, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the long-awaited opening of Asa House and to have been able to support the people and communities of Plymouth by way of our considerable investment into the area.

Asa House is named after King Asa, an ancient Hebrew ruler who built city walls so his people could live in safety and prosper in their lives. This sentiment reflects Chapter 1’s ethos, and seemed appropriate as Asa House is close to the old Plymouth city walls.

“We thank our investment partners, and in particular, the Homes and Communities Agency and Plymouth City Council, who have walked alongside us patiently and collaboratively on this development journey.

Chapter 1’s hope is that Asa House will continue to support and service the people of Plymouth with high quality, affordable housing long into the future.”

There are 744 long term empty homes in Plymouth and 200,000 across England and Wales. In addition to a pledge to bring 200 homes into use, other key actions in Plymouth’s Plan for Empty Homes include:

Janet Ventre, area manager at the Homes and Communities Agency, said: “We’re working with partners across the city to make sure new homes are built to meet the housing need.

Asa House is a fantastic example of how unused buildings can be brought back to life

• Developing redundant commercial premises by working with local businesses • Proactively approach empty home owners and offering them incentives to sell, let or owner occupy their empty homes, and • Taking enforcement action against owners that refuse offers of help through the use of Compulsory Purchase Orders, Enforced Sale Orders, and Empty Dwelling Management Orders.

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NEW YEAR – NEW YOU! If your new year’s goal is to get fit, head to Fort Stamford Health and Fitness, located at Mount Batten near Plymouth.

Fort Stamford offer all the leisure and fitness facilities you could need.

AN EXTENSIVE GYM, VIBRATION PLATES, SWIMMING & SPA AREA, SQUASH, FITNESS CLASSES, TONE ZONE, TABLE TENNIS, TENNIS, CHILDREN’S SOFT PLAY AREA AND LOUNGE / BAR AREA.

SWIMMING POOL

FUN FORT NOW OPEN

Come along and have a swim in our heated Swimming Pool or relax in either our Sauna, Steam Room or Jacuzzi.

Our new lighter and brighter children’s soft play adventure playground is super for children up to 8 years old.

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Planning a party? The lounge/bar conservatory at Fort Stamford is available for hire. A perfect venue for Weddings, Christenings and Evening Functions, such as Birthdays, Engagement Parties and Anniversaries. We can organise a disco and provide excellent buffet options.

Our fully air conditioned gym has ample machines which means you rarely have to wait for them even at peak times. At Fort Stamford we make a real effort to look after our members.

Unlike many gyms, we do not take your money, set a programme and wave goodbye. Your programme will be continually reviewed and modified free of charge.

Novel available at www.thepurpleveil.com

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Entry Coupon Please send your completed entry coupon to the Fort Stamford Competition, The Plymouth Shopper, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4PY by the closing date of 31st January 2016. Please answer the question and enter your name and contact details below.

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• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 8 Methodist Church (next to the school) on Thursdays from 7.15 to 8.45 pm. Open to all youngsters from age eight upwards. Contact Tony Hollick on 01752 216784 for details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14

The Plymouth Shopper

Plymouth youngster is named national apprentice of the year A hardworking apprentice from Plymouth has received national recognition, having been named Barratt Homes’ apprentice of the year.

Jordan Brown, who lives in Whitleigh, was crowned the company’s top apprentice in the UK, having taken both the regional and divisional titles earlier this year.

The 20-year-old, who is currently working on Barratt Homes’ PL2 development in Plymouth, said: “I couldn’t believe it when they announced me as the winner of the national award. I was stunned! It’s really good to get recognition for my hard work. I really enjoy what I do anyway so this is a real bonus.”

Jordan started his carpentry and joinery apprenticeship with Barratt Homes just over a year ago, having been inspired to take up

the trade by his grandfather. Jordan said: “I remember he was always in his shed building things and I wanted to do the same. When I studied woodwork at school I fell in love with it so when I heard about the apprenticeship with Barratt Homes I jumped at the opportunity.

“I’ve had a chance to try so many things during my apprenticeship and every day is different. I go to college one day a week and get training on the job from my mentor and it’s good to learn from the guys that have been doing it for decades.”

David Thomas, group chief executive of Barratt Developments presented Jordan with his award.

“Apprentices are the lifeblood of our company and I’m delighted to report that those in the south west are among the best I’ve encountered,” he said.

Barratt had taken on more than 300 apprentices nationally in the past 12 months as part of its commitment to growing its own talent.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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

Barratt chief executive David Thomas with Apprentice of the Year Jordan Brown

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

Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club Hockey for all ages and abilities from age 5 through to 60+ with weekly coaching and regular matches based at the University of St Mark & St John. Tuesdays & Thursdays 5-6pm age 7-11 boys and girls. Girls age 10+ and senior 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 people to meet and share experiences. For more information contact David on 07722 019423.

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

Meets every Monday from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Membership Secretary 01752 231139 Website www.clubfocusplymouth.co.uk 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.

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.

Plymouth Woodturners Third Friday of the month Meet at Pilgrim Church, St Levan Road at 7.30pm. Also demonstrate and sell at Otter Nurseries, Brixton, the first weekend of every month. New members always welcome, just turn up on the night.

Plymouth Striders Running Club Twice weekly Meet at Widewell School, Lulworth Drive, Widewell (behind The George at Roborough). Mondays and Thursdays 6.30pm. Over 16 years and all abilities welcome. For info contact widewellstriders@yahoo.com or check out our website www.widewellstriders.co.uk Exercise for Over 60s Tuesdays and Thursdays Life Centre Thursdays 1.30pm to 3pm in the Dance Studio.

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

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.

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.

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

• continued on page 16

JANUARY

THE CHRIS COLE

Experience Madman, liar or Son of God? Every January I like to write the same article concerning the foundation of the Christian faith which is of course a Person.

Both divine and human, Jesus Christ is the Cornerstone of Christianity. So as usual I want to start the New Year with a look at just who Jesus really is, according to the Bible, historical Tradition and the belief of orthodox biblical Christianity through the ages...

“Madman, liar or Son of God...” those are the options of opinion open to us when we consider the claims Jesus makes about himself, according to CS Lewis (probably one of the greatest Christian thinkers and writers of the 20th century).

I know where I stand on this issue – Jesus is the one and only Son of God, he has existed with the Father and the Holy Spirit for all eternity, and he came to earth as a man 2,000 years ago in the mysterious act we call the incarnation – quite literally, Heaven invaded Earth.

But who is Jesus to you and me?

A couple of hundred years ago, Napoleon Bonaparte had this to say, acknowledging that Jesus was greater than any of the mighty political or military leaders throughout history: “I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ is no mere man. Between Him

parliaments that ever sat and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as has that one solitary life.”

and every other person in the world there is no possible term of comparison. Alexander, Caesar, Charlemagne, and I have founded empires. But on what did we rest the creation of our genius? Upon force. Jesus Christ founded His empire upon love; and at this hour millions of men would die for Him.” Napoleon Bonaparte In 1926 Dr James Francis wrote the following.

“Here is a man who was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village. He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. Then for three years He was an itinerant preacher.

“He never owned a home.

He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family. He never went to college. He never put His foot inside a big city. He never travelled two hundred miles from the place He was born. He never did one of the things that usually accompany greatness.

He had no credentials but Himself...

“While still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against him. His friends ran away. One of them denied Him. He was turned over to

His enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed upon a cross between two thieves. While He was dying His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth – His coat. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.

“Nineteen long centuries have come and gone, and today He is a centrepiece of the human race and leader of the column of progress.

“I am far within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, all the navies that were ever built; all the

And just a few short years ago mainstream artist Alanis Morrisette had a huge hit with the song ‘What if God Was One of Us’. If you’ve never read the lyrics, I’d encourage you to Google them. The song has challenging words, like “... and would you want to see; if seeing meant you had to believe; in things like heaven and Jesus and the Saints; and all the Prophets...?” Those are thought provoking words.

I have no idea what Alanis believes herself, but her song shows a profound and honest search after the identity of God. For me, he’s already shown us the answer. He did become like one of us, in Jesus. He became like us to the point of taking all our worst problems and character traits called sin onto himself. Why? So we would not have to bear it forever, so we can enjoy a relationship now with a perfect loving Father, and so we could come home to heaven too. All that and more, recorded in a 2,000 year old Book, show us what God is

Chris Cole, is the founder of Cross Rhythms charity. He is also a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Listen to his Cross Rhythms Experience programmes on 96.3FM or online at www.crossrhythms.co.uk/ plymouth. Also download Cross Rhythms Plymouth app from Google Play and the Apple app store.

Designs on Central Library

Plymouth City Council has appointed the interior design company that will fit out the city’s new Central Library.

The company - thedesignconcept - has extensive experience in designing libraries in the UK and Europe, with Greenwich Public Library, St Patrick’s College Library in Dublin and the library at Dokk1, Aarhus, Denmark among its recent projects.

Awarding the contract is the latest step towards creating a modern and flexible library space in the heart of Plymouth’s city centre. Work to refurbish vacant units on the corner of Armada Way and Mayflower Street began earlier this month and the new library is due to open in the spring.

Councillor Jon Taylor, Cabinet Member for Community Services and Transformation said: “We’ve been working with library staff, customers and local organisations to refine our initial plans and we’re looking forward to seeing how thedesignconcept interprets these ideas to provide a library fit for the 21st century.

“People told us they wanted a more exciting library offer for Plymouth and this innovative and dynamic company will help us create a welcoming and vibrant space.

“During the consultation we were asked for a café and some outside space, so we’re providing a café on the first floor and we’re using the vacant car park next door to

create a roof terrace with views over the city centre.

“We’ve added an extra entrance on Mayflower Street to provide easy access and increased the amount of study space available. The whole building will be accessible to anyone in a wheelchair and will have plenty of toilets.”

Daniela Hislop, sales director at thedesignconcept said: “We are delighted to have been selected to work on this exciting project. The client brief is full of vision and encouraged fresh ideas and forward thinking interpretation.

“This is a project we particularly wanted to be involved in and we are working hard with the team at Plymouth City Council to deliver a Central Library that becomes a focal point and a go-to destination for all the residents of the city.” thedesignconcept is now working with the project team, Claremont Interiors (who are refurbishing the building) and library staff to finalise the internal layout and design.

As well as books, DVDs, free computer access and WiFi, the new library will have meeting rooms, comfortable seating areas and a digital and training suite. It will replace the current library in Drake Circus and help to make way for the £32 million History Centre, which is due to open in 2020.

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

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like and how outrageously he loves us.

Yet Jesus is far more than the One who became one of us and lived a humble, vulnerable life, a life submitted to his Father in Heaven, that ended in death on a cross and the apparent defeat of everything he valued in the face of religious persecution.

He is so much more than that.

According to the Bible, he is God Himself, he has existed for all time and beyond time, he created us and the world we live in, he beat death in a fight based in hell, and he rose from that horrendous place to establish a constantly growing group of men, women and children on the earth who would carry on where he left off, in the power and love of His Holy Spirit. He returned home to a throne beside his Father’s in heaven and his Father has put him fully in charge of everything that he created. He has promised he will one day return to finally bring his peace and the rule of righteous Love in the world.

Like I said, much more than just a man like one of us... yet he became that too, in an act of supreme humility and courage, because of his outrageous love for you, and me. Now that’s who I think Jesus is, and I believe it’s who the Bible says he is... what about you?

From all of us at Cross Rhythms, have a powerful and influential 2016 for goodness sake.

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City Council wants your views on Plymouth school admission arrangements

Hotpoint Appliances

Plymouth City Council is asking people what they think of its proposed admission arrangements for entry to schools in September 2017.

263 Beacon Park Rd, Plymouth....01752 787600

Anyone with an interest in school admissions is invited to make a response to the consultation.

28 Pomphlett Rd, Plymstock........01752 492122

Comments are needed on: admission numbers for all schools; key dates in the admissions process and admission arrangements for all of the schools taking part in the consultation

15 Stuart Rd, Pennycomequick....01752 222003

15 Fore Street, Totnes...................01803 863448 15 Fore Street, Kingsbridge..........01548 853116

Information and details about the proposed arrangements are available on the Plymouth City Council website or from the School Admissions Team.

The closing date for the consultation is January 24 and any comments should be submitted online using the form available at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ admissionconsultation.

Comments can also be submitted in writing to: School Admissions Consultation, Learning and Communities, Plymouth City Council, Windsor House, Tavistock Road, Plymouth PL6 5UF or by email to schoolconsultations@plymouth.gov.uk by that date.

The Plymouth Shopper

15

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 14 first 6 weeks are free to new members and everyone who trains gets to play. For more information, please see the website at www.plymouthhockeyclub.org.uk or contact Rob on 07861 250682.

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

This year is the choir’s centenary.

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

Jelly Tots Baby & Toddler Group Fridays 9.30am to 11 am at St Budeaux Baptist Church (during Term Time). £1.50 per Family www.stbudeauxbaptist.org.uk 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.

Plymouth Writers Circle Tuesdays Do you have a problem with plotting or characterisation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16

The Plymouth Shopper

College welcomes British media mogul City College Plymouth welcomed Justin Cooke - founder and CEO of Tunepics: the fastest growing social network in the world - to celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week and Plymouth Enterprise Week.

Global Entrepreneurship Week is the world’s largest celebration of innovation, job creation and business start-ups and is complemented by Plymouth Enterprise Week. Every year City College, along with other organisations and businesses in the city, run a calendar of activities to celebrate enterprise.

Justin Cooke gave a talk to over 100 students, from a range of subject areas, about how he created his own successful business before speaking at the college’s employer lunch, which welcomed business professionals from across the city.

Tunepics has users in over 150 countries and is hailed by the media as the ‘first major British social network’. Tunepics allows users to feature a song with every picture that they share, capturing the depth of the moments in their lives.

Justin said: “I really enjoyed coming Justin Cooke to Plymouth and speaking to students and businesses about my career journey and how I created Tunepics.

including musicians will.i.am (a friend of Justin’s), Lorde, Adele, The Libertines, Charli XCX, MTV, Kaiser Chiefs, Scouting for Girls, and the likes of Sir Richard Branson, Jamie Oliver and Stephen Fry. Emma Taylor, marketing and corporate relations officer at the college, said: “We are really pleased that Justin could join us in Plymouth. Justin inspired our students to actively seek opportunities and showed them what can be achieved by people at such a young age.

“Local businesses also benefitted from Justin sharing his varied experiences in marketing for well-known brands. Justin is an inspirational marketer and spoke in depth about how marketing strategies can be applied across different sectors and to the advantage of both large and small businesses.”

Justin’s illustrious career includes chief marketing officer at Topshop, and six years at Burberry, serving as global vice president of public relations.

In his early years, Justin worked in the offices of Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole in the Gucci heyday, moving to Stella McCartney as one of the first 10 employees when the brand launched under the Gucci Group umbrella in 2001.

Many well-known personalities have joined Tunepics,

The topic of ‘Plymouth: Culture Club or Culture Snub?’ will inform discussions at City College’s next business focused event - the Business Supper Club - on January 26. Guest speaker will be Lindsey Hall, CEO of the Real Ideas Organisation. Book your space now for only £15 - call 01752 305026 or contact employers@cityplym. ac.uk.

Perhaps we can help. We meet at 7pm at Pilgrim Church, St Levans Road. Easy Parking. Details 07752 351234

Road, Plymouth. Players wanted, of any age over 18. For further details contact rcbeasley@btinternet.com

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.

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

“For me, what was extraordinary was that no one had ever created a place where people could put music and pictures together and now Tunepics has users in over 150 countries, which is just amazing.”

Soundhouse Brass and Soundhouse Youth Brass Academy Thursdays Want to play with one of the finest Brass Bands in Devon then why not come along and give us a try. We also have a thriving Youth Band for younger players which is supported

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

Devonport Park Community Choir Mondays A friendly mixed group of singers meet in the Pavilion Cafe in Devonport Park every Monday evening from 6-7.30pm.

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

For more details telephone 318087.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

• continued on page 19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FLOORING BWF Flooring

Specialist in Carpet • Vinyl Safety Flooring • Karndean 07966 421790 ben@bwf-flooring.co.uk www.bwf-flooring.co.uk

GARAGE DOOR SERVICES

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

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

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

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

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

LOCK SMITH

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

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • Kitchen & Bathroom fitting 9 Hereford Road, Whitleigh, Ply. PL5 4HG Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk PAINTER AND DECORATOR Offering a High Quality and Reliable Service in all aspects of Decorating Inside and Out Also Home improvement and Plumbing Service Call Martin for a free Quote on 07730414365

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

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

PLASTERING MJB PLASTERING

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

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

VAT FREE PLUMBER

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

Numerous references on request. 24/7 service.

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

Clive Gavin and Son Plumbing and Heating 01752 959236 - 07803 320 755 B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • No job too small • No VAT • 24 hour emergency call out • Senior citizen discounts.

Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429 T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant Full Heating Systems • Boiler Exchanges • Fire and Fireplace Installations • Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation • Former British Gas Heating Installer • Gas Safe Registered Special offer on servicing boilers £50* *T&C Apply

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MOORHEAT

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A. PRITCHARD PLUMBING & HEATING

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

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

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Please mention Dial the Experts when calling one of these advertisers Interested in advertising in Dial The Experts? Call Tendai at 01752 225623 or email tendai@cornerstonevision.com

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

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DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

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

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

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

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www.cornerstonevision.com The Plymouth Shopper

17

Students go behind the scenes at Babcock One of Plymouth’s biggest employers has opened its doors to a group of 20 young people as part of the Skills Aid Plymouth (SAP) scheme.

Royal Navy amphibious assault ship, HMS Bulwark, has returned to Plymouth from operations in the Mediterranean leading a major Royal Navy deployment.

The students were given the chance to learn about marine engineering through a series of team challenges.

It’s hoped the students will have gained a better understanding of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) careers.

The Plymouth-based ship was leading this year’s exercise Cougar, comprising exercises with the French Navy off Corsica, and then exercise Trident juncture, the largest NATO exercise for a decade involving 30 nations, 60 ships and 36000 personnel.

SAP was piloted last year to give some of Plymouth’s young people extra support. It’s a joint project between Plymouth City Council and Plymouth’s Rotary clubs, which have provided the majority of the volunteer mentors working on the scheme.

HMS Bulwark completed the deployment by providing security support to the Maltese Armed Forces for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, including hosting her Majesty the Queen on board.

It is designed to help pupils understand and gain important employability skills which will improve their chances in an increasingly competitive job market and broaden their career options.

Each young person has been assigned a personal mentor who will accompany them on a series of nine business-led visits hosted by local organisations.

The mentors, who have been recruited on a voluntary

HMS BULWARK RETURNS TO PLYMOUTH

basis from the ranks of Rotary and the business sector, have all undergone a programme of training to mentor young people in education.

The schools taking part this year are Sir John Hunt and Eggbuckland Community College.

Both schools have selected 10 students most likely to benefit from the scheme.

Councillor Sue McDonald, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health said: “What a great opportunity for our young people.

“I really hope that experiences like this will encourage more girls to

“Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.”

r ppe n Sho etitio r fo mp Co ners r e n i W vemb o N

Hebrews 2:18

Youngsters get to grips with one of the challenges during the visit to Babcock

think about careers in STEM. I’m really pleased that we are able to offer our young people, who need a little extra support, fantastic experiences like this.”

Chris Tomkins, director and general manager at Babcock said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to show how exciting and fun real engineering can be.

“Hopefully we can encourage more and more young people in our community to consider a career in STEM, if not with Babcock then with other organisations both locally and nationally.’’

An additional feature of this year’s Skills Aid is the introduction of the Employability Passport. This will enable the students to receive endorsements of their employability skills gained from each of the businesses they visit.

The ship’s commanding officer, Captain Nick CookePriest, said: “Our return to Plymouth marks the finale of a truly outstanding year for HMS Bulwark. From the poignancy of Gallipoli 100, via the humanitarian assistance of Operation Weald in the Mediterranean to the operational focus of Cougar 2015, it has been a year that has seen HMS Bulwark at the heart of naval, and national activity.”

When away from exercises and operations, the ship visited Gibraltar, Toulon, Palermo and Malta. High profile visits have been received from the Prime Minister, Home Secretary and high ranking NATO officials culminating with a rousing cheer by the entire crew for the Queen in Malta.

Cougar 2015 exercised the UK’s maritime high readiness joint expeditionary force, demonstrating the Royal Navy’s ability to keep Britain safe, reassure friendly nations and enhancing her prosperity by projecting a highly effective maritime force anywhere in the world to protect trade routes if needed.

The SAP scheme was launched in September at Plymouth Argyle, followed by a visit to Dartmoor Zoo. Congratulations to the winners of the competition in our November issue. They were Miss E Gow from St Budeaux; Gloria Trehane from Pennycross and Alan Fielding from Laira. They each won a pair of tickets for The Magic of Motown courtesy of The Entertainers.

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.

VOLUNTEERS - Plymouth Environmental Action (PEA) carries out practical conservation throughout Devon and Cornwall during weekdays and weekends. Projects include tree-planting, hedge-laying, coppicing, dry-stone walling, wildlife pond creation, species surveys, and beach cleans to name a few! Get involved, gain skills and experience in countryside management and conservation! www. pea-volunteering.co.uk 07749 818160 VOLUNTEER GROUNDSPERSON Plymouth Cricket Club needs a Groundsperson to undertake four hours a week in summer to help us prepare our pitch.

Experience of preparing cricket wickets is not essential, training will be provided. DBS checks will be needed. Please contact: Gareth Hart on 07786863206 or gareth@iridescentideas.com Website: www.plymouthcricketclub.com.

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

Call 01752 793754 or email info@crownhillfort.co.uk VOLUNTEER - Plymouth Natural health

and Healing Centre is looking for a Volunteer Receptionist at the centre. No experience is necessary, training will be given, Travel expenses will be paid.

Contact Robert Parkins Chairman on 01752210279

VOLUNTEER DOG LOVERS - Would you like to look after a dog for a week or two? Dog lovers wanted to care for nice dogs whilst owners are away. This is not a job but a very rewarding hobby contact Jennifer,Terry or Carolyn on 01752 769453 RESTAURANT MANAGER – College Road Primary School is looking for an enthusiastic and passionate individual to join the school team, to focus on making its lunchtime fantastic for all students. Some tasks will be completed within the school and some within the kitchen environment. £7.85 per hour, 10 hours a week, 39 weeks per year (pro rata). More information on www. collegeroadschool.co.uk to apply please send CV and covering letter to college.rd.primary.school@plymouth. gov.uk CLEANERS FOR PRE-VETTED PRIVATE HOMES – You choose how many hours a week you want to work between 10 and 20 and who you’re happy to work for. If you are mature, have good references and preferably a car and DBS (police check), we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Marc on 01752 395595.

VOLUNTEER - Plymouth Natural Health and Healing is looking for a receptionist at the centre. No experience is necessary, training will be given. Travel expenses will be paid.

PNH&HC 175 Outland Road, Plymouth PL2 3PY, please contact the Chairman on 01752 210279.

GENERAL - Are you interested in make up or cosmetics?

Do you have the passion and drive to succeed? If yes and you want to start earning 20% commission and free make up right away. Call Gemma on 01752 564639 / 07989 972734 HAIRDRESSERS - Marnies Hair & Beauty is looking for two fully qualified hairdressers with own clients to join the team at a well stocked happy salon 50% split chair rental S/E in Colebrook Village, Plympton. Hours to suit. Call Marnie on 331777 or mobile 07979 345262.

VOLUNTEER TREASURER TRUSTEE Required by Greenshoots Preschool, a Charitable Company supported by a close team of trustees (volunteers). Role will involve attending meetings, and, with support, oversee financial affairs. Some accounting experience needed. Enhanced DBS check paid for. For further information, contact Rebecca on 07966681038 or mlle.bex@googlemail.com.

VOLUNTEERS - Greenacres care centre are looking for volunteers to assist our activity leader with entertainment and activities for our elderly clients. For more information phone Julie on 01752 674111

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Memory Matters SW, dedicated to improving the lives of those living with dementia needs volunteers to support craft activities, games, making tea , socialising and generally helping members have fun. Plymouth Activity day clubs run on Mondays and Fridays 10-4.If you can spare some time please contact us on 01752 692264 or kate@

Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

memorymatterssw.co.uk or visit www.memorymatterssw.co.uk

COMPANION – Companion help for lady 70 to visit and occasionally take out (day or evenings). 3 to 4 hours per week, £10 per hour. Genuine replies and references. For more information call 01752 783694. Crownhill area TIMEBANKING - With timebanking you volunteer your time when and how you want. Do a small job for someone, earn time in the bank. Use that time to have something done for you or gift the credit to someone else. It’s safely sharing your time and talents locally:penny@timebanksw.org.uk 01752 395131 www.timebanksw.org GENERAL – Would you like some extra cash or saving for something special .Work from home. Be your own boss. Choose your own hours to fit round family commitments or employment. Would like up to 80% discount of products ,15% discount from Dorothy Perkins then look no further I need you!! for more information please contact Mel 07950006144

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED – Cornerstone Vision, publishers of The Plymouth Shopper, are looking for new distributors, to help deliver leaflets across the city and surrounding area. Transport an advantage, own phone number essential. We are particualrly looking for people to help cover Efford, Ernesettle, Saltash, Ivybridge and Torpoint, although other areas maybe available. Please email Tony@cornerstonevision.com or call 225623

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.

18

The Plymouth Shopper

Celebrations as Louise wins Venus Award A Stoke-based business is celebrating after one of its team was named Employee of the Year in the annual Devon Venus Awards.

Louise Pen-Collings is Plymouth branch manager and franchise manager for Extra Help, which provides a range of home help and cleaning services.

Since joining the team at Extra Help in May 2013, she has seen the business expand rapidly, achieving more than 100 per cent growth in the last year alone. Louise has also played a key role in seeing the number of Extra help franchises grow significantly across the country.

The Venus Awards recognise the efforts and talents of local businesswomen and are split into 12 categories covering all aspects of business and personal achievement.

More than 250 guests and sponsors attended the awards ceremony held at the University of Exeter’s Great Hall with finalists whittled down from more than 1,500 nominations in Devon this year.

Louise said that she was ‘shocked and delighted’ to have won the prestigious award. “The competition was

extremely tough and it was a massive surprise when my name was called as the winner.”

Louise was presented with her award by Marc Astley of the Exeter Daily, sponsor of the Employee of the Year category.

He said: “We are proud to support the region’s business women and it was great to see everyone celebrating at the ceremony. We’d like to say a big congratulations to all the winners and to those who were nominated!”

Extra Help managing director Claire Robinson was also a finalist in the Entrepreneur of the Year category.

Extra Help responds to the needs of elderly people who are still living independently and need a helping hand.

Since launching the company it has expanded its range of services to respond to the needs of new and working parents with mothers help services to working professionals and its domestic cleaning services.

Another Plymouth businesswoman, Louise Pasterfield won the Digital Media and Online Business Award.

Louise is the founder of the highly successful e-learning company Sponge UK.

Louise Pen-Collings is presented with the Employee of the Year Award by Marc Astley of the Exeter Daily

Devonport jobs secured through upgrade to nuclear deterrent submarine Two Royal Navy nuclear deterrent submarines have reached key programme milestones which will extend their life as the backbone of the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent.

HMS Vengeance has left Devonport dockyard following a long overhaul period and sailed past HMS Vanguard, which is due to start a scheduled deep maintenance period.

HMS Vengeance has completed the Devonport part of the £350 million refit and refuel programme which included a complete overhaul of equipment on the submarine as well as the installation of improved missile launch equipment and upgraded computer systems.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defence is due to sign a contract worth around £200 million with Babcock to undertake a planned period of maintenance for HMS Vanguard.

Additionally, some of the cost for the upkeep will be met by the maritime support delivery framework which was signed

with the company in October 2014.

threats to our national security and way of life.”

The contract to refit and refuel HMS Vanguard is expected to take nearly four years and will secure the future of more than 2,000 jobs at Babcock in Devonport, and involve over 100 companies subcontracting throughout the project.

Chief strategic systems executive at the MOD’s defence equipment and support organisation, Rear Admiral Keith Beckett, said: “The highly sophisticated nature of the work involved in the deep maintenance of these vessels is testament to the experience and skills of the workforce in Devonport and those in the supply chain across the UK.”

Defence Minister Philip Dunne said: “As well as securing 2,000 highly skilled jobs at Devonport dockyard, this contract forms part of our £178 billion plan to ensure our Armed Forces have the equipment they need and typifies what has proven to be a very successful programme of refuelling our fleet of nuclear submarines which helps ensure their service into the 2030s.

“The protection and defence of the whole of the UK is the primary responsibility of Government and the recent Strategic Defence and Security Review confirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining the UK’s independent nuclear deterrent to deter the most extreme

The contract to refit and refuel HMS Vanguard will involve the replacement of the nuclear reactor core, which powers the 16,000 tonne vessel.

Submarine and missile launch systems will also be overhauled and new capability added to the submarine sonar equipment, upgrades to computer and communication systems and equipment and machinery replaced.

HMS Vanguard is one of the UK’s four Vanguard-class submarines, designed to carry the UK’s Trident ballistic

missiles which together form the backbone of the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent.

Naval Base Commander Devonport, Commodore Ian Shipperley said: “The success of the HMS Vengeance refit and refuel is due to the close collaboration of many agencies and contractors but particularly the joint project ethos that is dominant between the Ministry of Defence, Babcock, Rolls Royce and the Ship’s Company.

“The departure of HMS Vengeance after the successful completion of her refit at Devonport, followed by the arrival of HMS Vanguard now at the beginning of her four year deep maintenance period, highlights the expertise of the workforce in Devonport which makes it the centre of excellence for this type of hi-tech work.”

Following the successful refit of HMS Vengeance she will undergo sea trials before returning to fleet duties with the Royal Navy.

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 16 at Courtlands School in Eggbuckland from 7.15pm to 9.15pm. The charge is just £1 a week and people of all abilities are welcome. The group plays at lots of different venues and events throughout the year such as Devonport Playhouse, Lord Mayor’s day, Eden Project and many more.

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

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

by Birgitta Whight. Contact 01752 408951.

Rainbow Group Tuesdays The group meets at Mount Gould Church from 4.45pm to 5.45pm for girls aged from five to six and a half. For more information contact 07913697767 Sounds Musical Theatre Company Wednesdays Founded in 1911, we are a friendly, diverse group of people who love Musical Theatre and produce two shows a year. In March/April we perform our annual full musical production, with a musical revue in October. Rehearsals are every Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm in Oreston Methodist Church

Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston. Join us from November onwards for rehearsals for the Pyjama Game. Visit the website www.soundsmusicaltheatrecompany.co.uk for more information.

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

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

Contact Emily on 07478 257080 Singing for the Brain Mondays The Alzheimer’s Society hold Singing for the Brain on every Monday, ( not on Bank Holidays ) at the William Venton Centre, 8 Memory Lane, Plymstock. Do you enjoy singing?

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

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

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

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

For more information call David on 017523 268777.

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

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

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

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

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

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Thursdays Tavy Lodge Scout Centre, off LissonGrove, Mutley. Contact

07527687804 or 9th21stplymouthscoutgroup@gmail.com 5-6pm Beavers; 6.15-7.30pm Cubs; 7.45 - 9.15pm Scouts.

Open to young people from the ages of 6 to 14. Come along and join the winter adventures.

Reading Group Third Tuesday of the month Like reading? Like to share your views on books? We are a small friendly group who meet at Tothill Community Centre on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 2pm for approximately 1 hour to discuss chosen books and swap other reading experiences. You would receive a very warm welcome to any new members. Please ring 01752 513197 for details.

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

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

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

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

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

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Twins’ achievements in face of mum’s illness rewarded Taking important exams is hard enough, but sitting GCSEs knowing your mum has been diagnosed with a serious illness makes a stressful time even harder.

“They were just so brilliant and cooked meals and did the shopping, so to get the grades they did is just wonderful.”

Mrs Archman said she felt ‘honoured’ that the 16-yearolds had been recognised.

“The whole family are just so proud of them and what they have achieved even with everything that was going on.

That’s why twin students at Stoke Damerel Community College had their commitment to their GCSE studies following their mother’s diagnosis of breast cancer rewarded with a special trip to London to attend a national award ceremony.

“Mr Ward has supported them every step of the way - and other teachers too, like Mr Towers, who arranged for Jodie to do some mindfulness sessions, I’m so grateful to them,” she said.

Josh and Jodie Archman were nominated by their Year 11 learning manager Jonathan Ward to attend the PiXL Celebrating Success event in London.

“I can’t praise the school enough,” added Tracey – who is now in remission.

The ceremony, held at Central Hall Westminster, was attended by students Jodie and Josh Archman from across the country. Mr Ward commented: “Joshua and Jodie were nominated because of their exceptional exam results considering their difficult family circumstances,

The twins have stayed on at Stoke Damerel Sixth Form where Jodie is studying drama, business studies and media studies while Joshua will be taking A Levels in maths, photography and physics.

“We also wanted to recognise them for all the support they gave their mum after she was diagnosed with cancer.”

“It was hard but we just tried to look on the positive side of things,” said Jodie. “We were very grateful to be nominated - I was so excited and surprised, it’s nice to be recognised for working hard.”

Joshua, Jodie and their mum Tracey travelled with Mr Ward to London to attend the ceremony earlier this term.

“I was just over the moon when I heard they’d been nominated,” said Tracey, who received her diagnosis at around the same time as the twins were preparing to take their mock GCSEs. “I don’t think they revised as much as they should because it was a very difficult time for all of us.

Both of them plan to go on to university when they leave the college.

As well as attending the ceremony the group went out for a celebratory breakfast after arriving in London and took a ride on the London Eye. “It was lovely that our mum was there,” said Joshua.

“I know she was really proud of us - it felt like a really special day.”

Celebrating partnership at annual awards Stoke Damerel Community College has celebrated its partnerships within the communities of Plymouth and beyond as part of the college’s annual celebration evening.

Pete Nash from Plymouth Learning Partnership was the special guest speaker at the event in November where more than 150 students were recognised for their achievements in a range of subjects and their contribution to college life.

Mr Nash said: “I was in awe at the self-confidence, awareness and insight of the students, it made me feel confident that our future is in safe hands. It was an inspiring evening.”

Mr Nash’s speech to the audience of more than 400 students, staff and parents was part of a packed evening which featured a variety of video and musical performances as well as the presentation of a number of special annual awards, including the Roma French Award.

The award was given out for the first time by Roma’s children, Gary and Dawn French, at the celebration evening in February 2013.

The Principal’s Awards winners included Aiden Gilley - recognised for his work as a sports leader. The

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Fellow winner Jake Donkin-Peters was praised for being a role model and ambassador for the Class of 2015 as well as being the college’s highest achieving male student in this year’s GCSEs. Aiden Edgar was presented with his Principal’s Award for ‘exceeding across all his subjects and his support for his peers and teachers alike.

Sophie Richards is presented with her award by college principal Carol Hannaford

This year’s winner, Daniel Symons, was chosen to receive the award to mark the way he has ‘grown into a confident young man who has achieved exceptional academic success’.

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Sophie Richards was described as a ‘source of inspiration’, singled out for leading an initiative to raise funds for the city’s Foodbank as well as her exceptional GCSE results.

Assistant vice principal Mr Giles, who organises the annual event, said: “It is always a pleasure acknowledging the hard work our students put into their lessons throughout the year on this prestigious evening.

It is now presented annually in the name of the campaigner and charity worker.

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audience was told he devoted many hours to coaching and his contribution to the college was ‘significant’.

“This year’s theme of partnerships epitomises the collaboration of students, parents and teachers to realise the potential of all our students.

“More than 150 of them were recognised for their hard work by the whole teaching staff from every curriculum area and there were 250 proud family members present on the night to give their support to them all.”

“I’d like to thank our students, their families and our staff for all the effort they put into making this such an enjoyable evening – I look forward to doing it all again at celebration evening 2016,” said Mr Giles.

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