The Plymouth Shopper March 2015

PLYMPTON

SHOP LOCAL SAVE POUNDS

10,500 copies delivered in Plympton, Colebrook and Chaddlewood

Woodside smashes five year record..it’s

March 2015

Win a meal for two at Samphire Bush - see page 19

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE • Legally speaking • DIAL THE EXPERTS • What’s On in the area • Local history feature BEFORE • Cross Rhythms • Community Job Shop

Vouchers on pages 3, 5 and 7

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Animal magic!

New factories taking shape at Langage - SEE P2

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Woodside Animal Welfare Trust which is based in Elfordleigh rehomed 114 animals in January with 72 of them being cats.

Founder of the Trust Carole Bowles said: “This is the highest number of cats we have homed in January for the last five years.

“Although we are delighted to have found homes for so many of our cats, the underlying feeling is one of great sadness that there are always so very many more

“Anybody who acquired a cat last year needs to be aware that it will be looking for a mate soon, even kittens of five months are not safe from pregnancy.

“Woodside run a combined neutering scheme with the RSPCA Plymouth branch which assists with the costs of neutering for those on benefits. In the milder months we can be caring for up to two hundred cats and kittens so I cannot urge people enough to neuter their cats. “ 3500

“Seeing so many of our long stays and ferals leaving us for a new life is brilliant, unfortunately there is always a never ending queue to fill their spaces.

needing our help. Our waiting to come in list never seems to diminish even though we do our best to keep on top of it.”

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A local animal sanctuary is celebrating after a busy rehoming month in January.

For more information on the neutering scheme please contact Woodside on 347503.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New factories take shape at Langage New high spec factories and workspace are taking shape at the hugely successful Langage Science Park.

occupation) that can be easily extended to suit users specific requirements. Large service yard areas, dedicated parking, cycle shelters, waste recycling zones and electrically operated loading doors are also part of the build.

The giant steel frames of two large building blocks have now been erected as the expansion plans for the science park steam ahead.

The completed scheme will have energy saving features such as solar photo voltaic systems, efficient heating systems in the offices and increased levels of insulation, which when combined, should minimise carbon emissions and reduce running costs for occupiers.

Plymouth City Council is investing around £2.7m to develop and build high quality employment space which will be divided into nine different-sized units, ranging from 116sq m to 1.858sq m (1,250sq ft to 20,000sq ft).

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “We are building speculative employment space for the first time in 15 years, so that we have a quality supply of space ready for different sized businesses to move in.

“Plymouth has the highest concentration of manufacturing employment of any city south of the Midlands and there is a demand for readymade sites. We are showing we are prepared to do all we can to ensure businesses come here and

Council leader Tudor Evans pictured at the new development help us create a strong economy and importantly, secure jobs.

“The project is a key commitment in our Plan for Jobs and up to 40 people are expected to get work at the site before a single company even moves in.

“Thanks in part to the council, Plymouth’s economy has grown faster than the UK’s every year since the end of the recession

Plans to locate a Costa Coffee kiosk at the heart of Plymstock Broadway have caused a storm of controversy with some traders welcoming the proposal but hundreds of local residents strongly opposed to the scheme.

Reporters Eliza Stevens and Chris Girdler have been speaking to local residents and businesses to find out more.

“But it is really the bigger picture that I am thinking of – getting Costa would encourage the other big chains and businesses to open up, keep the Broadway alive. If the footfall goes up, we will all benefit. It is not going to ruin the look of the Broadway, which will still be nice enough.

The planning application has been submitted

by Great End Properties, who own Plymstock Broadway. The plans involve constructing what is described as a kiosk which will be located on communal open space in the centre of the Broadway. The kiosk would have 40 seats inside and 28 seats outside and would open seven days a week.

Barbara Greep, who runs the Wool Pallette said: “Most of the independently owned businesses in the Broadway have suffered since the Co-op closed. I know of a number who have had to lay off staff because there are fewer shoppers visiting the Broadway now.

A number of independent traders have spoken out in favour of the plan, believing that the introduction of the Costa Coffee would provide a much needed boost for the Broadway, which has been struggling since the Co-op store closed last year.

The former Co-op premises are currently being marketed by Savills at an annual rental of £210,000, excluding business rates. Savills could not confirm if there had been any interest from potential tenants in the 31,000sq ft premises.

Trevor Higgins, owner of HomeWorkx said: “This would be massive for Plymstock, it would really put us on the map. It will bring in younger people – that’s what the Broadway needs.

“I can understand the concerns of some of the other outlets – but I don’t think Costa will put them out of business. They all sell food, Costa is just coffee really. I am not a big coffee drinker myself, but I might pop over for the occasional Mocha.”

“The combination of high rents and business rates are making it extremely difficult to survive. The business rates are based on the assumption that Plymstock Broadway serves an affluent area, but we have five charity shops, a money shop, several estate agents and banks, which hardly reflects that,” said Barbara.

Annie Dear, joint manager of the Broadway Fruit & Vegetable Shop said: “We have heard lots of rumours about what is likely to happen to the old Co-op store and we are all hoping that it is let soon. Trade has certainly not been great since it closed, so a Costa would certainly help.”

Danni Fitzgerald, manager of Timpson’s said: “I hope the plan goes ahead and I am looking forward to it opening. We all feel it will bring a lot more people into the Broadway.”

The Plymouth Shopper

Interested parties can view the latest electronic brochure at www.plymouth. gov.uk/langage_beechwood_way.pdf and contact the lettings team at the council on 01752 304366

Plymouth City Council has received literally hundreds of objections to the proposal, most pointing out that the Broadway is already well served by three coffee shops, including the popular cafe at Plympton Library. Trevor Higgins (above) of Homeworx and Barbara Fiona Walker, manager of Café Greep of the Wool Pallette Library said: “This - both in favour of the plan development is not small – it is misleading to call it a kiosk. It will involve ripping up the play area and green space, which are well used by children and older people.

“By building something new, Costa is bypassing the high rents that keep other premises empty. In Costa you queue up for poor quality coffee at inflated prices; it is the MacDonalds of the coffee world. They do not threaten our business – we offer something quite different, high quality food served at your table. My objection is the insidious effect of large chains on our towns – everywhere starts to look the same. We just don’t need this here. Can’t we just have one bit of England without a Costa Coffee? Do they have to be everywhere?”

Many locals interviewed by the Shopper team were opposed to the plan, citing the fact that Costa Coffee is far too expensive and that the area is already well served by cafes and coffee shops.

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

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The units will have flexible office space (heated, carpeted, lit and ready for

The scheme is due to complete by the summer and the council has already received a number of enquiries about possible lettings.

Battle of Broadway

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

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.

Cabinet Member for Finance, Councillor Mark Lowry said: “We are prepared to invest in a scheme which will bring jobs and careers to our city. To bring companies here, we need to create the quality work space they want.”

Costa Coffee plans stirring up controversy in Plymstock in the...

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– we need to help fuel this growth.”

As part of the contract, the council has asked that contractors Britcon (UK) Ltd make opportunities available to local people and local suppliers as well as ensure there are training and skills opportunities for young people.

Paula Sims, Fiona Walker and Lisa Collins of Cafe Library

Deborah Potter, recently-appointed manager of Plymstock Broadway shopping centre said that all businesses were being invited to a social gathering in March to discuss the situation in the Broadway. “It’s very much a social event,” said Deborah, “but I’m sure it will provide an opportunity for informal discussion on a number of matters.”

Two local schools are praised by Minister Minister of State for Schools, David Laws MP, has written to two local primary schools to congratulate them on the improvement in the key stage two results of their disadvantaged pupils.

Plympton St Maurice Primary School and Pomphlett Primary School were among eight in the city to receive praise.

Their results show that they have improved in terms of the progress and attainment achieved by disadvantaged pupils since 2011, and that they are highly effective in educating disadvantaged pupils. Staff have provided disadvantaged pupils with a good start in life and prepared them well for secondary school.

These schools narrowly missed qualifying for the Pupil Premium Awards this year, however the Minister expressed his hope that they can build on their success through the summer 2015 results for disadvantaged pupils. If so, they may win a prize of £1000 next year in the 2016 Awards and may also be invited to apply to win up to £100,000.

Councillor Sue McDonald Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health said: “All these schools have made a fantastic contribution in transforming the way we educate children from lowincome families.

“We’re very proud that all these Plymouth schools have been recognised for doing such excellent work and putting the city on the map for achievement. “

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

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

Table Top Sale Mar 7 St Mary’s Parish Centre, Plympton 10am to 1.30pm. Details 01752 335541.

Coffee Morning Mar 11 Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre 9.30am to 12.30pm to raise funds for the Lymphoma Research team at Derriford.

Raffle. For details contact 07971 150168 Spring Fayre Mar 14 Pennycross Methodist Church, Pridham Lane, off Beauchamp Road, Peverell. 11am to 1pm. There will be various stalls and refreshments. All proceeds to Children’s Hospice South West and Church funds.

Celebrating Young Performers Concert Mar 15 Showcasing some of the city’s brightest talent. Organised by Plymouth Soroptimists and the Rotary Club of Plympton the Celebrating Young Performers Concert will be at Plymouth University’s Roland Levinsky Theatre at 7pm. The concert will be introduced by David Webb, the Plymouth-born operatic tenor who wants to give something back to Plymouth. David, probably best known as a member of the ‘pop’ opera quartet Amore will be singing a duet with talented young singer Alice Vickery, who has just been awarded her first professional contract by the Plymouth Music Accord.

The concert will raise funds for the Devon Air Ambulance and Royal Marines Charitable Trust. For details/tickets please contact 01752 774401 or visit www.plymsorop.org.uk Pensioners and 50 Plus Action Group Forthcoming social events, all at Kings Tamerton Community Centre, Trevithick Road, Plymouth Friday March 20 Allsorts (singing & comedy) from 2pm to 4pm Friday May 1 Phil Crombie singer from 2pm to 4pm.Friday May 15 Western Approach Harmony Chorus from 2pm to 4pm.Friday June 5 Clarion Choir from 2pm to 4pm.Non-members £2 incl. refreshments (each event). Anyone over 50 welcome.

Members free. Part-funded by the Co-operative Social Fund & the Wolseley Trust Table Top Sale Mar 21 Trinity United Reformed Church Torr Lane Hartley, doors open at 10am until 1 2noon, admission 20p.

Community Sparks!

Mar 21 A community event at Moor View Park, off Mutley Plain, from 12 noon to 3pm. Dance, storytelling, art work, felt work, sculpture, food. All about ‘What makes life in Plymouth’.

An interactive event put on by different community groups, young people, older people, students, migrants, people with disabilities, people of faith. Activities for children and fun for all.

Spring Fayre Mar 21 St Budeaux Parish Church, the Green Crownhill Road from 12pm to 3pm. There will be refreshments and pasties for sale, as well as a selection of tables with various goods for sale. Tables available at £5 contact 01752 362161 Plymouth Scale Model Show 2015 March 21 Plymouth Guildhall This annual show, hosted by three local model clubs, will take place at the Guildhall in March. Numerous clubs from around the South West (and beyond) will be displaying their talents in scale model making. Various traders will also be there selling models, paints, tools and much more.

Food, Gift and Craft Market Mar 21 Tasty treats, local produce, unique gifts and crafts - all on your doorstep. Come and support your local traders at the exciting Food, Gift & Craft Market, surrounded by lots of independent shops at the pedestrianised Plymstock Broadway between 10am and 4pm. There is free parking for visitors and the event is free to the public. Many traders are local to the Plymstock area and you can support Plymstock’ s own Guinea Pig Rescue as well.For further information please visit www.leapsw.com or if you are interested in

`• continued on page 6 4

The Plymouth Shopper

Rhyme Times Central Library Monday from 11am; Thursday from 2pm Crownhill Library Tuesday: 2.15pm to 2.45pm Efford Library Tuesday: 10.30am to 11am Ernesettle Library Saturday: 11am to 11.30am Estover Library Tuesday: 3.30 to 4pm Laira Library Wednesday: 10.30am Peverell Library Monday from 2pm; Friday from 11am Plympton Library Thursday from 2pm;Saturday from 10.30am (Under 5s club) Plymstock Library Thursday from 2.15pm St Aubyn (Devonport) Library Saturday from 11am St Budeaux Library Thursday from 10am Southway Library Wednesday from 10am Stoke Library Wednesday from 10.30am to 11am (term time only) West Park Library Monday: 10am to 10.30am Story Times Central Library: every Wednesday from 11am (storytime and crafts) Crownhill Library: first Saturday of the month from 11am Plymstock Library: every Saturday from 10.30am (age 4+) Tothill Library: first Tuesday of the month from 3.45pm to 4.15pm Colebrook Community Centre Regular Events Monday 10am -11.30am Yoga; 12 noon to 3pm; Training Hearing Dogs Tuesday 9am -10am Keep Fit; 2pm - 4pm C. Friends; Wednesday 9.30am -10.30am Pilates; 7pm - 8.15pm Martial Arts; Thursday 11am -1pm Multiple Sclerosis; 1.45pm - 2.45pm Pilates; 5pm - 7pm Dog Training; Friday 9.30am -10.30am Pilates; 1.45pm 3.45pm Country Dancing; Sunday 8.30am -12.30pm Car Boot Sale at the George Park & Ride Feb - Sept The centre is available for hire at the weekends for birthday parties. For further details please call Kay on 01752 200046.

Regular Events at Woodford Methodist Community Church CHURCH AND WORSHIP: Morning Worship and Children’s Sunday Club 10.30am 2nd-5th Sunday of every month. A guaranteed relaxed service, with friendly ministers and congregation. A team of wonderful Ministers keep each week fresh and rewarding.

Experienced volunteers in the Sunday Club and Creche, teach and care for children from babies to young teenagers, so you have time to be you. Prayer Team available to talk over your worries at the close of the Service. Drinks, biscuits and opportunity for friendly conversation in the hall after every service. We have grown to expect the unexpected in this modern, happy, friendly church.

Monthly Early Traditional Service (followed by Messy Church) 1st Sunday of every month. 9:15am Traditional Service with hymn books, prayer and a sermon. This is a wonderful time of worship with the traditional contents of a Methodist Service with a modern joyful twist. Members of the Prayer Team are available for you to speak with at the close of the service. You are then invited to go into the Hall for hot drinks and biscuits. This is a great opportunity to meet some of the members of this Church and stay for the Messy Activities or just relax and have a chat over a hot drink.

10.30am - Messy Church begins with a session of arts, crafts, fun and mess in the Hall for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Hot drinks and biscuits are available and the opportunity to stay for lunch at the Church for a minimal cost. The items made are then taken into the Chapel for a very informal short Service. The children are asked about the things they have made, before heading back into the Hall for lunch, or more coffee etc. This is a great opportunity to get to know the church and the people involved in it.

Monthly Café Church 4pm (4th Sunday of every month) Interested in Christianity but not ready to go into a church? Come and give this a try. Music from local church musicians. Creative activities for the youngsters. Open, friendly discussion for all and plenty of drinks and cake to keep everyone chirpy! Every month has a different theme and an unusual take on religion. You will be amazed what subjects are discussed! Every comment and question is welcomed and accepted in this friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Do come along to this very relaxed form of church. The session is immediately followed with a brief Communion Service in the Chapel at 6pm, for anyone who wishes to part-take.

You are of course welcome to come just for the Service, if you so wish.

Prayer Group Tuesdays 9.15am-10.15am (In the Lounge)In all the hustle and bustle of life these days, people struggle to

Beard bet leads to fund-raiser for St Luke’s Rugby fan Sam Jailer from Crownhill has turned a bet with friends into a fundraiser for local charity, St Luke’s Hospice.

Sam took part in St Luke’s Men’s Day Out last year with his fellow co-workers from Princess Yachts.

One of the first ‘men only’ charity events in the city, the day consisted of an eight mile charity walk from Plymouth Albion and back, along with a game of rugby.

It was during the sponsored walk at last year’s event, he was challenged by his friends to grow a beard, as Sam explained: “We were on the sponsored walk and I was having a bit of banter with my fellow walkers, as you do.

“I had quite a bit of stubble that day and one of my friends bet me £100 that I couldn’t grow it into a beard and keep it for 12 months. I accepted the challenge straight away, having seen so many men walking in memory of a loved one, I thought it would be a great idea to turn it into a fundraiser for St Luke’s.

“Since I have taken the challenge, I can’t believe the support I have had from family, friends and the general public. You only have to mention you are doing it for St Luke’s and everyone has such good things to say about the hospice, it has a real connection with everybody.”

When asked what his fiancee, Kayleigh, thinks of his beard, Sam added: “She doesn’t like it, but has been very supportive throughout. I think she will be glad to see it go!”

Sam has already signed up for this year’s event and on cope, but look to fill that gap in their lives where something is missing. That gap can be filled with the loving family of God in a local church. Giving up a bit of time for regular prayer, together with others, can help you cope with the stresses and worry that life throws at you. We provide a non-judgemental circle of friendship and welcome everyone, regardless of background, luggage and history, to come and seek our friendship. We open our doors every week, for anybody and everybody to walk in freely and pray with us.

Every word spoken is treated with the upmost confidence and privacy, along with unconditional friendship. Come along and pray with us - life is easier to cope with, amongst friends. You can come in and out as you need and should you need to stay longer or talk to anyone at the end, you will not be turned away. If the doors are locked, knock on the window (room on right-hand end of the church). You do not need to attend any church to come and pray with us.

For further information on Woodford’s church and worship events contact Paul on 01752 403270 or Sheila on 338517.

COMMUNITY GROUPS Woodford Wives (1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 7.30pm) This group of friendly women meet twice a month to listen to various speakers and meet socially. They also raise funds by holding a Coffee Bar at Harewood House and stalls throughout the year. There’s always time for a chat!

Day trips away as a group of friends. In recent years they have raised much needed funds for Help for Heroes, Bowel Cancer West (Derriford Hospital) and Shekinah Mission. To find out more Telephone Anne Eames on Tel. 216643.

The Linda Mortimore School of Dance Mondays 4.15pm8pm and Wednesdays 4.15pm-7pm Linda trained at the Royal Academy of Dance in London and teaches RAD ballet and the ISTD tap, modern and jazz. The school holds a very popular adult tap class and produces stage performances, with regular productions. Dance is a great platform for socialising, learning posture and gaining confidence. Learning to dance can lead to a career or for just having fun. Call 01752 343791 for more information.

Women’s Fellowship (Tuesdays 2.30pm-3.30pm - In The Main Hall) Come and join this lovely group, with a vast programme of speakers, covering many subjects. They enjoy watching various films and slide shows, have annual outings

March 21, after he has completed the sponsored walk, Sam’s beard will be shaved off!

St Luke’s Men’s Day Out is Plymouth’s largest ‘men only’ event, returning for a second year on Saturday March 21 at Plymouth Albion RFC. The event, sponsored for the second consecutive year by IU Energy, will take the form of an eight-mile sponsored walk across Plymouth City Centre and the South West Coastal Path.

Afterwards fundraisers will be treated to a pint and a pasty at Plymouth Albion’s hospitality area before finishing off the day with a game of rugby as Albion take on Yorkshire Carnegie.

This will be followed with the opportunity to watch the Six Nations clash between England and France.

Tickets are priced ¬£20 and available online at www. stlukes-hospice.org.uk/rugby Sam added: “It is great to have a men only charity event for the city. The atmosphere last year was amazing, so many people cheering us on as we took the eight mile route from Albion, through the city and Hoe back to the club for a well deserved pint.”

When asked if he and his fellow male walkers had a drink en route, Sam said: “No comment, what happens on tour, stays on tour.”

Sam concluded: “Please give generously for this brilliant charity, especially anyone who has enjoyed, touching, stroking, looking at or even just been disgusted with my massive beard.”

Sam is aiming to raise £1,000 for St Luke’s,and can be sponsored at www.justgiving.com/Samjaillerbeard and visits by choirs. The group also hold a regular Bring and Buy table to support designated charities. It is a really friendly, welcoming group with lots of stories to tell about living through different situations and stages, as Christians.

Some of the members may well be in their latter years, but have fabulous personalities and lots to share. They enjoy each other’s company and are most definitely young at heart! To find out more about this wonderful group of ladies Telephone Muriel on 345284 or Pat on 348672.

Rainbows (Wednesdays 5.30pm)Woodford’s 2nd Plympton Rainbows Group is a Girl Guiding section for girls aged five to seven and is all about developing self-confidence, building friendships, learning new things and having fun. Girls get their hands dirty with arts and crafts, trying out cooking and playing games, as well as many other activities. Rainbows is all about learning by doing. The group work towards a different badge every term, through which they can take part in lots of different activities with girls their own age. To find out more, contact Monica Methven or Rachel Moran Tel. 07854 286945.

Woodford Men’s Meeting 10am (2nd and 4th Wednesday month) The Men’s Meeting, welcome any men who wish to join this convivial group. Session start with a cuppa before a speaker gives an interesting and entertaining talk, sometimes accompanied by a slide show or film, for about one hour. The meeting ends at 11.30am. A small charge of £2 is levied to cover refreshments and fees. Guest speakers, specialising in a variety of subjects have enthralled those attending. Members and friends are always welcome to give a talk on a subject of their own choice! The group share a huge range of experience, knowledge and stories - why not come and share with them? We always welcome new friends and our group currently range from middle-age upwards. Come along - you will be very welcome and have instant friendship in this cordial atmosphere. To find out more, ring Harold on 01752 337085.

Pins & Needles Knitting Club 2.30pm (1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month). This traditional hobby has bounced right back up in the popularity charts. People of varying ages are now picking up knitting needles and are all most welcome to come and join this group, which hand-

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

`• continued from page 4 trading, please contact Annette Laurie 07802 896505 or email her at annette.laurie@blueyonder.co.uk Plymouth Collectors Toyfair Mar 22 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth. 10am 2pm, everyone welcome, admission £1 for adults. Free parking, refreshments available. Buy, sell or swap collectable toys, model railway, live steam models, tinplate and diecast models etc. More details contact Paul Simmons or visit www. plymouthdiecastclub.com.

Jeanie Moore 22nd International Concert Series Mar 27 Featuring supremely talented guitarists Pete Oxley and Nick Meier – the Oxley-Meier International Guitar Duo – in the Ballroom at the Duke and guests will be able to enjoy a pre-concert dinner in the restaurant served from 6.30pm, with the concert starting at 8pm in the Ballroom. Tickets and further information from 01752 770345 or via email at jeanie@jeaniemooremvo.co.uk For more information about events at the Duke of Cornwall Hotel visit www. thedukeofcornwall.co.uk Tel 01752 275850.

60s & 70s Sing-A-Long Evening Mar 28 St Mary’s Parish Centre, Plympton. For details contact Ken on 01752 335702.

Table Top Sale Mar 28 Onward House Community Centre, 55 Greenbank Road from 2pm to 4pm. Contact Alison on 07884 191870. £5 per table.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Mar 28 to May 30 Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Witness the Natural History Museum’s annual exhibition which celebrates the drama and splendour of the natural world, with striking, creative and thought-provoking wildlife photography. This year’s exhibition marks the 50th anniversary and blends new and historic award-winning images to tell the story of how photographing the natural world has changed. With challenging documentary, intimate portraits, animal behaviour and atmospheric landscapes, ‘Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ showcases the power of images to magnificent effect, bringing the talent and vision of each photographer to all who visit.

Charity Table Top Sale Mar 29 The Big Cake Bake in aid of Cystic Fibrosis. Raffle with prizes from Hawkins Bazaar and tickets from the Theatre Royal for a performance until April 11. There will be plenty of cakes, buns and refreshments. Tables free if any company would like to pay a £5 donation to have a stall for the event.

For details contact Christine on 07745525480. Donations can be made through virginmoneygiving.com/christinefox2 and for regular updates facebook.com/TheBigCakeBake Gardening Talk Mar 30 Jackie Gage, Nature Reserve Officer of the Devon Wildlife Trust will give a talk and presentation to Plymstock Garden Society on the nature reserves of Devon and the importance of wildflower meadows and buglife conservation, at 7.30 pm Monday at the United Plymstock Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston. Non Members Welcome £1. Contact number 01752 407578.

Plymouth Live Music Night April 17 The Piazza Live Music Night, sponsored by C & G Catering takes place on Friday evening on the Piazza in the city centre. With four local bands taking to the stage with a bar and food available this show promises to be a fantastic night out to enjoy some live music.

All Things Vintage and Lovely April 25 Plymouth Guildhall With over 65 vintage, retro, antique and artisan stalls including fashion, memorabilia and lots more! Live music with the Drat Pack, swing dancing with Mad about Swing, tearoom with JoJo’s Home Bakery, beauty parlour, demos and lots more. Entry £2 (under 12’s free).

Mind Body & Spirit Craft Fair May 16 10am-4pm, free entry, including many stalls, readers etc.

Tea/cakes and raffle at Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre, Outland Road, PL2 3PY. Supporting your local charity.

6

The Plymouth Shopper

produce and send knitted goods such as jumpers, blankets and hats for poor children in two areas of Romania and are sometimes asked to produce adult hats for Shekinah Mission, asylum seekers and refugees. One of the members makes cardigans, hats and small blankets for the Neo-natal Unit at Derriford Hospital. It doesn’t matter if you have been knitting for years, or have never seen a ball of wool before - the group will openly welcome you and share their knowledge and skills! To join them, please contact Jean Milroy on Tel. 337578.

Community Monthly Coffee Morning 10am-11.30am (1st Thursday of every month). This is a really friendly coffee morning that started as something for the local community in 2014. Since it’s inception, it has developed regular friendly groups of attendees. The ladies who host this regular gettogether welcome everybody to come and have a hot drink and a delicious cake for only £1, whilst enjoying relaxed company in our spacious comfortable lounge. Why not come along and enjoy a stress-free ‘coffee break’ in the company of friends you’ve yet to know! We look forward to seeing you.

Games 4 U 2.30pm-4pm (2nd and 4th Thursday of every month) A group of friendly men and women who meet during the autumn and spring school terms. The group play various board games from the easy to the quite demanding. No matter how much you need to concentrate, the club never lose sight that you are playing games and so there is always opportunity for light conversation during the tea and biscuit break! To find out more about this wonderful group telephone Joyce on Tel. 216343.

‘Woodys’ Youth Group 6pm-8pm. A new group set up for the community by the church. There is a good mix of children from 8-16 where they can test their scooter and skateboard skills on the ramps and jumps. Air-hockey also available. Youth workers work alongside members of the church and other volunteers to support this wonderful project. Primary-age children session 6-7pm and Secondaryage children session 7-8pm.

BAND & CHOIR: Laira Youth Band (Thursdays 7.15pm)The Laira Youth Brass Band started in 1972 from the members of the Sunday school at Laira Congregational Church, it has performed hundreds of concerts over the years, in every corner of the City and beyond. Scores of children have passed through its ranks. Most were taught to read music and to play their instrument whilst in the Band, and many have continued their musical hobby into adult life, some choosing a professional career in music. As well as part of the band performing (amongst others) in the weekly church service here at Woodford, the Band also put on regular concerts to raise money for local charities and take part in parades and perform at special church events. To find out more call Tony Hollick on 01752 216784.

DAILY SESSIONAL CHILD CARE: Woodford Methodist Pre-School (from 8am-3pm) every weekday @ Woodford. The Pre-School established in 1963 hold an Ofsted registration and charity status.They run a breakfast club in addition to the normal sessional day care during term-time.The experienced, qualified team can look after children aged from two to starting school, from 8am3pm, Mondays through to Fridays, in addition to offering a summer play scheme. Mother’s and Toddler’s sessions run Thursdays 1pm-3pm. They have links with neighbouring primary schools and can provide funded sessions for 2-4 year olds and welcome children with additional needs. The Pre-school is quality assured and has a fabulous team of mature and experienced staff. The friendly, fun and safe play environment includes a large outdoor garden, with border gates and fencing, to ensure your child is kept out of danger.

They look forward to meeting you and your little one! To find out more, visit the website at www.woodfordpreschool.co.uk or call 337335.

For more information about any of Woodford Methodist events, visit www.woodford-methodist.org or www.facebook. com/Woodford.Methodist.Church Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Activities Sundays: Church service 10am to 12 noon 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Square dancing 5.30pm -9pm Mondays: Salsa classes 10am to 11am. Chatterbox 1pm to 3pm. Table Tennis 6pm to 9pm 1st Monday of the month Federation of Pensioners 1pm to 4pm (Phoenix Club) Tuesdays: Baby sensory classes 10am to 12 noon.

Valannes’s Dance School Children’s Ballet & Tap 4pm to 7pm. Line dancing 7.30pm to 10pm. Tel 347227.

Wednesdays: Over 60’s Club 1pm to 4pm. Dance Aerobics 6pm to 7pm. Latin Line dancing 7.30pmto 9.30pm Thursdays: Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults. Beginner and experienced artists welcome. Thursdays 10am to 12 noon. For more information call Janet: Mobile: 07742 983311 Line dancing 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Fridays: Evergreen Club 2pm to 4pm. Dance Aerobics 6pm to 7pm. Hall and lounge meeting room for hire telephone Lesley on 07952 465836.

Licenced Bar - Open from 7:30pm week days and from 12pm weekends. Soft drinks and hot drinks also sold. All welcome.

Star of The Apprentice to speak at Apprenticeship Week dinner One of the stars of the recent series of The Apprentice will be the guest speaker as City College Plymouth celebrates National Apprenticeship Week.

Sanjay Sood-Smith will join local, regional and national employers at the college’s PL1 Restaurant for an evening of fine dining and celebration on March 12.

Sanjay went from being one of the youngest bank managers in the country to reaching the final six candidates to be Lord Alan Sugar’s apprentice on the popular BBC TV show.

Sanjay is now pursuing his dream of opening a restaurant and working with Stonewall, a lesbian, gay and bisexual charity which promotes equality for all.

Emma Taylor, marketing and corporate relations officer at the college, said: “I am delighted to welcome Sanjay SoodSmith as our guest speaker for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week dinner. Sanjay will be sharing his experience of being on the BBC’s The Apprentice show and discuss the work he is doing opening his Energie Fitness for Women Classes at Lister Close, Plympton Tuesday 9.30am Ladies only Legs, bums, tums Tuesday 10.15am Ladies Only Pilates Wednesday 9.15am Ladies only BodyPump Wednesday 11am Ladies Only Pilates Friday 6pm Ladies only FatBlast Saturday 11am Gentle motorised exercise Sunday 9.15am Mixed Class BodyPump For more information call 01752 340044 Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults Tuesdays: The Burrator Inn, Dousland 10am to 12 noon.

Wednesdays: The Brook Inn, Plympton St Maurice 10am to 12 noon.

Thursdays: Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Thursdays 10am to 12 noon. For more information call Janet: Mobile: 07742 983311 Whist Drive Wednesdays 7pm, in the Conservative Club, Plympton, Ridgeway Phone Val on 01752 363827 for more details.

Port of Plymouth Canoeing Association Meet every Saturday all year round and Tuesday evenings between April and October at Mount Batten. Saturdays are recreational paddles. Tuesday evenings are training sessions, on the water at 6pm. We also paddle white water rivers during the winter months. We always welcome new members aged 10 years and above. For more details please call Joy on 344425 or visit our web site www.ppcacanoe-club.org.uk Coffee Morning Thursdays Revelstoke Nursing Lodge, Colebrook, Plympton. 11am.

All welcome. £1.50 to include drink and snacks.

Plympton Fuchsia & Geranium Group Second Tuesday of month Meet at Harewood House 7.30pm. Each meeting has guest speaker, refreshments, raffle and cultural advice. Annual membership £8.

Plympton Gardener’s Association First Thursday of the month Harewood House, Plympton. at 7.30pm. Talks, competitions, plant sales, discounted seeds and other gardening sundries.

New members are always welcome.

Plympton Fuschia and Geranium Group Second Tuesday of the month We meet at Harewood House, Plympton Plymouth £1.50 for visitors there is varierty of speakers new members always welcolme contact Sam Brown plymouth 297239 or marie kay 343386 or www.pfgg.co.uk Whist Drive Wednesdays Plymstock Parish Hall, Church Road, Plymstock at 2pm 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.

restaurant and working with equality charities.

“So many businesses joining us have, or will be taking on, apprentices as they see the value in developing their workforce in this way. City College Plymouth delivers first-class apprenticeships through a wide range of vocations, including engineering, hair and beauty, and construction.

“Our apprentices’ achievement rate is 15 per cent higher than the national benchmark and so, we really are well placed to help businesses develop their workforce through Apprenticeships.”

National Apprenticeship Week 2015 takes place March 9 to 15. Now in its eighth year, National Apprenticeship Week celebrates all that is good about Apprenticeships and raising their profile amongst employers and young people.

Guests to the National Apprenticeship Week dinner will enjoy a delicious four course meal prepared and served by college hospitality students. Tickets cost just £25 per person or £175 for a table of eight and spaces are limited.

To reserve a place, please call City College Plymouth on 01752 305026 Plympton Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild First Monday of the month (except January) Any interested ladies are welcome to join us for meetings with speakers, events, tea and biscuits! 2pm at Harewood House, Plympton. Call Joan on 01752 336167 for details.

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

Plympton Painting Group 2nd and 4th Monday of the month, at 7.15pm Painting workshops and demonstrations by professional artists, and meet in the Annex to the RC Church in Vicarage Road at 7.15pm. For further info please call 336461 or email ronscreech@onetel.com Carers Hub

4th Tuesday of month Do you care for a family member or friend? Would you like somewhere to go for information, advice, to unwind with other Carers? The Carers Hub has started an evening support group at Guild House, 156 Mannamead Road, Plymouth from 5pm-7pm. For more info call Sarah 256020.

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 £1.75 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 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.If you are interested could phone 776881.

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.

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Woodside receives £1000 windfall from mystery lottery winner A kind hearted animal lover has donated a £1000 win to help a local sanctuary Woodside Animal Welfare Trust manager Helen Lecoint said: “We received a phone call from the Daily Mail to say that our sanctuary was benefitting from their lottery but, sadly, we can’t thank the anonymous donor. This generous gift will be used to support our elderly pet units, which provide residential care for senior animals.”

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While still able to enjoy a normal life, occupants of Dunroamin, The Mews and Sunnyside can lose out on adoption for a variety of reasons. Generally they are on medication or incontinent, but others are passed over simply because of their age.

“All such residents receive everything they need to be comfortable, plus a huge dose of affection from staff and volunteers. Dogs get as much exercise as they want, or are capable of and cats get free range of the grounds during the day.

“Settees, armchairs and radios offer a homely environment and all their veterinary and dietary requirements are met in full.”

Anyone interested in adopting a mature pet can contact Woodside on 01752 347503 (11am-5pm).

Scout auction raises over £900

Around 50 people braved poor weather to turn out for a charity auction and activities day at the Elfordleigh Hotel in February to raise money for the 6th Plympton Scouts and their two nominated charities, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust and the Shekinah Mission.

Auction lots included a giant toy penguin, tickets to the Plymouth Raiders basketball, a daffodil print and a Makita drill with lots going for sums up to £100.

A number of outdoor events such as welly throwing and tug of war had to be cancelled but the day was still a success.

Assistant Scout Leader, Ian Pain, said: “The weather was horrendous but the great news is we were still able to raise a good amount of money for us and our two nominated charities. The total on the day was £921.12 plus sales of the remaining items to come in and another forthcoming raffle.”

Two predators from Scarey Knights, a fire poi act and the attendance of Hug a Husky added to the colour of the event.

The Plymouth Shopper

7

Lights, camera, action at Creative Youth Academy Applications are now open for City College Plymouth’s Creative Youth Academy for budding stars keen to tread the boards and enter the world of showbiz.

The Academy, which is open to all seven to 18 year olds, offers young people an exciting approach to stage and theatre school education in the performing arts. Through Saturday morning workshop sessions, young stars in the making will focus on developing their acting, singing, dance and movement skills.

The Creative Youth Academy workshops are led by expert teaching staff, giving participants the benefit of their experience of working in the performing arts industry. There are also opportunities to perform at local and regional venues and advice on how to progress their career in this notoriously competitive industry.

On Saturday February 28, the College is running a free Creative Youth Academy taster session ahead of the Academy starting in the autumn. The session will allow young people to get a flavour of what awaits them if they enrol in the Creative Youth Academy. The taster workshop is open to primary school pupils from 9am to 11am and to secondary school students from 11.15am to 1.15pm at the College’s Goschen campus in Devonport.

Places can be booked by e-mailing youthliaison@ cityplym.ac.uk by Wednesday February 25.

The Creative Youth Academy workshops start in September and run every Saturday during term time, costing £120 for the term or £12 per session.

Applications are now open and early booking is encouraged, as spaces are limited.

Budding musicians aged between 13 and 18 can also hire out the college’s fully-equipped professional studios on a Saturday morning. The industry-standard facilities are a great place to rehearse and cost just £25 for a four hour hire.

Community Sparks in Moor View Park ‘What makes life in Plymouth?’ is a question a number of different community groups are grappling with and they are finding ways to express their answers through a number of different art forms.

This is all leading up to a community event in Moor View Park, off Mutley Plain, called Community Sparks. This is an interactive event which will include dance, sculpture, fine art, felt work, storytelling, and food.

The community groups are diverse and representative of life in Multey/Greenbank and elsewhere in Plymouth. Included are young people, older people, migrants, people with disabilities, people of faith and students.

Each group is working with a different art form and with local artists who are facilitating workshops leading up to the community event, which will exhibit and gather all the work together.

This initiative is part of Vital Sparks, a city wide initiative to inspire arts, culture and creativity in Plymouth. Children of Highview Primary School in Efford are engaged in making short films of all these ventures; all part of this cultural initiative.

Community Sparks is on March 21 at Moor View Park , off Mutley Plain, 12noon – 3pm. Don’t miss it !

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS `• continued from page 6 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.

Movement to Music Class Mondays St Budeaux Community Centre 10am to 11am. If you want to get fitter or simply love to dance, come along and join our friendly class. For details contact Jackie 01752 950306 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

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The Plymouth Shopper

Stiltskin’s Pop-up Theatre is presenting Little Brother, Little Sister by the Multi Story Theatre Company on March 27 at 6.30pm.

The event takes place at Marine Academy, Trevithick Road, Plymouth with tickets costing £6 for children, £8 for adults and £24 for a family. Tickets are available from www.stiltskin.org.uk/box-office.

Little Brother, Little sister is a live performance based on the story collected by the Brothers Grimm. A tale of courage and friendship, told by international theatre company Multi Story. With a rich mix of physicalised story-telling, shadow-puppetry, layered video and live cams.

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.

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 1 till 2. www.plymouthchildrenstheatreworkshop.co.uk or 07760467857 or see our Facebook page.

Plymouth Karate Academy Various dates Based in Faraday Mill Cattedown the club is managed by Sensei Stuart Hick (4thDan), Sensei Jon Eaton (3rdDan) and Senpai Luke Irving (2ndDan). With more than 45 years combined experience all of the instructors are CRB checked, and teach Shotokan karate. With many advantages to learning karate, instructors teach traditional skills and Self-Defence with genuine applications to modern day situations. Students often say that they feel self-confident; have increased discipline, improved fitness levels and co-ordination. But above all, they all agree its great value for money, fun and a fantastic way to meet new friends no matter what age you are. Tuesday /Thursday Kids only Karate class 6.15- 7pm; Tuesday/Thursday Adult Beginners - Intermediate - Advanced from 7pm onwards ; Saturday Morning class Kids Karate class 10am onwards. For more info: Stuart Hick 07970379268 or stuart.hick@plymouthkarateacademy.co.uk Movement to Music Class Thursdays Every Thursday morning 10.30am to 11.30am at St Budeaux Church, Community Hall. If you want to get fitter or simply love to dance, come along and join our friendly class.For details contact Jackie 01752 950306 Plymouth Community Choir Mondays Meet at Salvation Army Congress Hall, Armada Way,Plymouth from 7pm until 9pm and new members are always welcome.

Their first week (taster session) is free; just turn up on the night! Our terms are 10 weeks long, and we carry on until March 23, breaking for half term on February 16. We sing a variety of music, such as Gospel, contemporary, sacred, world folk, pop and funky bass lines! 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, you’ve got nothing to lose! Our choir leader is Sarah Pennington and she can be contacted on 01392 437792 or by email on plymouthcommunitychoir@gmail.com 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.

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 216387.

Family Additional Needs Support (FANS) Tuesdays and Thursdays during term time 10am to 12 noon for drop-in advice at 18 Wilton Street, Stoke for any parent/ carer of child/children with additional needs either diagnosed or still going through the process who can get to us. Anyone interested can contact 07599 996389.

Planning for the event. Photo by Gemma Ward

Little Brother, Little Sister performance

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

Meanwhile the Shape Shifters Young People’s Company starts its new term on February 25 between 4.30pm and 6.30pm at the Stiltskin’s Studio Space in Devonport Park. Shape Shifters are a dynamic group of young people aged between eight and 12 years old who create pieces of storytelling theatre, learn new skills such as stilt walking and performing with giant puppets during large parades.

Free taster session are available on February 25 to see if this is for your child. Limited spaces - booking essential.

For more information visit www.stiltskin.org.uk/boxoffice.

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

Emmanuel Tea Break Fridays, weekly at 2pm New members welcome to join our club for mainly over 60’s, meeting at Emmanuel Church Hall, Mannamead, on Fridays at 2pm. We offer a varied programme of indoor activities and occasional trips out. For more details call Mike on 669408 or Richard on 707894 Tothill Sequence Dance Club Saturdays Up to date dances at Tothill Community Centre every Saturday from 7.30pm to 10pm. Leaders Peter and Dorothy Wheatley. Admission £3. Contact Bill 01752 667484, Sue 01752 651004 or Dorothy 01752 260193.

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

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

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

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

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

Details from Samantha on 0790 555 2318.

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

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

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

Plymouth Shakespeare Society Meets twice a month from September to May at the Burgess Hall (behind the Unitarian Church) Notte Street, Plymouth from 7.30 - 9.30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Further details call 257764.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

`• continued on page 20

College helping local hospitality organisations to fill vital vacancies City College Plymouth is helping three local hospitality organisations to fill vital vacancies in their businesses in the run up to the busy Easter and summer holiday seasons.

Plans revealed for new Merafield Road bridge at public meetings

The college will be helping to fill kitchenbased positions in restaurants across the South West, including the Chaddlewood Inn in Plympton, The Mount Batten Centre in Plymstock and The Mussel Inn in Wembury.

Working in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and employers, City College Plymouth will facilitate a sector-based work academy which will help match the ideal candidates to vacant positions in this key growth sector.

Starting this week, 24 participants referred by Jobcentre Plus will follow a two week bespoke training programme to give them the skills

The Highways Agency has set out further details of the planned replacement bridge over the A38 near the Gables Farm Cats and Dogs Home.

required to work in junior chef positions in the kitchens.

These entry-level jobs require a good level of kitchen skills and basic food preparation knowledge, which will be gained through the college’s industry-standard training kitchens and popular PL1 Restaurant. Those who complete the full training programme will be guaranteed an interview with one of the employers involved in the work academy.

Angie Hunt, hospitality operations manager for The Mount Batten Centre, said: “The sectorbased work academy is a great way to help fill skills gaps in our team here at The Mount Batten Centre.

“The training provided by the college means that those interviewed for the job already have the invaluable technical skills we are looking for and a good knowledge of what the job entails, our business and the hospitality sector in general. It can be difficult to find candidates

Mr Hillier said: “We’re very conscious of that area and we’ve been liaising with the police liaison officer and want to make sure through this scheme in terms of the design of it and how we go about constructing it that we don’t cause any distress or discomfort to the family and friends of the people to who that memorial is there for.”

A row of new trees will also be planted along Merafield Road above the A38. The Highways Agency accepted these could impair some views in an area which has historically been an unofficial vantage point for locals to view fireworks displays on The Hoe and in Plymouth Sound although some new points might emerge.

Addressing previous concerns expressed by local residents on traffic disruption Mr Hillier added: “We’ve identified that for the majority of it we can keep six lanes of traffic open on the A38 which is the same as the current situation.

“The only difference will be that at times they will be narrower than normal but nonetheless we will have six lanes so the same volume of traffic will be able to get through without any problems.”

“There will be a small number of weeks, we think up to about nine, where we will need to reduce that to four lanes, however we are confident that will work. It’s something we did in November and we had four lanes in operation for that and that seemed to work quite well.”

A longer audio interview with Mr Hillier can be heard in this month’s Plympton Podcast online at soundcloud.com/ plymptonpodcast

If you are interested in participating in a sector-based work academy with City College Plymouth or would like to find out more about how the college can help to fill skills vacancies call 01752 305026 or e-mail employers@ cityplym.ac.uk.

z How to save money on energy costs z Keeping Warm and Healthy z Benefits & Entitlements Checks

Explaining why the work needed carrying out Mr Hillier said: “We’ve got some issues with the current structure as it’s suffering from concrete cancer so the concrete is deteriorating.

Also affected will be the familiar roadside memorial which has been near the triangle for many years after a past tragic accident at the location.

The sector-based work academy scheme has previously worked well for other city employers such as MGB Engineering and Plymouth Citybus, who have hired in over 30 new members of staff from five work academies, but this is the first time that the college has facilitated a sector-based work academy for the hospitality sector.

FREE INFORMATION & ADVICE FOR THE OVER 50’S

Andrew Hill of the Plympton Podcast went along to one of the presentations and spoke to Mike Hillier, services delivery manager of the Highways Agency.

A new bridge will be built just to the east of the existing one and the road on either side redesigned to link up with the position of the replacement bridge.This will result in the loss of the familiar grass triangle area at the top of Merafield Road and traffic will no longer Floral tribute near be able to drive straight off Merafield Road bridge towards Drunken Bridge Hill, instead there will be a more pronounced single side road to turn in and out of.

“I think it’s a wonderful way for people who are out of work to find a job too. The training is free and, with the guarantee of an interview, their chances of getting a job at the end of it are vastly improved.”

Spread the Warmth

The plans were revealed at two public meetings held in February at Plympton and Plymstock Libraries.

“We’ve got some other issues in the northern abutment, some ground stability issues, so we’ve taken the decision to replace the structure to ensure the long term security of this vital link Merafield Road plays between Plympton and Plymstock.”

who have all this through general advertising.

RIDGEWAY METHODIST PRE-SCHOOL OPEN DAY

Ridgeway Methodist Preschool will be holding a coffee morning and open day on Saturday March 7 from 10am to 12 noon at their premises at Ridgeway Methodist Church, Mudge Way, Plympton.

The Pre-school celebrated 50 years in operation last year, having begun life as a church playgroup, it has grown with the times to become a popular independent pre-school which sends children to most of the Plympton primary schools every year.

They offer flexible care for children aged from two to seven for 48 weeks of the year and have recently amalgamated with the church’s Parent & Toddler Group; providing activities for three years and under for parent accompanied children.

Local families are invited to go along and take the opportunity to enjoy a slice of cake and a cuppa whilst taking a look around the Pre-school where staff will be available to chat and answer any questions you may have.

Further information from John Scott, manager on 01752 331186.

Plympton company helps schoolchildren to stay safe Schoolchildren are being helped to keep safe on busy roads around their Devon village school. Pupils at Yealmpton Primary School have been donated hi-vis vests by a Plymouth company to help motorists see them better when their learning takes them out into the community and also when walking to and from school.

Plympton-based SSG Training Consultancy Ltd, which offers health, safety and environmental training and consultancy, organised the donation after pledging to help local children stay safer.

It hopes the brightly coloured vests will encourage local youngsters to take an interest in road safety awareness.

Community engagement officer at SSG, Denise Maclean, said: “We are really pleased to have been able to donate hivis vests to children at Yealmpton Primary School. At SSG we are keen to promote

Volunteers Needed To Support Older People To find out more contact Age UK Plymouth

01752 256020

www.ageukplymouth.org.uk enquiries@ageukplymouth.org.uk

Worship Warehouse with Kerry Cole

safety awareness in the workplace but also in the wider community. It’s the second batch of vests we have donated to a local school and we hope it helps the children be seen along busy roads.”

Weekdays 12noon-1pm Saturday 2pm-3pm Sunday 9am-10am

Teachers at the school were keen to aid passing vehicles to better see their pupils when on school trips and so enlisted the help of SSG. Deputy headteacher Kate Patrick said: “It is really important for us that our pupils can be seen when walking to and from the school on class trips. The donation is a great help at this time of the year and will hopefully make our children far more visible to motorists in these winter months. We’re incredibly grateful that SSG had kindly donated these vests and the children are really looking forward to wearing them.”

Widewell Primary School in Plymouth benefited from a similar donation from the company at the end of last year.

TUNE IN on 96.3FM

or listen online at www.xrhyth.ms/crplymouth

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9

THERAPIST AND ANIMAL LOVER AILIA AIMS TO RAISE £500 FOR GABLES Massage therapist and animal lover Ailia Barnwell is combining her love of massage and passion for animal welfare by donating 50 hours of massage in a special fundraising project to raise her target of £500 for the animals at Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home.

The one hour massages are available to book at the greatly reduced price of only £10, all of which will be donated to Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home.

Katie Barkell, marketing and fundraising officer at Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home said:

at Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home on Valentine’s Day, to promote the new project.

“We are really grateful for Ailia’s generosity in giving up so much of her time in order to raise money for us. When she came to see us we could clearly see her passion for caring for animals and it’s wonderful that she has come up with such a creative way to raise the money.”

To get booked in for a charity massage, just give Ailia a call on 01503 230832. Bookings are subject to availability.

Ailia attended the coffee morning

Ailia specialises in NO HANDS® Massage, a dynamic massage which is carried out using the soft surfaces of the forearms and was developed by therapist, Gerry Pyves after 20 years of clinincal testing.

After a recent visit and tour of Gables Farm Dogs’ and Cats’ Home Ailia Barnwell commented: “I’m delighted to be working with such a friendly, hard-working charity.I fully support their ethics and values and can see that they are very dedicated to doing things the right way and with compassion at every step. Animal welfare is very close to my heart so I’m very excited about this forthcoming project.” Animal lover Ailia pictured with Stella the dog

Ailia is fully insured and licensed to offer the public professional massage treatments. Her practice is based in the seaside village of Portwrinkle, near Torpoint.

NO HANDS MASSAGE® is a very pleasant, deep and flowing massage where tensions just melt away.

There is much more information about NO HANDS® Massage and all the massage treatments offered by Ailia on her website, www.ailiaveda.co.uk Please call Gables Farm on 01752 331602 for further information.

Plympton’s new Hub gets into full swing The Hub at Plympton is in full swing after its launch four months ago. Based in the upper part of the Ridgeway opposite Specialist Vehicles the Hub offers a range of community based facilities.

The building, which is a former solicitors’ office, has been bought by the South West Baptist Association and a collaborative venture involving local churches has secured the use of the building as a community hub for an initial three year period.

The Plympton Podcast’s Andrew Hill went along to find out more and spoke to Phil Knight of the Hub’s management committee.

Phil said: “We’ve now been running all sorts of courses and events to support the community and to provide a bit of support to families in particular in the locality.”

Prior to opening research was carried out to see what sort of services were needed in Plympton. Asked about the key findings Phil said:” A lot of things based on families and young people really. Parenting skills, dealing with teenage behaviour, child mental health issues and matters affecting service families.”

Phil explained:” Service families have particular challenges due to lifestyle and family patterns.”

The Hub has been running a series of short weekly courses revolving around these issues and also on the subject of domestic tension.

One ongoing involvement at the Hub is Homestart who have their own dedicated room within the building.

Homestart is involved in getting volunteers working in the community.

The Hub is not intended to be a drop in centre, but rather a place to which other agencies refer people. Phil

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Many referrals come in via schools. The Hub has close links with Hele’s and Ridgeway School as well as most of Plympton’s primary schools.

Other future plans for the Hub are likely to include a job club and possibly a befriending service for elderly people.

The building is a potential base for other community groups to meet. Phil said: “We are very keen to get the most use out of the building. We do have a set of principles that we work to and have a vision for the work of the place but we are very very open to anyone who wants to align themselves to us and help in the mission we have here.”

The Hub can be contacted via e-mail at avonhub@gmail. com and more information is available on their website at www.plymptonhub.co.uk. There is also a more detailed audio interview with Phil Knight in this month’s Plympton Podcast.

Laira Bridge progress Work to refurbish Plymouth’s disused Laira Rail Bridge has now reached the halfway point.

The £3.5 million scheme, funded through the Department for Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund, will see the former rail bridge restored and converted into a new walking and cycling route over the River Plym.

Built in 1887, Laira Rail Bridge stopped carrying passenger trains in the 1960s and freight trains in the 1980s. It is believed the last train crossed the bridge in 1987 and since then it has fallen into disrepair.

‘Powerful Emotional Captivating’

added:” We’re trying to use the professional links we have in the community to ensure we get the right people onto the right course.”

The new scheme will bring the familiar local landmark back into use as an important travel route by creating a safer, traffic-free link for walkers and cyclists. It will connect existing walking and cycling facilities near The Ride (east of the river) with the Laira Cycleway (west of the river) and form part of the National Cycle Network Routes 2 and 27.

Three of the six spans have now been comprehensively grit blasted, repaired and painted. New decking and handrails have also been installed in preparation for the bridge’s conversion into a cycle and pedestrian path.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This exciting scheme is now well on its way to being completed. Although some parts of the original Victorian ironwork needed to be repaired, others were still in excellent condition and the manufacturer’s

name, South Stockton Iron Co., could clearly be seen stamped on the trusses.

“It will be great to see the rail bridge back in use in late spring – and we’re now looking to build a new bridge over The Ride as part of the project, which will extend the pedestrian and cycle path even further towards Saltram Meadow and Plymstock. We were planning to build this at a later stage but we’ve been able to find a way of delivering it within the current project budget, which means savings in the longer term.

“Work will start on the extension once planning permission is confirmed, which we hope will be towards the end of February, with the route being fully open by July.

A temporary ramp will be in use until this second phase is complete.

Subject to funding, later phases of the scheme will see the link eventually extend down to Broxton Drive.”

The Laira Rail Bridge walking and cycling scheme will draw on the £4.33 million provided by the DfT for

the council’s three-year Plymotion project.

Plymotion aims to increase the use of sustainable travel options – improving residents’ health while helping to reduce congestion and pollution. It also aims to improve access to employment, education and healthcare across the city.

The scheme focuses on the corridor between the communities of Devonport and Stonehouse in the west of the city and Plymstock and Plympton in the east, through the city centre and East End. It builds on the improvements made through the East End Transport Scheme and will complete an east to west walking and cycling link for the city.

As well as the new pedestrian and cycle path on the former Laira Rail Bridge the next phase of the scheme will include a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across The Ride and a ramp linking the new path with the road and National Cycle Network Route 27.

For further information about the scheme visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/ plymotionlairarailbridge.

Kingfisher frying high with success as Winners at National Awards...

KINGFISHER IN PLYMPTON SCOOPS TOP NATIONAL AWARD

Kingfisher Fish & Chips in Plymouth, Devon, has scooped a top award at the 2015 National Fish & Chip Awards (20 January), organised by Seafish.

The shop was crowned with the NFFF Fish and Chip Quality Award ‘Champion’ Award by awards host and voice of food and drink reason on BBC Radio 2, Nigel Barden, during a prestigious ceremony at the Lancaster London Hotel in London.

Sponsored by The National Federation of Fish Friers (NFFF), the award was created as part of the NFFF Fish & Chip Quality Award scheme – a rigorous industry benchmark that was launched in January 2011 by The National Federation of Fish Friers – and is only open to businesses holding the NFFF Quality Award.

The awards scheme is designed to acknowledge those who continue to raise the standards of the nation’s fish and chips, rewarding shops that achieve the perfect balance between good quality products, clean hygienic premises, outstanding shop appearance and highly trained staff.

Craig Maw, owner of Kingfisher Fish & Chips, commented: “We first entered the awards last year and were overwhelmed to be shortlisted for two awards. This year we were shortlisted for three awards and have come away a winner!

Gregg Howard (President National Federation of Fish Friers , Nikki Mutton, Craig Maw, Nigel Barden

Sustainable fish doesn't have to cost the earth...

The last great wild food resource.

If we are to manage the seas sustainably, fish must be caught responsibly.

We like to know when and where all our fish are caught. Traceability is vital if we are to control the quality and quantity of the catch

“To be named Champion of the Quality Award is amazing, being recognised for excelling across the board in every aspect of our business is truly magnificent. The staff at Kingfisher will be over the moon.

They’re an extremely passionate bunch and without their continual dedication we wouldn’t have been able to achieve this award.”

Paul Williams, Chief Executive of Seafish, commented: “Every year the quality of the shops putting themselves forward for this award exceeds expectations. This year was no exception and the judges were faced with a particularly tricky job in determining a winner. All of the finalists are ambassadors for the Quality Award.

“Kingfisher Fish & Chips stood out for their consistently high standards and dedications towards all aspects of running a fish and chip shop throughout the judging process. I would like to offer my warmest congratulations and wish them the best success in the future.”

Kingfishers’ Cod, Haddock & Hake is MSC Certified.

MSC stands for Marine Stewardship Council MSC Cod is all wild caught and it certifies that our fish comes from healthy populations, and from fisheries that are responsibly managed and is caught using methods that minimize damage to the environment MSC certified fish follows a CoC (Chain of Custody) which means the fish from delivery to service is controlled for traceability Only MSC Certified Businesses hold a CoC (Chain of Custody) Certification code can use the MSC Blue Fish Logo.

You will see Our MSC Blue Fish Logo on our Menus

Make sure its MSC Certified Kingfisher's cod, haddock and hake is MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified which means that this seafood has met the MSC's global standard for sustainability.

Our certification code is: MEP-C-286 Don’t accept anything less!!

Andrew Crook, NFFF Treasurer, commented: “For a fish and chip business to receive a Quality Award, they must demonstrate passion and dedication across all sectors of their establishment. Achieving the perfect balance between good quality products, clean hygienic premises and exemplary customer service requires informative training and a good communication system.

“We could have named each one of the finalist the winner of this year’s Champion Award. All of them showed the successful qualities and enthusiasm required to win. With creative initiatives and an eager, hardworking team, Kingfisher Fish & Chips shone

throughout the entire judging process and is an honourable ambassador of the 2015 Quality Award.”

Now in their 27th year, The National Fish & Chip Awards are recognised as one of the most prominent and respected seafood industry events in the UK. They celebrate the great British tradition of fish and chips, recognising the best talent, quality and choice offered by fish and chip businesses across the UK. For your Award Winning sustainable Fish & Chips visit: Kingfisher Fish & Chips, Chaddlewood Shopping Centre, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 2XS. Tel: 01752 335567 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WWW.KINGFISHERFISHANDCHIPS.CO.UK The Plymouth Shopper

11

Hope Credit Union celebrates a successful first year’s work Volunteers Jill and John Downes and Bob Boucher celebrated a successful first year for the Hope Credit Union in February, writes Eliza Stevens.

Jill was inspired to get involved by seeing the extortionate interest rates in pay day loan adverts on the TV. “There is so much debt out there, even in relatively affluent areas like Plymstock. As soon as young people leave school, they are bombarded with offers of credit cards and loans and so many get into trouble, Hope Credit Union encourages the habit of saving and seeing your money grow.”

Bob added: “We want to spread the word about this service and help more people.”.

There are nearly 400 credit unions in the UK, offering a safe, local alternative to pay day loans and doorstep lenders, with interest rates that never exceed 1% per month (12.68% APR).

savers and Plymouth City Council is chipping in to encourage local young people in years 7 and 11 to open an account by donating the first £10.

Adults just need to fill in an application from and provide photographic id and proof of their address to become a member.

If that doesn’t mean much to you, borrowing £300 a year from the credit union would cost you just £21.43 in interest – a payday lender could charge you £246 or more (APR 272.2%).

There is a membership fee of £2 and you can start your savings from as little as £1. After ten weeks, you can apply for a loan, helping you to survive unexpected bills or repair costs.

The Hope Credit Union is open to anyone over 16 who lives or works in postal areas PL1 to PL21. Children can join as junior

If you would like to know more, visit www.hopecreditunion.co.uk or call into the library on Mondays from 10.15am to 11.45am.

Artist Jill Griffin pictured at the exhibition on the Ridgeway at the end of February

Plympton artist Jill is mastermind behind ‘pop up’ art exhibitions

John and Jill Downes and Bob Boucher, volunteers for Hope Credit Union

A Plympton mother of three is the brains behind a series of highly successful ‘pop up’ art exhibitions.

FathersHouseSW

Professional artist Jill Griffin came up with the idea of organising a different sort of art community called Devon Art Pop. “We are simply a group of Devon-based artists who share conversations via the social media of Twitter and then work collaboratively to exhibit our work at pop-up galleries across Devon,” said Jill, who has been painting with water colours since she was a child.

“We are not event organisers, an art club, agent, promoter or profit making agency,” said Jill. “Any profit made is individual to the artists from selling their work.”

Jill said that she came up with the concept of Devon Art Pop about two years ago and there are now nearly 20 artists, jewellery makers, woodturners, sculptors and other artisans.

Keith Dolding

Their first event in Plympton took place at the end of February when the group held a two-day exhibition at the Community Shop and Gallery in the Ridgeway.

Sat 4th April 2015 7:30pm Sun 5th April 2015 10:30am at The King’s

K

“It has been a great success,” said Jill. “We have

with Keith will be a time to dwell in God’s presence and explore how to make Heaven’s culture our culture.

Keith ministers the love of The Father in the Grace of Jesus Christ with a depth of intimacy and authority which is unique and genuinely empowering. As he ministers and prophesies to those who attend his meetings there is a sense of the presence of God which allows for a real depth of ministry and prophecy.

Listen to Keith Dolding on Chris Cole’s Art of Living programme 9th March - 10am 21st March - 5pm 24th March - 10am 30th March - 10am 3rd April - 10am

For more information info@fathershouse.org.uk or call 01752 225623 12

The Plymouth Shopper

Jill explained how the exhibitions are put together. “We put out a ‘call for artists’ including artists already part of Devon Art Pop. We advise them on how much space each exhibiting artist might expect and whether the host venue requires a commission.

“We also ‘curate’ the group of artists exhibiting to avoid overlap: for example six watercolour landscape artists does not make a balanced show!”

The group have previously exhibited at Kelly House near Tavistock, The Treasury in Plymouth, Tavistock Garden Festival and in Exeter, Torbay and other locations across Devon.

Jill said that they are always interested in hearing from other Devon-based artists who can contact the group through their website at www.devonartpop.weebly.com.

The group is also on Twitter - @devonartpop. Jill can be contacted direct on 07988 099242.

Parents urged not to give in to Easter bunny pester power

Pixon Lane, Tavistock PL19 9AZ

eith has been in ministry for nearly 25 years and has been involved in a wide range of churches, projects and people groups. He has a passion to see everyone encounter the Father heart of God and to see the Kingdom of God revealed.

He is married to Tracey, who is also an anointed worship leader and they have three amazing boys.

Keith leads the Well church in Reading and speaks at various churches and events.

These Father’s House meetings

been delighted with the number of people who visited the exhibition and the artists sold a lot of work during the event. We keep the prices at affordable prices to encourage people to buy items. It was our first ‘high street’ venue and we couldn’t be more pleased,” she added.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust is urging parents not to give in to pester power this easter when asked by their children to buy a rabbit for Easter.

Deputy manager Dawn Cornish said: “This time of year is always a worrying time as many rabbits are often bought on a whim without the knowledge of their needs. We are asked to take in so many rabbits primarily because the children have lost interest.

“Parents were unaware at the time of purchase that their new pet can easily live for ten years and that it will in fact be them that will be left caring for it once the children’s interests move on.”

She said that this Easter Woodside is promoting its rabbit

sponsorship as an alternative for those who cannot commit for years to care for a rabbit.

The rabbit sponsorship runs entirely on Woodside’s website and costs £24 a year or £2 a month. Names of sponsors are displayed next to the rabbit on the website and shows which rabbit is currently supported by the sponsor whilst they are waiting to find their forever home.

“It can be a great alternative because children can constantly see who they are helping and at the same time learn about the responsibilities that are involved in looking after a rabbit,” added Dawn.

The sponsorship page can be found at www.woodsidesanctuary. org.uk by clicking sponsorship.

Marlow the Rex, who is currently looking for a home with his friend Bew

Woodside is currently caring for 21 rabbits, with a never ending waiting list wanting to come in.

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13

Urban Splash buys the Civic Centre The Civic Centre was listed in 2007 by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Opened by the Queen in July 1962, the building was the main administrative centre for Plymouth City Council until last year.

One of the country’s leading regeneration companies is to acquire the Civic Centre.

Urban Splash – which has a track record of transforming concrete and listed buildings – will be sold the freehold of the Civic Centre.

The complex includes the 14-storey tower block which is the highest building in the city centre. The tower block connects to the Council House, which includes the Council Chamber, where key decisions affecting the city are taken.

The company has helped transform the city’s Royal William Yard, taking it from a disused Naval supplies base to a thriving residential community and much-loved food and drink destination with diverse operators such as River Cottage, Le Vignoble and Le Bistrot Pierre all moving there; to date it has received 24 awards for its work at Royal William Yard, Urban Splash Director Nathan Cornish said: “We’re delighted. It is a tough building and it is very early days, but we’re very excited about the challenge of another iconic and listed building to tackle in Plymouth.

“Like many buildings of its era, it has its fans and its detractors, but we think the Civic has got something special: it is a unique building, set within the context of a famous post-war masterplan.

“Urban Splash has got a huge affection for Plymouth and we are pleased to play a part in its regeneration.”

The company has also delivered challenging and exciting regeneration projects including Fort Dunlop in Birmingham, Chimney Pot Park in Salford, Castlefield and New Islington in Manchester, The Midland Hotel in Morecambe, Lister Mills in Bradford, The Rotunda in Birmingham and Park Hill in Sheffield.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and AssetsShopper is giving8the go-ahead for1the 29/01/2015 sale under Block2.pdf

The council has been looking for a solution for the Civic Centre for some time. A procurement exercise was carried out but a deal could not be reached with the preferred bidder that satisfied all the criteria and within the set timescales. delegated authority. He said: “This organisation has a fantastic track record of breathing new life into difficult buildings – including listed and concrete buildings.”

“It is fair to say the future of the Civic caused some sleepless nights. But all the way through its recent history we were conscious of how important this building is and the role it could play in the regeneration of our city.

“This is an exciting year for Plymouth’s city centre and it is fantastic news to know that a building that dominates the city skyline can play a part in positive change.

“As a council it would have cost around £30 million to restore the building – now the private sector is taking on the Civic, we can redirect our energies and resources into creating jobs and homes for Plymouth.”

Last Autumn the council noticed an increase in interest in the site and wrote to companies who had expressed an interest in the building inviting best offers for the purchase of the Civic Centre.

The council plan to keep the Council House and carry out work to separate all utility and services supplies into the Council House. It will also install internal walls to separate the two buildings.

It has recently submitted a planning application to install a new CCTV centre in the basement of the Council House as well as the separation works.

Foodbank visit...from left to right Eunice Halliday, Andre Amaral, Sophie Richards and Rachel Miller with the cheque from Stoke Damerel Community College

The council is still progressing with plans to move out of the Civic Centre. Many staff are now based in Ballard House, although a number of teams remain at the Civic. The intention is the last Council staff will leave the building in the Autumn.

Charity visit gives students plenty of food for thought

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Students from a Plymouth secondary school got to see first-hand how the money raised from a non-uniform day is helping the people who use Plymouth Foodbank.

The Year 11 Student Council at Stoke Damerel Community College suggested students in all year groups wore something sparkly for the mufti day in January and decided that the individual £1 donations should go to the charity.

More than £700 was raised and two Year 11 students Andre Amaral and Sophie Richards - paid a visit to the Foodbank recently to hand over the cheque and find out more about the charity’s work.

The charity, which opened in 2008, is part of the Trussell Trust Foodbank network and is run by a network of 70 volunteers.

Eunice Halliday, co-ordinator at the Stonehouse-based project, said: “The students have raised a wonderful amount of money.

“And it’s not the first time Stoke Damerel has supported us in this way and it’s lovely to be able to actually show the students how their money is helping.”

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As well as showing the students around the Manor Street site - including the newly-built storeroom - Mrs Halliday explained to them that the Foodbank was currently quite low on stocks of rice pudding and cartons of juice.

“We are always in need of spare plastic carrier bags too,” she added.

Rachel Miller, the college’s director of student welfare, said the Foodbank had played an ‘extremely important’ role in supporting a number of college families in times of crisis.

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“It is not only a food source but a welcoming place where additional services and assistance can be provided which they might not have been aware of,” she said.

“It was fascinating and also humbling to see so many volunteers giving their time to help others and it was extremely inspiring to our students who visited.”

“It was very interesting to see how the Foodbank works,” said Andre, 15. “It’s amazing to think just one day of not wearing uniform can raise this much money,” said Sophie, also 15.

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“I’m really glad we chose this charity to support.”

For more information about the work of Plymouth Foodbank or to make a donation visit www.plymouthfoodbank.co.uk or call 01752 254981

Funding appeal to save endangered Plymstock spider beats its £10,000 target A crowdfunding appeal to raise money to find and save a Plymouth spider from global extinction has smashed its initial £9,600 target.

The appeal had reached a staggering total of nearly £10,500 by the beginning of March and the target was subsequently raised to £14,000.

A Buglife petition urging a Government planning inspector to reject plans for a housing development in Radford Quarry, Plymstock on the basis it would wipe out the Horrid ground-weaver spider has attracted more than 9,500 signatures.

emergency conservation plan for the species. The survey work needs to take place between March and April, so people had until the end of February in which to donate.

The funding will pay for a spider expert to search for the rare spider with volunteers in other potential sites of the Horrid ground weaver.

Andrew Whitehouse, south west manager of Buglife said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response to our petition. It is fantastic that so

many people have signed to show how much they care about our invertebrates.”

“We hope that we will get the same level of support for our fundraising appeal. If everyone who signed our petition gave just £1 we would have enough money to undertake much needed survey and research.”

Vanessa Amaral-Rogers, Buglife’s campaigns officer, said: “We urgently need to broaden our surveys to see if we can find the spider elsewhere, only by getting to know this spider better will we be able to develop an emergency conservation plan and prevent its extinction.”

The spider has only ever been found at three sites in Plymouth - one of which has already been lost when it was turned into an industrial estate, and the main site - Radford Quarry - is now under threat from a new development of 57 houses.

Andrew added: “The Horrid ground weaver may be a very small spider with an unusual name, but it has captured the hearts of so many who do not want to see it driven close to extinction. Thank you to everyone who has joined us to help save Plymouth’s special spider.”

The charity has moved on to the next step, trying to raise the necessary funds to kick start an

To support Buglife’s Save Our Spider project visit: www. crowdfunder.co.uk/save-our-spider/

Spider expert at work

Public speaking competition judges get the inside story on Minecraft “I’ve never heard of Minecraft”, said one of the judges at Plympton and Saltram Rotary Clubs’ recent public speaking competition. “You’ll know all about it soon!” said another.

And so it was. Seven Junior teams met to speak about Minecraft amongst other subjects - ‘It’s for young children, sir, not for grown-ups,’ said Will aged 10 in answer to a question.

Other titles were ‘should term-time holidays be banned,’ ‘The damage smoking does to our bodies,’ ‘All dogs should wear muzzles,’ ‘Animal abuse,’ and ‘fizzy drinks should be more expensive.’

The team that made the case for limiting time on video games – to 30 minutes a week were clearly in disagreement with the enthusiasts for Minecraft, but all of them impressed the judges, parents and Rotary Club members.

One of the judges was Plympton Stannator, Sally Luscombe who said: “I was in awe of the deliveries and

obvious research that had been done. It was a most entertaining evening. It is hard to believe that all of these children were born in the last ten years. I am proud of them and hope they get headlined by the press.”

Every year the Rotary Clubs of Plympton and Saltram, invite children from primary and secondary schools in the area to give short talks on subjects they feel strongly about.

The team of three, a speaker, a chairperson, and someone to give a vote of thanks, have clear guidelines and strict time limits – and the competitors this year certainly impressed everybody who came.

This year, two teams, both from Boringdon Primary School, were chosen to go through to the next round – the area semi-final at Callington Community College.

Rotary will be looking for next year’s teams later this year.

Councillor Brian Vincent pictured at the new wildlife site at Ashery Wood in Plymstock

Plymouth has two new County Wildlife Sites, bringing its tally up to 26.

Ashery Wood and Warren Plantation in Plymstock and a verge at St Budeaux are the latest locations to have been given the status, which is designated by a panel of experts.

The new County Wildlife Site of Ashery Wood and Warren Plantation lies between the communities of Oreston, Plymstock and Hooe and is owned and managed by the Plymouth City Council.

It was given its status because of its woodland habitat and the presence of Monk’s Hood (a nationally scarce plant) and Common Broomrape (a Devon notable plant).

Two new wildlife sites are announced

The site also has a long-standing bat roost, with Greater Horseshoe bats and Lesser Horseshoe bats being recorded from as early as 1958. These species of bats are rare and, like all species of bats in the UK, are protected by law.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Planning and the Environment, said: “People think planning is only about building, but it is also about protecting our green space and appreciating the nature that we find here in the city.”

This site is open to the public and is somewhere to relax, walk, play and explore nature. People can get to it from Mayer’s Way to the south or Kingfisher Way to the north, which briefly joins the South West Coast Path.

A roadside grass verge of the A38 Plymouth Parkway near St Budeaux is home to the second new County Wildlife Site. The site is owned and managed by the Highways Agency and is not accessible to the public.

The site has been designated as a County Wildlife Site because of its population of Deptford Pink, a small flowering plant whose population has declined rapidly.

It is classified as a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan and is protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. There are records of this plant on site dating back to 2005, with as many as 450 flowering plants recorded.

For more information about these and other County Wildlife Sites visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/ countywildlifesites

Primary school youngsters help Woodside

Pupils at a Plymouth primary school have worked really hard to support a local animal sanctuary.

Years three and four at Thornbury Primary School completed a project to sponsor two dog kennels at the Woodside Animal Welfare Trust for the following twelve months Mr Abraham who teaches at the school said: “The children designed and created dog toys using tennis balls and socks.

They then sold them at the school’s Christmas fayre at £1.50 a toy. They managed to raise £100 which was enough to sponsor two kennels.

had learnt a great deal along the way.

“The pupils asked very well thought out questions both about dog care and about the work we do with dogs. We are delighted to have been a part of this project and wish to thank the school for supporting us.”

Pictured are Woodside staff Dawn Cornish , Claire Fitzgerald and Woodside dog Humphrey, along with children and Mr Abraham from Years Three and Four.

“The children thoroughly enjoyed the project we did based around the dogs. They made it their aim to raise money to help out the dogs at Woodside Animal Welfare Trust. As soon as they knew their target was £100 they were determined to make it.”

Youth Speaks 2015: The winning team from Boringdon Primary School accompanied by the judges

Dawn Cornish, deputy manager for the Trust said: “I was amazed when I went along to be presented with the cheque at how much fun the children had completing this project. They were so enthusiastic and pleased with what had been achieved and it was obvious they The Plymouth Shopper

15

It’s a Best Quality family business...

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Best Quality Windows have been trading as a family concern since 1990. Husband and wife team, Teresa and Tony Dulling have enjoyed great success over the years with many loyal repeat customers and personal recommendations.

They have many testimonials from satisfied customers – a whopping 485 of them on the fair trades website, and are a Trust mark business, meaning they have had to meet a government standard and are annually audited to ensure standards and good practice is being maintained.

They believe their success comes from being able to hold a price that customers like combined with a service they love.

They have experienced mature fitters, trained in all aspects of upvc including porches and doors with high security locking systems, double glazed windows in white, colours or woodgrain, vertical sliders, fascias, gutters and soffits, and of course conservatories and extensions.

All products are made to a high standard and made to measure to fit the customer’s required design, then fitted by fitters who take a real pride in their work. Everything is then covered by a ten year guarantee.

They welcome enquires and assure their potential customers that they will never pressurize them to sign up there and then. They pride themselves on offering free honest advice and no obligation quotes, and will make sure customers are informed of the latest regulations. luke@plymouthmanforallseasons.co.uk

On their website, www.bestqualitywindowsltd.net they have some great advice on how to choose a reputable window company. So with their permission we’ve reproduced that here. Do go on their website for more details.

• Always get 2 or 3 quotes before deciding on the which firm to use, and never succumb to pressure selling.

• Check how long the company has been established and that they are FENSA registered , and the work is guaranteed.

• Ask about energy saving glass and kite marks.

• Finally ask for examples of recent work or recommendations from previous customers. A good company will be proud to show off their craftsmanship.

Best Quality Windows maintain that their prices are competitive all year round, so you don’t need to wait for a sale to embark on that project you’re considering.

You can pop into their show room on St Levan Road, Ford, or give them a call on 01752 607373.

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Tony Dulling of Best Quality Windows with pet labrador Bella who appears in many of the company’s advertisements

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The Stylish Home & Garden Show brings together the best regional businesses and design talent to offer you a unique and energising weekend of workshops, demonstrations and shopping opportunities, all in the very special surroundings of Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, Cremyll So what will you find at The Stylish Home & Garden Show?

We are showcasing the pick of local design talent, with high quality themed home and garden stalls, including Helen Round (contemporary textile design), Annterior (specialist antique dealers) and Bilsborough & Strankalis (modern furniture design). There will be over 60 stands to wander around, plus mouthwatering local food stalls and cafes, and musical entertainment to serenade you while you shop, eat and enjoy the surroundings.

An Inspirational Journey to Create Your Perfect Home We are particularly thrilled to be able to offer you a range of workshops and demonstrations, with topics including tree grafting, mixing home scents, and how to create an interior mood board.

Fiona Wilson from the British Interior Challenge will also be joining us and will talk about Interior Design on a Budget.

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Mount Edgcumbe 500 2015 is the 500th Anniversary of Mount Edgcumbe receiving royal license from King Henry VIII. As part of these celebrations, talented local artist AJ Art Ltd. will be showcasing a dress made from fabric and wallpaper, launched at the Stylish Home & Garden Show and on show to attendees for the weekend.

Sponsors We are pleased to have five local sponsors supporting the Stylish Home & Garden Show; Hennings Moir Estate Agents, The Upcycled Home Co., Number Five @ 15, Cornish Interiors and Mount Edgcumbe Country Park.

Visit our website www.stylisheventssw. co.uk/ for further information and to buy your tickets in advance. Tickets are £4.00 per day and this includes all workshops and admission to the house.

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17

MONEY MA££ERS with Tony Jopson

Turkeys voting for Christmas?

In recent weeks the papers have been dominated by how a global accountancy firm and one of the large banks are accused of assisting their wealthy clients to dodge paying taxes on their income.

This has been allegedly done by advising clients to move their wealth into off-shore funds and countries with low tax rates. The benefits of such wealth should ideally be filtered back in taxes paid in the country the money is made. However, the effect of tax avoidance (evasion?) activities moves wealth away from the country that should benefit, to other countries or (perhaps more likely) adds even more funds into the pockets of the people with all the wealth already!

It is evident in human nature that those with wealth want to protect it. Similarly those in power want to remain in power and those not in power want to obtain it. There is much rhetoric from all political parties that the policies they would implement if elected are for the benefit of the community as a whole and that we will all be better off financially as a result of voting for them.

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Reality check – the UK is currently almost £1.5 trillion (£1,500 billion) in debt! Whilst governments present (and future) all promise to reduce the annual DEFICIT they usually fail to emphasise that an annual deficit, even if “reduced”, still increases the overall national debt year on year.

You don’t have to be an accountant to work out that with ongoing annual deficits (even if “reduced”), the UK is never ever going to repay its national debt. The situation with the national debt could be likened to a balloon that is constantly being blown up bigger and bigger – there will surely come

a point where the balloon can’t be blown up any more and then…???

The strain on our financial ‘balloon’ is now being seriously felt at grass roots level in cuts in our health service, schools and benefits – and these in an era of increased demand for services in all these areas.

Is there any solution? Well, one step might be if the wealthy corporations and individuals paid the taxes they owe.

Unfortunately I suspect that those who set the tax policies are often influenced by big corporations and pressure groups which champion the interests of the already wealthy.

The real solution would involve a severe move towards wealth equalisation; the passing over of wealth from the relatively rich to the relatively poor. There is some talk within pre-election hype of such measures (i.e. a mansion tax) but arguably the specific measures suggested are “drops in the ocean” in terms of level of need.

Fundamentally what is needed is a change at heart level among a very large number of the wealthy and powerful in our society – those with real financial influence. But the manifestation of this would be a huge sacrifice of personal wealth and probably influence among these individuals (and the corporations they manage) who currently thrive on just that! An apparent massive sacrifice of self-interest – almost like turkeys voting for Christmas!

Is this even possible? Well I’ve only found one selection of books in which giving away your own time, money and things is actually shown to be in society’s and your own interest – The Bible – in it we can read about an ideal system of Jubilee in which wealth was to be equalised in Israelite society every 50 years. Human nature being what it is though, the Jubilee has

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National debt is also a reflection of lots of individual debt and there remains massive pressure in our society to borrow money.

If you do have debt problems please don’t despair or do anything rash – take the brave step of admitting the problem to yourself and anyone close to you who needs to know.

Then seek independent, professional and confidential help. Apart from ourselves, there are other also organisations that you can contact: Christians Against Poverty (Plymouth) 0800 328 0006 (freephone) CAP Money website (help with budgets): www.capmoney.org.uk Citizens Advice (Plymouth) 01752 520052 Tony Jopson, FCA Chartered Accountant and Insolvency Consultant, 246 Peverell Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4QG - Telephone: 01752 775068

Council leader heads to Laira depot to see progress on Wi-Fi installation Leader of Plymouth City Council, Tudor Evans has been to see for himself how work is progressing on the mammoth task of installing free Wi-Fi on every First Great Western Train in the region.

The works to make this happen has involved engineers installing a separate aerial on every single carriage across 53 sets of trains.

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never been implemented in its entirety but that doesn’t negate its validity as an ideal to work towards.

Councillor Evans along with Plymouth’s business community have been pressing for Wi-Fi to be installed on trains in the region, due to lack of signal coverage on the main routes.

He said: “Laira is a fantastic depot and I wanted to see for myself just how much work has gone into making free Wi-Fi across a network of trains this large possible.

to personally thank all the staff at Laira for their hard work.” Work on fitting the High Speed Trains with Wi-Fi started in the Summer of 2014, with full completion due this Spring. Wi-Fi on the two daily Night Riviera services will now also be available.

First Great Western general manager, West, David Crome said: “We recognise the key role that rail travel has in supporting the local and national economy and I am delighted that we have been able to extend our free Wi-Fi service.

“Over the coming months all high speed train passengers will be able to read their emails, browse the web, or simply catch up with friends while on the move.”

“Plymouth is the 15th largest city in the country with fantastic potential for business to continue investing in the city. If we want encourage investment in the city then we have to have to make sure that people have access to Wi-Fi when travelling.

“First Great Western know business and this investment of free Wi-Fi on their trains in the region will certainly make doing business in and around Plymouth a lot easier.”

Councillor Evans was also keen to visit the depot and thank everyone for their hard work over the last 12 months. Particularly with the difficulties the city faced after the collapse of the line at Dawlish.

Councillor Evans continued: “The depot at Laira was absolutely crucial in keeping the rail network moving after the storms caused the collapse of the rail line at Dawlish. “Some staff from this depot moved away from their families to work at other depots so they could continue to make sure trains were kept running while the line was closed. I want

Onsite manager Adam Francais, Plymouth City Councillor Tudor Evans and depot manager Colin Page on a First Great Western Train at the Laira Depot

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS The Boys Brigade `• continued from page 8 proficiency as our aim is to enjoy our time painting with time to socialise over a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit, all for £2.50 each night. Contact Dave Crawford 01752 407047 for details.

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.

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

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

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

Details 07967 313285.

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

Coffee mornings Last Wednesday of the month Run by the Highbury Trust Community Support Service, Outland Road between 10.30am and 12.30pm. All members of the public welcome to attend. For details 01752 753711 Laira Youth Brass Band Thursdays The City’s premier youth brass band meets at Woodford Methodist Church (next to the school) on Thursdays from 7.15 to 8.45 pm. Open to all youngsters from age eight upwards. Contact Tony Hollick on 01752 216784 for details.

Community Activities Various dates Evening events at Keyham Community Sports Hall, Drake Primary School, Saltash Road. Monday: Karate classes suitable for children/families and adults. 5pm to 8pm; Tuesday: Keep fit classes. Making exercise fun and easy to do. 6.15pm to 7.15pm; Wednesday: Yoga classes.

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

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

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

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

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 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.

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.

20

The Plymouth Shopper

Powerful drama focuses on slavery A powerful new play about slavery in 1800s Barbados is coming to Plymouth as part of a tour of UK cities with links to the transatlantic slave trade.

Muscovado is BurntOut Theatre’s scorching new play about slavery in Nineteenth Century Barbados, written by emerging playwright Royal Court alumnus Matilda Ibini.

A heady mix of sexual intrigue, piercing choral music and extreme racial tension, Muscovado provides an unflinching portrayal of life on a sugar plantation in 1808, accompanied by original music and atmospheric soundscape performed live by the cast.

Muscovado will be performed on April 19 (6.30pm) and April 20 (7.30pm) at Stoke Damerel Church as part of a tour visiting 15 cities around the UK with links to the transatlantic slave trade, including Hull, Bristol, Southampton and Brighton; theatres and site-specific venues to include Liverpool International Slavery Museum and Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

It is hoped that matinee performances of the production will enable local secondary school students, particularly those studying Key Stage 2, to attend.

Set between the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act and the Abolition of slavery, Muscovado tells the interconnected stories of a planter family and their slaves, shedding light on the British involvement in the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plym Ramblers First and third Sunday in the month

Photo by Clemmie Reynolds

Muscovado was commissioned by BurntOut Theatre following the discovery of archives relating to artistic director Clemmie Reynolds’ family, who lived in Barbados in 1800s. Emerging Nigerian playwright Matilda Ibini recently became the youngest winner of the BBC Writersroom10 Award, is supported by a Prince William scholarship including mentoring by BAFTA, and is Soho Theatre’s Writer-in-Residence.

Muscovado was first staged in 2014 at the Victoria & Albert Museum, and as part of Black History Month in the Clapham church where William Wilberforce campaigned for the abolition of the slave trade, gaining 4-star reviews and sell-out performances. The play was developed with historical support from slave trade expert Steve Martin, script development with Young Vic Theatre, and financial support from Arts Council England.

For more information visit the BurntOut Theatre website at www.burntouttheatre.co.uk A well established walking organisation offering regular walks by experienced leaders all within 20 miles of Plymouth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 (6pm7pm), 8-11yrs (6.30-8pm) and 11-18yrs (6.30-9pm). Our programme is very varied and includes craftwork, cookery, games, computer work, interactive challenges, sports competitions, sponsored fundraising and much more plus the year ending event - summer camp(8yrs+). Many of the skills learnt here can help prepare them for adult life. Interested - then come along to the church on Friday or contact Hugh Porter, 01752 667513, or email porterbb@blueyonder. co.uk for further information 7th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association Fridays We meet at Pennycross Methodist Church in term time, Anchors (5-8 years) between 6.15pm and 7.15pm; Juniors (8-11 years) from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and Seniors (12-18 years) between 7pm and 9.45pm. There is a full programme of activities including crafts, games, drama, music, cookery, interactive challenges, national sport competitions and much more. The year culminates in a week-long summer camp.

Our programme enables youngsters to learn many various skills and prepares them for adult life. Simply go along on Fridays to find out more or visit http//:7plymouth.boysbrigade.org.uk Mini Matts Parents & Toddler Group Mondays St Matthias Church Hall on the corner of Clifton Street & Bedford Park. 1.30pm to 3pm £1 per family per session. (during term time).

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

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.

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

We meet at Hope Baptist Church Hall, Peverell Corner, Plymouth at 10 am till 11.30 am. For more information ring the church office on 01752 708090.

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

`• continued on page 22

CLEAN UP WITH

THE CHRIS COLE

Experience

Faithfulness is such an important virtue for us I don’t know what Valentine’s Day meant for you, but for Kerry and I we had some friends whom we have known for many years round for a meal.

My Christian faith and personal experience informs me that there is often hope and freedom out of difficult circumstances and although the pain of life cannot be avoided it can be processed into something more positive. I am more a ‘glass half full’ kind of person, but under no illusions how difficult and destructive life can be.

When Jesus was going through the agony of the decision to go to His execution in the Garden of Gethsemane there is a statement He makes whilst being arrested and responding to Peter’s attack on one of the temple guards, which I find amazing when it comes to faithfulness, love and free choice:

A sense of humour is vital, but sometimes life experience can’t all be turned into something funny. Our Christian worldview encourages us to see life as progress through a journey of differing events and a loving motivation to respond to these events with God’s help as we trust Him to lead us through life.

Although these can be positive and negative experiences, I have found that the choices we make regarding how we handle these experiences, can be very important to our welfare and others.

This faithfulness impacts on your family, work mates, social friends and is probably the glue of life which makes life pleasurable.

As a person impacted by my own parents’ divorce at sixteen, I know the heartache and challenge of trying to make sense of a journey through life without the support

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As a pastor, most of my work is now supporting people in their own faith through the effects some of their own wrong choices have had on others, and the effects of others’ choices on them.

They are great friends and we really enjoy their company. We shared our stories about the messiness of life and the ups and downs of being parents and doing life, but in a very optimistic, funny and upbeat way although on occasions some of our discussions took on a more serious note.

As these friends were Christians we obviously share a very similar ‘world view’ on things which makes for not only enjoyable dinner parties, but also a discussion that ended up with a consensus born out of our collective experience that ‘faithfulness’ is a very powerful anchor upon which to build lasting relationships.

THIS SPRING

of a family structure or reliable friends.

My own self-centred and destructive choices I made in the 60’s (yes I know I was there because I can’t remember a vast amount of it, which is very sad) have taken many years to reconcile and come to peace, which I must attribute to my personal faith and experience in Jesus Christ. He has and is healing the deepest of soul wounds.

O

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Matthew 26 v 52 -54. Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? How then will the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say that it must happen this way?”

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What has this to do with faithfulness? Well Jesus is effectively saying that He didn’t have to be faithful to the circumstances of His arrest, death and resurrection, but because of His faithfulness to His Father and our spiritual freedom, He would endure the suffering.

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Since it was Valentine’s Day that started this article, let me finish with an encouragement to check out Mrs Cole’s book ‘Exit Darcus’ on Amazon.

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in direct contrast to 50 Shades of Grey when it comes to the freedom of intimacy and the hope of true love which works and isn’t an illusion.

ON

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It is available as either a book or kindle and 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

O

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The Plymouth Shopper

21

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • `• continued from page 20 given to library members. Group meets 10am to 12 noon.

For details call 01752 660515.

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.

Singing for the Brain Thursdays A singing programme to enable people with dementia to express themselves through music. Carers are welcome, with refreshments provided. The sessions are also supported by volunteers. Meet every Thursday between 2pm and 4pm at Catherine Street Baptist Church PL1 2AD. Call Tracey Rousell at Plymouth Alzheimers Society on 01752 608900 or Paul King 01752 608909 Plymouth Clarion Choir (Male Voice) Tuesdays Rehearsals between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall. Seeking to fill vacancies in all sections and accompanist needed. For details call Darell Jago on 01752 266434.

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

Meets every Monday from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Membership Secretary 01752 231139 Website www.clubfocusplymouth.co.uk Snack N Chat Tuesdays Friendship group for the bereaved and lonely from 11am to 12.30pm in the Coffee Corner at St Andrew’s Church.

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

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

A fellowship to help families and friends of alcoholics.

Local meetings. Confidential Helpline 020 7403 088 www. al-anonuk.org.uk Rainbows Fridays 1st Devonport Rainbows, Salvation Army, Haddington Road, Stoke Every Friday 6- 7pm Call 01752 405027 for details.

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

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

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

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 22

The Plymouth Shopper

Hop aboard the Carousel Sounds Musical Theatre Company presents the timeless classic Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical, Carousel at the Devonport Playhouse, Fore Street, Devonport, from March 18 to March 21.

This heart-warming tale depicts the recklessness and regrets of human behaviour, redeemed however, by the power of love and the human spirit. It includes immortal songs such as the poignant, If I Loved You, the uplifting June Is Bustin’ Out All Over and the iconic You’ll Never Walk Alone.

When young mill worker Julie Jordan falls in love with the rough bad boy charms of Billy Bigelow, the fairground Carousel barker, a chain of events unravel that suggests that Fate has already decided the rocky path that their relationship will take. Little do the lovers realise that Billy’s actions will end in tears.

Fifteen years later Billy Bigelow asks for permission to be sent down ‘from above’ for one day to try and make amends for mistakes he made on earth and he is given a chance to undo some of the hurt he has caused. 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 Community Choir Mondays Choir meets from 7pm to 8.45pm at Salvation Army, Armada Way, Plymouth. New members welcome. Details from Alison on 01363 774324 (www.alising.co.uk) .

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

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

Plymstock Tuesdays 9.30-10.30 and 10.45-11.45 Gentle exercises to music aimed at improving your core muscles and balance. Followed by a cuppa and time to chat and 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.

How Billy instils in both his teenage daughter and her mother a sense of hope and dignity is a dramatic testimony to the power of love.

The secondary plot concerns the contented marriage between Julie’s friend Carrie and the successful Enoch Snow, summed up by upbeat numbers, When I Marry Mr Snow and When the Children Are Asleep. This charming couple offer a wonderful comic counterpoint to the main couple’s volatile and tempestuous relationship.

This is musical director’s MarcusLeveson Alleyne of Plymouth’s Music of the Night Choral Foundation’s first collaboration with Sounds Musical Theatre Company and sees Jenny George, company musical director for the past 17 years play the pivotal role of Nessie, Julie’s cousin.

So banish your winter blues and book a seat for the spring Clambake picnic and Carousel ride.

Call the Box Office on 01752 510934, Performances 7.30pm, Saturday Matinee 2.30pm. Tickets: Adults £12, Concessions £11, Under 18s £6. Matinee: Adults £11, Concessions £10, Under 18s £6. Free on road parking Plymouth Hockey Club Sundays Plymouth Hockey Club is the oldest junior club in the city and has recently achieved the highest award for organisation and safeguarding. The club is operated by parents for all children and young people. The club trains every Sunday between 10am - 12 noon at Manadon Astro, off St Peter’s Road. The club cater for young people from 4-16 years and no previous experience is required. The first 6 weeks are free to new members and everyone who trains gets to play. For more information, please see the website at www.plymouthhockeyclub.org.uk or contact Rob on 07861 250682.

Community Herb Clinic Tuesdays 1-3pm Onward House, Greenbank Road. Walk-in for free general health advice or phone for appointments. Herbal medicine can be used in the treatment of any medical condition in an effective, integrated (and affordable) way to suit you. Details Sara Hills 01752 872960 www.herbs-work. co.uk Mums and Babies Group Tuesdays From 10 am till 11.30 am at Hope Baptist Church Hall, Peverell Corner, Plymouth. Mums and Babies is an informal group which offers support and friendship to new and old mums with babies up to 8 months old. Our sympathetic group leaders will spoil you with endless tea,coffee and biscuits whilst you relax. There is a charge of £2 per session. For details ring the church on 01752 708090.

Off Key Singing Group Mondays For people who love to sing in the shower! Mondays 5.50pm to 6.50pm at Derriford Health & Leisure Centre, function room. Girl Guide Hut in Plympton 10.30am to 11.30am. Call 07770 683 314 for more info.

Jelly Tots Baby & Toddler Group Fridays 9.30am to 11 am at St Budeaux Baptist Church (during Term Time). £1.50 per Family www.stbudeauxbaptist.org.uk Dartmoor Rambling Club Exercise by walking and talking, with our club. Wednesday walks 8 to 10 miles by public transport. Weekend walks 8 to10 or 10 to 12 miles by car share or public transport.

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

Call Russell on 01752 266608 for more info.

National Trust Plymouth Centre Make the most of your NT membership and join the NTPC for even more activities. During the winter there are talks given at Saltram and lunches and other activities. In the summer there are coach outings to NT properties, houses and gardens. The walk group has walks on the first Saturday of the month (4 miles), ending with a pub lunch.

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

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).

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.wutanplymouth.co.uk. Tel. 07949 839088 Plymouth Life Centre Community Table Tennis Club Thursdays Adult only table tennis every Thursday from 8pm to 9pm and 9pm to 10pm, must be over 16 unless by invitation. Run by ETTA Plymouth Development Coach Mike Naylor, the club offers friendly, fun and affordable table tennis sessions that cater for all abilities. There are 15 tournament tables with two robot feeders that are fun but challenging coaching aids where you can take the 20 ball robot challenge. All equipment is provided, there is no need to book so just turn up on the night and see Diana. Prices are £3 per hour or £5 for 2 hours. For further details contact Mike on 07792 849945.

Coffee Afternoon Thursdays Mainstone Community Centre hold a weekly coffee afternoon every Thursday at 2pm Fitness and fun touch rugby Wednesdays Central Park Rugby Pitches 6.45pm-7.45pm OPM Rugby is the official Touch Rugby club for Plymouth. Come along and enjoy a great welcome. No rugby experience required.

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

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

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

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

Perhaps we can help. We meet at 7pm at Pilgrim Church, St Levans Road. Easy Parking. Details 07752 351234 Market Stalls First Saturday of the month College Road Primary School, Keyham 1.30pm to 3.45pm.

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

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

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.

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 07527 734990.

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

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

For more details telephone 318087.

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The Plymouth Shopper

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REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • `• continued from page 20 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 Coffee Morning and Book Stall Thursdays Crownhill Methodist Church 10am to 11.30am. Join us for a cup of tea or coffee, biscuit and a chat. All welcome. For details ring Pat on Plymouth 700404.

Guitar Classes Guitar lessons for children aged from 6 - 12 years. Taught in small groups of 2 or 3. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 3.45 or 4.30pm Fridays at 4pm Saturdays between 9.30 - 4pm For more details Tel: 01752 216456. Classes held in the Woodford area.

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

Badminton Club Fridays Non league club meets on Friday evenings at Whiteford Road, Plymouth. Players wanted, of any age over 18. For further details contact rcbeasley@btinternet.com Plymouth School of Aikido Non-profit well-respected community based Martial Arts club founded over 35 years ago. Classes at Woodview Learning Campus (off Lancaster Gardens, Whitleigh) on Mondays and Coombe Dean School, Elburton, Plymstock on Fridays. Times: 7- 8pm Juniors, 7-9pm Adults. Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art suitable for both Men and Women learning and working together. Enjoyable interesting, useful, physical, family-friendly activity with Child Safeguarded/ DBS Nationally qualified Instructors leading to recognised gradings appropriate for students of all ages 7yrs to 70yrs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anyone interested in joining Classique Dance Studios or the new ‘Day Of Dance’ on Saturday’s please email classiquedancestudios2014@gmail.com www.classiquedance-studios.com 24

The Plymouth Shopper

There will be at least 20 parents selling their pre-loved maternity, baby and children items at the next nearly new sale at Harewood House, Plympton on Saturday March 21 from 10am.

At every Mum2mum Market there is a huge choice of items for sale and everything offered for sale must be in excellent condition.

All the venues are indoors and previous sales drew a large crowd with buyers queuing up to half an hour before the sale starts to get the best bargains.

The markets are aimed totally at families -- enabling those with preloved, gently used but outgrown maternity, babies and kids toys, equipment, books and clothes (basically from sterilisers to scooters and everything in between) to sell on their items to other parents in an indoor, safe and friendly environment.

With a focus on sustainability and stretching family finances, Mum2mum Adult Children of Alcoholics Meetings Tuesdays 6pm – 7.15pm. St Barnabas Church, The Lounge (enter by separate entrance to left of surgery), St Barnabas Terrace, Pennycomequick, Plymouth PL1 5NN. Visit the website at www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk. National Phone 01590 610 936.

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

Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group Second Thursday of the month The Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group aims to offer friendship and support to anyone who is affected by Lymphoma (Hodgkins or Non Hodgkins Disease), whether patient (past or present), carer, family member or friend, and meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Derriford Hospital Health and Leisure Centre from 3pm to 4.30 pm. For more information, please call Pam on 01752 785094 or Scott on 01752 661035 Singing 4 Fun Thursdays 2pm - 3.30pm We welcome new members. St Pauls Church, Torridge Way, Efford from 2pm to 3.30pm. For more details contact Janette 07854 850830 Plymouth Youth Cycling.

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

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

Rainbow Singers Saturdays Come and join our happy band of rainbow singers sharing singing, fellowship and prayer. We meet at St Gabriel’s Church at 10.15 am most Saturdays. For more information please call 01752 262600 Singing for the Brain Mondays The Alzheimer’s Society hold Singing for the Brain on every Monday, ( not on Bank Holidays ) at the William Venton Centre, 8 Memory Lane, Plymstock. Do you enjoy singing?

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

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

Thursdays 9-30am-3-30pm. The course will help teach learners about organic gardening and develop design skills in a beautiful green space in the heart of Keyham. Places are limited: please ring Sandie Morrison on 569340 to book your place email kgpcentre@hotmail.com or for more details about Permaculture email Tess Wilmot.eclipse.co.uk Broadway Organ Society Third Wednesday of the month Organ concerts held at Plymstock Community Centre, top

Mum2Mum Market baby and children’s nearly new sale Market sales are very community focused. With escalating costs kitting out babies and children, our markets provide a way of families doing this on a tight budget, but still buying great quality.

Mum2mum Markets take place every month. For more upcoming events and information please visit www. mum2mummarket.co.uk Admission is £2 on the door, children are free and it is free admission for the last half hour of the sale.

2-4-1 vouchers are available on the website: www.mum2mummarket.co.uk of Broadway car park. Concerts start at 7.45pm. Everyone welcome.

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

If you are interested in joining please call our treasurer Angela fuller on 01752 773482 or check out the Pmac website www.plymouthmac.co.uk The Plymouth & District Egyptology Society First Saturday of the month We are a society of some 50 members whose passion is all things related to Ancient Egypt. Between the months of September of one year to May of the next, we meet on the first Saturday of each of those months, including Day Schools, and long weekend visits to UK and European cities to view Museum Egyptology Exhibitions, enjoying the local sights etc. The Society meets at the Swarthmore Centre on Mutley Plain. Timings 2 pm until 4.30 pm for a normal lecture. Contact Details: janis.naylor@aol.co.uk Memory Cafe, Devonport Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month A new memory cafe has opened in Devonport. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Plymouth, the cafe is for people with memory problems and their carers. The cafe, which is located at the Salvation Army Hall in Haddington Road is open on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 4pm. The cafe is open for social, music, film, discussion and company.

Exercise Classes Thursdays and Tuesdays For over 60’s and less abled people. St Margaret Mary’s Roman Catholic Church Tuesdays 9.30am to 10.30am and 11am to 12 noon. Thursdays Life Centre 1.30pm-3pm. Run

by Birgitta Whight. Contact 01752 408951.

Rainbow Group Tuesdays The group meets at Mount Gould Church from 4.45pm to 5.45pm for girls aged from five to six and a half. For more information contact 07913697767 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 Rogers and Hammerstein’s Carousel. 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 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.

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

For more information call David on 017523 268777.

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

For any welfare problems call 01752 343492.

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.

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

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

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

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

Plympton Moving On Stroke Club Alternate Wednesdays Meet at Pocklington Rise, George Lane, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 1JL 10.30am to 12.30pm. There is a small charge to cover the rent of the room, and for refreshments £2 per person. We tend to have a speaker one week, and an activity the next. Contacts Tony Stoneman 07834276371; Steve Sargent 07944691482 and Gloria Ward 01752 776978.

Ford Family Group Saturdays .unique and friendly family playgroup, meeting at St Mark’s Church, Cambridge Rd Ford, every Saturday, including school holidays from 10.30am to 12 noon. Craft activities available and plenty of toys to play with. Come along and make some new friends! Healthy snack and unlimited drinks included in entrance fee of £1 per child. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

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

Plans for new convenience store in Woodford Plans to open a new convenience store in Woodford have been submitted to Plymouth City Council’s planners.

trading area measuring around 500 sq feet. She plans to employ four part-time staff and will open the shop from 7.30am to 7pm weekdays, 8am to 7pm on Saturdays and 9am to 4pm on Sundays.

They concluded that the conversion of the business premises to a convenience store would not create additional adverse impact on the local community or have a significant effect on the safety of local road users.

The proposal has been submitted by Mrs Kerry-Ann Wotton of Lydford Avenue, Woodford, who is seeking to change the use of the premises at 1 Woodford Crescent from offices into a retail shop, trading as Woodford Stop N Shop. She already runs a shop in Cornwood.

In the design statement submitted to planners the applicant submits that it is envisaged that although most customers of the new store will travel on foot, there was a good level of on-street parking in adjacent streets, both in the Crescent and in Woodford Avenue and Lynwood Avenue.

The applicant added: ‘In recent years neighbourhoods have suffered through the closure of small businesses that serve to create a focal point for the community and this would offer the opportunity to re-establish this function.’

The premises had been a convenience store but closed a number of years ago. It was then occupied a financial services company.

The plans include removing interior partitions to create a

The application continued: ‘Frequency will clearly relative to the time of day, but it is envisaged that at most times there will only be one or maybe two customers using the shop at any one time.’

News of the proposal on Facebook received dozens of ‘likes’, although there has been at least one objection from a local resident who was concerned about the impact of the proposed shop on parking for local residents, anti-social behaviour and litter.

Comments on the proposal must be received by no later than March 17.

Cultural festival planned for Central Park

Annette’s making her mark(et) in Plymstock and rest of city Ten months after starting up her own business running local food, craft and gift markets across the City, Plymstock-based Annette Laurie has ‘leapt’ into 2015 with an amazing array of dates and events for visitors, locals and small businesses.

A successful monthly market at Plymstock Broadway will continue with food producers and local artists showcasing and selling their goods.

All hail wassail in Cornwood Dozens of villagers from Cornwood and surrounding districts descended upon the millennium orchard at Heathfield in February to wassail the apple trees there.

think it’s good fun.” A wassail involves putting pieces of toast in the apple trees and pouring cider around their bases. Those attending then sing a song urging the trees to bear big crops after which ‘wassail’ is shouted by all as pots and pans are banged and whistles blown.

To the bemusement of passing motorists a procession of adults and children marched to the orchard from Cornwood Square banging pots and pans. With the sound of the accordion playing they were led by the Border Morris Men dressed in costume and bells.

At the Cornwood event the trees in the orchard were also lit up with candles which gained added effect as darkness fell.

Andrew Hill of the Plympton Podcast went along and spoke with event organiser, Gillian Glegg.

Gillian explained that each of the 25 trees in the orchard, which was set up in 2000 to mark the millennium, are sponsored by various local organisations and groups including Cornwood’s primary school.

The wassail which was itself sponsored by the parish council had previously been postponed from its original date in January due to bad weather.

Gillian, who was the tree warden at the time the orchard was first established, said: “We just like to wish our trees well so they grow lots of apples for us. It’s really nice for the children. I think they all

Annette said: “The regular market has proved so successful with us able to support local charities throughout the year, entertain children with various activities and welcome new traders with their range of foods and craft gifts.

“We were delighted to have record numbers turn out for the Plymstock Festival Market, the Christmas lights switch on with an estimated 4,000 visitors and host a three day Christmas Market – although we were blessed with the weather in 2014!”

These will continue to be hosted on the third Saturday of each month, apart from August (29th) and November (Wednesday 18th).

“We are also really excited to announce nine new dates for or new location in Central Park – with a major Cultural Festival in August. We are working with SkyMind Studios to provide a season of themed music, food and family fun days - with everything ranging from CosPlay to Halloween Annette Laurie and from Princesses, Knights and Dragons to a finale celebrity chef and cookery demos going on as well. We event supporting the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal have such an amazing array of events in Plymouth during in November.”

August with the British National Fireworks and Flavour CultureFest will take place on August 23, celebrating Fest in which I was involved for seven years during my food, dance, music, crafts and much more from the many time with the City Centre Company. different nationalities and people in our multi-cultural city.

“However Flavour Fest is about fantastic, local producers Restaurants, shops, organisations such as Devon & and I want to celebrate and shout about what Plymouth Cornwall Refugee Service and individuals have been has to offer on a larger, more cultural scale – let’s get and will continue to be approached to gauge interest in Plymouth on the map to becoming a real city of culture taking part, showcasing what is on offer in the respective soon. countries.

“Last year I was delighted to be involved in working Annette added: “We are hopeful that we will have a with the Friends of Devonport Park, a local charity, and to donate back over £1600 worth of my time in kind as well as a cash donation of over £500 to them from our successful music and fun days.”

Arts and with team UK in the hope of also pursue a career as a PTI instructor in For more information on these events visit www.leapsw. making the Elite squad for the European the Navy.” com or www.facebook/annettelaurie Championships this summer said: “It’s Athlete Lucy Robinson, who was part of fantastic to find a school where I can still the winning relay team at the indoor county focus on my Taekwon-Do but also make championships and who trains three times sure I’m getting the qualifications I need to a week with Plymouth Athletics Club said:

Sporting stars sign up for Plymouth Studio School

Three young sporting stars are among the first to sign up for a place at the new Plymouth Studio School which opens this September on the University of St Mark & St John campus site.

Under 16s World Taekwon-Do champion, Tate Budge, Devon county under 17s cricket player, Matthew Petherbridge and Devon county athlete, Lucy Robinson recently met up with Plymouth Studio School principal, Matthew Lennon, to find out more about the school’s Elite Athlete pathway which is open to Year 10 and Year 12 students.

Principal Matthew Lennon explained: “Getting the mix of training and more traditional academic qualifications right is often difficult for aspiring young athletes.

“Our sports pathway is designed to help them get the practical and professional

experience and qualifications they need, underpinned by a solid academic foundation including A levels.”

Students signing up for the Plymouth Studio School will have access to the world-class sports and sports therapy facilities on-site at the University of St Mark & St John.

There are just 100 places available at the school in its first year and those interested need to apply now.

Taekwon-Do champion, Tate Budge, who trains locally with South Coast Martial

“Sport is my life and it will be fantastic to combine this with getting the qualifications I need to go on to study for a career in sports therapy.”

County cricket star, Matthew Petherbridge, who plays with the Devon under 17s squad said: “I’d really like to try to make it as a professional. Plymouth Studio School will give me the opportunity to really push myself and improve my skills.”

Lucy Robinson, Tate Budge and Matthew Petherbridge pictured with principal Matthew Lennon

Any young athletes aged 13 to 19 who would like to find out more about signing up for a place at Plymouth Studio School can meet up for a chat with Principal Matthew Lennon. Email info@ plymouthstudioschool.co.uk or call 01752 305300 to book a session.

One of the many craft stalls at the popular Plymstock Broadway market

Coffee morning raises £720

Plympton St Maurice Church hosted a coffee morning on February 7. The event was put on to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. A spokeperson for St Maurice Church said “We are delighted to say that we raised a fantastic £720 and wish to thank everyone who supported this event.”

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Message for all local groups: Lord Mayor’s Day needs you!

Plymouth City Council is gearing up for Lord Mayor’s Day on Saturday June 6 and its events team want to hear from anyone interested in taking part.

This year’s theme will be ‘the 200th Anniversary of Napoleon on HMS Bellerophon in Plymouth Sound’ and anyone can get involved – from individual people to community groups, clubs and organisations.

The day will be a great chance for residents and visitors to celebrate Plymouth’s history and meet the new Lord Mayor in a fun, carnival atmosphere.

Spectators will line the streets for an exciting walking parade featuring bright and colourful costumes, uniforms and dynamic displays, which will start at Drake’s Place Garden in Plymouth University before progressing through Cornwall Street and New George Street and finishing on the city centre piazza.

This is the sixth year the council has linked with the university, which will be holding its ‘Set Sail with Plymouth University’ event on the campus.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “We want even more community groups and organisations to get involved with Lord Mayor’s Day this year. People of all ages are guaranteed to have a fantastic time, whether taking part or just coming along to join in the fun.”

Anyone can take part in the event – walking in the parade, providing music, dance or entertainment, running a charity stall, showcasing a club display or hosting a community exhibition. Whatever you would like to do the Council would like to hear from you.

For more information call the council’s events team on 01752 306849 or email steven.donald@plymouth. gov.uk.

Colebrook, Newnham & Ridgeway Monday March 23 7pm Colebrook Community Centre, Peacock Meadow, Plympton Derriford West & Crownhill Monday March 16 6pm Windsor House, Conference Room 2, Sendalls Way Eggbuckland Thursday March 12 7pm St Edward’s Church Hall, Church Hill Ernesettle Wednesday March 11 6.30pm St Aidan’s Church, The Green Ford Tuesday March 3 6pm Engage Church, St Levan Rd Goosewell Tuesday March 3 9.30am The Staddy, Staddiscombe Road, Plymstock Higher Compton, Mannamead & Mutley Joint Meeting Tuesday March 17 6.30pm The Parlour, Compton Methodist Church, 2 Revel Road.

Lipson & Laira Thursday February 26 6.30pm Lipson Community College, Bernice Terrace Manadon & Widey Tuesday March 10 6pm Crownhill Library, Crownhill Village Plympton St Maurice, Underwood and Yealmpstone Thursday April 16 6pm Plympton Library Plymstock & Radford Wednesday May 13 7pm Plymstock Library Southway Tuesday April 7 6.30pm Southway Library Stoke Tuesday February 24 6pm St Michael’s Church, Albert Road Turnchapel, Hooe, Oreston & Mt Batten Tuesday May 12 7pm Hooe Baptist Church, Hooe Road 26

The Plymouth Shopper

£3m boost for City Market

Plymouth’s City Market is to get a £3 million makeover as part of a major investment to help the city’s West End business.

role for people looking to start up businesses. Its extremely reasonable rents mean that they can try out the business idea without breaking the bank. We’ve seen many people go on to have their own shops from a stall here.”

The council will be investing in the listed building, which is one of the busiest and most successful indoor markets in the country.

The market has 144 main stalls and supports around 200 jobs. There is currently a waiting list of people wanting to test their market potential.

Cabinet member Mark Lowry said: “City Market is a massively importantly magnet for the West End and attracts shoppers who are buying local produce from local traders.

The work includes refurbishing the main roof, replacing all windows, repairs to the ceiling and other areas, refurbishing the market floor and outside cladding.

“We all need to do more to support some of the incredible businesses and as a council, we are putting our money where our mouth is by investing in the building, so that shoppers can continue to enjoy it for years to come.

“It’s not just about shopping. The market has a crucial

This is the latest investment in the market by the council.

Six months ago it invested over £80,000 in transforming very dated toilet facilities.

Doug Fletcher, Chair of Plymouth’s City Centre Company, said: “Investment into the City Market has been needed for a long time and is one of the priorities of the City

State-of-the-art facility for City College

New STEM Centre gets the go ahead A major new state-of-the-art centre specialising in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM), which will inspire and train learners in key priority growth sectors for the city, is to be built at City College Plymouth.

The news follows the promise of financial support from Plymouth City Council and the Regional Growth Fund.

Hot on the news that the college will receive up to £2.7m from the Regional Growth Fund, the city council has agreed in principle to set aside up to £4 million of funding towards the building of the college’s new STEM Centre.

The Centre will help to drive the city’s productivity and economy by stimulating interest in STEM subjects amongst potential students, young and old, those who are just entering the labour market and those wanting to upskill or retrain.

It will also provide support for higher-paid STEM jobs in the area, helping to retain and maximise Plymouth’s talented workforce and helping to ensure that Britain’s Ocean City is recognised as a world leader in STEM development.

The modern, purpose-built facility will enable more crosscurriculum learning, with a student-centred approach, that reinforces the critical role experience plays in learning, from pre-employment, vocational or technical education and apprenticeships to higher education.

The college will work closely with employers to develop the curriculum for the Centre, helping to tackle youth unemployment through new pre-employment and Apprenticeship initiatives. As a result, students will graduate work-ready with the key employability skills required to meet the future needs of Plymouth’s employers.

Forecasts indicate that between 2012 and 2020, the UK economy will require 830,000 new scientists, engineers and technologists.

The project, which fits well with the Plymouth Local Economic Strategy and Plymouth’s Plan for Employment and Skills, will continue to embed enterprise and entrepreneurship through the College’s portfolio, allowing more tailored business support and creating a talent pipeline for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the marine and creative sectors.

The realisation of this significant project will also enable City College to fulfil its long term aim to relocate all its activities from the Goschen Centre to Kings Road, freeing up the site for inclusion in the city’s regeneration

“We are extremely pleased that the Council supports the City Centre BID, that they’ve listened to our pleas and that they see the market as a major asset to our city, as we do. This is a prime example of why the City Centre Company exists and shows through advocacy and lobbying we can make a difference.”

Meanwhile it has also been announced that city centre shops and businesses will be able to apply for facelifts under an innovative scheme to help businesses keep customers coming through the doors.

A £400,000 fund to help business owners carry out shop front improvements, such as new windows, doors and signs or cleaning building facades and cosmetic improvements is being funded by the city council.

The council has set aside funding for the scheme which will be delivered over three years – however, the programme depends on a ‘yes vote’ from traders to the new 2015 to 2020 Business Improvement District.

The council, in consultation with the City Centre Company, will draw up design and other criteria to ensure high quality, well-planned shop front and building improvements are delivered.

Under the scheme up to 75 per cent of the improvement costs could be funded by the grant programme, but the onus is on business owners to procure the work initially and oversee its delivery before they can claim their grant allocation.

plans. Initial timelines indicate that the new facility will be opening in September 2017.

Phil Davies, principal and chief executive of City College, said: “This really is absolutely tremendous news and we are grateful to members and officers at the council who have recognised the significant contribution which the College is making and will continue to make, in supporting the economic, social and cultural aspirations of the city.

“The college is the principal provider of technical and vocational skills-based education for young people and adults in the city. It is essential that the college is able to support existing and future regeneration projects and contribute to the wider skills needs of the city and region.

“This, in turn, supports the region’s strategies for growth and prosperity by delivering employer-driven provision, creating job-ready students and proactively promoting wealth creation through embedding enterprise and employability in everything that we do.”

Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We are absolutely delighted to provide funding to be able to support this project which will help provide more career opportunities for young people in Plymouth.

“Key learning around science, technology, engineering and maths is a priority area in the Plymouth Plan for Employment and Skills, which aims to help broaden career choices.

“This new centre will be a fantastic resource; not only for the college but for our wider community and will play a key part in all future developments as part of the City Deal, I am delighted that it will help contribute to Plymouth’s ambitions.”

Coun Mark Coker (second left) pictured with Chris Davey, Amey operations manager, Ben Atwill, Amey civil engineer and transport planner Jim Woffenden

Good news for cyclists

Fourteen new cycle stands are being installed around Plymouth’s city centre and waterfront in the first phase of a scheme to improve cycle parking in the city.

Cycle stands are being installed in Armada Way and Exchange Street and near the Theatre Royal and Tinside Lido, helping to make cycling a more convenient travel option and encourage more people to get on their bikes.

The proposed funding from Plymouth City Council will add to the £5.43million of capital funding awarded to the college last summer as part of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Growth Deal and the recent award of £2.7million from the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills’ Regional Growth Fund.

Funded through the Department for Transport’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund, the scheme will see a further four cycle stands installed on West Hoe Pier, four cycle stands on the Hoe Promenade and 33 cycle hoops across the city centre by the end of March.

The Regional Growth Fund supports areas that are traditionally more reliant on the public sector to increase private sector investment and encourage businesses to expand. The Fund aids companies and sectors that have the vision and capability to create long-term growth, but need extra support to realise this potential.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Providing better cycle parking facilities is just one of a number of ways we are making cycling easier and more convenient for people in Plymouth. Cycling not only reduces congestion and pollution on the roads, it also benefits people’s health and pockets and is a great way to explore the city.”

City College Plymouth’s STEM Centre is one of several projects that are benefiting from government investment to create jobs and fuel business expansion across the region.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

Psalm 107:1

Centre Company in supporting the West End and driving footfall to that area of the city.

r ppe ion o h t i S et mp for Co nner i W nuary Ja

In total, the new facilities provide cycle parking for 77 bikes (each cycle stand can accommodate two bikes).

The new cycle parking facilities are being installed by the city council’s highways contractor Amey.

Congratulations to Mrs Pritchard from Oreston who won our January competition to win six months’ free membership at Fort Stamford. Why not enter this month’s competition on page 15 and you could win a meal for two at the Samphire Bush.

Plans for £40m Drake Circus leisure complex are submitted Plymouth City Council planners are set to consider plans for the £40 million Drake Circus Leisure development in Plymouth city centre.

British Land has submitted a detailed application for the 100,000 sq ft leisure scheme that includes a 12 screen cinema, 13 restaurant units and 420 car park spaces The scheme, which is due to be considered by the Planning Committee in April, includes improvements to public areas and a new pedestrian route from the city centre to Sutton Harbour and the Barbican, through Bretonside.

British Land signed an agreement with the council to develop the scheme last year when the Council announced plans to replace the bus station at Bretonside with a new high quality coach hub in the city centre’s west end.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “While we cannot prejudge any decision by the Planning Committee, this is a huge deal for Plymouth and we are delighted that this application has now been submitted.

“This is one of the biggest developments the city centre has seen for some time and could completely transform this part of Plymouth.

“Not only will it create a major new leisure destination that will bring more visitors and more local people into

back of recent good news about other significant sums of money pouring into Plymouth in various capital projects.

the city centre, it replaces the dated Bretonside which, for years, has been past its sell by date and has been a disappointing entrance to the city.”

Councillor Mark Lowry Cabinet member for Finance added: “This is incredibly exciting. Only a few weeks ago, the planning application for a new coach station – to replace tired Bretonside – was submitted for a more fitting gateway to Britain’s Ocean City in the West End.

“The message it sends out loudly and clearly to the whole of the investment community in the UK and abroad is that Plymouth is a place of great opportunity that has a sound plan to deliver the vision we have set for it as a prosperous vibrant waterfront city that is a wonderful place to live, work and do business in.”

Peter Hartland, chief executive of Plymouth Chamber of Commerce said: “Plymouth Chamber welcomes the proposed £40m investment by British Land, in the heart of Plymouth city centre.

An artist’s impression of the new Drake Circus leisure development

“It will provide better facilities for passengers and will bring thousands more people to the West End, which is good for business.

“Our city centre supports over 14,000 jobs and we need to keep evolving to keep people coming in. These are exciting times for Plymouth and its retailers and I hope they are encouraged by the new levels of interest from significant investors who believe in Plymouth.

“We are working really hard as a city to attract inward

investment and to make so much progress on these two big schemes in a relatively short space of time is fantastic.

“Between them, these two major projects can revive both the east and west ends of Plymouth – which is great for all the businesses in the heart of Plymouth.”

Paul Woods, Chair of Plymouth Growth Board, said: “The very fact a major institution like British Land is submitting a planning application for a further investment of £40 million in a proposed prime Plymouth city centre development is great. It is a huge vote of confidence in our City’s ambitious growth plans and comes on the

Plymouth City Council has agreed a major expansion worth £2,139,996 to create much-needed space for growing pupil numbers at the school, following an increase in birth rates and new housing developments in the area.

Work to provide a new two-storey extension with eight new classrooms (four to each floor), stores, toilets, group rooms and a new hard play area is due to get under way in December and should be finished by August 2016. The newly expanded school will be fully functional from September 2016.

Council Leader and local ward councillor Tudor Evans said: “Ham has seen so much investment in new and improved housing over the last few years but the schools haven’t expanded at the same rate so

The assessor met school staff, parents and carers, governors and children and was pleased to find that the school provides a high level of protection for users of the new technologies.

The South West Grid for Learning Trust provides the internet connection and a range of other services to schools across the region and is in the forefront of national developments in e-safety.

The council has already submitted a planning application for the new coach station in Mayflower Street. The £4.17m coach station and surface-level car park will be created on the former Mayflower West car park site.

A group of young people are getting sorted at Weston Mill and Chelson Meadow Recycling Centres as apprentices.

Ham ward councillor Tina Tuohy, Council Leader Tudor Evans, Head of Access and Planning Jayne Gorton, school head teacher Carole Waziri and pupils celebrating funding for a new extension at Pennycross Primary

I’m delighted that this funding for Pennycross has been given the goahead. The school desperately needs extra space to accommodate its pupils and will really benefit from these new facilities. A good education is crucial for our young people – now more than ever – and investing in excellent schools is vital in ensuring the city’s future success.”

Head teacher at Pennycross Carole Waziri said: “Staff and Governors welcome this planned expansion, which will raise our profile in the local community and support the new families moving into the area in the immediate future. We see this as an exciting challenge to move our school forward.”

Nine apprentices are now learning the ropes at both sites as part of an apprenticeship run by the charity, Groundwork, in conjunction with City College Plymouth. And a further eight will be starting at Chelson Meadow Recycling Centre in a few weeks’ time.

Apprentices will be working towards the Intermediate Level Apprenticeship in Sustainable Resource Management and this group is the second set of apprentices to go through the scheme.

Sue Reed, head of work-based learning and school partnerships at City College Apprentice Jason Frontera at Weston Mill Plymouth said: “I am delighted to be working with Groundwork to support their workforce development via apprenticeships.

Apprenticeships are a great way for businesses to develop existing staff, especially those in management positions or newly appointed.

“We have already successfully trained Groundwork staff through this apprenticeship programme and I look forward to supporting the council in partnership with Groundwork employees in the future.”

College Road Primary School receives award for E-Safety

An assessor from the South West Grid for Learning recently visited College Road Primary School in Keyham to review the school’s e-safety provision.

“This proposed scheme would transform the link from the city centre to the Barbican and the waterfront, into a more seamless quality experience for shoppers and visitors alike. Plymouth Chamber is therefore very pleased to be supportive of British Land’s planning application for this exciting development.”

Apprentices experiencing work at recycling centres

£2m expansion approved for Pennycross Primary School Over £2 milliom worth of improvements have just been approved for Pennycross Primary School.

“The development of Drake Circus Leisure, complementing the already highly successful Drake Circus shopping centre, will be a major boost for an already vibrant and growing city and offer valuable job opportunities for local people.

To apply for the 360 degree safe E-Safety Mark, schools have to reach a series of benchmark levels when they complete the online self review. The evidence is then verified by a visit from experienced assessors.

The prime benefit of using the review and applying for the E-Safety Mark is that it does not focus on the individual aspects of e-safety such as technological solutions, but instead it integrates e-safety into school policy and the curriculum, challenging teachers and managers in the school to think about their provision and its continual evolution.

To enhance these services, they have developed a tool to help schools address e-safety issues, not least the changes to Ofsted inspections, which include a stronger focus on safeguarding.

Schools are expected to show that they have provided a high standard of e-safety education and awareness for all staff, children and also for parents and carers, to ensure that these users of the new technologies can be safe online – whether they are in school, in their homes or out and about using mobile phones or other handheld devices.

The online tool allows schools to evaluate their e-safety policy and practice and then suggests how the school might do more to protect young people and staff.

Following their visit the assessor’s report included the following: At College Road Primary School there is excellent leadership of E-safety, with a real emphasis

placed on the views of the pupils.

There is widespread confidence from all areas of the school community that the school is there to help and support children, parents and all adults with e-safety issues.

This confidence is greatest amongst the children who all talked confidently about the knowledge of their teachers and support staff on internet and technology issues.

The group work closely with the council’s recycling team as part of their training, resulting in a cleaner site, better services and an eight per cent increase in the amount of waste channelled into reuse and recycling.

In 2012 staff and apprentices were shortlisted for the Civic Amenity Site of the Year Award, at the Awards for Excellence in Recycling and Waste Management.

It is useful to quote from the recent Ofsted report (October 2014) to emphasise a point which the children were keen to tell me that bullying (and cyberbullying) are issues that the school is keen to challenge openly and because of this it does not often happen: “Pupils are confident they know how to use the internet safely and say that bullying of any kind or name calling is rare.”

Ron Richards, lead assessor for the 360 degree safe E-Safety Mark congratulated the school on its success and commented that it was re-assuring to know that the school had put a lot of thought and effort into improving the on-line safety of the staff and young people, by addressing important safeguarding issues.

Apprentice Lewis Jackson The Plymouth Shopper

27

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28

The Plymouth Shopper

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The Plymouth Shopper

achievementtraining 29

David Soul’s Plymouth film flop Nowadays, it’s hard to imagine the excitement that took place in Plymouth when David Soul turned up one evening at a boxing match in the city, early in 1977. The story was exclusively revealed in the following day’s Sunday Independent.

At the time, Starsky and Hutch was incredibly popular on TV and any programme that featured David Soul or Paul Michael Glaser was watched by millions.

Derek Tait recalls the time when actor and singer David Soul turned up in Plymouth to make a film. Derek has had many other books published including Plymouth at War; Images of England: Plymouth; Saltash Passage; Memories of St Budeaux; Plymouth Hoe; Mount Edgcumbe; Plymouth Tales From the Past; Plymouth Through Time; Saltash Through Time and Rame Peninsula Through Time.

Derek’s website can be found at www.derektait.co.uk Soul was flown in a private jet, while suffering from pneumonia, to appear on the Royal Variety performance before returning to Plymouth to recover for four weeks in a local hospital.

The seventies was a time when tens of thousands of fans would turn up at airports to see their favourite stars and this would result in everything coming to a standstill and the story making the evening news.

One newspaper carried a story about a girl from Plymouth who had begged her parents to take her to Hollywood to visit the set of Starsky and Hutch so that she could hopefully meet her heroes. However, when they arrived, they discovered that Soul was filming just ten miles away from her home!

Other acts who had experienced this during the 1970s included the Osmonds, David Cassidy and, of course, the Bay City Rollers (who also appeared in Plymouth).

David was soon interviewed by Westward Television and it was revealed that he was in the city to make a movie, which was originally called ‘Mud.’ He was so popular at the time that it had to be kept secret where he was staying but, as Westward had interviewed him in his hotel room, it soon became apparent to many that he was staying at the Holiday Inn and, shortly after, the area was deluged by fans.

He was quickly moved and stayed at the Devon Tors Hotel, just by the roundabout at Yelverton.

I was at school at the time and many kids told stories of their dads drinking at the Moorland Links Hotel in the evening and seeing David A publicity shot from Starsky and there.

Hutch. I had a jumper just like this one!

He was happy to chat with locals

David Soul in The Stick-Up. Comedy actor, Tony Melody, can be seen on the right of the picture

and even sang a couple of songs.

The local papers were full of stories about the film and the Sunday Independent regularly featured photos, one of which showed David skinny-dipping at Denham Bridge.

Soon after, he contracted pneumonia and the story was reported in the Times of 20th May 1977. It read: ‘Actor and singer David Soul, co-star of the television series Starsky and Hutch, has been admitted to a London hospital after suffering from pneumonia. Work on the motion picture ‘Mud,’ in which the blonde actor is starring, came to a halt when he was taken from the film’s South Devon location to London on Thursday. Soul had been feeling ill throughout the week but said he thought he had been suffering only from influenza. On Wednesday, he flew to Glasgow to top the bill in the Scottish Jubilee Royal Variety show attended by Queen Elizabeth.’

At the time, I would have loved to have seen the filming taking place. One day, I was out with my parents in our car and we saw the film crew gathered near the cricket club at Yelverton.

My dad wouldn’t stop the car, so that’s all I saw.

The next day, I decided to catch the bus and travel to the same spot to see if filming was still taking place. There was nothing going on, so I stayed on the bus. A few seats away from me was the actor, Tony Melody. I recognised him from comedies on the television but, at the time, had no idea that he was also in the film. He got off the bus at Dousland presumably to continue filming and I missed my chance to see the movie in production.

From the newspaper reports, it appeared that shooting was taking place at Maristow, so I walked from Yelverton to Lopwell Dam, which seemed endless. I saw nothing, realised that there was no bus service, and had to walk all the way back home. It was certainly a long day!

David Soul’s first LP

Westward Television showed occasional clips from the movie, most of which showed David slipping up in cow manure.

As far as I can remember, the movie had its premier in Plymouth the following year. By then, its name had been changed from ‘Mud’ to ‘The Stick-Up.’ Unfortunately, the movie was panned by critics and was hardly shown anywhere afterwards.

Until about a month ago, I still hadn’t seen it and, unusually, it has never been shown on TV in the 37 years since. However, searching the internet, the movie can be watched, for free, on a David Soul fansite.

It’s a hard slog getting through it and I can see why it’s disappeared without trace. It’s good to watch to recall memories of David’s visit to Plymouth, though, and the excitement it caused.

Much of the filming seems to have taken place around Burrator Reservoir. Other interior scenes were said to have been shot within the Astor Hotel on Plymouth Hoe and other residents, apparently, complained that David Soul’s constant smoking and his habit of putting the butts down the sink caused havoc with the hotel’s plumbing!

I never did get to meet David Soul but a few months later, my mum gave me a copy of his album which had been signed by him. The Music Box at St Budeaux had managed to get copies of his LP signed at the Moorland Links for various customers but several never picked them up for some reason. My copy said ‘to Julie’ but that never really bothered me. Like most things I had in the 1970s, it’s long since disappeared!

Now, 37 years later, his exwife, Julia Nickson, who’s appeared in Star Trek and Rambo, follows my online blog about my childhood in Singapore.

She writes occasionally but I’ve never told her about how crazy, like most teenagers back then, I was about Starsky and Hutch!

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 WANTED - Ford Park Cemetery Trust are still looking for volunteer helpers,to join our Gardening Club which meets on the 3rd Sunday of the month,also to help out in our Visitor Centre cafe,or helping with our many Events throughout the year. If you feel you have a few hours to spare,give our friendly ladies at the Cemetery office a ring,weekdays only (10 am -3-30pm) on Plymouth 665442.

HAIR STYLIST –Global Hair Design, Unisex salon in Plymouth city centre, is recruiting now. We are looking for a qualified (NVQ level 2 or 3) and experienced stylist/ Hairdresser. To apply please send your CV to plymouth@globalhd.co.uk or contact the salon manager on 07999595488.

COMMUNITY CARE WORKERS – H & H Healthcare Ltd are looking to recruit experienced and mature community care workers. Drivers essential please.

We cover Plymouth and some areas of the South Hams.

Training in NVQ’s are free and available. Please contact Claire or Hazel on 01752 344233 to discuss joining our friendly team.

WORK FROM HOME – Part time jobs available fitting round family life working from home. Call Christine on 07941 908677 HAIR STYLIST – Hair stylist required, level 2, experienced preferred. 16 hours plus. Must be professional and friendly. Call Christine 07941908677 GENERAL – Leonard Cheshire Disability. West Devon Enabling Scheme. Do you have a few hours to spare a

week? Would you like to make a difference in the life of a person with disabilities while having fun and gaining new skills. then Give me a call. No experience needed. expenses paid. Call Alex on 01752 331653 or email alexandra. dixon@LCDisability.org you wont regret it .

SUPPORT WORKERS – Pulse Community Healthcare is looking for experienced Support Workers to work with our client who has complex healthcare needs, in his own home, in the Plymouth area. 12hr day and night shifts, For further information please call 01752 781699

building. We have our own scout centre on Mutley Plain. If you’re at a loose end on Thursday evenings, come along and join the adventure. Contact Jan: 07527687804 or 9th21stplymouthscoutgroup@gmail.com

people with a real drive to succeed. Part-time work around your current commitments working alongside a global leader in the health and well-being industry. Quality, ethical products, full training and support. Anne 07815 778656

CLEANERS FOR PRE-VETTED PRIVATE HOMES – You choose how many hours a week you want to work between 10 and 20 and who you’re happy to work for. If you are mature, have good references and preferably a car and CRB, we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Maureen on 01752 227828.

CLEANERS - For pre-vetted private homes. You choose how many hours a week you want to work between 10 and 20 and who you’re happy to work for. If you are mature, have good references and preferably a car and CRB, we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Lynda on 01752 227828.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE – Volunteer with Plymouth Highbury Trust as a Citizen Advocate and you can support someone with a learning disability to have a quality of life that most people take for granted. We offer flexible hours and full training and support. Call Kate on 01752 753719

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

VOLUNTEERS - Royal Voluntary Library Service Derriford Hospital needs help for the book trolley ward rounds on weekdays between 10am 12pm. If you are interested in the service and can spare the time, please contact Pat Hamilton Thursdays 9.30am to 3.30pm on 01752 792857 for further information.

OCCASIONAL COMPANION AND DOG WALKER – For a 10 month old Shih Tzu. Quiet, friendly, good natured little chap would love some company and short, slow walks when owner is working occasionally.

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

GENERAL – Children’s Hospice South West are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to work in their shops in Plymouth (City), Plymouth (Mutley Plain), Totnes and Tavistock. If you would like to gain experience in different areas of retail and could spare a few hours email plymouthshop@chsw.org.uk or pop into your local shop

HAIRDRESSER - Dudes are looking for an experienced Barber/Hairdresser wanted on self employed basis full time or part time call Rob 07791234404

VOLUNTEERS - Volunteering at Plymouth Mind.

Come and get involved with Plymouth Mind to celebrate its 30th year. We have opportunities for fundraisers, artists, musicians, gardeners, and those who are looking for work experience. Contact Lesley@plymouthmind.com

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

GENERAL – Build an income to suit you. Your own business - No Boss! Work from home. Totally flexible hours to suit you around employment or family commitments.

No selling, no stock, no staff, no pressure, no debts, no problems! For information including videos and testimonials please leave details at www.mtw1jcm.co.uk

VOLUNTEERS - The Scout Association. The 9th/21st Plymouth Scout group are looking for new adult volunteers to work with Beavers/Cubs/Scouts. Full training given. Lots of opportunities for trying new activities and CV

GENERAL - How committed are you to making your dreams a reality? I’m looking for hard-working, dedicated

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

30

The Plymouth Shopper

Legally Speaking By Jolene Taylor of Howard & Over Solicitors

Deprivation of liberty...

It is not nice to think that when we lose the mental capacity to make decisions for ourselves, that someone else has the responsibility of making those decisions for us – where we live, who we can see and when we can go out.

It is becoming a more common scenario that if we cannot look after ourselves we may be taken into a care home setting where there may be a number of restrictions that are placed upon us. Sometimes, those restrictions can amount to a deprivation of a person’s liberty.

There have been some developments recently about what it means to be deprived of your liberty and who exactly falls into this category.

A person can be deprived of their liberty if they lack the capacity to make decisions for themselves about where they should live, who they should have contact with and whether they should go out on their own. Most commonly, this applies to people who reside in care home type placements or in a hospital setting.

A Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards procedure must be instigated by the Local Authority (or NHS trust if it is a hospital) to authorise such a deprivation.

If a person is in a supported living setting then the Local Authority will need to apply to the Court of Protection to obtain authority to deprive someone of their liberty.

They cannot authorise the deprivation themselves.

If they have not done so, then the person they are depriving of their liberty is being deprived unlawfully.

It may be the case that you have a friend or relative in a care home or hospital setting that has restrictions placed on their liberty or movements.

If that is the case, then the relevant authority needs to seriously consider whether or not that person, if they lack the relevant mental capacity, is being deprived of their liberty. If so, then as mentioned, there is a clear and formal procedure which they must follow.

If you are a relative or carer of the person in that setting, then the Local Authority are also under an obligation to consult with you about the deprivation, so that you have the opportunity to exercise an appeal against it if you feel this is the right thing to do.

It is also good practice to have regular meetings to see if the person being deprived of their liberty continues to lack capacity and if so, whether it is necessary for the deprivation to continue.

If you have any questions about what the care home provider or local authority can or cannot legally do, then please contact us.

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

Helping young people into sustainable employment

If you’ve ever considered taking on an apprentice, or indeed have family members or friends who would like to train in a particular trade, then it may be worth while giving Achievement Training a call.

They run funded courses throughout the year helping young people into sustainable employment through traineeships, apprenticeships and through classroom style programmes.

Traineeships provide employers and young people the opportunity to see if the work environment suits them before an apprenticeship, and is an education/training programme with work experience.

Traineeships can last up to six months and are for young people between 16-24 (25 for a young person with a learning difficulty assessment) who do not have a Level 3 qualification.

The work experience placement lasts between 100-240 hours with a guaranteed exit interview and reference on completion of the work placement. A traineeship also includes flexible additional training courses to suit the nature of the business and the needs of the local labour market.

Apprenticeships are for youngsters aged 16 and over where the trainee can earn and learn in a wide range of industry sectors. They can gain job specific skills as well as intermediate and advanced qualifications and there are no entry requirements.

The benefits for employers and small businesses in taking on a trainee or apprentice are many, not least that they could be eligible for an Apprenticeship Grant for Employers of £1500.

Businesses are not only giving something back, but they have access to young people with fresh ideas – particularly interesting if they take on a social media apprentice, ICT users, IT technicians or digital skills trainees.

Employers have the opportunity to shape the skills and experience of young people from the local community, helping the business to develop a loyal and talented workforce.

It also gives experienced staff the opportunity to develop their skills in mentoring and coaching young people.

All this comes with extensive support from companies such as Achievement Training which means that employers have a say in developing a high quality traineeship or apprenticeship to suit the specific needs of your business.

All apprenticeship opportunities are posted on Facebook on the Achievement Training page, or call them on 01752 202226 or visit their offices at 2 Andrews Cross Plymouth PL1 1DN

National Apprenticeship Week takes place this year between March 9 and 13.

What is National Apprenticeship Week?

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is co-ordinated by the National Apprenticeship Service and is designed to celebrate apprenticeships and the positive impact they have on individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

National Apprenticeship Week 2015 is all about: • getting more small businesses to take on apprentices • promoting the range and breadth of apprenticeships on offer • celebrating apprenticeships and the level of success that learners can achieve What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are work-based training programmes that are an excellent way of bringing new talent into the profession as well as developing the skills of existing members of staff. They allow apprentices to combine employment and training – earning whilst they learn.

Apprentices develop technical knowledge, through the study of a professional qualification, learn key employment skills and demonstrate their competence in the world of work. According to the National Audit Office for every £1 spent on developing an apprentice, £18 is invested back into the local economy.

Apprentices go on to permanent job roles within the organisation following an apprenticeship.

Plymouth CAB is a network member of The Plymouth Apprentice Manager Network which represents a diverse range of organisations throughout the City.

Why become an apprentice?

• • • • • • • •

Earn a wage Gain new qualifications Receive training Gain new knowledge and job specific skills Gain real work experience Meet new people and develop new opportunities Start on a career path Build up your CV

By Claire Bower of Advice Plymouth

There are numerous direct and indirect benefits of apprenticeships for both recruiting new apprentices and for training your workforce: • 80% of companies which invest in apprentices have reported a significant increase in employee retention • 77% of employers believe apprenticeships make them more competitive; • 76% of those employers who employ apprentices agree they make their workplace more productive.

• 81% of consumers favour using a company which takes on apprentices (Statistics from Skills Training UK) At Plymouth Citizens Advice Bureau our apprenticeship programme currently supports eight apprentices.

It is mutually beneficially for the organisation as it improves Plymouth CAB’s capacity to deliver services and for our apprentices it improves their personal growth, self-confidence and self-esteem, but they also bring new ideas to the organisation.

These organisations all employ apprentices the network members also include; Plymouth City Council; Plymouth University; Visprings; Mi Space; Plymouth City Bus; Lang and Potter, Plymouth 1000 Club and The National Apprenticeship Service.

The South West is second only to London in terms of providing opportunities for people who want to earn while they learn.

For more information about events for National Apprenticeship Week in the Plymouth area visit http:// nas.apprenticeships.org.uk/awards/apprenticeshipweek-2015/events-map.aspx If you are interested in becoming an apprentice Visit https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk or call 0800 100 900.

Advice Plymouth, funded by Plymouth City Council and the Big Lottery, provides a free, confidential and independent advice service to the residents of Plymouth.

The service, based at Ernest English House, brings together four organisations with unique specialities: Citizens Advice Bureau, Age UK, Routeways and Plymouth Guild. www.adviceplymouth.org.uk

Plymouth CAB apprentices are able to study for a recognised qualification alongside their apprenticeship these range from an NVQ in youth work, customer service or business administration and includes Citizens Advice Bureau National Training Certification.

A large proportion of Plymouth Citizens Advice Bureau

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

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

One to One Support • Courses Workshops • Support Finding Finance

Putting the spotlight on the value of employing apprentices

St Budeaux Library Work Club Every Friday Morning

9:30am - 11:00am Attended by Working Links

All we expect from you is enthusiasm and an open mind... why not give it a go? Be someone who can say ‘I’m glad I did’ rather than, ‘I wish I had’ Come along to one of our ‘taster’ sessions on any Thursday afternoon from 1pm till 2pm at Working Links, Cobourg House, Mayflower Street.

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

Pop along to an Enterprise Club

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

31

Seven editions reaching 62,000 homes

Disused buildings will be demolished to make way for Sherford development and a secondary school.

Disused glasshouses and buildings in Vinery Lane, Elburton are set to be demolished as work gets under way on the new Sherford community.

The town will boast a wide range of shops and businesses, a community park, a library, a youth centre, a health centre, a children’s centre and a place of worship. A sports centre will include a swimming pool, plus very extensive playing fields, including sports pitches, pavilions and children’s play areas. A total of 7,000 jobs will be created.

Formal notice of the proposals to demolish the two storey building and associated outbuildings at 41 Vinery Lane has been submitted to Plymouth City Council. A number of large derelict glasshouses on the opposite side of Vinery Lane are also to be demolished.

The 1,200 acre site will be constructed by project founders Red Tree and a consortium of developers including Taylor Wimpey, Linden Homes and Bovis Homes.

Work is expected to start in early March on the work.

Designed as a traditional Devon market town, Sherford will have up to 5,500 homes, a town centre with a high street and market square and three neighbourhood centres.

The project has been supported with an investment of up to £32m from the Homes and Communities Agency to enable key infrastructure and community facilities to be delivered.

These are designed to enable access for residents to work, shopping, schools and extensive open space and recreational facilities within a five-minute walk of their homes. Residents will have the benefit of sending their children to one of the three primary schools

The Prince’s Foundation for Building Community has created a design code to which future planning applications will be judged, helping to ensure the design aspirations for Sherford.

Celebrating storytelling (front row from left) volunteer Vicky Scoble; cultural speaker Yuki Yoshioka; Bev Smerdon; Joanna Traynor, storyteller from Story Jug; Nik Brookson, Plymouth-based professional storyteller and writer; Shilpa Kulkarni, Hindu faith speaker and Together in Service funded storytelling project worker; (middle row) Nicole Broadhurst, community engagement officer, Drake’s Place; Sayo Endo (back row) Mike Sadler, volunteer storyteller; Jonathan Noades, UPSU volunteer co-ordinator; and Jess Bent, artist and volunteer

Plymouth event marks the importance of storytelling in the city Local storytellers, friends and volunteers met recently to raise awareness of the latest developments in the Storytelling world in Plymouth, including the regular monthly Storytelling events.

Artist’s impressions of how the centre of Sherford will look

The event marked the 15th year of the Society for Storytelling’s National Storytelling Week.

112 Ridgeway, Plympton, Plymouth PL7 2HN

SPRING INTO MARCH WITH THIS MONTH’S EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Storytelling events in Plymouth include professional story tellers and open mic nights, and with thanks to Plymouth University, are held in the Roland Levinsky Building and at the University’s Peninsula Allied Health Centre at Derriford. There are also plans to hold open-air storytelling evenings in the summer in Drake’s Place with the newly restored Gardens and Reservoir creating the perfect backdrop.

Storytelling in Plymouth is driven by Liz Berg, regional secretary for the Society for Storytelling and a professional storyteller who runs the monthly ‘Speakeasy’ in Liskeard, and Bev Smerdon, development officer at Plymouth Centre for Faiths & Cultural Diversity.

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Bev said: “We want to let people know they are welcome to come along to our storytelling events and, thanks to a Together in Service grant, they can train to be storytellers or get support from other storytellers by coming along to our weekly meetings.

“We also have workshops, delivered by professional storytellers, taking place in

Plymouth in March and we are planning to develop teams of storytellers to attend a wide variety of events and places in our city. We are thrilled that our latest partnership is with the Friends of Moor View Park for a Vital Sparks-funded project to increase participation and the use of arts in the Park near Mutley Plain.”

While there are storytelling museums and folklore centres in England there is no national storytelling centre such as those in Wales and Scotland.

Bev believes that Plymouth could become a real hub for storytelling: “We would especially like to thank Plymouth University who have agreed to host the Society for Storytelling’s national ‘Gathering’ in 2017, as well as all the local storytellers who are supporting us.

“This will really help raise the profile of storytelling in the city, which we are hoping to see much more widely used at all kinds of events and venues.”

For more information about the meetings and events, email stories@pcfcd.co.uk or call 01752 254438.

Details on the storytelling events hosted at Plymouth University can be found at www.plymouth.ac.uk/events or www. facebook.com/plymouthstorytellingcentre.

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