Plymouth Chronicle August West 2023

Photo: Paul

Warrior women wanted!

Plymouth women’s charity Trevi, is once again calling all courageous and strong women to take up their 10 kilometre Warrior Women Walk this October.

Trevi is urging local women to come together and step out to support those affected by domestic violence and abuse and show that they can take on the world!

Trevi launched it’s very first Warrior Women Walk last year, and over 250 women came together to walk 10k and raise over £20,000 for the charity. They hope to encourage 500 women to participate this year and double their fundraising target.

Hayley Dann, Trevi fundraising and marketing lead, said: “We were overwhelmed with the support we had for the walk last year. We can’t thank those enough who took part, donated, and supported our walkers on our very first event.

“Seeing so many women joining the fun with their friends and having such an amazing time was awesome and very emotional! We had so many lovely comments about the event, so we are so excited to be able to bring it back this year. We celebrate our 30th anniversary this year, so now is the perfect time to come and join us in our celebrations.”

The Warrior Women Walk on Sunday October 15 invites women to tackle the 10k walk, starting and finishing at Burrator Reservoir Discovery Centre, and raise vital support for women affected by trauma and abuse. The Warrior Women Walk takes in some of Devon’s most stunning scenery.

The walk allows women to connect with friends and other amazing women. Trevi hope the 10k challenge will bring together women who have been affected by trauma and abuse, whether personally or a loved one; women who want to see a future without violence against women and girls and women looking to have fun with their girlfriends and raise money for charity; Trevi invites you to take on their warrior challenge!

Last year 1.7 million women were victims of domestic abuse in the UK, with a domestic abuserelated call being made to the police every 30 seconds.

Whilst domestic abuserelated crimes in Plymouth decreased in 2021/22 by 1.5%, domestic abuserelated non-crime incidents

REFURBISHED TENNIS COURTS ARE OPENED ACROSS PLYMOUTH

Tennis lovers are being served up a treat this summer with the reopening of improved facilities in different corners of the city.

The courts at Devonport Park, Hartley Park and Tothill Park have been refurbished with brand new, Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) approved surfaces as well as new nets and posts.

The courts are now run in a similar way to the Central Park and West Hoe courts using the Clubspark online booking system, on a pay to play basis.

A family Park Tennis annual membership for all of our courts at Central Park, West Hoe, Devonport Park, Hartley Park and Tothill Park will cost £40 (£30 for concessions) and individual pay to play sessions will cost £6.

A family membership is available for entire households of up to ten people and entitles holders to book eight, one-hour slots every week. The income generated will

support the costs of maintenance ensuring a high-quality offer across the city for residents to enjoy for the long-term.

The improvements have been funded from a £95,000 grant from the LTA as part of its UK Government and LTA Tennis Foundation funded Park Project, which will impact over 3000 existing park tennis courts across Britain. The council also contributed £48,000 from section 106 funding.

The council will also work with the LTA to deliver a range of activity across the sites including weekly organised free park tennis sessions for all ages, playing levels and experience where equipment is provided.

All courts and sessions at all sites are available to book online via the Plymouth Parks Tennis booking platform - www.plymouth. gov.uk/park-tennis-plymouth - or via the LTA Court Booking Portal - www.lta.org.uk/play/book-atennis-court

increased by 9.5%. Domestic violence accounts for 31.5% of all crime in Plymouth compared to the national figure of 17%.

Trevi supports more than 1000 women who have been affected by domestic violence or abuse annually.

80% of the women they support through their Jasmine Mother’s Recovery residential rehab centre and 67% of women accessing their Sunflower Women’s Centre have or are experiencing domestic abuse.

Michelle was supported by Trevi and said: “I came to Trevi when I was eight months pregnant. Social services were planning to remove my daughter from me at birth as I was addicted to drugs and in an abusive relationship.

“The staff at Trevi were beyond amazing. I felt totally supported by all of them and never felt judged for my past mistakes. They were always there to listen if I was struggling with anything. They believed in me, which gave me the strength to keep going.”

All of Trevi’s services are delivered by a dedicated and trauma-informed team of women-only support workers, therapists, teachers, and specialist practitioners who work with every woman to address the trauma in her life and help her understand how it manifests so that she can begin to heal, grow, and move forward.

This year’s event issponsored by Plymouth Citybus, a long time supporter of Trevi. Jess Bolt, marketing manager said: “Inspiring strength, empowering unity, and celebrating resilience. We proudly stand as sponsors of the Warrior Women’s Walk, and are honoured to be able to support the amazing work that Trevi does for the women of Plymouth.’

Trevi hopes that the Warrior Women Walk will be as successful as it was in 2022. As an incentive, they are offering an early bird discount to all women walkers – use code WW20.

Women can walk as individuals, in teams, business groups and organisations. All are encouraged to get involved and register for an official place in the Warrior Women Walk 2023.

To register, visit https://register. enthuse.com/ps/event/ TheWarriorWomenWalk2023

To donate to Trevi or learn more about their important work, visit  trevi.org.uk.

Send details of your event to info@ cornerstonevision.com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

Victorian Symbolism

Until Aug 26

Ford Park Cemetery’s Visitor Centre hosts the latest exhibition featuring Victorian symbolism. As opening times vary, details can be obtained by phoning 01752 665442.

Otherworlds

Until Aug 26

Featuring the works of artists Sang-Mi Rha and Marianne Walker at Then Levinsky Gallery, University of Plymouth. Open weekdays 10am to 5pm, Saturday 12 noon to 5pm. Free admission.

Summer of Play

Until Sept 3

Buckland Abbey near Yelverton is hosting a Tudor themed summer of play. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in Tudor and nature themed activities across the gardens and inside the Great Barn and Abbey. Designed to give everyone a chance to access the past there will be Tudor sports, an opportunity to act and dance Elizabethan style on the mini stage and be inspired by Tudor cooking in the sand kitchen on the Abbey lawn. Things kick off with an Elizabethan Weekend on July 22 and 23 which will host Tudor games, falconry displays and demonstrations of Tudor life including cooking. Normal admission charges apply/free for National Trust members For details visit www.nationaltrustorg. uk/visit/devon/buckland-abbey

Sparky’s Woodland Adventure

July 22 to Sept 3

Grab your little adventurers and head for Dartmoor Zoo! Sparky the dragon has lost his belongings and he needs help to find them and save his summer travels! Follow Sparky’s trail around our Zoo, mark off where you’ve found his items and find Sparky at the end of your trail to enjoy your yummy gold coin wages! For details visit www.dartmoorzoo.org.uk

Summer Fair

July 29

Moments Cafe, 69A New George Street, Plymouth from 11am to 3pm. Everyone welcome with craft stalls, raffle, face painting, game stalls and cakes. Raising funds for Memory Matters and Moments community dementia friendly cafe with free access to dementia advice and support.

Inflatable Mondays

July 31, Aug 7, 21 and 28

China Fleet Country Club and High Five join forces to provide fun for families this summer. Sessions from 9am to 10.30am for five to seven year olds, 11am to 12.30pm for eight to 12 year olds and family session from 1pm to 2.30pm. Details from www.china-fleet. co.uk/events/event-calendar

Plymouth Arts Club Exhibition

Aug 1 to Aug 6

In aid of the Tower Repair Fund at the Church of the Ascension Church Hall, The Lawns, Crownhill from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.plymouthartsclub.co.uk

Nerf War Wednesdays

Aug 2, 9, 23 and 30

China Fleet Country Club and High Five join forces to provide adrenaline-pumping action-packed Nerf battles. Sessions from 9am to 10.30am for five to seven year olds, 11am to 12.30pm for eight to 12 year olds and family session from 1pm to 2.30pm. Details from www.china-fleet.co.uk/events/event-calendar

Plymouth Jazz Club

Aug 3

Join Plymouth Jazz Club and Plymouth Boat Trips on a cruise up the Tamar to the lively sound of Dave

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

The ever-popular British Fireworks Championships are back in August

Vaughan’s North Coast Joymakers traditional jazz band. Boat leaves the Barbican Landing Stage at 4.30 pm., returning 9.30 pm. 1 hour stop at Calstock. Pasties (£4) available at Calstock, order when booking. Fare £28, including welcome aboard drink. Book with Plymouth Boat Trips on 01752 253153.

Down Thomas Singers’ Summer Concerts

Aug 4 and 5

The charity concerts in aid of Asthma and Lung UK take place at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas at 7.30pm. Tickets £6 and include refreshments plus there is a raffle with good prizes. Parking is free. The concert of popular light music is called Sounds Familiar. Tickets from the 01752 299204.

Love Summer Festival

Aug 4 to Aug 6

Now in its 12th year the Love Summer Festival returns to Newnham Park in Plympton. The family friendly festival offers three stages featuring cutting edge music, children’s area, clamping and great food. Caravan and camper friendly. For details visit www. lovesummerfestival.com/festival-2023/

Ballroom Dancing

Aug 5, Aug 19

Join Jeannie and Henry at the Elm Community Centre, Ley Park Walk, Estover from 7.45pm to 10.30pm. Bring your own drink and snacks. Price £6. For more details and more dates visit www.dancingduo.co.uk or call 01803 325905.

Coffee Morning

Aug 5

In aid of St Luke’s Hospice at Crownhill Methodist Church hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Books, cakes, raffle etc.

Mount Edgcumbe Classic Car Shows and Summer

Fayre

Aug 6

Attracting over 900 cars of all marques, this is an event not to be missed for the budding petrolhead! But that’s not all – there is something for everybody during the day: over 100 stalls selling crafts, jewellery, clothes and much more, food a nd drink outlets including a licensed bar, bouncy castles, fairground rides and family friendly entertainment from jazz music to magicians.

Big Tribute Festival

Aug 11 to Aug 13

After the huge success of 2022, the BIG Tribute Festival 2023 is back bringing more of the BEST UK Tribute acts over three days at Central Park under the 4,500 capacity tent and larger site location for 2023. Friday is family-friendly focused with fairground rides and bouncy castles. Tickets and information at www. bigtribfest.co.uk

Annual Exhibition and Sale

Aug 11 to 13

Derriford Art Club is holding its annual exhibition and sale of members work at Clearbrook Village

Hall. Opens 12 noon to 4pm Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday. Admission free, tea and coffee available.

Big Tribute Festival

Aug 11 to Aug 13

After the huge success of 2022, the BIG Tribute Festival 2023 is back bringing more of the BEST UK Tribute acts over three days at Central Park under the 4,500 capacity tent and larger site location for 2023. Friday is family-friendly focused with fairground rides and bouncy castles. Tickets and information at www. bigtribfest.co.uk

Southway Community Table Top Sale

Aug 12

Variety of stalls and children’s crafts at The Church of the Holy Spirit, Southway from 1pm to 3pm. Free entry. Tea and coffee available. To book a table contact Veronica on 07855 256383.

Jumble Sale

Aug 12

Popular jumble sale returns to St Francis Church, Honicknowle from 11am to 1pm. Bargains and refreshments on sale.

British Firework Championships

Aug 16 and 17

The beloved British Firework Championships return to The Hoe providing one of the best free events in the South West. Tens of thousands of people will flock to the waterfront to watch three companies compete for the title on each night.

Summer Exhibition

Aug 16 to Aug 20

Plymouth Arts Club exhibition at The Lead Works, Rendle Street, Plymouth from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.plymouthartsclub.co.uk

Plymouth Jazz Club

Aug 20

Featuring the Jake Leg Jug Band at the Royal British Legion Club, Tailyour Road, Crownhill starting at 7.30pm. Authentic sounds of the 20s and 30s America. Admission £15. Tickets on the door only. Details at www.plymouth-jazz-club.org.uk

Seth Lakeman

Aug 26

Devon’s own popular singer songwriter is accompanied by Benji Kirkpatrick and Alex Hart at The Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus. Concert starts at 8pm. Tickets fromwww.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sethlakeman-tickets-598514873097

West End Carnival

Aug 26

Plymouth City Centre Company is hosting the Carnival with a full day of carnival fun for all the family. There will be a parade at 11am and lots of music and entertainment throughout the day.

Classic Car Show

Sept 3

Organised by Saltram Rotary in aid of Devon Air Ambulance at Lyneham Estate near Yealmpton from 11am to 4pm. Many classic cars plus food and craft stalls, jazz band, bar and bouncy castle.

Circus Berlin

Sept 6 to Sept 23

From the producers of Circus Extreme comes the incredible and jaw dropping Continental Circus Berlin in Central Park. With an array of brilliant circus acts, music and real youthful energy, enjoy an international production packed full of comedy, daredevils, dancing and aerial acts. Housed in one of the UK’s largest circus big tops this show will delight young and old alike and promises to be a family treat. For details visit www.circusberlin.co.uk

Seafest Plymouth

Sept 16 and 17

Seafest Plymouth - formerly Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival - is a must for seafood enthusiasts. The festival will include lots of trader stalls, tasty treats, and demonstrations from the cookery theatre. Children can take part in the free activities including a find the fish trail. The popular cardboard boat race will also be taking place on Saturday. The free Seafest Plymouth is organised by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, and takes place on The Barbican, Sutton Harbour and Waterfront.

In Conversation with Judith Weir

Sept 18

Opening event for the new Musica Viva season at the Levinsky Hall, Plymouth University. Featuring composer Judith Weir, Master of the Kings Music, for a public evening of conversation with Robert Taub about her music, inspirations for her creativity and her current projects. Judith’s recent orchestral overture Brighter Visions Shine Afar was performed at the Coronation of King Charles III. This special evening will include an opportunity for members of the audience to pose questions to Judith Weir. For further info and tickets visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/ arts-institute

Motown Tribute Night

Sept 29

China Fleet Country Club celebrates Motown’s golden era starring Ruby Washington and Bruce Parker, the California Soul Man. For bookings visit www.chinafleet.co.uk/events/event-calendar/motown-tributenight

Send details of your event to info@cornerstonevision. com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

Greenwich Hospital

Sheltered Housing

Managed by CESSAC

Provide affordable rented self-contained flats for former Royal Navy & Royal Marines, WRNS, QARNNS, RN National Service, RFA or RNXS aged over 60, their spouses, partners, widows & widowers.

3 locations:

Trafalgar Quarters, Greenwich Greenwich Place, Saltash, Cornwall Greenwich Court, Southsea

Plymouth gets funding for walking and cycling prescription pilot scheme

Plymouth City Council has been awarded £1.24 million by Active Travel England to deliver an exciting programme to enable more people to take up walking and cycling for their health and well-being.

The funding is being used to deliver a programme of ‘socially prescribed’ walking and cycling, where health providers, link workers and service providers work together to help people meet their personal activity needs and goals.

As part of the project link workers within GP practices and health and wellbeing hubs will be able to direct people to a range of exciting walking and cycling activities, with the aim being to get more people walking and cycling – and enjoying the health and wellbeing benefits they bring.

Plymouth is one of only 11 locations across the country selected to take part in the Active Travel England social prescribing pilot.

The programme will run until autumn 2025 and will help more people to access support such as adult cycle training, led rides, led walks and complementary programmes like bike maintenance courses and workshops.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Through the project we will be providing an exciting high quality package of walking and cycling initiatives delivered through community engagement which will allow active travel to be part of people’s everyday lives directly improving the health and well-being of residents in Plymouth.”

The project is being delivered by the council’s Plymotion and Public Health teams and Plymotion travel advisors will once more be out and about this month providing information and incentives to help encourage more trips to be on foot, by bike and by bus.

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care added: “Plymouth has a strong background in social prescribing and community-based active travel projects and this project is a great way to bring the two together to improve the health and wellbeing of our residents through active travel.

Enquiries to: ian.wilson@cessaha.co.uk

Or download an application from: www.cessaha.co.uk

“While the project is focussed on social prescribing, everyone can sign up to the activities being delivered. It is designed to have something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced cyclist who wants help maintaining your bike or someone who doesn’t usually walk or cycle but want to give it a go and we’d encourage everyone to take part.”

“What God intended for you goes far beyond anything you can imagine” Oprah Winfrey

Plymouth families can’t get enough of Pennywell Farm!

Plymouth families have enjoyed visiting Pennywell Farm for decades and the attraction remains just as popular today.

Award-winning Pennywell Farm offers a full day of family fun creating memories for families that last a lifetime.

Situated near Buckfastleigh around 20 miles from Plymouth, Pennywell offers something for everyone, from pig racing to tractor rides. Home to over 150 animals there’s no time to waste. Visitors can get up close and personal with all the friendly animals and can experience handfeeding the goats, cuddling miniature pigs or wandering in the miniature pony and donkey paddocks.

Pennywell is the biggest activity farm in the the South West offering a different activity every 30 minutes - including pig racing, deer feeding, goat walking, ferret racing and pig feeding. For further information and to book tickets visit www.pennywellfarm.co.uk

There’s an exclusive Pennywell Farm offer for Chronicle readers - see back page for details.

W E ARE RE C

RUITIN G

Since 1965, Princess Yachts has been manufacturing yachts to international acclaim. Today our shipyards cover an area of over 1 1 million square feet across six sites in Plymouth, employing over 3,000 people

Whether you are beginning your career or looking to take the next step, your skills to the highest level.

We currently have vacancies for a variety of rewarding positions at all levels, including Carpentry, Engineering, Welding, Fabricating and more

Benefits include

• Competitive pay

• Pension contributions

• Employee discounts platform

• 4 and 3 day working week

• Training

• Occupational health

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Flexible shift patterns and more

Discover our range of career opportunities and apply at www.princessyachts com/careers or scan the QR code below

New Forder Valley road needs votes to win top civil engineering award

Plymouth’s Platinum Parkway has been shortlisted for the ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2023 with the public encouraged to get involved by voting for their favourite project.

The Forder Valley Link Road, which includes one of the UK’s largest integral bridges over the Bircham Valley, provides an alternative route between the A38 and the north of the city. The highly complex project for Plymouth City Council, undertaken by main contractor, Balfour Beatty, saw the 140 metre integral bridge constructed over the valley with a 10 per cent gradient to overcome, utilising 35 metre long precast concrete beams.

Fourteen projects from across the South West were shortlisted by a panel of civil engineers to reflect outstanding engineering achievement, innovation, and ingenuity. All the shortlisted schemes must show how they positively improve life for people in the region, whether through growth and economic development, climate resilience and carbon reduction or enriching communities and delivering social value.   The public is in control of choosing the People’s

Delivered on

and

Link Road project includes one kilometre of road and a larger, relocated, signalised junction

Choice Award winner through a free online vote at  ice.org.uk/sw/awards closing at 5pm on August 29.

Miranda Housden, ICE South West regional director, said: “The People’s Choice Award is a great opportunity to promote civil engineering to the public and celebrate the hard work that civil engineers engage in to benefit the region’s

communities. I’d encourage everyone to find out more about the outstanding projects on the shortlist and cast a vote for the scheme they think has had the greatest positive impact for their area or the region as a whole.”

The result will be revealed at a gala event in Bristol in November.

Drake Circus unveils ocean-themed summer installation

Drake Circus’s summer installation has once again transformed the centre’s atrium and Old Town Street into a vibrant underwater spectacle.

Following the popularity of previous installations, this year’s multicoloured display includes eight jellyfish and 11 wrasse fish sculptures in the atrium, with a brand-new marine-themed canopy of seagrass and marine creatures plus a giant jellyfish vinyl across the Cornwall Street entrance providing the perfect photo opportunity for visitors.

The curated ocean display, chosen to celebrate Plymouth Sound becoming the UK’s first National Marine Park, has been created with all materials made from either biodegradable, recyclable or sustainable sources, keeping the importance of conserving the oceans front of mind.

And to entertain visitors throughout the school holidays, the centre is also installing a community event space, providing a platform for local performers, artists, and businesses.

Until early September, the space will enable local community organisations, including We Do Football, Plymouth Library and Surfers Against Sewage, to host a range of interactive workshops and activities for visitors to take part in.

Greg Lumley, centre director at Drake Circus, said: “We’re incredibly excited to reveal our latest summer installation, with last year’s ocean theme proving so popular we wanted to bring it back, but make it even bigger!

“It’s great that we can continue to showcase our city’s maritime

heritage and culture through this fun and bright spectacle, all whilst knowing the display has been curated sustainably. I’m looking forward to welcoming customers to see the installation and take part in the activities in our event space throughout the summer months.”

For further information visit www.drakecircus.com

LEARNHAPPY LEARNHAPPY

Proposals to close rail ticket offices across the country - including Plymouth railway station – have brought a storm of protest

Now Plymouth MP Luke Pollard is calling on rail passengers in Plymouth to resist the Government’s plans and to take part in the official consultation which is only open until July 26.

In the meantime he has urged the Government to save Plymouth train station ticket office from closure, claiming that Great Western Railway plans to cut over 40 per cent of staff at Plymouth Station by closing the ticket office.

The Department for Transport has ordered all train companies across the country to consult on the closure of all ticket offices, including in the far South West. Travel watchdog Transport Focus is running the consultation in the South West.

The closure of nearly 1000 rail ticket offices across Britain could be rubber stamped within two weeks, after the rail industry today launched a 21-day public consultation on their future. Luke warned that the closure would hit disabled, elderly and vulnerable passengers, many of whom rely on ticket office staff as a ‘lifeline’ to book tickets and use the railways.

He also called on the government to be open and honest, emphasising that passengers and station staff deserve better than hearing about the plans in the media.

Luke has written to the managing director of Great Western Rail, Mark Hopwood, to seek assurances about the future of Plymouth ticket office and the job security of rail staff.

Luke said: “The ticket office at Plymouth railway station is a lifeline for so many passengers, including lots of disabled, elderly and vulnerable travellers. I will be fighting tooth and nail to save it from closure.

“When the Conservatives talk about modernising the railways, what they really mean is hitting working people with cuts like this while hiking fares again and again. Labour will end the managed decline of our railways by bringing services back into public ownership.”

Luke has campaigned for the government to improve rail services in the South West since he was elected in 2017.

He also successfully campaigned with Plymouth Youth Music Service for funding from Great Western Rail to install a ‘people’s piano’ in Plymouth train station, installed in November last year.

time

under budget, the Forder Valley

CULTURE’S £98M VALUE TO CITY’S ECONOMY

Key cultural ambassadors from city and towns across the country have visited Plymouth to hear all about the city’s stellar cultural journey.

As The Box prepares to open its major new exhibition of the life and works of Sir Joshua Reynolds, members of the Local Government Association’s Culture Sport and Tourism board were in Plymouth to get the low down on why culture matters as well as see the scale of work going on in Britain’s Ocean City.

As well as attending their own meeting at the Devonport Market Hall, the group were given a tour of the Theatre Royal Production Centre TR2 – where the magic happens in terms of transforming ideas into fantastic stage sets that travel the world. They then ended their day with a tour of the Box.

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “Plymouth was home to Sir Joshua Reynolds who went on to found the Royal Academy. This week the Box will be launching a major exhibition of his work and we will soon celebrate the 300th anniversary of his birthday.

“Art and culture is a key driver for us – in whatever form it takes. Culture is critical to a thriving, exciting city where people want to live, where they go out, do stuff, see stuff, encourage families, children, communities to get involved in performing or creating and learn be curious.

“It takes commitment and courage to keep on this path. But here we are: over 500,000 visitors have now enjoyed the Box, the Theatre Royal continues to attract and create world class productions and the city now has 365 enterprises – one for every day of the year supporting over 2,200 jobs. It’s magnificent –which is why we want to share and show off to our colleagues in local government.”

Deputy Leader Jemima Laing, who is a member of the LGA CTS Board and invited the group to Plymouth, added: “It’s been a mammoth team effort across the city and region and relationships with the Arts Council and Heritage Lottery over 10 years has been pivotal investing £50m in the city.

“Simply put investment in culture stacks up on so many levels: it’s good for our residents, our communities, our sense of worth and place, our night life, our economy and quite simply brings a lot of happiness to many, many people.

“It was a joy to show them all around and share the story of how we got here and our unshakeable commitment to Plymouth’s cultural agenda in the future.”

Some facts and figures about Plymouth’s cultural scene

• It is worth £98m to the city

• £50m external cultural investment in five years

• Visitors spend £34m on cultural tourism

• Plymouth has invested in large scale cultural infrastructure: Ocean Studios, Karst, Market Hall, The Box, and Theatre Royal

• It has hosted the British Art Show twice and the only UK showing of Songlines with the National Museum of Australia

• There are eight non portfolio organisations funded by the Arts Council

• The city has 8000 students studying arts and humanities

• There is a new Arts University

• Plymouth enjoyed a combined cultural audience of 850,000 in the last year

New supported homes for young people who have been in care

Young people who have been in care in Plymouth will benefit from a new accommodation facility which gives them taste of adulthood and independence while ensuring there’s support on hand.

Plymouth City Council has transformed a disused building into self-contained flats for young people who are ready to live more independently, with a mix of four ‘training flats’ for 16 and 17 year olds, and eight flats for young people aged 18 and over.

The accommodation will have a 24-hour staff presence to offer support and guidance to the young people living there, enabling those who are leaving care to still be supported but to manage their own homes.

Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, visited the new flats as they undergo the finishing touches and said: “These new flats are absolutely fantastic, offering a brilliant new accommodation option for care experienced young people in Plymouth as they begin their journey to independence.”

Each flat is comprised of a bedroom, kitchen diner and bathroom and will be fullyfurnished. There’s also parking on-site as well as landscaped communal garden.

Councillor Laing continued: “We take our responsibility to our young people very seriously and as councillors we are ‘corporate parents’ to those children who are, or have experienced being, in care. As every parent knows, that support does not end the moment they turn 18 and support and guidance is still required to help navigate early adulthood.

“As a council, we also consider that being care experienced is a protected characteristic so this is another step on the road to ensuring that these young people get the support they need. By providing this new

accommodation offer, we’re giving them the freedom to manage and enjoy their own space and privacy, with all the benefits of ongoing support and security.”

With limited accommodation offers currently available in the city, young people often have to spend longer than they need to in residential care or with foster parents when they’re ready to move on. The new flats

will help to bridge the gap between being in care and living independently as an adult. The council is working with Pivotal Housing Association and Parallel Independence to deliver the scheme and ensure young people have the support they need.

The first young people to benefit from the facility will be moving into their homes later this summer.

CITY COLLEGE TEAM’S ESPORTS SUCCESS

A team of Plymouth teenagers has represented their college as the South of England Champions and national runnersup at the grand finals of the British Esports Student Championships.

The popular event showcased the top esports teams from England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland competing at the impressive Confetti X - a 100-seater, 4,000 sq ft multi-event esports arena in Nottingham.

City College Plymouth’s team, CCP Lighthouse, had emerged as tough contenders early on, finishing top of their league heading into the championships. They started the competition strong, but ultimately lost out to the Belfast Met Buffaloes in a match streamed live to thousands of spectators on the British Esports Championship Twitch channel.

The young games enthusiasts who took CCP Lighthouse to the grand finals - Tom Francis, Finnley Cooper, Robert Dumitrof, Owen Lloyd, Alex Rogers - all study games development or the new esports program at City College Plymouth. Games development courses have been gaining in popularity over recent years with gamers interested in going behind-the-scenes to design and create their own games, with many of the College’s graduates going on to forge careers in the UK’s burgeoning gaming and virtual reality industries.

Endorsed by The British Esports Association, City College’s new esports course offers students the opportunity to study the techniques, event management, marketing and business acumen behind the lucrative world of competitive gaming.

Finnley Cooper, 18, is part of the college’s first esports cohort and one of CCP Lighthouse’s newly crowned regional champions. He said: “This experience was incredible. I’m so thankful to the college and the British eSports Champions League for giving us this opportunity to compete on such a grand stage. This is something the whole team will remember forever.”

Speaking about the college’s esports success, Luke Wakelin, esports lecturer said: “I am so proud of our team. For the first year of running the esports course it is such an achievement to get to the national grand final competition. This experience really develops those core social employability skills of leadership, character development, and teambuilding, and you can see the positive effect this has had on our students. We can’t wait for next year’s competition!”

Those interested in competing in next year’s British Esports Student Championships can apply for City College Plymouth’s games development and esports courses at www. cityplym.ac.uk

Visiting the new flats (from left) Council Leader Tudor Evans, Councillor Jemima Laing; Mark Cooper, Ecosafe, John Wilkinson, Parallel Independence, Emma Crowther, interim head of commissioning at Plymouth City Council and Lisa Purchase, head of operations at Pivotal Housing

City bartender’s winning cocktail

A talented bartender from Plymouth is mixing it with the best in the business after winning a national competition to create a signature cocktail.

Leon White, has been crowned Grosvenor Casinos Bartender of the Year after wowing the judges’ taste buds with his own mixology creation. Leon’s cocktail was called Saint and Sinner and focused on the duality of the flavour profiles of two of the main ingredients – the citrus of the Cointreau and smokiness of Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Leon, a bartender from Grosvenor Casino Plymouth, impressed the judges with his concoction noting that all the details were so well thought through, from the glassware to the flavour combination and scent of the garnish. Made up of Cointreau, St Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Johnnie Walker Black Label and finished with an orange garnish, Saint and Sinner was a real crowd pleaser at the competition and managed to shake off talent from 51 other Grosvenor Casino venues.

Leon is so passionate about bartending and cocktail-making and loves to make creations for friends and watch cocktail chemistry on YouTube. Being able to do this for a living, and winning titles like Bartender of the Year, is a dream come true for the 24-year-old.

Leon said about his win: “To be recognised as Grosvenor Casinos Bartender of the Year is simply amazing. The competition itself was so inspiring and we ended up rooting for everyone, so the fact that I have won is so shocking to me!

“I am so proud to have my name and casino on the map. Creating cocktails is my passion – I love thinking through everything that goes into making the perfect cocktail, from selecting the right glassware, the chemistry of mixing each flavour to the scent of the garnish!”

George Robertson, National Food & Beverages operations manager at Grosvenor Casinos, said: “Leon really impressed the judges with his Saint and Sinner cocktail – it was the perfect mix of sour and smoke and the smell of the citrus was the finishing touch.

“At Grosvenor Casinos, we love supporting people’s passions, and it’s clear that Leon is able to showcase his passion for cocktail making every day at work.

“We hope that Leon’s win will inspire future mixologists to give bartending a go and consider a rewarding career in hospitality.”

Cost of living boost for hundreds of families

More than 700 Plymouth families will be getting a helping hand with the cost of living thanks to huge improvements to energy efficiency.

Properties will benefit from a range of measures including external wall insulation, cavity insulation and double glazing. Selected properties will also see solar panels and air source heat pumps fitted.

In all, 725 homes across the city will benefit from more than £7 million of investment from the latest wave of the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) which the Council officially received from the government and democratically processed today.

The funding, which was announced earlier this year, will be administered by the Council and delivered by partners Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) and LiveWest

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “I’m delighted to have completed the democratic process of accepting this grant which will mean so much to so many Plymouth households.

“These improvements will go a long way to towards reducing energy costs for residents while helping the city along on its journey to net zero by 2030.”

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member for Housing, added: “Much of Plymouth’s housing stock dates back a few decades so to see so many homes brought up to modern energy spec is very pleasing.

“I’d like to thank our partners at both PCH and

Summer Activities

LiveWest for their investment of both time and money. It’s yet another testament of what can be achieved when partners work together.”

Now that the funds have been received, they will be distributed to PCH and LiveWest who will be responsible for delivery of the work to the homes they own and manage in the city and will match-fund the grants from their own funds.

PCH is the largest social housing association in Plymouth with 16,000 homes, and will receive £5.6 million in grant funding and contribute a further £8.6 million to ensure 600 of its homes across Plymouth benefit from energy upgrades over the next two years.

John Clark, chief executive of Plymouth Community Homes, said: “It’s fantastic news we will be receiving £5.6m of funding in the second wave of funding which we will match-fund ourselves.

“This will help us to make 600 of our social homes in Plymouth more energy efficient, which will in turn help our tenants to reduce their energy bills and keep their homes warm, dry and comfortable, as well as reducing carbon emissions.

“We are grateful for the support of the council in co-ordinating and securing this funding to enable these vital works to go ahead.”

LiveWest meanwhile, will retrofit 125 homes, receive £1.5m and contribute a further £1.8 million from their own funds.

It means that between Government funding and the money contributed from PCH and LiveWest, over £17.4 million will be committed to the project.

Plymouth Fit and Fed are coordinating a series of fantastic opportunities for children, young people and families this summer.

• Holidays Clubs

• Teen Taster Activity Days

• SEND Specific Holiday Programmes

• Fit and Fed On Tour Park Events

Bartender Leon White

On your bike for a thrilling hospice care challenge!

The boldest charity cycling challenge in the South West is back for 2023. St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is inviting bike enthusiasts to get into gear and sign up for the perennially popular Tour de Moor to support compassionate end of life care in the local community.

Whizzing into action on Sunday October 8, the event promises a thrilling two-wheel experience on beautiful, rugged Dartmoor for cyclists of all ages and abilities. This year’s theme is ‘We ride as one for hospice care’ and there’s an exciting option for every rider, whether they are a seasoned competitive cyclist looking for the ultimate adrenaline charge or one who would prefer the buzz of a shorter scenic spin the whole family can join in.

Sponsored by Print Copy Scan, the challenge offers three distinct routes – a fierce hill-filled 52km for aged 12 and up, a brand new intermediate 33km based on Dartmoor National Park’s Granite and Gears Cycle Trail for ages nine and over, and a gentler 11km along the tarmac Drake’s Trail. There’s also a new challenge for school groups.

Registration fees - £35 for the 52km and 33km, and £15 for the 11km - cover the running costs of the event. It’s entrants’ sponsorship and donations that really make the difference for St Luke’s, supporting the critical service it runs 365 days a year, covering Plymouth, South West Devon and East Cornwall.

Penny Hannah, head of Fundraising at St Luke’s, said: “The Tour de Moor challenge offers a terrific combination of fitness, fun and phenomenal

surroundings, and we’re so excited to be ringing the changes this year with a brand new 33km route, as well as an opportunity for school teams to get involved.

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

“We’re incredibly grateful to our Sponsor Print Copy Scan and everyone who takes part. Whether you are cycling in memory of a loved one who was looked after by our teams, or you’re there to push for your personal best performance, it’s your

City project wins national recognition

Environment Plymouth, the city’s strategic green network, is celebrating national recognition.

sponsorship and generous donations that make an enormous difference.”

Director of Print Copy Scan, Karl Welburn, said: “So many families rely on the superb care and support provided free of charge by St Luke’s at the toughest time of their lives. As a community we must never take what the charity provides for granted.

“We’re proud to sponsor Tour de Moor again, knowing that all the money raised by those taking part goes directly to bespoke care for terminally ill people living in the local area.”

The Tour de Moor challenge will depart at Harrowbeer Airfield, near Yelverton, and finishes at the same location. To sign up visit www.stlukeshospice.org.uk/tourdemoor.

Plymouth divers clinch top trophy

Plymouth Diving Club has been awarded the Dawdon Shield Trophy for top club at the Swim England Diving National Age Group Championships 2023.

As the competition reached the later stages at Sheffield’s Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, it looked to be between Plymouth and home club, City of Sheffield.

But with a total of 17 medals won overall across the four days, it was Plymouth who got their hands on the trophy. They took over from Southampton Diving Academy, who were crowned the top club at the 2022 championships.

Plymouth (249) and City of Sheffield (217) were the only clubs to break the 200 point mark – and Southend Diving were the third placed club with 162.

On winning the trophy, Plymouth coach Fito Gutierrez, said: “It’s pretty good. It gives us incentive to keep doing what we’re doing. I think since surviving the pandemic as a club, I’m so glad that all those kids were able to come here and compete. We kept them going for so long and it was so difficult, so I’m very pleased.

As a club, it’s like the cherry on the top, it’s fantastic!

“To see the athletes on the podium is great, but to see them doing their best is what counts and that’s what we’re trying to do – to push them to that level that they might get on the podium or in the top six. That was our target and we achieved that.”

Fito was also awarded the Margaret Davies Trophy as the top coach of the competition.

On winning the award, he added: “You don’t expect it, it’s just something that when it happens, it happens. I’m very pleased and happy that it was me for this competition.”

Plymouth got off to a bright start on the opening day of the competition, winning

three medals – two silver and one bronze.

Youngsters Isla Applin and Harry Westbury were the first to represent Plymouth on the podium in the 3m events.

Applin scored 154.85 points in the Girls Group D 3m to win silver, and Westbury secured bronze in the Boys Group D 3m.

Rounding off the first day was Will Heath and Oscar Westbury who teamed up to earn silver medals in the Boys Group C/D 1m Synchro.

Day two saw heroics from Plymouth’s Noah Underwood, who produced a stunning final dive to clinch the gold medal in the Boys Group B 3m.

In the Girls Group A 1m, Ellie Pearce steamed ahead of her rivals to claim gold and Lexi Davies finished in the bronze medal position in the Girls Group B Platform.

Inspired by the acheivements of their teammates earlier in the day, the afternoon of day two saw Plymouth continue to add to their medal tally.

Ben Hall posted 239.80 to finish third in the Boys Group A 1m to win bronze, Will Heath won another bronze in the Boys Group C 3m and Underwood was back on top of the podium, this time alongside teammate Alex Whittaker, to win the Boys Group A/B 3m Synchro title.

Familiar faces were on the podium during day three, as Lexi Davies added to her personal medal collection with a gold in a close battle for the Girls Group B 1m crown, before joining Erin Healey to claim the Girls Group A/B 3m Synchro bronze.

There was another strong win for Ellie Pearce in the Girls Group A 3m, while Noah Underwood added to his day two success with silver in the Boys Group B Platform, and Plymouth’s Will Heath and Oscar Westbury clinched silver and bronze respectively in the Boys Group C 1m.

The final day of action saw Lexi Davies complete a full collection, adding her first silver to her gold and bronze medals.

After five years, work on the network’s keynote project – Plastic Free Plymouth – was one of three active campaigns shortlisted for the 2023 Surfers Against Sewage’s national Plastic Free Communities Awards in Bristol – an award eventually won by a team from Cornwall. Originally launched in 2017 and inspired by coverage of marine plastic pollution in the BBC’s Blue Planet 2 series, the project has gone on to work with over 350 businesses of all sizes, community groups and individuals and, through the Interreg Preventing Plastic Pollution Project, 18 international partners.

The nomination for the award particularly focused on the action taken to remove plastics from the National Fireworks Championships –action that has since attracted interest from around the UK.

Environment Plymouth’s chair, Hugh Janes said: “These awards are nationwide and have enormous significance within the environmental movement. It shows the work being done by Environment Plymouth is having an impact and it is encouraging to everyone in the team to be recognised in this way.”

Focusing on single use plastics, Plastic Free Plymouth doesn’t expect plastic to disappear. Sadly it is now found in almost every environment and not just kitchens, bathrooms and supermarkets.

Plastic Free Plymouth does, however, ask people to consider what they’re using and to refuse single use plastics in favour of something more eco-friendly. A reusable cup, for example, could prevent up to 168 plastic bottles from entering the waste stream.

To date Plastic Free Plymouth has identified over 80 different, commonly used single use plastics that could be replaced – some very obvious and others a little more unusual.

The campaign is currently developing advice and support specifically for the hospitality, tourism and take away sector in the city as the Government’s planned ban could have a particularly damaging impact on the resources they use every day.

Working with Mallorca’s ‘Save the Med’ project, Plastic Free Plymouth is currently planning how to prepare the sector for the forthcoming bans on single use items being introduced by the Government on October 1.

Project manager, Jackie Young, said: “The new list of items to be banned includes plastic cutlery, balloon sticks, polystyrene containers, plates, bowls and food containers that are not pre-packed. In reality it will revolutionise the take away industry but we are wondering just how many members of this important economic sector know what’s facing them. With expensive orders at stake it is essential that no-one gets caught out.”

A handy guidance document will be published later this summer with accompanying workshops if the demand is there.

Photo credit – Paul Slater

Plymouth Diving Club members with the Dawdon Shield Trophy Photo: Swim England/Morgan Harlow Photography

Children enjoy storytelling sessions at Drake Circus

Drake Circus welcomed nearly 200 pupils from city centre schools for a storytelling session, aimed at helping them fall in love with reading.

Hosted in Drake Circus, the event allowed children from Stuart Road Primary Academy, Pilgrim Primary Academy, and Pennycross Primary School to listen to stories from professional storyteller John Hughes. The event was part of the Young Readers Programme, an award-winning initiative sponsored by Drake Circus owner British Land and run in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, designed to encourage children to read outside of the classroom.

John Hughes, who offers regular

storytelling sessions for both the National Literacy Trust and Alder Hey Hospital, is part of The Windows Project which aims to introduce marginalised groups to the power of language as a creative tool.

During the literacy-focussed event, pupils also took part in a range of fun activities including workshops from LUSH and FatFace and were able to take home a book of their choice.

This marks the twelfth year of British Land’s partnership with the National Literacy Trust, and since the programme launched at Drake Circus, it has supported nearly 3,000 schoolchildren and seen more than 8,400 books donated across Plymouth.

Greg Lumley, centre director at Drake Circus, said: “Supporting our community is very important to us, so we’re incredibly proud of the Young Readers Programme and all the local children and families we’ve been able to support in the last 11 years.

“It was brilliant to welcome the children to the centre. It’s always very rewarding to see how the children are inspired by the stories they hear and start to get excited about reading and bringing their own books home.”

Martin Galway, head of school programmes at the National Literacy Trust, said: “The right book, at the right moment, can change a child’s life. That’s what the Young Readers Programme has been doing with British Land for the last 12 years – giving children from socio-

Unveiling Truth and Providing Support: Triumph in the Face of Mesothelioma

In the face of a difficult and emotional journey, substantial damages were recovered on behalf of a late father’s estate, bringing support to his family. If you or your loved ones have faced a similar situation, Wolferstans LLP are here to provide the legal expertise and guidance you need.

Two years after the father’s passing, doctors suspected mesothelioma, a debilitating illness caused by asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, the diagnosis couldn’t be definitively confirmed during his lifetime,leaving the family in a state of uncertainty and distress. But with the help of Wolferstans’ compassionate legal support, the truth was unveiled.

It is believed that the father’s potential asbestos exposure occurred decades ago, possibly during his apprenticeship as a fitter and turner for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) at Devonport Dockyard in the 1940s.

Asbestos was a prevalent danger in various industries, and individuals like him, dedicated to their work, unknowingly faced its harmful consequences. Although direct witness evidence was not available, the dedicated Industrial Disease team at Wolferstans Solicitors spared no effort in seeking justice for the late father’s estate and his family.

Liz Makin, the solicitor working on the case, tirelessly investigated the circumstances, conducting interviews with the late father’s former colleagues and gathering crucial evidence. It was through the testimony of a fellow dockyard worker who had been involved in navy ship refitting during the 1960s that a breakthrough emerged. Their supportive witness evidence played a pivotal role in establishing the breach of duty and convincing the MOD’s claims handlers of the similar exposure conditions in the 1940s.

The case encompassed a range of important elements, including claims for pain and suffering, care, funeral expenses, and financial and services dependency.

At Wolferstans, the team recognise the profound impact such situations have on families. That’s why they leave no stone unturned in fighting for your rights and ensuring that your needs are fully represented.

Through their relentless efforts and unwavering dedication, they achieved a successful settlement that will provide crucial financial support and assistance. They understand the burdens families face in times like these and are here to help you navigate the legal complexities with compassion, expertise, and a commitment to your well-being.

If you, or your loved one, have experienced a similar situation, Wolferstans are here to offer a guiding hand. Contact the legal experts today on 01752 292212 to schedule a free initial consultation. Their dedicated team will stand by your side, providing the support and advocacy you deserve.

economically disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to experience enchanting story-telling events, and to choose books that speak to their interests and passions.

“Our goal is to spark a love of reading that will last them a lifetime, which in turn will empower them with the literacy skills they need to succeed.”

Happy children with their books

Storytime with John Hughes

Some of the children who took part in the storytelling sessions

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Spanish galleon sets its sights on Plymouth!

A full size replica of a 17th century Spanish galleon will visit Plymouth this summer and be open to locals and visitors to the city to step onboard.

El Galeón will be moored within the Cattewater with visitors being able to explore this ‘living museum’ during her stay.

The impressive tall ship is nearly 50 metres in length and will be impossible to miss when she arrives in Plymouth at the start of August. As a floating museum, members of the public will be able to go onboard and explore the ship’s six decks which offer a fascinating range of features, exhibits and displays.

El Galeón’s live-in crew will also be on hand to talk to visitors and explain more about the ship and the history behind the Spanish galleon fleet which were used predominantly between the 16th and 18th centuries and took the lead role in many of the world’s trade and cultural routes that were the longest in length and duration than any other in the history of maritime navigation. And, while these were the ships that comprised the Spanish Armada which in 1588 attempted, unsuccessfully, to defeat an English fleet led by Sir Francis Drake it was the galleons that brought the “two halves of the Earth” together, exchanging goods, people, cultures, ideas and aesthetics from several continents.

Captain Richard Allan, chief executive and Harbour Master at Cattewater Harbour Commissioners said: “We’re really pleased to have been able to secure a visit from El Galeón as part of her summer programme and to be one of the very few UK ports that she will be visiting as part of her wider European schedule.

“It will be quite a spectacle to have her moored in the Cattewater - vessels such as El Galeón were

the forerunners for the modern day cargo vessels that we have entering the port on a daily basis.”

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure & HR, Plymouth City Council said: “A Spanish galleon in Plymouth? I think we can safely say we’ve all moved on from the days when this would be feared. In fact, it is wonderful to be able to welcome this ship into the Sound and for people to climb aboard and learn about life on board.

“It’s also a good reminder that ships were more than about skirmishes, but about forging trade and culture links between nations.”

Built by the Nao Victoria Foundation at the Punta Umbria shipyard at Huelva in Spain, El Galeón was launched 2009 and has since covered more than 70,000 nautical miles around the world’s oceans, visited ports in four continents, participated in many cultural projects, and has been visited by thousands of visitors at over a hundred ports all over the world.

El Galeón will be in port for five days at the start of August and online booking for tickets will be going on sale shortly. Access to the galleon, which will be moored in the Cattewater, will be via a dedicated tender operating regular crossings from the Barbican Landing Stage each day.

Major investment and jobs boost announced for Freeport

Plymouth City Council is planning new multi-million pound investments

in the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport.

Plans are being developed for £15.6 million of new investment across two Freeport sites in the council’s ownership. The first is a £6.5 million investment in a further phase of the Oceansgate development in Devonport which will deliver 1,772 square metres of high quality lettable space for manufacturing and synthetic testing, creating 49 jobs.

The second is a £9.1 million investment in industrial units at Langage Business Park in Plympton which will deliver 5,615 square metres of flexible, high quality, sustainable workspace, split across four different units at Beaumont Way and create 138 jobs.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “One of our key priorities is driving green investment, jobs and skills. The Freeport does exactly that.

“This is an historic opportunity for Plymouth to fully orientate our economy into delivering more skilled jobs and become a core

Gold for council’s support for Armed Forces community

Plymouth City Council has been recognised by the UK Government for supporting the Armed Forces community. The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, the highest badge of honour, recognises the positive role that employers play in supporting the Armed Forces community. The council have been working hard to keep Armed Forces at the heart of Plymouth, its history and culture. This work includes leading a citywide Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) interest business group whose focus is to increase businesses community engagement;increase the number of businesses signed up to the AFC Employee Recognition award and work with businesses and partners to secure employment for veterans and those about to leave service (Skills Launchpad).

Oceansgate...£6.5m investment announced

international trading location. It is my priority now to make sure it delivers, driving forward our plans to create at least 3,500 jobs across the city.

“We want the Freeport to not only be an economic boost for the city, but also be a hotbed of innovation. Whilst these plans are still in their infancy, it is clear that we are ambitious and driven to move forward at pace.

“The end result will be that we not only attract investment, and stimulate growth in green technologies to help our economy, but we put Plymouth on the map as a city where it make’s financial sense to do business.”

The Freeport in Plymouth and South Devon is a zone designated by the Government with certain allowances to boost the economy, such as lower taxes and customs e.g. VAT or duties.

The Freeport aims to unlock millions of pounds worth of funding for the region, encouraging a resurgence of economic activity with businesses more inclined to open in the area. In turn, this will create thousands more jobs and bring vast investment into the local community.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure, Human Resources and Organisational Development, said: “The Armed Forces are part of Plymouth’s DNA – they are at the heart of Plymouth and central to our history, our present and our future.  As a council, we are immensely proud of our Armed Forces community and the value it adds to our city.

“As one of the city’s largest employers, we develop our internal people policies and procedures to support the Armed Forces as well influence other organisations in the city. This work includes leading a citywide Armed Forces Covenant interest business group and working with businesses and partners to secure employment for veterans and those about to leave service.

“And as part of our Skills 4 Plymouth plan we help connect veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces and their families with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs. As an employer of more than 20 veterans, we also offer a guaranteed interview scheme for service leavers.

“We are very proud to achieve this Gold award and it is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces.”

Councillor Pauline Murphy, Armed Forces Champion, said: “It is fantastic that the Council have been recognised for the brilliant work that is done throughout the city to support our strong Armed Forces community.

“As President of the Federation of ExServices, and the Royal British Legion Crownhill Branch, I am really passionate about supporting the Armed Forces community in the city, this is so important to me.”

Free fun for families in Plymouth this summer

To help residents struggling during the cost of living crisis, Plymouth City Council is sharing details of all the free activities, events and things to do in the city. This is a key element of the council’s new cost of living action plan, which is set to be launched in August.

There’s a huge range of free things for everyone to enjoy in Plymouth during the summer holidays, meaning families can have fun and make memories without worrying about the impact on their budgets and the rising cost of living. Here’s just a selection of what’s on offer:

The Box: The museum is free to visit and this summer will be celebrating light and colour with family activities inspired by their ‘Reframing Reynolds’ and ‘Dappled Light’ exhibitions. Each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout the school holidays

enjoy children’s yoga and mindfulness sessions, science activities and creative sessions at no extra cost.

Plymouth libraries: The Summer Reading Challenge for children aged four to 11 is a fun way to get kids reading during the holidays. Children aged four to 11 who read six or more library books, including eBooks and audiobooks, during the summer holidays will receive a medal and certificate. Kids can sign up for free at any Plymouth library and will be given a pack to help track their progress, as well as an online profile to play games and earn badges as they discover new books. Libraries across Plymouth will also be hosting lots of free events throughout August, including craft activities, board game sessions and Lego clubs.

Fit and Fed: There are free community events taking place at parks and green spaces across the city on Tuesdays during August, where children can enjoy free games, activities and lunch:

• Tuesday August 1 at Central Park

• Tuesday August 8 at Ernesettle Green

• Tuesday August 15 at Tothill Park

• Tuesday August 22 at Victoria Park Mount Wise Swimming Pools: There are three amazing pools at Mount Wise, open to everyone for free, including a 25 metre main pool, a fun pool with fountains, and a small shallower pool for young children to paddle in. The pools are open until September 17 and sessions can be booked online.

Family workshops: On Course South West is running fun workshops for children aged 6+ to enjoy with their parents or carers with topics like mask making, theatre play, song writing, woodwork and crafting to try. Book online at www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk.

Plymouth Trails App: Explore and learn about the fascinating history of Britain’s Ocean City with the Plymouth Trails app. The free-to-download app is available on smartphones and offers in-depth, themed guides which spread across the city.

Plymouth Pride: Celebrate Pride on Saturday August 5 in Central Park, with a huge range of entertainment including live performances from artists, bands, drag acts and more.

British Firework Championships: The hugely popular pyrotechnics competition returns to Plymouth Sound on Wednesday and Thursday August 16 and 17. Head to Plymouth Hoe for the best view and extra entertainment including live music and commentary.

West End Carnival: This popular free day out returns to the streets around Plymouth Market in the city centre on Saturday August 26. Enjoy live music, watch street performers including magicians, jugglers and contortionists, follow a fun family trail and join in the parade.

To see more free things to do and lots of information about the cost of living support available locally, visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/ costofliving.

Mount Wise Swimming Pools - three pools with free admission

Free fun and entertainment at the West End Carnival

City’s young people invited to join political summer school

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard is offering young people in Plymouth the opportunity to attend a free two-day political summer school running at the end of July.

After a successful inaugural year, the nonpartisan summer school is being hosted by Luke at the University of Plymouth over two days on July 27 and 28.

The summer school will feature speakers from all the main parties locally, as well as inspirational community leaders from across the city.

Luke said he hopes the summer school will ’break down barriers to politics and help give students the skills and confidence to make a difference in their community.’

Pupils who live in or attend a school in the Plymouth Sutton and Devonport constituency and completed Year 10 to 13 before the summer are invited to apply for one of the spaces, which are capped at 40 on a first-come first-served basis. Sessions in this year’s summer school include speech writing, how to use social media to make a difference and engaging with local political leaders.

Free Dayrider tickets have also been made available to students attending the summer school from Citybus so that travel costs are not a barrier to participation.

Luke said: “Plymouth is full of talented and hardworking young people, but they don’t always have their voices heard. I’m bringing together inspirational community leaders and politicians over a two-day summer school to break down barriers to politics and help give students the skills and confidence to make a difference locally and nationally.

“If you have a son, daughter, niece, nephew, neighbour, or anyone else who would like to take part, please do encourage them to get involved.”

To express an interest or request further information, send an email with name, school year, school and why you are interested in attending to luke.pollard.mp@parliament.uk.

Council pay tribute to Alderman Bob Bishop

Plymouth councillors are to pay tribute to Alderman Bob Bishop after the sad news that he passed away on July 2.

Bob Bishop was elected to the City Council as a Labour member for the St Budeaux ward in 1972 and served continuously as a councillor until his retirement in 1987 – a total of 15 years. He served on many council committees but had a particular interest in leisure and finance and served as shadow chairman on these committees for 10 and 11 years respectively. He was also shadow chairman of the Personnel Sub-Committee.  He was instrumental in leading an Anti Vandalism Campaign in the city.

He was Deputy Lord Mayor in 1982/83 and was conferred as an Alderman in September 2000.

Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Mark Shayer, said: “It is with great sadness that we heard the news about Alderman Bishop and our thoughts are with his family at this time. We will be paying our respects as a Council at the next meeting of the Full Council.”

Alderman Bishop’s funeral will take place at St Boniface Church, St Budeaux on Monday July 24 at 12 noon.

Plymouth Practice Plus Group receives Veteran Aware Award

Practice Plus Group Hospital Plymouth has been recognised for providing focused support and care to the local Armed Forces community and has been awarded with Veteran Aware accreditation.

The award has been announced during Armed Forces Week and the hospital celebrated by holding their own Veteran Aware Day on site.

The award was presented by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth Councillor Mark Sawyer and Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) representative, Tony Armstrong.

Veteran Aware accreditation means Practice Plus Group Plymouth has committed to making sure that members of the armed forces community will not be disadvantaged in the care they receive and where possible, receive personalised care to improve patient outcomes in line with the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.

Accreditation was carried out by the VCHA, a national NHS team, that develops, shares and drives the implementation of best practice, while at the same time raising standards for everyone.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve, or who have served, in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

Practice Plus Group Plymouth Hospital joins University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust and St Luke’s Hospice with this award, which means that care and support provided to the Armed Forces community locally has been reinforced.

Practice Plus Group as a whole has signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant, with their other nine hospitals and surgical centres set to follow Plymouth’s lead in due course.

Practice Plus Group Plymouth medical director, Andy Burgess, who is a veteran, said: “Having completed a significant number of deployments in the military, particularly the latter Iraq and Afghan ones, I have had a strong desire to make sure care for our military personnel continues after they have left the military. I have also seen the differences in the way we in the UK treat our veterans compared to the likes of the US who bend over backwards to help theirs. Anyone deployed

to the likes of Afghanistan is never the same and I include myself in that. Anything I can do to help our veterans deal with life in Civvy Street must be useful.”

The South West has one of the highest UK armed forces veteran populations in the UK. In Plymouth, 8.4 per cent of the population aged over 16 years and over have served in the armed forces. Practice Plus Group Hospital Plymouth employ a number of veterans and are now training two of them as health champions for veterans. Grace Todd works as a radiographer at Plymouth Hospital and knows all about the lives of those in the forces. She has served with the Royal Navy and after having children and getting married, she now supports her husband who is serving in the Royal Navy. Her family are all from a Naval background too.

Grace said: “I know all about the pressures of serving, and being at home when my husband is away. I am really excited to be able to have an

input here and be a representative for our Veteran Aware status.”

Another veteran who works at Practice Plus Group Plymouth is James Potter. He is a physician associate, works in anaesthesia and is also a wellbeing champion at the hospital. James was originally a weapons and bomb disposal specialist in the military, before he moved into health care.

James said: “This will allow us to identify veterans and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment that may improve their experience both during their stay and post-op. Many veterans suffer with mental health difficulties and hospitals can be the kind of unfamiliar environment that triggers many of these painful memories.

“I hope, as a veteran suffering with PTSD myself, we are able to use that relative experience to establish bridges with a community that can feel increasingly isolated since the end of the ‘Help for Heroes’ era.”

For more details visit www.veteranaware.nhs.uk/

AQUARIUM CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium celebrated its 25th birthday in July having welcomed seven million visitors during that time.

Since it was established in 1998, the Aquarium has been at the forefront of the UK’s marine conservation industry, fostering wonder and promoting environmental stewardship. In that time it has entertained and informed millions of visitors including more than 600,000 schoolchildren. They have visited as part of either a school trip or educational visit, cementing the Aquarium’s place as a leader in marine education.

To mark the institution’s remarkable journey, a brand new permanent exhibit has been developed and installed overlooking the Aquarium’s iconic Eddystone Reef tank. Not only does this tank have the largest single viewing panel in the UK, it’s also home to a stunning array of local sharks, rays and many more ocean species.

The new exhibit is a fully immersive timeline display, which encapsulates the educational centre of excellence’s 25-year history and draws focus to the future with a dedicated section showcasing the work of the charity which run the National Marine Aquarium - the Ocean Conservation Trust.

Adjacent to the Eddystone Reef, visitors will also find a new-for-25-years temporary exhibit, telling the compelling stories of numerous individuals associated with the Ocean Conservation Trust and the National Marine Aquarium, offering a unique perspective on the human history behind the organisation over its time in existence.

Roger Maslin, chief executive of the National Marine Aquarium and Ocean Conservation Trust said: “The Aquarium was an ambitious project from its inception 25 years ago and remains an incredible facility to this day. The Aquarium is hugely important to the community and we are so fortunate that we get the opportunity to introduce hundreds of thousands of visitors every year to the importance of the ocean and its inhabitants.

“For 25 years we have been driving Ocean conservation through a joyful mix of education and entertainment and long may that continue. Making this landmark is a huge achievement and we are enormously grateful to everyone who has been involved in our journey.”

2023 will also see the Ocean Conservation Trust launch its ‘A Dip in the Sea’ campaign, an initiative to provide essential swimwear and accessories to those who need them most, enabling local communities to fully enjoy the oceans.

The scheme calls on residents to donate swimwear they no longer use so that it reaches those who need it. Items such as swimming costumes and trunks, swimming caps, beach shoes, wetsuits, buoyancy aids, swim shoes, towels, new sun cream, goggles, buckets and spades and more are welcome.

This summer also features a series of celebratory events, including Sleeping with Sharks, the chance to snorkel at the Aquarium and with the Ocean Conservation Trust in the UK’s first National Marine Park.

Plymouth Lord Mayor Cllr Mark Shayer and Tony Armstrong of the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance present the Veteran Aware Award

Saltram and The Box exchange works for Sir Joshua Reynolds exhibition

The National Trust at Saltram have partnered with The Box to exchange works from their collections to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the birth of one of England’s greatest artists Sir Joshua Reynolds.

To Tell Them Where It’s Got To a small painting by artist Lynette Yiadom-Boakye loaned by The Box, is now hanging in the Red Room at Saltram in place of Reynolds’ portrait of Francesco Bartolozzi (1773), encouraging a comparison of different approaches to portraiture.

In return, two paintings from Saltram are shown at The Box in Reframing Reynolds: A Celebration. These are Reynolds’ portrait of Florentine engraver Bartolozzi and one of the artist’s great works, the newly cleaned portrait of Theresa Parker which was completed in 1773.

In contrast to the surrounding historic painting collection at Saltram, depicting known people in public displays of status, Yiadom-Boakye is inspired to create paintings of invented people created from found images, and her imagination.

Lynette Yiadom-Boakye initially learned to paint by working from life but changed her approach whilst studying at Falmouth School of Art. She realised she was less interested in making portraits and more in the act of painting itself. The painting displayed was shown in 2022 at Tate Britain in the arist’s solo international touring exhibition and can be seen hung at Saltram until the end of October.

It is the first time in 250 years that Reynolds’ full-length

portrait of his patron and friend Theresa Parker has been displayed outside of Saltram’s Saloon – the place for which it was commissioned – since its completion and display at the Royal Academy of Arts in 1733.

The painting recently underwent cleaning at the Trust’s Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio and will return to Saltram for visitors to view again from 2024. In the interim a print of the painting by Thomas Watson is displayed at Saltram in its place. Theresa Parker commissioned the print in part because her brother in Spain was desperate to see the painting.

Victoria Pomery, chief executive at The Box said: “Staging a major exhibition like ‘Reframing Reynolds: A Celebration’ would not be possible without the support of a range of partners, so we’re delighted to have collaborated with the National Trust to help tell the story of Reynolds’ life and career, and to have loaned a work to them as well.

Saltram’s grand portrait of Theresa Parker is the first painting visitors see when they arrive in the exhibition and it looks stunning post-conservation. In return, Lynette Yiadom-Boakye has received great acclaim for her paintings in recent years, and we hope audiences to Saltram House will enjoy making the connections between her work and the other historic paintings it’s displayed alongside.”

Reframing Reynolds: A Celebration is at The Box until October 29.

University’s degree apprenticeships are praised by Ofsted inspectors

Plymouth University has been praised for the quality of its degree apprenticeships and how they are helping to meet regional and national skills priorities.

An Ofsted inspection, carried out in May, gave the University an overall rating of ‘Good’ in all four categories; quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and leadership and management.

It highlighted that apprentices value the programmes they are studying, the opportunities they get to build their confidence and resilience, and the professional and welfare support they receive to help them achieve their goals.

The University launched its first degree apprenticeships in 2017, shortly after they were introduced by the Government to give employees the chance to earn while they learn.

Initially its programmes included information technology and business management, but since then it has expanded its offering to cover subjects in health, social care, digital and technology solutions, professional and civil engineering.

These programmes have enabled more than 1,500 students to start a degree apprenticeship and the University has worked with more than 250 companies right across England.

Professor John Curnow, Deputy ViceChancellor for Education and Student Experience said: “This report is a hugely positive endorsement of our degree apprenticeships programme. It shows that we are meeting the needs of employers in

the South West and beyond at a time when they are increasingly looking at ways to upskill their workforce.”

The new report marks the first time the University’s degree apprenticeships programmes have been fully inspected by Ofsted since they were introduced.

In addition to praising the overall quality of the programmes, inspectors were impressed by the way apprentices were given demanding tasks that build on what they already know.

They highlighted that many apprentices achieve the highest grade possible, while many others secure a job promotion into a more senior job role or move on to undertake more complex tasks.

They also praised how lecturers use their current research to help apprentices overcome challenges, something applied across the University through its commitment to research-informed teaching.

Above: Reynolds’ full length portrait of Theresa Parker which will be displayed outside Saltram for the first time in 250 years Below: Reynolds’ portrait of Francesco Bartolozzi

Dental task force aims to get to the root of the problem

The first city-wide task force, set-up to tackle the city’s growing dental crisis, has hit-the ground running with organisations committing to working together to improve NHS capacity in Plymouth.

There are currently over 21,000 people in Plymouth waiting for an NHS dentist. This is an increase of nearly 120 per cent over the past five years.

One of the priorities of the new administration was to set-up a cross-party Dental Task Force, bringing together key stakeholders, local MPs and NHS leaders from across the city to discuss what can be done to improve dental provision in Plymouth.

The task force met for the first time on July 7, with senior representatives from the council, cross-party Councillors, NHS Devon and the two largest providers of NHS dental care in the city – Livewell Southwest and the Peninsula Dental School.

Chair of the task force, Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care at Plymouth City Council, said: “Our poor dental provision is impacting the daily lives of some of our most vulnerable residents. This can’t go on.

“This first task force meeting was set-up as a proactive step to see how we can all work smarter together – to improve local services and importantly make a difference to people’s lives.”

At the meeting, NHS Devon committed to working with the main providers of NHS dental care in Plymouth, to look at whether local underspends in other areas of NHS dental provision could be re-prioritised. Currently, some high street providers are not able to provide NHS appointments. This means that the funding that is available for NHS dental treatment is not being used and subsequently returned.

In addition, as plans

progress for the Peninsula Dental School’s new high-street practice in the city centre, NHS Devon has agreed to work with them to help make their ambition a reality. At the same time, Livewell South West and the Dental School will also start working more closely together to move capacity between their organisations, hopefully freeing up more appointments.

And finally, as plans to open a city centre health-hub at Colin Campbell Court are not possible, funding for the five dental chairs at the proposed hub still exists. Plymouth City Council will work with the NHS to establish other opportunities in the city to locate the service.

Councillor Aspinall, added: “This was a really successful first meeting. It is clear that there is still a lot of work to do, but we have made a positive first step in trying to ensure that more people have access to an NHS dentist in Plymouth.

“It is shocking that there are no dentists taking new NHS patients in Plymouth. There are thousands of people who are not able to get an appointment.

“But, if we are able to work together, reprioritise resource and funding, I am confident that we will be able to free up more capacity.

“One thing is clear – this is not something that we can do alone. The national approach to dentistry is intrinsically flawed. Our MPs have therefore committed to working together to lobby the Government for a fairer approach for Plymouth.

“I have said before that the time for posturing is over. We need action. We need to increase access to urgent and emergency dental care, we need to improve access to services for the most vulnerable children and adults and those with complex needs. We can do our bit – but that will only go so far. We now need the Government to step-up and play their part.”

Armada Way tree felling rowindependent review announced

An independent review into the handling of the Armada Way redevelopment has been announced by the Leader of Plymouth City Council.

At the full Council meeting in March, members agreed a recommendation to ask the Cabinet to set up an independent review into the handling of the Armada Way redevelopment, leading up to the decision to fell the trees.

At the Cabinet meeting on July 10, Councillor Tudor Evans announced that a review would be commissioned that will:

• Be truly independent, with an independent and senior chair

• Look in detail at the decision making process that took place, both in terms of legality and good governance

• Examine how well the Council engaged with stakeholders throughout the process and the extent to which feedback was incorporated into the plans

• Examine the impact of the project on the local environment

• Set out the financial implications of what has happened, including the costs directly to the council

Councillor Evans, said: “Whilst it was not my administration that was responsible for the taking the decision to fell the trees on Armada Way, it has been my number one priority since taking control of the council to overturn the March decision, clean-up the mess, rebuild our reputation and move forward with a positive plan that will bring life back into the city centre.

“Our new Corporate Plan sets out our ambition to take responsibility for our decisions and the impact of our actions. Therefore, we need to understand what happened and learn from any lessons.

“Whilst the detail is still being worked up, the review will be thorough, independent and the findings will be shared publicly.

“As soon as we have consulted on a new scheme and finished the clean-up of the current mess on Armada Way, I want this review to move forward.”

Council staff are currently working on terms of reference for the review, which will take place before the end of the year, and will be presented to full council for consideration when it is completed.

Stoke Fun Day proves another big success

Hundreds of people flocked to Stoke Village on Sunday July 16 for the popular Fun Day.

With several events across the area having to be cancelled the day before because of heavy rain and high wind, organisers were holding the breath for the big day.

Fortunately, the prayers of one of the early artists on stage, Dave Cross, were answered, and the Stoke Fun Day ran its course with only one short lived shower.

The Fun Day was a great success: Devonport Road was closed for the day to allow stalls to spill out from the nearby Blockhouse Park and let local businesses feel part of the festivities.

There were over 50 stalls in total selling everything from cows’ ears (and other dog delicacies) to semi precious polished stones which proved irresistible to ten year old boys.

Local businesses did a roaring trade and the Fun Day organisers were especially grateful to those who really entered into the spirit of the event. Huge thanks go to Paul Smith from Stoke Café for offering free hot drinks to hard working volunteers and to Muradi Farhadi for providing them with free pizza at the end of a very long day.

by Gables Cat and Dog Home, musical entertainment on two stages, some spoken word poetry from the Village Hub Words Group, Crooked Tempo Samba Band and Dartmoor Border Morris Dancers.

The Morris Dancers were able to perform this year in the newly developed Village Square Garden which is a great asset to Stoke Village, designed by local resident Kenny Raybould and planted and maintained entirely by local people. The Samba Band led a procession of local people happy to shout out the message ‘Love the Place you Live!’

Comments collected on the day included ‘Amazing to see local kids performing and rocking out!’ and ‘Everyone is so kind and friendly.’

The Fun Day is just an expression of the goodwill that already exists in the local community and the organisers – Diverse Events and The Village Hub – were delighted to facilitate this.

ANNIVERSARY FUN FOR ERNESETTLE’S BIG FUN DAY

Residents and families in Ernesettle have lots to look forward to when the 10th Ernesettle Fun Day takes place on Saturday August 5.

Organised by the Ernesettle Community Forum Fund, the popular event takes place on Ernesettle Green from 12 noon to 5pm.

There will be lots of fun activities for all ages with an afternoon of fun for all the family. Attractions include a variety of stalls, dog show, bouncy fun, games sweet treats, cream teas and more.

For further details or to book a stall or volunteer contact natcoffin@outlook.com

State-of-the-art laboratory facilities are opened following £1.35m grant

New, state of the art laboratory facilities have been officially opened at Plymouth’s Marine Biological Association, which is based in Citadel Hill.

The new Marine Microbiome Centre of Excellence (MMCE) will focus on the vast and varied microscopic world in the ocean, and help researchers understand its health and the impacts of climate change using worldclass technology.

MBA chief executive Professor Willie Wilson said: “The Marine Biological Association has been a launch pad for many pioneers of microbiology; and with this funding we are delighted to continue our journey to become a world-class facility and fulfil our ambition to be the voice of marine biology.

“The research conducted at the new centre will be a lens to a marine microbial world that is critical for the planet’s health, it is akin to the role the human gut bacteria play in human health.”

The new facilities, which took six months to construct, were made possible thanks to a £1.35 million grant from the Wolfson Foundation.

Paul Ramsbottom, chief executive of the Wolfson Foundation said: “We were delighted to support the Marine Microbiome Centre of Excellence, the first of its kind in the UK. This project will advance our understanding of the invisible worlds and ecosystems beneath the ocean, and we look forward to seeing the results of this important research.”

And once again the local Stoke Ward councillors supported some of the costs of ensuring the Fun Day ran in a professional manner with sufficient toilets, bins, security, ambulance presence and a safe road closure.

In addition to stalls, there was bouncy entertainment and a carousel for children, a dog show hosted

Appeal for witnesses after yacht smuggles in migrants

The National Crime Agency is appealing for information from members of the public after eight men were arrested in Devon following a people smuggling attempt using a sailing yacht.

NCA investigators believe an organised crime group brought a number of migrants across the Channel from France on a 30ft yacht called Timberwolf.

The yacht was seen moored just off Mothecombe Beach on Tuesday July 4. The migrants were transported to shore in a dinghy, and were picked up in a black Mercedes 180.

NCA officers would like to speak to anyone who was at the beach between the hours of 9am and 1pm on July 4 and witnessed the incident. They are also seeking any images or footage taken on mobile phones.

Six men aged between 28 and 41 were arrested by Devon and Cornwall Police on suspicion of facilitation of illegal migration in the vehicle that was seen leaving the beach area.

The yacht was then stopped by Border Force officers as it was sailing on to Plymouth. A 24-year-old man from Putney and the boat’s captain, a 58-year-old man from Devon, were also arrested on suspicion of facilitation of illegal migration.

The men have all been questioned by NCA officers and released on bail.

NCA Branch Commander Matt Rivers said: “Tackling people smuggling is a

priority for the National Crime Agency.

“An organised crime group will have been behind this smuggling attempt.  Criminals do not care about those they transport –they will be exploiting them for profit.

“Our investigation into this group continues, but we would also like to hear from any witnesses who were at the beach at the time of this incident.”

Anyone with information or images should email communication@nca.gov.uk or call 0370 496 7622 quoting ‘1418791’.

The yacht involved in the NCA swoop pictured in Plymouth

The Dartmoor Border Morris Dancers made good use of the new Stoke Village Square at the Fun Day Photos: Roy Perring

Submarine refit will sustain 1,000 jobs

NEW RESEARCH SHOWS IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SOCIAL BENEFITS OF MINDFUL ART CLUB

People who attend community art groups enjoy significant social benefits and improved mental health, according to a new research study.

The research has been led by Dr Helen Lloyd, associate professor of Psychology at the University of Plymouth, in collaboration with two researchers Abbie Scott BSc, and Rachel Mullee BSc. The research project was co-designed by a committee which included the art club participants, art club volunteers, and the Mindful Art Club directors Peggy Melmoth and Emma Sprawson.

Peggy and Emma met when they were working in Broadreach, an addiction treatment centre in Plymouth that closed down in 2019. Peggy said: “When we were made redundant we wanted to carry on offering mental health support in the community, without finances or waiting lists being a barrier to access help.”

Emma said, “I’m trained in mindfulness and have a teaching qualification; Peggy is a qualified counsellor, and we offer free, weekly support groups in and around Plymouth.”

The research study was funded by the university’s Get Involved Awards, and the findings concluded that creative activities provide a distraction from negative thoughts and social anxiety. Art encourages ‘flow’– a relaxing empowering experience, and attending Mindful Art Club can boost confidence and

self-esteem while reducing social isolation.

The research also found that participants made statistically significant improvements in their mood from attending the art sessions. Attendance at Mindful Art club also improved participants’ level of social connect, facilitated emotional regulation strategies and supported positive mental wellbeing.

Mindful Art Club offers a number of free weekly drop-in groups in Plympton and Plymouth. They also deliver one-off staff wellbeing sessions, and six-week courses for local wellbeing organisations such as Devon Mind and The Sunflower Women’s Centre.

Art club participant, Kerry Evans, said: “I come to Mindful Art Club on a Friday afternoon at Moments Café. The art club help so many people through tough times, they help with isolation issues, mental health of all kinds and loneliness, They have personally helped me through all of these challenges and more. I feel passionate about making sure Mindful Art continues on a regular basis, and I would feel lost, lonely and depressed again without it in my life.”

Mindful Art Club have launched a Crowdfunder campaign to raise funds to carry on their weekly support group at Moments Café, in Plymouth’s city centre. There are rewards on offer in return for donations. Visit: www. mindfulartclub.co.uk/donate/

Calling former Boys’ Brigade members

Former members of the Boys’ Brigade may be interested to know there is a Stedfast Association for old boys, retired officers and those who have an interest in the Boys’ Brigade. This year the Boys’ Brigade celebrates 140 years since it was founded in Glasgow in 1883 and there will be an opportunity to mark that event later on in the year.

The Plymouth Stedfast Association meets almost every month of the year for a social gathering with coffee, quizzes and games together with an annual outing, Thanksgiving Service and Founder’s Day Dinner.

The Plymouth organisation was started in 2004 by men who in 1954 were 16 to 18 years of age and went to an international camp on the playing fields of Eton. So it means that many members are now in their 80s. Their aim is to try and attract younger former Boys’ Brigade members, retired officers and helpers and those with an interest in Boys’ Brigade.

If you feel that you would like to rekindle old memories, please come along and join us. Contact Alan Keast on 07535028130 or email at plystedfast@gmail.com

Preparation work has started on HMS Victorious ahead of a planned multi-million pound refit which will sustain hundreds of jobs.

The maintenance programme on the Vanguard-class submarine, taking place in Babcock’s Devonport facility, will sustain more than 1,000 jobs in the south west region and will see the boat modernised and improved to continue operational patrols into the 2030s.

The multi-million pound, longterm programme will involve Babcock employees from those working directly on the boat to others working in production, design, commissioning and the wider supply chain.

HMS Victorious’ arrival is in tandem with significant investment in the naval base’s facilities, creating additional jobs for people in the region.

As well as supporting the maintenance of existing and future classes of submarines, it will also enhance Devonport Dockyard’s ability to deliver major defence projects.

Brigadier Mike Tanner, commander of HMNB Devonport, said: “I am delighted to announce that the work has begun to prepare HMS Victorious as she commences her major refit.

“This activity will sustain jobs and key skills for Plymouth and the wider south-west region for the foreseeable future.”

Victorious arrives in Devonport

Paul Watson, managing director of Babcock’s Devonport facility, added: “As part of the UK’s critical continuous at sea deterrent, HMS Victorious represents one of the most complicated pieces of engineering there is.

“Work on the vessel has started and the capability, knowledge and experience our people have gained through the delivery of similar projects supporting the Royal Navy fleet, along with new and innovative and collaborative approaches with our customer, means we are well

prepared to deliver this important overhaul project.”

HMS Victorious and the rest of the Vanguard fleet are key components in the UK military’s longest operation –Operation Relentless.

Since 1969, at least one nucleararmed ballistic missile submarine is maintaining the continuous at sea deterrent posture at all times, deterring the most extreme threats to the UK and the country’s way of life.

The Vanguard fleet will be replaced by the Dreadnought-class submarines from the early 2030s.

Raising the roof in St Budeaux!

Fundraisers are literally raising the roof after a grant of more than £50,000 was made to St Budeaux Parish Church Community Hall.

Since the creation of the Community Hall in the 1960s, the church has extended its reach and now hosts more than 25 clubs, groups and organisations each week. These include a baby and toddler group, exercise and dance clubs; a social club for the over 50’s along with the traditional Guides and sewing group. There is also a weekly drop-in session and food larder run in partnership with the charity Christians Against Poverty who offer debt advice and financial support to individuals and families.

Several regulars travel from outside St Budeaux, such as, the group of adults with learning difficulties from the Highbury Trust on Outland Road, who attend the popular monthly Community Lunch Club. The hall is also a much loved venue frequently hired out by local residents for celebrations, birthday parties and anniversaries.

The 60 year old building has undergone a series of improvements since the St Budeaux Church Community Hall Development

Committee was established in 2010 to regenerate the hall. Thrilled with its early success of raising £4,000 to replace rotting windows and supported with training, funding information and ‘business’ advice by POP Ideas, the team kept going.

Up to now it has raised almost £200,000 which has paid for, among other things, a catering-kitchen –enabling the provision of ‘lunch clubs – access and facilities for people with disabilities; a foyer and new toilets And now with a Biffa Award grant of more than £50,000 the St Budeaux Church Community Hall can, quite literally, raise the roof! Liz Webb, one of the fundraisers on the committee,

is delighted. She said: “It’s such wonderful news. This is the biggest grant we’ve received and means we can replace the original copper roof which is leaking and has been repaired many times. We’ll also be reclaiming the copper, selling it, and reinvesting the money for the benefit of our community.”

Biffa Award is a multi-millionpound fund that awards grants to help build communities and transform lives as part of the Government’s Landfill Communities Fund. In awarding the grant, Biffa Award, clearly recognised the significant social value of the Church Community Hall.

HMS

Pictured at the Get Involved Awards (from left) Peggy Melmoth, Kerry Evans, Emma Sprawson, Helen Lloyd and Abbie Scott

St Budeaux Parish Church Community Hall

Experience

This week, Kerry and I watched an old film produced in 1942 starring Noel Coward called ‘In Which We Serve’.

It was a film created to inspire the audience to endure what at that time required great courage and service from all who found themselves facing the existential threat from Nazi Germany. The end of the film focusses on the Navy’s role at Dunkirk, which was at first a great defeat, but eventually regarded as a great miracle with the saving of almost 330,000 army personnel from the beaches of France.

Also, the great bombing and loss of life in Plymouth is also creatively documented. They don’t make films like this anymore!

As I grow older, I am often conscious of my mortality and relationship with God and the natural thought processes that go along with what some folk of my age experience, by on occasion being labelled as a ‘grumpy old person’ especially in making sense of a changing landscape in society for good or ill.

In talking with my wife about these philosophical questions, I don’t think I’m any grumpier than many people my age. Growing older isn’t always fun and what is there to look forward to? Yet there is much from the

Growing old can be fun too!

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms charity

Bible that can really help in this process of ageing. I think, like a lot of people who have been around a long time, you can mature in terms of simple common sense and wisdom. You’ve survived this long –right? In many cultures, the elders of the family are honoured for precisely that – growing old. Precisely because they are still around, and their life experiences can be regarded as wisdom and worth drawing on by younger members of the family.

Isaiah 46:4 – ‘And I will still be carrying you when you are old. Your hair will turn grey, and I will still carry you. I made you, and I will carry you to safety’. My moustache is grey, but my hair is holding out pretty good. I have spent many years in media youth ministry surrounded by great music and the exuberance which comes

PLYMOUTH LAW FIRM WINS COVETED REGIONAL AWARD

Local firm Howard & Over have lifted a prestigious Law Firm of the Year Award.

The company, which has offices in Marsh Mills, Plymouth and Ivybridge, won the under £3 million category at this year’s Devon and Somerset Legal Awards, beating fierce competition from some of the region’s best legal names and becoming the first Plymouth firm to win the award.

Howard and Over are a local law firm with a 100-year legacy delivering quality legal services to Plymouth and the surrounding areas. The team were shortlisted for no less than four awards including Employer of the Year, Rising Star, Team of the Year and Law Firm of the Year.

To the team at Howard and Over’s delight they were announced as the winners of the Law Firm of the Year, their first award and recognition for their long heritage as a leading light supporting

Plymouth’s legal needs.

Donna Baker one of the three Partners at the firm commented: “We are beyond elated by this fantastic accolade. There is something so special about being a small firm with big ambitions and we can’t thank our amazing team and clients enough for being our cheerleaders every step of the way.

“As a team we love what we do, we love helping our clients to get the best outcomes and to get recognised for it, is just a huge bonus that we are so grateful for.”

Tony Steiner, chief executive of Devon and Somerset Law Society said: “Although it was a close call for the judges with some impressive competition in the category, it was Howard & Over’s change management story and transformation from decline into impressive growth that really won the judges over.”

with youth. I’m aware that many young people, including my children and grandchildren, will have to face issues that my generation didn’t.

I am also aware that many of our forbears endured deprivation and difficulties that saved our nation from annihilation as they navigated through World War Two. We’re all on a journey.

What inspired me to write this article were the circumstances of watching the 1942 film and reading an obituary written by Mark Greene of the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity (LICC) in 2022 of the late Queen. He started the article by asking God in 2015 for an example of a whole-life disciple of Jesus Christ and felt the Lord bring his focus on Queen Elizabeth II. It is a great article and worth reading. It has nothing to do

with being a royalist or not, but a focus on a person who lived their faith as best they could in alignment to Him and shared every Christmas about how this personal faith in Jesus Christ encouraged her in life.

The Queen knew the scriptures about God putting the broken into families and the realities that families are made up of broken people. Her family life was on show for all the world to see.

For better or worse she endeavoured with her great wisdom to be a source of reconciliation, love and care for all. We all, whether young or old, have the opportunity to leave the planet a little better than we found it by the wise choices we make in the good and bad times.

The obituary written by Mark Greene is worth a read again. This is where social media can be such a blessing. Have a great summer.

www.licc.org.uk/resources/obituaryqueen-elizabeth-ii-beacon-of-grace/

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

Apprenticeships accolade for Tops Day Nurseries

Tops Day Nurseries, a leading provider of high-quality childcare and early education, has been listed 12th in the prestigious Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK, by the Department of Education.

This recognition highlights Tops Day Nurseries’ commitment to nurturing talent, fostering professional growth, and providing exceptional apprenticeship opportunities. Their training provider, Aspire Training Team, couldn’t be prouder of Tops Day Nurseries, it is through Aspire’s hard work and training that Tops is able to hire apprentices, so this achievement is a testament of all the great work Aspire do.

The Department of Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers initiative celebrates organisations that go above and beyond in their dedication to apprenticeship programs. Tops Day Nurseries’ exceptional placement at 12th reflects its consistent efforts to develop a supportive and engaging environment for apprentices, offering them the chance to gain valuable skills and kickstart their careers in the childcare and education sector.

With five nurseries in PlymouthBretonside, Devonport, Efford, Prince Rock and Stonehouse – among 30 across the South and Southwest, Tops Day Nurseries is renowned for its outstanding provision of early years education, prioritising the well-being and development of children in their care. By extending their commitment to excellence, Tops Day Nurseries has successfully created a thriving learning environment for its apprentices, enabling them to acquire hands-on experience and receive comprehensive training from industry professionals.

Cheryl Hadland, founder and chairwoman at Tops Day Nurseries and Aspire Training Team said: “It brought tears to my eyes to hear the stories from our apprentices and our new CEO’s inspiring words. I’m very proud to be chair of Tops and Aspire and look forward to even more success with our apprenticeships in the future as we learn more about the needs and aspirations of each new colleague and try to reduce or remove any blocks to each individual person’s success and inclusion in our organisation”.

Tops Day Nurseries’ apprenticeship programmes offer a structured pathway for individuals seeking to enter the childcare and education sector and the recognition as as being one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer by the Department of Education underlines Tops Day Nurseries’ position as a leading provider of quality apprenticeships.

For more information about Tops Day Nurseries, visit their website at www. topsdaynurseries.co.uk or to find out more about Aspire Training Team, visit www. aspiretrainingteam.co.uk

Chris Cole

The Howard & Over team are presented with their Law Firm of the Year Award

Dial the Experts

Architecture

The Door Doctor - 24 hr Locksmith

• Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting

• Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs

• Replacement Glass • Free Quotes

30 PERCY TERRACE, PLYMOUTH, PL4 7HG

Tel 01752 516877 Mob 07989 599969

Blinds & Curtains

UK Blinds Plymouth Ltd

R.C. Electrical - Ryan Cross

Fully qualified ‘Approved Electrician’ NIC EIC Registered

Carpenters

ALLWOOD INSTALLATIONS

Trading Standards approved company

Bespoke joinery • doors • staircases • bars

Box frame windows • counters • PCstations.

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

All associated plumbing,electrical & tiling

Tel 07704448835 www.allwoodinstallations.co.uk

01752348648 allwoodinstallations@icloud.com

MALCOLM WILLS CARPENTRY

All aspects of carpentry. Home Improvements, Alterations, Flooring and Doors, Small jobs undertaken. Senior Citizens Rates. Call for an estimate: 07599 888841 or 01752 255154

STEVE ELECTRICAL

Fully qualified and insured electrician • all electrical work considered • Over 25 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business

• NICEIC cert • Rewires

• Certification for minor or major work Very competitive prices/ high quality work. Will beat all other reasonable quotes.

• Call Steve 07894 208842

Garden

Ofsted inspectors ‘Good’ rating for pre-degree and sixth form campus at Arts University Plymouth

Arts University Plymouth’s Pre-Degree and Sixth Form campus has been awarded a ‘Good’ rating by Ofsted, maintaining the rating that was also given in inspections in 2007, 2013 and 2017.

An overall rating of ‘Good’ was given for every category of the 2023 inspection, including the quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management, education programmes for young people, and provision for learners with high needs.

Arts University Plymouth offers a dedicated Pre-Degree and Sixth Form campus where young people can develop their unique perspective, meet like-minded people and gain the sought-after skills and UCAS points necessary to progress onto university study or roles within international creative industries.

Palace Court and Palace Studios campus, situated between Plymouth Barbican and seafront and the Barcode, are home to nearly 400 students specialising in A-Level-equivalent UAL Level 3 Extended Diplomas across a range of pathways and the UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design.

Ofsted inspectors praised Arts University Plymouth for the way that ‘Students enjoy their courses. They are supported well by staff who help them to build their confidence and resilience.’

The benefits of joining a sixth-form campus attached to the city’s arts university were highlighted in the Ofsted report, which noted: ‘Teachers give students opportunities to develop new skills and knowledge by accessing the university’s higher education art and design resources. For example, students strengthen their model-making skills by using three-dimensional printing technologies and more advanced computer-aided design software.’

Inclusivity and acceptance levels at Arts University Plymouth were singled out by inspectors, who stated that ‘Students’ behaviour is excellent. They are respectful towards staff and each other. Students feel safe at Arts University Plymouth. They value the calm and friendly community that staff have created.’

It was also noted in the report that: ‘Leaders ensure a safe environment where students are supported to explore their identities as part of the respectful and kind university community. Students are positive about the inclusive community of the university. They value how staff and other students celebrate differences and individuality… students comment positively about how the university takes diversity seriously.’

Achievement levels for Pre-Degree & Sixth Form students

at Arts University Plymouth are high, with inspectors noting that: ‘Leaders ensure that well-planned curriculums result in the large majority of students achieving their qualifications. Nearly all of those who apply to higher education achieve their first-choice destination.’

Last year 36 per cent of Arts University Plymouth UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma students obtained a Distinction, which is equivalent to 3 A*s at A-level or 168 UCAS points. This is significantly higher than the national benchmark of 16 per cent.

The inspection team paid particular attention to the achievements of students with high needs stating: ‘Teachers ensure that curriculums are planned well for those students with high needs. They collaborate effectively with special educational needs staff to agree on adjustments to, and strategies for, their teaching. Consequently, students with high needs reach their potential.’

Steven Forsyth, head of Pre-Degree at Arts University Plymouth, said: “I’m proud of the hard work, commitment and dedication of all of our staff and students in helping us to achieve this outcome.

“Arts University Plymouth’s Pre-Degree & Sixth Form campus is unique within the region and a rare example of dedicated creative sixth form attached to an arts university in the UK.

“Given the differences between us and the majority of sixth forms that Ofsted visit, I’m thrilled that the inspectors were so clearly able to see what’s special about the way that we teach, the value for sixth students of working closely with a university, and the extra effort that we’ve put in since the pandemic to ensure that students feel safe, welcome and able to achieve their goals.”

to Plymouth trades & services

MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

All general plumbing & heating work undertaken

• Boiler servicing and repair specialist • No job too small • VAILLANT approved installer

• Gas safe registered • Natural gas and LPG Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429

LES PIKE

tiles • Natural slate • Lead valleys • Flashings

All building & construction work undertaken. 45 Years experience in the building industry. Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

T.CLARKE BUILDING & ROOFING PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

All jobs done whether big or small Trading standards approved and Buy With Confidence Member Tel: 01752 267507 - Mob: 07967150441 tclarkebuilders@outlook.com

A.

B

Our qualified engineers can supply, service and repair all makes of mobility scooters, stairlifts, and home lifts. Please call Best Mobility for a sensible quote.

Free holiday clubs helping families this summer

The popular Fit and Fed programme is returning to Plymouth this summer, supporting families by providing funded holiday club places for eligible children.

There are more than 80 different holiday clubs taking place during the summer holidays for children aged four to 16 years old.

Funded by the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF), the clubs are designed to support families with children that receive benefits-related free school meals.

The aim is to provide children and young people with the chance to get active and try new activities, as well as to provide them with a healthy nutritious meal.

There’s a huge range of activities on offer at the holiday clubs, including dance, football, scuba diving, forest schools, water sports and snow sports as well as creative activities, videography, musical theatre and even tabletop gaming.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and HR and OD, said: “We know that families are really feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living and this is something we’re working to tackle by developing a new Cost of Living action plan that will support Plymouth residents.

“The fantastic Fit and Fed holiday club programme will provide vital support to local families over the six-week summer holidays. Not only will the young people taking part

receive a tasty, filling and healthy meal each day, they’ll also have the chance to create amazing memories and try out some fantastic new activities.

At a time when food costs are at a record high and holidays and days out are sadly becoming unaffordable for many, this is needed now more than ever. I’m really pleased that this year our Fit and Fed offering is bigger, better and more inclusive than before so that more families can benefit, with

new day sessions for teenagers and more support for children with additional needs too.”

New for this year are Teen Taster sessions, which offer a flexible way for teenagers (12 to 16 years old) to try activities without having to commit to attending every day. The activities on offer include trampolining, go karting, football, ten pin bowling, sailing and laser tag. Food will be provided after each session.

There are also more specialist holiday programmes for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) this year, provided by local special schools and organisations.

While the clubs are primarily for children who receive benefits-related school meals, funded places are also available for: young carers, looked-after children, children with Education, Health and Care Plans, children of recognised refugees, asylum seeking and Ukrainian families, children under Child Protection Plans and those who are home educated but would be eligible for Free School Meals if they were in school.

Bookings for Fit and Fed holiday clubs are now open. Parents and carers need to confirm their child’s eligibility before booking and will then receive a code which enables them to book directly with club providers. Each child can attend a total of 16 days across the summer.

Find out more at www.plymouth.gov.uk/fit-and-fed

BRITTANY FERRIES TO CELEBRATE WITH A BANG

Celebrating half a century in business, Brittany Ferries has partnered with this year’s British Firework Championships, which will once again be hosted on Plymouth Hoe.

Returning to Plymouth for its 26th year, the championships will take on August 16 and 17, welcoming over 100,000 visitors to the city, who will enjoy six stunning 10-minute displays by some of the leading firework display companies in the UK as they compete for the title – British Firework Champions 2023.

With the addition of live music and fairground rides, as well as family entertainment and food and drink, the event is set to be a great evening out for all the family.

Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of the Council, and Cabinet Member for Events at Plymouth City Council commented: “We’re so grateful for the support that Brittany Ferries – who are currently celebrating their 50th year of service - are providing for the event.

“In recognition of this partnership, we will be illuminating our very own Smeaton’s Tower over the course of the weekend with their celebratory logo. The partnership has provided us with an amazing opportunity to celebrate our shared values and links to the ocean.”

Christophe Mathieu, chief executive of Brittany Ferries said: “While Brittany Ferries today links 12 ports in France, UK, Spain and Ireland, we never forget that the beautiful city of Plymouth was our very first destination port back in 1973, when Breton farmers established a ferry route from Brittany to Devon.

“So, we couldn’t think of any better way to celebrate our 50th anniversary year than to become a partner of the British Firework Championships. This unique and spectacular event showcases the very best of what Britain’s Ocean City has to offer to tourists. We can’t wait to play a part, and to invite our French and British customers to come to Plymouth to take part in the festivities.”

As one of the most popular events in the South West each August, accommodation in and around Plymouth gets booked early.  James Gardiner, CAptain - hotel manager – for the newly-opened Moxy Plymouth, who are the official accommodation partner for the event said: “We’re delighted that we have managed to open our new Plymouth property just in time for the British Firework Championships.

“As the official accommodation provider, we are really looking forward to welcoming people to our hotel where they will be able to enjoy our vibrant new waterfront quarter, within the historic docks.”

Over the course of the two-day event, there will be an action-packed entertainment programme with live bands and performers onstage from 5pm until 8.45 pm, before the fireworks commentary and displays begin each evening at 9.30 pm. Further details on the full programme will follow in the coming weeks.

The most popular locations to watch the British Fireworks Displays are on The Hoe and along Hoe Road. The event is free to the public in these locations.

An accessible area for viewing will be located on top of the Belvedere for those wishing to stay away from the main crowds and will be accessed via the Hoe Promenade. This will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information visit visitplymouth.co.uk

Ambitious plans for activities in, on, under and around the Sound

More amazing activities to get people in, on, under and around Plymouth Sound are in the pipeline as the team behind the National Marine Park outlines an epic programme of events they want to roll out next year.

Plymouth City Council’s Growth and Infrastructure Scrutiny Committee will get an update on what’s been happening as well as a taster for what’s to come subject to a successful bid to The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The programme of work included the activity plan, major improvements to historic features, nature restoration, a digital park and interpretation to enable the new sustainable relationship with the sea. There will be a focus on working alongside communities that currently have little or no engagement with the NMP.

Councillor Tudor Evans OBE said: “Festivals, mass participation events, major opportunities for our young people – we have spent time talking and listening to what people want to see and now we are getting ready for action.

“The Sound is a truly stunning asset to this city and the whole aim of the park is to make it accessible to everyone. It should not just be about people who can afford the kit, who can afford to dive, or sail. These programmes will open up opportunities on a scale we have not seen before. I can’t wait.”

The activity plan took into account all the conversations and learning during last year’s test and trial stage. The resulting programme aims to engage and inspire; provide opportunities for learning and discovery and enable connection and positive action to support the long term care of the NMP.

It includes four interconnected programmes of work:

• Reconnecting Citizens to the Sea – activities designed to inspire and engage including Activate, community archaeology, NMP Festival, mini –splashes, NMP Swim Safe, NMP Pathways, coastal cleans and art engagement

• Marine Learning and Futures – activities designed to enable learning and discovery including a five year schools programme with 30 schools, teach the teacher programme, digital curriculum platform, Blue pathways, FE/HE student programme and social enterprise support.

• Creating Marine Ambassadors – activities to enable people to connect with the Park and support action to enable positive action including

a significant volunteer programme, volunteer pathways to enable growth and progression, internships skills development and work experience.

• Activating Communities – place based activities to continue work with Ernesettle and Firestone, plus support for three new communities to develop what they want from connection with the NMP. This programme includes a small scale community grants scheme.

As well as activities there are significant investments in some of the Sound’s key assets.

• Tinside Lido – a planning application has been submitted for a new look for the terrace at the top of the lido. The first floor of the main building will be restored and repurposed as a multi-purpose space and café/bar, for the community, particularly to enable youth progression activities. Building B’, between the Lido pool and Tinside Cove, will be refurbished for use as a youth outreach/ watersports hub, enabling youth workers to support young people to build confidence, develop skills marine-related training and learn about blue sector career opportunities in Plymouth.

• Mount Batten Peninsula – work to enhance and bring to life the heritage of the historic peninsula.

The Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre is in line for a new more accessible pontoon, changing room facilities that cater for all and significantly enhanced public spaces to ensure more people can experience its spectacular location. There will be sensitive works to the Mount Batten Tower plateau, to improve access and interpretation of one of the best views of the NMP.

• Mount Edgcumbe – refurbishment and opening up the listed Garden Battery will provide better access and enjoyment of this undiscovered coastal fort defence. The work will mean people will be able to experience the extraordinary interior and

to better understand this important part of the Sound’s maritime heritage.

• Ernesettle Creek – the community have codesigned the sensitive interventions enabling better access, improvements to the natural environment and interpretation.

• Firestone Bay – also co-designed with the community, including interventions to support access to and activities in the water.

• Digital Park – an essential part of bringing the wonders of the NMP to life and enable everyone to experience the treasures below the waves. It will blend personal engagement opportunities with the creation of a digital community. Every hub will be linked digitally to the park but also a point where people can connect with the digital park community. Inspirational digital experiences are also in the plan using the latest technology to bring what’s hidden beneath the waves to the shore for more to see.

The plan also includes a nature boost programme with four elements:

• Habitat boost – supporting the restoration of key habitats across the Sound including reefs

• Species boost – supporting the enhancement of species of the Sound

• Community Nature Boost – Enabling communities to lead their own projects to enhance the wildlife of the NMP

• Nature Credit Boost – Building on our Natural Environment Investment Readiness Fund project we will continue work to develop a verifiable carbon and nature credit to enable greater levels for funding to be secured for seagrass meadows restoration.

The bid submission in September would result in a decision from the Heritage Fund by the end of 2023. If approved the programme would start next Spring and run for five years.

“The Sound is a truly stunning asset to this city and the whole aim of the park is to make it accessible to everyone. It should not just be about people who can afford the kit, who can afford to dive, or sail. These programmes will open up opportunities on a scale we have not seen before. I can’t wait.”

COUNCILLOR TUDOR EVANS, LEADER OF PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL

Photo: Visit Plymouth

‘All you need is art’ exhibition

The Plymouth Colour Collective group of artists have taken inspiration from the Beatles’ connection to the city for their 2023 exhibition, which they’ve called All You Need Is Art.

The artists – Brian Pollard, Laura Edmunds from Serendipity Sea Crafts, Arth Lawr, Henry Sells and Lou C Fused Glass – all share the theme of bright colours in their work. The exhibition is at the Kaya Gallery in Southside Street on the Barbican from August 12 to 29.

Founding member Arth said: “We’ve done a tongue-in-cheek play on words with All You Need Is Love to say All You Need Is Art to bring some colour and fun into your life, which is what we are all about.”

Arth, Brian, and Henry are all painters but with different styles; beach clean artist Laura creates collages from cleaned-up discovered items she has collected on local beaches; and Lou C Fused Glass makes highly visual glass wall art for the home. All five share a love of Plymouth, Devon, and Cornwall and much of their work celebrates the area’s most iconic landmarks and seascapes.

Arth said: “By a happy accident, some of us have created the same scenes, so looking at the different ways we’ve done that will be interesting for people to see.”

Arth will be exhibiting his latest pieces in which he uses natural and chalk-based paints, and some of his ceramic work: “I find I get more solid colours from chalk-based paints, and I’m intrigued by the environmental side of using them,” he explained.

For her new work, Lou C has ventured onto the water to capture the places which hold happy memories for her, such as Dartmouth, Salcombe, Slapton and the Plymouth waterfront: “I like to add a bit of history and my own personal take, drawing on my memories of these places,” said Lou.

“Because some of them have been done from a boat on the water, you can see these scenes from a different angle.  And I think places look more colourful from the river or the sea, looking up at all the colours on the land. Plymouth is a great example, with Tinside Lido and Smeaton’s Tower.”

Like Lou, Henry is also presenting his unique perspective on places that having meaning for him. Among his major pieces of work are a 1-metre painting of the Barbican’s legendary pub, The Dolphin, and a related series of paintings of the Tamar River at Halton Quay: “My mother’s house

was near there, and we used to sail from that spot a lot, so it’s a special place for my family. And I love The Dolphin. Beryl Cook painted it, and Brian painted it, so I thought I’d be in good company. The cobble stones outside the Dolphin look fantastic and I’ve done a scene on a rainy day, so it has captured the reflection of The Dolphin in the cobbles. And Beryl was right, you can see all of Plymouth there.”

This year, Laura’s beach find collages are bigger, brighter, and more colourful than ever before, making use of found ceramics, sea glass and bits of plastic for her artwork: “I’m also using more artistic licence so that although the places I recreate are still recognisable, they’re more technicolour than real-life. They’re happy pieces.”

Scenes include the River Tamar, Drake’s Island, Sutton Harbour, and The Barbican: “I’m always at the beach or swimming or on the water in my

kayak, so the views I create reflect that. We’re so lucky to have all these inspiring places on our doorstep,” she added.

Brian is exhibiting 14 new paintings, including some of places he’s never painted before, such as the Royal William Yard and Plymouth restaurant Cosmic Kitchen, named by Tripadvisor as the best vegan restaurant in the UK and the third best in the world.

When Brian co-founded the collective, one of the aims was to bring together artists from different artforms, and he takes great delight in seeing the other artists develop: “When people come to our exhibition, they’ll see a fantastic contrast in how we present our work, and totally different interpretations – for example in the way that Laura and Lou use their techniques.

“And I’ve been trying to persuade Henry to paint the Dolphin for years, so it’s great to see how he’s done it. It’s a wonderful painting. Together with Arth’s own unique style of painting, the exhibition offers lots of perspective which I think people will enjoy, particularly children.”

The Plymouth Colour Collective exhibition can be viewed during the Kaya Gallery’s opening times, 10.30am to 4.30pm, seven days a week. www.kayagallery.co.ukPlymouth Colour Collective are on Instagram:  www.instagram.com/ plymouthcolourcollective

PRIDE & JOY

The

Helplines

Artists Arth Lawr, Brian Pollard, Lou C, Henry Sells and Laura Edmunds of the Plymouth Colour Collective replicate the iconic photo of The Beatles on The Hoe (below) to promote their exhibition

Student successes celebrated

City College Plymouth celebrated its students and apprentices at their annual Student Awards at the end of June.

Hosted at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the award ceremony is the college’s celebration of the successes and hard work students and apprentices have achieved over the past academic year.

Award winners, their families, college staff and esteemed employer guests were treated to a performance from the college’s dance students as well as an entertaining and engaging address from special guest speaker, Baroness Floella Benjamin. The pioneering actor, writer and campaigner, praised those students and apprentices who had overcome challenges and adversity to earn their well-deserved awards.

She also highlighted the college’s commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering inclusivity, issues which Baroness Benjamin has campaigned on for over 25 years.

Students receiving recognition in each of the college’s 36 curriculum areas, spanned a crosssection of abilities and backgrounds representative of Plymouth’s vibrant population. The ages of the award recipients crossed generations, from Tourism Student of the Year, Ryan Collins, 16, who is also taking his maths and English GCSEs at the college, to self-proclaimed ‘positive pensioner,’ Anthony Miller. The 71-year-old had double the reasons to celebrate, as he had recently secured his place at university following successful completion of his Access to Higher Education in Humanities course at City College.

Eight of the curriculum award winners were also specially selected to receive additional merits by the college’s employer partners. These top Plymouth employers work closely with the college to create real-life learning experiences,

develop training and curriculum programmes, and contribute to the college’s state-of-the-art facilities.

This year’s recipients of the employer sponsored awards were: Lewis Bonner, Digital Innovation Award sponsored by C-learning; Isabelle Rickett, Employability Award sponsored by Portcullis Legals; Emilia Dawes, Leadership Award sponsored by Plymouth Argyle Football Club; Liam Harvey, Peer Support Award sponsored by University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust; Miles Roser, Perseverance Award sponsored by Bailey Partnership; Kai Aye, Student Voice Award sponsored by Babcock; Cameron Harris, Sustainability Award sponsored by YGS Landscapes and  Ellis Falconer, Volunteering Award sponsored by Redrok Events.

Awards were also presented to Cameron Harris by the Students’ Union and Gbenga Omole-Great by the Board of Governors in recognition of their

Advertise to over 23,000

homes in Waterside & West

positive contributions to college life.

The final award of the evening went to Rose Hamlett who received the Chief Executive’s Award. Rose was recognised as an advocate for her fellow students on the Student Council and for her commitment to promoting sustainability. Passionate about environmentalism, she delivered training sessions for the college’s staff and Executive Leadership Team on the issue earlier this year.

“I was immensely proud to celebrate our exceptional students and apprentices at this year’s awards,” said City College’s chief executive, Jackie Grubb. “Their stories of success, personal growth and exceptional accomplishments make what we do as both educators and employers worthwhile. I hope that all of our students and apprentices, not just tonight’s award winners, can take this feeling of pride in their achievements with them as they take their first steps towards their future careers.”

The Waterside and West Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Stonehouse, Mount Wise, Devonport, Stoke, Keyham, Millbridge, Milehouse, Beacon Park, Pennycross, Ford, North Prospect, Ham, Weston Mill, Barne Barton and St Budeaux. The September edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on August 11 with a copy deadline of July 31. The Waterside & West edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city. We welcome submissions but cannot guarantee publication. We accept press releases in the form of text documents and images in JPG or TIFF format (high resolution please).

publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this publication. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the publication.

Baroness Floella Benjamin and City College chief executive Jackie Grubb (front centre) pictured with the award winners