Plymouth Chronicle Waterside & West July 2021

Chronicle Plymouth

See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Page 2

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Waterside & West

July 2021

COVID UPDATE

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The Hatchling, a stunning outdoor production, is coming to Plymouth in August. Details in ‘Out and About’ See page 3

The historic Elizabethan House is to reopen in July after a £1.7m restoration project lasting six years See Back Page

ALSO INSIDE: • Dial the Experts • Cross Rhythms • Local news and Experience views • Useful numbers

Midnight movers!

Midnight Walk, the much-loved charity event, is returning to Plymouth in 2021. Ladies across the city are being invited to celebrate the loves of their lost loved ones and put their best foot forward for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth on Friday August 20.

• See feature on page 21

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2 July 2021

COVID cases are on the rise in Plymouth

I know the delay in easing all the COVID-19 restrictions has been a huge disappointment to all those who had been looking forward to life returning to normal, particularly to those whose livelihoods continue to be affected.

However, as cases begin to rise, it is a reminder to us all that COVID-19 has not gone away.

Just last week there were 170 new cases in Plymouth and at the time of writing, the rate per 100,000 is 67.9, the highest it has been for four months.

The Delta variant is now dominant, and it spreads very quickly. This is reflected in the cases we are seeing now.

Around 60 per cent of cases are now seen in the under 25s – those who don’t have the protection of vaccination yet – and this is reflected in the number of cases were are seeing in schools.

We currently have five outbreaks in educational settings and a total of around 600 pupils are selfisolating.

We are also seeing a rising number of cases across all age groups because although the vaccine is very good, it does not stop transmission or illness completely. Across the country we are seeing increasing rates of people being hospitalised and sadly more deaths.

While we are all weary of the impact the virus is having on daily life, we cannot afford to relax our guard now.

Even with an excellent vaccination regime, as the legal restrictions are eased, we are still likely to have to make COVID safety part of our daily lives. This includes washing hands, wearing face coverings, being careful when meeting people and making sure there is plenty of ventilation when indoors with others.

It is also important that anyone going out and

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about, whether socialising, shopping, eating out or going into work or school, continues to take two free lateral flow tests a week.

Some children and young people will now be leaving school after their exams and should continue to take regular tests before they go out and about and meeting their friends or other family members. Our experience so far shows how helpful testing can be in reducing the spread of the virus by alerting those who have COVID but don’t have any symptoms.

The take up of vaccination has been fantastic, and I know that the opening up to all over 18’s created a surge of demand. If for any reason you didn’t manage to get an appointment that suited you, do try again as more appointments are being opened up all of the time.

By Dr Ruth Harrell

Director of Public Health for Plymouth

Get your COVID-19 test this week!

The Council is continuing to take its mobile testing site on a mini road trip to hand out free COVID-19 testing kits, for people without symptoms.

The team will again be visiting busy parts of the city to make it as easy as possible to pick up a kit and to get a test.

The upcoming dates and locations are: • Monday 28 June: Tesco Roborough • Tuesday 29 June: Plymstock

Broadway • Thursday 1 July: Freedom Fields

Park • Friday 2 July: Mutton Cove Car Park • Sunday 4 July: The Hoe

Need to isolate? Remember there is help available People who are contacted by the Test and Trace service are required to self-isolate.

A payment of £500 is available for those on lower incomes who cannot work from home and lose income as a result.

If you have been contacted by the NHS and asked to self-isolate, either because you have tested positive for COVID-19 or you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, go online and see if you are eligible to apply.

Find out more at www.plymouth.gov.uk/benefitsandgrants/nhstestand tracesupportpayments.

HOW TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE

You can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth on the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19.

NOTE: The information on this page was correct at the time of going to press on June 24.

You can also pick up home testing kits from libraries, but tests themselves will not take place at these locations.

The mobile locations are in addition to the site at the Place de Brest in the city centre, which is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm, offering assisted testing and handing out home testing kits.

All of the city’s pharmacies also stock the testing kits or you can order them online or through 119, to be delivered to your home.

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

Out and About Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

400: A Comedy June 16-19 The Lyric June 22 to July 4 The Drum As part of the Mayflower 400 commemoration programme of events, the award-winning Le Navet Bete are back in Plymouth this summer with a brand-new, fast-paced comedy for all the family. Armed with bucket loads of fun, farce and physical comedy along with a truck load of costumes to boot, Devon’s favourite funny men harness their impeccable powers of improvisation to tackle 400 years of history.

That is, until they are interrupted by an unexpected visit. Tickets and details from www. theatreroyal.com Yoga at the Aquarium June 15 and various dates through to December Yoga at the Aquarium is back for 2021. With sessions led by Karen from Ashtanga Yoga Plymouth, relax, unwind and destress in front of the Eddystone exhibit. These sessions are accessible to everyone in friendly, authentic, inclusive, affordable classes, helping you to discover all the endless benefits to both mental and physical health of this very traditional and innately wise practice. www.nationalaquarium. digitickets.co.uk Prince Philip Exhibition June 22 to July 11 Ford Park Cemetery is holding an exhibition to celebrate the life of Prince Philip. The exhibition in the Visitor Centre opens on June 22 and continues until July 11. It will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10.30am to 3.30pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. Admission is free but donations towards the upkeep of the cemetery are welcome.

Hairspray June 24 to July 3 The smash-hit musical comedy Hairspray returns to Theatre Royal Plymouth with a production guaranteed to have you dancing the night away! Featuring the hit songs Welcome To The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat, The Nicest Kids In Town and many more, don’t miss this irresistibly feel-good show that will have you dancing the night away and smiling for days. Let your hair down and book now! www. theatreroyal.com Lazy Sunday Market June 27 Spend a Sunday savouring quality time with friends and family at the new ‘Lazy Sunday’ Market at Plymouth Albion. There will be an array of local businesses with unique gifts and food, perfect for browsing and the opportunity to support local businesses. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy delicious Street Food while

Artist’s impression of The Hatchling produced by Trigger.

Credit - Carl Robertshaw

The Hatchling August 14 and 15 Plymouth hosts the world premiere of The Hatchling, a ground-breaking theatrical performance over two days which will see a spectacular dragon hatch in the city centre and grow to the size of a double decker bus before attempt to take to the skies on The Hoe. Created by a leading design team specialising in puppetry, kites and immersive theatre. Details at www.thehatchling.co.uk. listening to some chilled Sunday music. Dogs are welcome and there is lots of free parking on site. Free entry. 10.30am too 4pm.

Comedy at Leadworks: Jessica Fostekew July 10 Art gallery and event venue, Leadworks in Rendle Street, Stonehouse are launching a brand new comedy night which will feature a TV headliner every month. The first show features QI’s Jessica Fostekew. For details visit www.1steditioncomedy.com SailGP July 17 and 18 One of the world’s most impressive sailing events, SailGP will stop in Plymouth, following opening events in Bermuda and Italy. Following the season opener in Bermuda in April and the Italy Grand Prix in Taranto in June, the championship will return to UK shores July 17 and 18 for the third event in Season 2, featuring the world’s fastest sail racing. The adrenalinefilled racing between competing nations will

take place on Plymouth Sound in partnership with Plymouth City Council, with support from Associated British Ports, English Cities Fund and Sutton Harbour Group. For more information visit www.sailgp.com National Youth Regatta 2021 July 25 to 31 Plymouth Youth Sailing is hosting the National Youth Regatta organised by the National School Sailing Association. Up to 500 Up to 500 young people, from across the UK aged 19 and younger will sail in hundreds of single and two-handed dinghies in Plymouth Sound. In association with the Mount Batten Centre.

Freedom Community Fun Day July 31 At Freedom Fields Park from 11am to 6pm.The event hosted by Onward community group will feature Scrap store craft sessions, table top games, family learning activities, history walk and talk, sports, soft play, inflatables, plus craft stalls and catering outlets There will be

BIG MAYFLOWER 400 EVENT IS CANCELLED The Mayflower 400 Four Nations Ceremony and Plymouth Presents: Roots Up! And Soundwaves Festival due to take place on July 10 and 11 have been cancelled.

This follows the Government’s decision to delay the easing of COVID-19 lockdown restrictions until July 19.

The planned ‘Faith and Freedom, the Pilgrim Story’ event organised by Churches Together in Plymouth, which was scheduled for July 11, has also been called off.

Adrian Vinken, Chair of Mayflower 400 said: “Our thanks go to the creative and production teams, choirs and actors who have worked so hard to create an amazing Ceremony performance. We’re devastated that we won’t be able to share it with the public in the format we had planned but their safety is paramount. We’re looking into alternative ways to capture and share this very special performance and commemoration with the people of Plymouth and the world so all that exceptional work is not lost.”

Take a tour...and have a laugh!

A brand new concept is coming to Plymouth this summer.

live music and performance featuring Joanna Cook, Rob C, Easy riders, Tim True and Aimee Beth Mitchell plus Street factory and Drum Abundance. Clean our patch community litter pickers will be running some environmental activities as well as helping to keep the Park ltter free. This event will be fundraising for next year’s community festival, and is subject to council permission and possible Covid restrictions. All enquiries call Jonathan on 07722308463.

popular Plymouth Trails App. The tours will start and finish at The Box and will take people on a journey around Plymouth’s City Centre. The route is just under two miles long and the tour will last around two hours, with plenty of stops for laughing.

Christian explained why it was set up: “As well as giving three comedians in Plymouth a job in these difficult times, the reason it was set up was to shine

A group of Plymouth based comedians are launching the city’s first ever comedy walking tour. Described as ‘a hilarious guided walking tour of Britain’s Ocean City’ the new venture, called Plymouth Comedy Tours, is set to split the sides of locals and tourists alike Founded by Mutley-based comedian Christian Russell-Pollock, Plymouth Comedy Tours are walking tours with a difference. Christian and two other award-winning comedians will act as tour guides, taking groups around the city, telling more jokes than facts.

The other comics involved are David Arnold and local legend Suzy Bennett. All the comedians have supported big names, Comedian Christian Russell-Pollock (left) performed nationwide and pictured with Suzy Bennett and David Arnold Bennett is also the voice of the

a spotlight on Plymouth. All three of us believe that it’s an underrated city and this feels like a great way to both promote it and give people a much needed laugh”.

The tours will be priced at £12 per person, with concessions available for NHS staff, students and the elderly.

People from Exeter will be charged more.

The tour is being advertised as perfect for local residents, tourists and companies who want an innovative new team building exercise. Christian said: “This tour is perfect for people who both love the city and don’t mind taking the mickey out of it a little.”

People can pre-register their interest for the tours at www. plymouthcomedytours.co.uk Plymouth Comedy Tours are supported by Plymouth City Centre Company, Plymouth Culture and One Plymouth.

British Fireworks Championships Aug 18 and 19 Tens of thousands of people will flock to The Hoe for the return of the pyrotechnic spectacular as six companies battle for the title of British Fireworks Champions.

1 Big Summer August 27 to 29 Spectacular three day music event featuring Ibiza Classics on Friday featuring a full 26 piece live orchestra as well as including a DJ set

by Chase & Status and Rage, top names such as Deadmau5 and Raye on Saturday and the Great British Sausage and Cider Festival on Sunday. One for the whole family with games, competitions and food and entertainment all day. For tickets and information visit www.1bigsummer.com Tom Jones in Central Park Sept 18 One of Britain’s best-loved entertainers Sir Tom Jones has sold over 100 million records in a career spanning more then five decades.

With over thirty-five Top 40 hits in the UK, including ‘It’s Not Unusual’, ‘Sexbomb’ and ‘Delilah’, don’t miss this chance to see Tom Jones performing live in Plymouth. Details www.beeyay.com Plymouth Seafood and Harbour Festival Sept 18 and 19 Seafood lovers are in for a treat this September, as Plymouth Seafood Festival returns to The Barbican and Sutton Harbour.

There’s something for everyone in this free two-day festival Presented by the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership.

We’re back on the big screen!

Nomadland | Sound of Metal | The Father | Minari | Dream Horse | Another Round and more, with Bringing in Baby and Relaxed Screenings

INDEPENDENT CINEMA FOR EVERYONE plymouthartscinema.org | at Plymouth College of Art, Tavistock Place, Plymouth, PL4 8AT

Luke Pollard launches Plymouth COVID Memorial Quilt Project Local MP Luke Pollard is seeking volunteers in Plymouth to collaborate on a Covid Memorial Quilt.

The Quilt is a creative project, asking people across Plymouth to contribute a patch to reflect on their experiences of the pandemic.

The patches will be sewn together, and the Plymouth Covid Memorial Quilt will be displayed later this year alongside a collection of statements that will explore the experiences behind each square.

Luke is asking as many people as possible to have the opportunity to take part, no matter what their skill level in quilting and sewing.

He said: “The pandemic has shown us what matters to each of us: family, friends, health and nature. I want to invite people in Plymouth to join me for a moment of remembrance

to those we lost and to thank those key workers, neighbours, friends and strangers who stepped up to help us in our moment of need. The Plymouth COVID quilt will be a chance to put our thanks in physical form and I encourage people to get their sewing kits out.”

Peverell resident Valerie DaviesWebb, who is part of a team of volunteers who will be involved in bringing together the final quilt, said: “I was delighted to hear about Luke’s concept of a Covid Memorial Quilt. Lockdown prevented our quilting group from being able to meet so this is an exciting opportunity to reunite with them whilst collaborating remotely with people across Plymouth.”

Anyone would like to contribute should e-mail him luke.pollard. mp@parliament.uk or visit www. lukepollard.org

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1,000 new affordable homes 4 July 2021

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for Plymouth in next five years Plymouth Community Homes is driving forward plans to build approximately 1,000 new affordable homes by 2026 after securing eight-figure funding from NatWest.

PCH will use the £65 million funding package to grow its existing portfolio of more than 16,000 homes. The majority of the new homes will be let at affordable rent, with shared ownership homes also being developed, in Plymouth and the surrounding areas.

The finance package, a SONIA (Sterling Overnight Index Average) funded risk-free loan, will also support PCH’s investment into maintaining the high standard of its existing homes.

Founded in 2009, PCH is Plymouth’s largest affordable housing provider, supplying social housing for more than 35,000 people in Plymouth, as well as acting as a commercial landlord managing more than 170 shops. Under its brand SO Living, PCH also offers shared ownership homes across Devon and Cornwall and has Portsham sold 167 shared ownership homes in Heights - a PCH the city and wider region since 2012. development in It employs 642 full-time staff Southway across the business and offers residents support to help them obtain qualifications and useful skills for work and home life.

Nick Jackson, director of business services and development at PCH, said: “Thanks to the funding from NatWest, we can both expand our

portfolio of affordable homes, as well as ensuring we maintain and invest in our existing properties and continue the great services we offer.

“As we expand, we will continue to focus on improving lives by providing affordable homes and great services. We’ll also maintain our programme of improving our blocks of flats as well as community initiatives, courses and training sessions which we believe are essential in supporting our residents and creating thriving communities. The interest cover covenants will allow us to undertake the modernisation of our blocks of flats with more flexibility.”

The funding forms part of NatWest’s commitment last year to support the housing association sector with £3 billion of finance until the end of 2022. This will support the increase in provision of social housing, as well as the improvement of existing properties.

Dean Holleyman, NatWest director, Housing Finance England and Wales, said: “We have worked with PCH since its inception in 2009.

The investment and work that PCH have undertaken during this time has positively transformed both the lives of its tenants and communities it serves. We are rightly delighted and proud that our support for PCH will help them to continue this great work with further investment in its new and existing homes in Plymouth and the surrounding areas.”

Giants return to Plymouth Hoe

The Plymouth Hoe Giants are home. After years of negotiation and planning two giant figures have been recreated on Plymouth Hoe.

Supported by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Plymouth Argyle, 29 Commando, the Plymouth Barbican Trust and the Hirshfield Foundation, the reimagining of the figures is the work of Charles Newington, the artist who created the Giant White Horse hill figure above channel tunnel at Folkestone.

The Giants project represents a brilliant celebration of Plymouth’s 4,000 year back story as one of the country’s greatest trading ports and is seen as the ideal opportunity to reinstate this significant slice of local and British history.

Chris Robinson, local historian and PWP Board member said: “Harking back to the Bronze Age tin trade from Dartmoor via Mount Batten, around 1500 to 2000 BC Plymouth Sound has long been a point of contact to many Mediterranean peoples.

“The celebrated 12th century chronicler, Geoffrey of Monmouth, spoke of the Trojan Brutus and his army arriving on the shores of Albion and pitting his champion warrior, Corineus against the leader of the land of the giants, Gogmagog.

In the ensuing conflict Corineus, after suffering three broken ribs, lifted Gogmagog clean off the ground and hurled him from the Hoe straight into the sea.

This is the depiction that Plymouth’s giants will show on the grass beneath the Royal Citadel.”

Photo courtesy www.cyberheritage.co.uk

The giants have been painted onto the grass on Plymouth Hoe using line marking paint sponsored by Plymouth Argyle, and the lines will be maintained throughout the summer by 29 Commando. These figures will recreate the markings that are thought to have been carved into the

Hoe in the 1400’s.

Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council said: “We’re pleased to have been able to support this temporary art installation to be recreated on the iconic location of Plymouth Hoe. “This artwork, which has been created and delivered at no cost to the council or the people of Plymouth is a great celebration of our city’s history and will add further reasons to come and visit our beautiful and historic waterfront.”

The original giant figures were lost when the landscape of the Hoe was changed with the construction of the Citadel in the seventeenth century and are now known as the two famously ‘lost gods of Albion’, the only remaining large human figures being the Cerne Abbas giant in Dorset and the Long Man of Wilmington in Sussex.

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Council committed to making Plymouth a welcoming city Plymouth City Council has renewed its commitment to making Plymouth a city that welcomes and respects all members of the community and does not tolerate racism or discrimination of any kind.

The council’s new leader Nick Kelly said his administration is ensuring that tackling discrimination and reducing inequalities is a high priority by setting up a new equalities working group reporting to the Cabinet to help oversee this vital work.

It has also embedded the commitment to ensuring Plymouth is a welcoming city in the Council’s new Corporate Plan agreed by Cabinet in June.

He said: “As a new administration we are very clear that making sure Plymouth is a friendly, welcoming city must be a high priority. As part of this we have set up an equalities group that will oversee this work and ensure we are doing all we can to fight discrimination and reduce inequalities.

“Plymouth has a proud record of being a welcoming city and we want to build on the excellent work already done. The diversity of our city is one of our greatest strengths and assets, and we want Plymouth to be recognised as welcoming, safe, international and with a vibrant cultural offer.

“Unfortunately – like in all cities – there is a very small minority of people who do not treat others with tolerance and respect.

“I was saddened in my first weeks in office to hear from one resident who had witnessed a verbal attack on a couple in the city for speaking in French. I have spoken to her about what happened and clearly we cannot tolerate this sort of behaviour. Any racism of this nature should be reported to the police or to the council so it can be investigated. No one should have to fear being abused in this way whilst living in or visiting our city.”

Any form of hate crime can be reported to the council through its website.

Appeal for witnesses Police are appealing for information following an attempted robbery which happened on Saturday June 12, at the Ringmore Way entrance to Woodland Woods, Merrivale Road, Plymouth.

At 4.30 pm, a 13-year-old girl was approached by a male teenager who demanded the victim’s money.

A middle-aged man walking his dog intervened and the victim was able to get away.

Police are interested to speak to the dog walker or any other teenagers who were seen in the area at the time.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information that could help the police with their enquiries, please email 101@ dc.police.uk or call 101, quoting crime reference CR/048470/21.

Police are also appealing for witnesses of an incident involving dangerous driving on West Hoe Road, Plymouth, on Sunday June 13.

At around 9.20pm a black 4x4 was reportedly driving erratically near to the Salumi Bar & Eatery and colliding with ‘street furniture’ before driving away from the scene.

Police would like to hear from anyone who saw the incident, or anyone who was in the area at the time and saw the vehicle before or after the incident, or has dashcam footage of the vehicle.

A 26-year-old man from Plymouth was subsequently arrested on suspicion of drink driving and is in police custody.

Anyone with any information which could assist police enquiries is asked to contact police on 101 or via email at 101@dc.police. uk quoting crime reference CR/048859/21.

6 July 2021

New electric bike trial schemes for Plymouth

Plymouth City Council has secured just under £60,000 to run a number of trial schemes designed to encourage greater uptake of electric bikes in Plymouth.

The Department for Transport has awarded the Council £59,835 to deliver five schemes that will give people first-hand experience of using an e-cycle, the skills to maintain one and the confidence that they can be safely stored.

They include a free e-cycle loan scheme and, in partnership with local bike shops, the introduction of a small number of ‘courtesy’ e-cycles, so that customers have the opportunity to try one out while their conventional bike is serviced.

Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet Member for Transport said: “I’m really pleased that Plymouth has secured this funding. This is a hilly city and electric bikes offer a real opportunity to help get more people cycling, improving people’s health, reducing congestion and helping deliver our climate change commitment.

It’s great that, through this programme, more people will be able to give an electric bike a go.”

Cycling Minister Chris Heaton Harris said: “As we build back greener from the pandemic, this Government is committed to enabling as many people as possible to boost their health and fitness and help reduce emissions by hopping on a bike and taking up cycling for shorter journeys.”

More information about the e-cycle programme is available at www.plymouth. gov.uk/ebikes.

6 July 2021

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Plymouth’s Burts Crisps supports RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ campaign Plymouth-based Burts Crisps has launched a new two-year partnership with the RNLI to raise funds for the charity and also increase awareness of how to stay safe at the beach.

As the region prepares for a busy summer, awareness of ‘float’ as a life-saving action has declined since last year, particularly among men, who are the most at risk.

As part of the partnership , Burts and the RNLI will work together to educate beaches of the dangers of the sea, by printing its key ‘Float To Live’ message on the packaging of two of the brand’s most popular products: Sea Salt and Sea Salt & Vinegar.

Dave McNulty, managing director of Burts Snacks, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with the RNLI. It is an organisation which aligns closely with us as a business thanks to our geographical heritage and our love for the outdoors.

“We are very proud of our coastal roots, and we encourage people to appreciate everything the region has to offer with its fantastic food, rugged coastlines and amazing beaches. By supporting the RNLI we hope to play a role in supporting local communities and ensuring people enjoy the summer safely.

“We are very excited about the roll out of the partnership and hope that our support will enable the organisation to continue its fantastic job of saving lives at sea.”

Steve Instance, RNLI Regional Water Safety lead for the South West, added: “We’re thrilled to enter into this very exciting relationship with Burts; partnerships like these are integral to helping us raise the funds and awareness that we need to help reduce risks and save lives across the UK.

“The South West has some of the country’s most beautiful coastal areas and we encourage everyone to get outside and enjoy the space. But it is important to remember it can be an unpredictable and dangerous environment, and however confident, anyone entering the water should take extra care and avoid unnecessary risks.”

Members of the public are being encouraged to take personal responsibility for their own and family’s safety by remembering these lifesaving tips if they fall into open water: • Fight your instinct to thrash around • Lean back, extend your arms and legs • If you need to, gently move them around to help you float • Float until you can control your breathing • Only then, call for help or swim to safety To find out more about staying safe on the UK’s beaches visit www.rnli.org/BurtsSummer or to find out more information about Burts Snacks visit www.burtssnacks.com

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Plympton vicar chosen to be Lord Mayor’s chaplain Newly elected Lord Mayor Cllr Terri Beer, who represents the Plympton Erle ward on the City Council, has chosen the Reverend Prebendary Robert Harris from the Plympton Team Ministry to be her chaplain for the forthcoming municipal year.

Rev’d Preb. Harris’ appointment was announced at the recent Lord Mayor’s Choosing Ceremony in Plymouth Guildhall, which was limited in personal attendance only to councillors this year due to Covid19 restrictions.

An insignia will be presented to Rev’d Preb.

Harris in due course.

(Story courtesy of The Plympton Podcast)

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Vital life-saving equipment installed along Waterfront

Vital life-saving equipment is being installed across the Plymouth Waterfront as part of the city’s commitment to providing safe access to the waters of the National Marine Park.

And staff at waterfront businesses as well as wild swimmers are being offered the chance to be trained in how to use this crucial equipment.

Five new defibrillators are being installed at: • Commercial Wharf, Barbican • Terrace Café, The Hoe • Coffee Shack, West Hoe • Waterfront Pub, West Hoe • Firestone Bay, at the public toilets The defibrillators are part of a wave of improvements, which has been made possible through the government’s Getting Building Fund.

The Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership earlier this year announced that £625,000 of the fund would be allocated to improve safe physical access to the National Marine Park.

There are already four other public defibrillators at Yacht Haven, Mount Batten Watersports Centre, Liner Lookout (The Hoe) and at Royal William Yard.

Three of the new defibrillators have been bought by Plymouth City Council, one by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership for Commercial Wharf and one by Wave After Wave for Firestone Bay. The council is covering all installation costs and securing permission from building owners to provide power to the defibrillators (this is necessary to keep pads warm when outside temperatures drop below freezing).

The council is also arranging the free training courses on CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) and how to use the new lifesaving automated

Cllr Maddi Bridgeman pictured with one of the new defibrillators

external defibrillator equipment (AED).

The training will be held on Tuesday June 22 at the Waterfront Pub, with the first course running from 9am until 1pm (24 spaces available) and the second course from 1.30pm until 5.30pm (24 spaces available).

The nationally recognised AED course will be

run by The Royal Life Saving Society UK which is a governing body for lifesaving, in association with the Surf Lifesaving Club.

Other improvements that have already appeared on the waterfront are 14 sea swimming safety signs at key locations. The signs highlight the health risks as well as benefits of sea swimming and give people a list of top tips to think about before entering the water. The RNLI and many others have been consulted on the content of the safety signs Councillor Maddi Bridgeman, Cabinet member for Environment and Street Scene said: “Nothing is more important than making sure people are as safe as possible when they go into the sea. It’s absolutely brilliant to see so many people enjoy the Sound - either on it or in it. “But being at sea or in the water always carries a risk. We hope people find the signs useful and while we hope the defibrillators will not have to be used, they are available should they be needed.”

Diane Mansell, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership added: “Having life-saving equipment at key points across the waterfront is massively reassuring for anyone who wants to use the water.

Pauline Barker, Devon and Cornwall Wild Swimming Association, said: “It’s great to know that there is funding for training for businesses based on the waterfront.”

Tor Froud of Wave After Wave said “We’re delighted to be working with the City Council and National Marine Park to make important safety improvements, which we’re part funding from our successful crowdfunder.”

More physical improvements will be appearing over the coming months, including two eagerly awaited swimming platforms as well as repairs to the shoreline.

Millbay Boulevard finished as new hotel development gets underway

One of the most radical roads to be built in Plymouth is now finished and work is just starting on a brand new hotel that will overlook it.

Work on Millbay Boulevard is complete and the long-awaited link from the city centre to the sea is now being used by cyclists and pedestrians alike after its huge transformation from dingy backwater lane.

An avenue of stone pine trees now runs along the link as well as the new square at the Union Street end of the boulevard.

Hardy plants and shrubs that are more tolerant of our salty sea air have been planted in rain gardens which will be irrigated using rain and surface water from all paved areas in the new scheme. Beneath the beds are underground tanks capable of storing 240 tonnes of water - equal to seven shipping containers - as part of a new ‘Sustainable Urban Drainage’ system (SUDs).

This means that at times of very heavy rainfall and high tides in this area the community will be protected from localised flooding. At the same time the water will be used more wisely to irrigate new plants and trees.

Beneath the ground there is also a .district heating network’ running the length of the boulevard with 1,200m of pipework which will tap into Plymouth’s warm water aquifer and will provide reduced cost heat and cooling for the people nearby when new homes are built.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Nick Kelly said: “This really is the green way. This is a pioneering project that has answers to climate change issues.

It’s tackling flooding, it’s preparing the ground for alternative and more sustainable heating for new developments and is transforming an area that’s

July 2021

7

Plymouth College of Art appoints interim principal

Plymouth College of Art has appointed Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks as interim principal and chief executive for the 2021/22 academic year, following the retirement of Professor Andrew Brewerton after 11 years at the college.

As Academic Dean Paul has led the college’s undergraduate, postgraduate and further education portfolios. His appointment ensures stability for staff and students and a continuation of the vision that has seen the independent, universitysector art school, which was established in 1856, work in partnership with national organisations such as Tate and the British Council, retaining a broad focus for excellence in creative education.

With over 20 years’ experience of academic leadership in higher Professor Fieldsendeducation, Paul is a Danks Fellow of the Royal Society for Arts and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Professor Andrew Brewerton said: “I’m delighted at Paul’s appointment. I’m confident that the distinctive community, ethos and values of this great Art School will continue to thrive under his leadership, and its profile continue to develop nationally and internationally.”

“Paul has played a formative role in the redesign and validation of the college’s entire undergraduate curriculum for launch in September. He has a visionary commitment to innovation in the student experience, embedding creative learning and social justice within each interdisciplinary specialism, within an extraordinary rich and diverse studio and workshop environment.”

David Noyce, chair of Governors at Plymouth College of Art, said: “Thanks to the legacy of strong leadership and culture of accountability and ambition that Professor Andrew Brewerton leaves Plymouth College of Art with, the stage is set for Paul to ensure that our message, ethos and values continue to resonate far beyond the South West of England, nationally and internationally.

Paul will lead Plymouth College of Art through the forthcoming national multi-site exhibition, British Art Show 9, through the 2021 Making Futures biennial symposium of contemporary craft and maker movements, and out of the pandemic that has made higher education more essential than ever for students who are committed to using creativity to transform their communities and future careers.”

Millbay Boulevard

the first thing people see when they come to Plymouth from the ferry.

“Not only that, the boulevard looks better and it’s brilliant to see work start on the new hotel.”

The SUDs system has been developed by the Council in partnership with the Environment Agency and South West Water as part of the EU 2 Seas, Water Resilient Cities Interreg Programme, and working with seven partner cities in Europe, sharing knowledge and challenges.

Other features include an extension to the city’s CCTV system, ducting for future 5G network and infrastructure for three on-street electrical vehicle-charging stations.

Work has started on the Hotel Moxy which is being built on a section of the former Pavilions car

park. The 220 bedroom hotel was granted planning permission in January 2019 and is one of a wave of development being planned for this important part of the city. The company behind the project is Vastint from Holland, and it is being delivered by main contractors Mitnija, from London.

Stuart Ward, project manager for Mitnija said: “We are very much looking forward to working with local sub-contractors to deliver the project on time for its opening next summer.”

The new look boulevard aims to create an entirely new setting for development east and west of the former Bath Street which would include up to 600 new residential units, offices, as well as new leisure, cultural and community uses and shops.

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8 July 2021

Plymouth schools to benefit from new initiative to drive up standards

Education leaders in Plymouth have welcomed the announcement that the city has been selected to pioneer a new approach to driving up attainment and standards in schools through greater place-based collaboration.

The Department for Education has announced that Plymouth will be one of four areas in the country selected to benefit from the new initiative and share the £10 million to be invested in supporting schools in improving the attainment of children and young people.

The areas have been selected on evidence that they are likely to succeed in adopting the new place-based approach that will see schools collaborating with each other and working together to share priorities, expertise and experience.

The citywide effort will be led by experienced system leaders who will bring local partners together and the initiative will include schools and the network of multi academy trusts (MATs) in the city.

Schools most in need will benefit from the direct guidance of strong multi-academy trusts or access to an enhanced offer of support through the Department’s Trust and School Improvement offer.

In Plymouth priorities have been identified by the local education community to address the local challenges in school improvement.

This will build upon the work of the Plymouth secondary commission with a focus on improving secondary outcomes across the city.

This will include MAT led support on school leadership, teaching and learning, curriculum and inclusion in order to improve.

Tracey Lee, chief executive of Plymouth City Council, said the announcement was good news for the city.

She said: “I am delighted that Plymouth is one of the first few areas to have been selected to take part in this significant national initiative.

“I am sure all education providers in the city share the excitement that Plymouth is recognised by the Government as an area that has good foundations with a place-based collaboration and is most likely to achieve success as a trailblazer of this national initiative.

“In Plymouth, we have developed a framework for a sustainable self-improvement system in which schools, maintained or academy, improve themselves by working in partnership with each other, the local authority and the Regional Schools Commissioner.

This will mean that we can build on the improvements that are being made to make sure that children and young people are attending schools providing high quality education.

“There are many challenges in improving the educational achievements for all children and young people in Plymouth, and we do not underestimate these. This initiative will support us in facing these head on and achieving our vision that all children and young people in the city are able to aspire and achieve and have a bright future.”

Chief executives of Multi Academy Trusts in Plymouth have welcomed the announcement.

Will Smith, CEO of the Greenshaw Learning Trust, said: “We welcome this funding to support Plymouth’s place-based approach to school improvement. We are committed to working collaboratively with the local authority, other Multi Academy Trusts and schools across Plymouth. This significant investment by the Department for Education in place-based, collaborative school improvement across the city will ensure continued and sustainable improvements in the life chances of Plymouth’s young people.”

8 July 2021

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Chase & Status to join line up for 1 Big Summer on The Hoe Chase & Status have been announced as the third headliner for 1 Big Summer in Plymouth this August.

The Drum and Bass legends will be headlining the Friday night Ibiza Classics event on The Hoe, and have promised it will be ‘unmissable’.

Chase & Status have become an iconic part of UK dance music culture over the last two decades.

The electronic duo are best known for top 10 singles like ‘Blind Faith’ and ‘End Credits’ as well collaborating with some of the world’s biggest artists, like Rihanna.

With five studio albums in the bag, and headline slots at almost every major UK festival, 1 Big Summer organisers couldn’t think of anyone better to close the Friday Night event.

Joining Chase & Status on the night, will be Plymouth favourite R3WIRE who played at every MTV event and Ocean City Sounds. When asked about returning to Plymouth, he said: “It’s one of my favourite events in the world. Playing on that stage, with the sea on one side and tens of thousands of people in front of you, it’s phenomenal.”

Joining the Saturday line up, will be the amazing Raye. The ‘Tequila’ hitmaker - who has co-written tracks for the likes of Beyonce and Ellie Goulding, has most recently been working with Cardi B, as well as helping out her close pal and ‘Cigarette’ collaborator, Mabel, on her next project.

Raye will be performing live on the Saturday, and with four top 10 hits to her name, expect a dazzling performance, and one for the whole family.

1 Big Summer, a three-day music event will take place on Plymouth Hoe on the August bank holiday weekend from August 27 to 29. Two thirds of tickets have already been sold across Raye will be appearing on Saturday night

Chase & Status pictured with MC Rage

the three days. Organisers have said that more announcements of artists will follow in the coming weeks, along with at least one additional live headliner across the weekend. As such, they expect demand to stay high. To manage that demand, tickets will remain limited to four per person per day. For more information and the latest updates, see www.1bigsummer.com or like the 1bigsummer Facebook page.

Friday August 27 will see Ibiza Classics 2021, featuring a full live 26-piece orchestra and a soundtrack that will transport listeners through three decades of iconic white isle classics. Just announced, the orchestra night will also feature a huge headline set from Chase & Status, and several support acts including the brilliant DJ R3WIRE, with more direct from the shores of Ibiza, to be announced in the coming weeks.

On Saturday August 28, the ‘1 Big

Summer’ day festival and main event follows suit with one of the biggest events ever held on the Hoe. Featuring an array of top UK chart topping acts and entertainment throughout the day, it’s ‘the party we’ve all been waiting for.’

As previously announced, the event will feature a huge closing set from global superstar and icon, Deadmau5, as well as a live performance from UK chart topper, Raye.

Sunday August 29 is one for the whole family.

‘The Great British Sausage and Cider Festival’ will offer an array of craft cider, sausage flavours, street food and entertainment, including stage games, and competitions throughout the day. Not only that, there will also be some special guests, including Frank Turner. It’s set to be the perfect bank holiday Sunday.

Central Park to host Oktoberfest with Steins, Bratwursts and Oompah Bands!

The official Oktoberfest arrives this October in Plymouth, with the event taking place at The Grand Bier Tent in Central Park.

Central Park will host Oktoberfest on October 23, with tickets costing from £10 per person, per session. This will include a wide range unreserved standing and seated tickets, along with a range of VIP tables that can fit up to 10 people, with included waiter service and a gift for each member of the table. More details about tickets can be found at www.oktoberfestplymouth.co.uk/ tickets There will be two sessions - 12 noon to 5pm and 6pm to 11pm with entertainment across both sessions.

The event includes entertainment across both sessions. Traditional German cuisine will be available at the event including beer served in Steins and Bratwursts. There will also be a range of other beverages available to buy at the event such as prosecco, wine and spirits. Oktoberfest will also have a range of music and entertainment including live Oompah bands and DJs to entertain the guests.

will enhance the experience as so many people are looking to attend events and gigs this year, the atmosphere will be unimaginable with huge bench seating, Oompah Bands, Steins of bier and much more!

“After working closely with the events team at Plymouth Council, we can bring this unique event to the local area. We hope to help bring great economic benefit to the city, encouraging more visitors, ultimately, supporting local business.”

For more information and updates or to sign up for the event visit www.oktoberfestplymouth. co.uk or follow the Oktoberfest Plymouth Facebook page.

Due to the popularity of this event in other cities, the demand for this event is expected to be high. There will be a sign-up period, coming soon, used to sign up to receive pre-sale tickets.

Tom Cullen, marketing director Oktoberfest Plymouth, said: “We are very excited to bring this incredible event to Plymouth this year! It’s been a tough 18 months for us all and we believe this

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10 July 2021

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Peverell family’s appeal for help to treat Bear the cute French Bulldog PRIDE & JOY The Home and Garden Maintenance Team Our services include:

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A Peverell family are appealing for help in meeting a big vet’s bill for their French Bulldog puppy.

The cute eightmonth-old puppy called Bear was born with a major deformity in both front feet and faces extensive surgery and treatment in the coming months.

The family - Rachel Noble, her 11-yearold daughter Emily and partner Howard Greenhalgh - are hoping fellow dog lovers will support their fund-raising efforts.

The family’s French Bulldog Daisy Mae had her first litter in August last year giving birth to five puppies. The family kept three of them - including Bear.

The other two were found new homes.

Rachel’s mother Christa was staying with the family when the puppies were born. “They were all gorgeous, but we

Bear the French Bulldog... born with deformed feet

realised straight away that Bear had major problems. We couldn’t think about have him put down,” she said.

“We take all the dogs - including my Rottweiler – for walks in Central Park and Bear is adored by lots of dog walkers. He is the cutest of the bunch and quite a little celebrity. People stop and stroke him and ask him about his front legs,” added Christa.

“We would love to him to live a long and happy life and be able to keep up with his

mum Daisy Mae and two sibling sisters Rosie and Violet.

“Our vet has assured us that this is possible and that Bear’s legs can be fixed but this may take a number of operations. The specialised surgery needs to be performed soon as he is growing every day and putting more strain on his legs.”

Bear has had a CT scan, and has been referred to specialist orthopaedic surgeons in Bristol and has his appointment in June.

Christa added: “Our personal funds are a bit low at the moment so we have set up a Gofundme campaign on Facebook and Instagram, as ‘The Bear 2020’ to try to get the money together to go towards the costs of his surgery, because birth defects are generally not covered by pet insurance.

“We are appealing to the dog lovers of Plymouth if they could donate a couple of pounds or whatever you can afford, however little, towards

his cause we would be eternally grateful or to share our cause with as many people as you are able, as that would also be a great help.

“The time can’t come soon enough when we will be able to see Bear keeping up with mum and his sisters.

“And of course we will post updates and pictures when he’s had his operation showing off his straight little legs.”

Anyone who can help Bear can make a donation at https:// gofund.me/0bb240d1

Sailors of Tomorrow take to the water as part of the Mayflower 400 Get Active initiative Over 200 children from various organisations across the city enjoyed the recent half term by sailing with Plymouth Youth Sailing and kayaking, standup paddleboarding and indoor climbing at the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre as part of the postponed Sailors of Tomorrow programme.

Nearly a year after they were due to set sail as participants in the programme in partnership with Plymouth Argyle Community Trust and as part of the delayed Mayflower 400: Get Active initiative, children from Friends and Families of Special Children, Pembroke Street Youth Centre and Plymouth City Council Young Carers took to the water with sailing instruction from Plymouth

Youth Sailing, paddlesport lessons and indoor climbing lessons, from the Centre team.

Kerry Powell-Tuckett, senior professional youth worker at Honicknowle Youth and Community Centre commented: “For many of our young carers this is their first organised activity for nearly 15 months and it’s been a great couple of days here at the Mount Batten Watersports and Activities Centre learning to sail and paddle. The instructors have been very supportive and have provided our carers with an amazing and fun experience on the water.”

The Centre were also delighted to welcome back Friends and Families of Special Children for a day of activities for participating families to enjoy together.

Taylor and Jack told their mum it was the ‘best day ever!’

Adrian Kemp, Plymouth Youth Sailing Commodore and a Mount Batten Centre Charity Trustee added:“It’s a real joy to welcome schools and groups back to the Centre and to see and hear everyone having a fantastic time. For some of these local children this is their first time on the water and we all feel very privileged to be able to provide them all with such a safe learning environment and a fun and unforgettable experience.”

The Mayflower 400: Get Active initiative of which Sailors of Tomorrow activities were included was funded by a range of organisations, community groups and individuals across the city including Plymouth City Council and Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.

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12 July 2021

New travel guide to good places to visit in staycation Cornwall

A Plymouth writer has penned a new travel guide to Cornwall.

Cornwall Favourites For One And All!: A quick guide to good places to visit across the county has been written by journalist and former newspaper editor Andrew Townsend.

The ebook highlights the tourist hotspots in the county, but also locations a little off the beaten track.

“With thousands of extra visitors expected in Cornwall this summer because of the COVIDd-19 foreign travel restrictions, I thought I would highlight some of the lesser known locations in the county that are still well worth a visit,” said Andrew.

“Pressure mounts at some of the hotspots during a normal summer, so in the coming staycation season it makes sense to point visitors to quieter spots.

“For instance, Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula can become super busy but just up the coast at Ogo-dour Cove it’s a completely different story. The coast around Ogo-dour Cove is still spectacular but it can only be reached on foot which makes it a tranquil place to visit.

“The same is true for parts of the North Cornwall coast and for areas on Bodmin Moor. These places make for memorable visits in a county that has truly amazing scenery.

“The ebook helps to introduce Cornwall’s glorious beaches, wild moors, soaring cliffs and scenic rivers, as well as historic towns, pretty villages, mining relics and theme park rides.

“Having previously worked in Cornwall for many years as the editor of the Cornish Times, I know the county well, but I have still discovered new locations to visit while researching for Cornwall Favourites For One And All!.

“And I must say the research for the ebook was a lot of fun! I hope this comes across in the text.”

The exploration starts in delightful South East Cornwall, at the riverside village of Cremyll. It takes in Mount Edgcumbe Country Park, Cawsand and Kingsand, Rame Head, Downderry and Seaton, Looe and Polperro, Polruan, and Fowey.

The ebook follows the rest of the superb south coast along to the splendour of Land’s End and then the rugged north coast to the beautiful Bude area.

From there, the trip continues southwards down the splendid border area with Devon, visiting Launceston with its Norman castle and a number of places in the Tamar Valley including Calstock and Cotehele, as well as Saltash and Torpoint.

And then the guide takes in more locations across the county, including St Germans, Liskeard and Minions.

Cornwall Favourites For One And All!: A quick guide to good places to visit across the county is out now (Amazon, £2.99).

12 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Exciting opportunites for young people as part of SailGP Young people from Plymouth and further afield will be given the opportunity to be involved with an exciting range of activities as part of the big SailGP event which takes place in July.

Building its momentum to engage 10,000 young people by 2025, the SailGP Inspire programme is continuing its mission to increase diversity and accessibility within the sport of sailing. It will be activating its three programme pathways at the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Plymouth on July 17 and 18 with the focus on Learning, Careers and Racing.

In partnership with Plymouth City Council, with support from Associated British Ports, English Cities Fund and Sutton Harbour Group, Britain’s Ocean City will play host to the world’s most spectacular sail racing as fans witness high-intensity foiling F50 catamarans take flight.

In addition to having two action-filled race days, SailGP’s Inspire programme aims to give city residents and its young people an exciting agenda to use the power of sport for good while developing sailing as a sustainable sport.

SailGP youth programme manager Tom Herbert Evans said: “Each event throughout the season presents an opportunity for SailGP to have more young people join our vision to Race for the Future - one that is inclusive and affords equal access to the sport we are so passionate about.

“By sharing our platform, we are better placed to ensure our league’s efforts to make a positive social and environmental impact are met.”

Crews consisting of one male and one female will race in RS Fevas Photo: Ian Roman for SailGP

Partnering with Plymouth City Council, Inspire Learning’s educational opportunities for diverse groups of young people will be conducted through guided technical base tours, while the on-water sailing experiences will be supported by the Mount Batten Watersports & Activities Centre, Plymouth Youth Sailing, and Horizons Plymouth.

This exposure to the maritime industry will take place from July 12 to 14, showcasing behind-the-scenes operations and creating an unforgettable knowledge-building experience. On July 15 and 16, young innovators will be able to participate in a two-day Powered by Nature themed event filled with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) challenges.

Bringing the Inspire-related activities to life is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Plymouth City Council and Great Britain SailGP Team’s Race for the Future purpose partner - Stem Crew.

Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, Children and Young People Cllr Dave Downie said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming SailGP to the city this July and are delighted to be partnering on the Inspire program to give young people in Plymouth opportunities to get involved in this global event and to get on the water and sail.

Combining STEM education with the behind the scenes access and on-water activities will give incredible and unforgettable experiences for young people in our city.”

The Inspire Careers programme is also partnering with the University of Plymouth world-leading and award-winning marine

Aspiring young sailors will be be given a once in a lifetime chance to showcase their skills in front of the crowds with the WASZP foiling craft Photo: James Doughty for SailGP

sustainability research institution, the University of Plymouth.

A select number of students making up 50 per centof the careers placements will derive from different subject disciplines. These individuals will be provided the opportunity to gain experience in a series of key SailGP micro-internships: boatbuilding, rigging, hydraulics, wing assembly, hospitality, sustainability, data analytics and on-water operations.

University of Plymouth Vice-Chancellor and chief executive Judith Petts said: “The University of Plymouth is delighted to be an official partner of the SailGP Inspire programme and to play a part in bringing this exciting international event to Britain’s Ocean City.

“Our waterside location brings many benefits to our student experience, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them to get hands-on career experience in an event of a global scale that the world’s eyes will be on. We are especially proud to also be working with our alumnus, celebrated professional yachtsman, Conrad Humphreys, who is leading the UK event on-water operations.”

Sharing the water with SailGP’s supercharged, identical F50s, the Inspire Racing programme’s partnership with WASZP will give aspiring young foiling sailors a once in a lifetime chance to showcase their skills in front of cheering crowds from July 14 to 18. Inspire Racing’s partner RS Sailing will see an additional group of 16 local youth sailors hone in on their sailing abilities onboard RS Fevas - paired with one male and one female per boat - between July 16 and 18.

As the future of the sport, RS Feva participants will be identified using the guidance of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and the UK RS Feva Class Association.

The RYA will also play a critical role in the development of local foiling instructors with additional support provided by Horizons Plymouth.

Additional SailGP Inspire partners include Rooster, MarkSetBot, World Sailing Trust, ePropulsion, Marlow Ropes and Doyle Sails, who provide valuable materials and resources crucial to the success of the Learning, Careers, and Racing programs that take place in and around each of the events around the globe.

The Great Britain Sail Grand Prix takes place in Plymouth on July 17 and 18. For details visit SailGP.com/GreatBritain.

Tickets now on sale - see story on page 15.

July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Rock pooling, snorkelling and marine exploration are on offer this summer Plymouth’s National Marine Aquarium has come up with a way to keep families entertained this summer through its new ‘Aquarium in the Wild’ programme and ‘Snorkel Safaris’.

Having reopened in May, the Aquarium wants to ensure that as well as connecting their visitors to amazing animals that live around the world, they’re also engaging beach-goers and seaside explorers with the wildlife on the Aquarium’s doorstep.

The ‘Aquarium in the Wild’ programme will feature weekly free activities ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate. Running every weekend, a team of Ocean Discovery Rangers will also host free Beach Explorer events including rock pooling sessions to explore the marine environment and beach cleans, beach craft activities and scavenger hunts.

In addition, the Aquarium is launching its brand new Snorkel Safari sessions every Saturday from Mount Batten beach. These sessions are aimed at those wanting to take the first steps into snorkelling.

The Ocean Discovery Rangers are fully qualified BSAC Snorkel Instructors and will be on hand for the one-and-a-half-hour session, where participants learn how to use snorkel equipment, cover basic snorkel techniques and explore the Ocean. Not only will these sessions support people to experience the Ocean, they will also raise funds for Ocean conservation.

Nicola Bridge, head of Conservation Education and Communications, said: “With summer holidays approaching we want to invite people down to enjoy

local beaches, feel connected with the ocean and improve their wellbeing. Participants will get the chance to experience something they might not normally do at the beach and hopefully take away a more positive view of the ocean.

“As part of the Ocean Conservation Trust, the Aquarium programmes are a vital part of helping people connect with the ocean, as well as being a great day out.

“Our team are brilliantly engaging and knowledgeable and these beach adventures will be a great way for participants to learn and get hands-on with the ocean”.

For more information visit www.nationalaquarium.co.uk

13

Mother’s quest to fund books for children’s wards A Plympton mother has set up a fundraising mission to raise £500 to provide books for the children’s wards at Derriford Hospital where her son has spent periods as a patient.

Heather Jenkin came up with the plan after noticing a lack of interactive books for young children during her son’s time there receiving treatment.

Heather said: “My son has spent a reasonable amount of time on several of the wards and we noticed that there is a serious lack of interactive books for young children (music, sounds, lights, touchy feely) and with covid/general infection control, books that get damaged (frayed edges/ sellotape needed to hold them together) need to be gotten rid of.”

The books once purchased will be donated to the following wards at Derriford Hospital • Paediatric A+E • Children’s HDU • Children and Adolescent Outpatients • Woodcock (Young children’s ward) • Wildgoose (Adolescent ward) Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can do so by going to www.paypal.com/pools/ c/8ze4KS99hH (Story courtesy of The Plympton Podcast)

One of the world’s most impressive sailing events, SailGP will return to UK shores in Plymouth on 17-18 July for the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix. Expect high speed, high tech and high drama!

Find out all you need to know and plan your visit at www.visitplymouth.co.uk/sailgp

14 July 2021

Plymouth enhances its position as a global leader in marine research

Plymouth has seen its position as an international centre of excellence for marine research further enhanced after its three leading science organisations joined forces to launch Marine Research Plymouth.

The University of Plymouth, the Marine Biological Association and Plymouth Marine Laboratory already have world-leading reputations individually across a range of marine disciplines and have strong track records in delivering projects for governments, industry and research bodies.

Collectively, however, they host the largest number of marine scientists in any UK city and the greatest number of undergraduate and postgraduate marine students anywhere in the country.

Between them, they alerted the world to marine plastics, have conducted the longest running assessment of plankton health, and are consistently pioneering new technology and innovations that highlight the impact of climate change on our oceans and coastlines.

Marine Research Plymouth seeks to harness all of that and ensure Plymouth – Britain’s Ocean City – is the go-to place in the UK, and one of the leading centres globally, for marine science research.

The three organisations will retain their individual identities and roles while promoting even greater collaboration on major projects and ventures.

Marine Research Plymouth will encourage joint investment in research appointments and support the sharing of capabilities, equipment and facilities.

It will ensure Plymouth is even better-placed to attract further funding for initiatives that can advance knowledge and understanding of the oceans.

The signing of the partnership agreement comes at a critical time for marine and climate science, both in the UK and globally.

Professor Judith Petts, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Plymouth – recently named the best university globally for its marine research and teaching in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2021 – said: “World-leading science that ensures the health and sustainability of marine environments is dependent on collaboration. The University collaborates across the UK and globally and its leadership in marine science has long been recognised. I am delighted that Marine Research Plymouth builds on our immensely strong local partnerships to showcase and position Plymouth – Britain’s Ocean City – as a centre of global leadership, opportunity and impact in the marine and ocean sciences that are so vital to our planet.”

Professor Icarus Allen, chief executive of Plymouth Marine Laboratory said: “Through Marine Research Plymouth there is an opportunity to further harness the worldleading expertise and long heritage of marine research that exists in Plymouth – Britain’s Ocean City – and create a true centre of global excellence. This will bring benefits not just for the organisations involved but for the city and its residents, the wider South West, the UK and beyond.”

The establishment of Marine Research Plymouth has been supported by funding from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation.

14 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plymouth military children take part in Little Troopers workshop More than 160 military children from four primary schools in Plymouth have taken part in a free virtual workshop run by the charity Little Troopers.

As part of a nationwide virtual roadshow being delivered by the charity throughout June, children from Plymouth who have parents currently serving in the British Armed Forces logged in together to explore some the unique challenges they might experience such as having a parent deployed overseas and regularly having to move home and school.

Pomphlett Primary School, Widewell Primary School, St Paul’s Catholic Primary School and Sparkwell All Saints Primary School were the four schools from the city which took part. All of the workshop activities were from the charity’s dedicated Little Troopers at School programme, which was created by education experts to give all schools easily accessible resources to support military children in the classroom.

Helen Burrows, parent support advisor at Pomphlett Primary School, said: “What an amazing opportunity for our school to be involved. The children had a fantastic morning with well thought out activities and great resources. The presenters were excellent, very engaging and fun. The children definitely benefited from coming together as a unique group of children to learn to be superheroes! Many thanks Little Troopers!”

The children took part in storytelling, imaginative play, movement and drama and were shown tools that could help them navigate some of the challenges they might face as military children, either now or in the future. The workshops were funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund and offered schools a snapshot of some of the resources available in the Little Troopers Primary School Resource Pack and Military Child Wellbeing Course.

Louise Fetigan, founder and operations manager at Little Troopers, said: “There are tens of

Pupils from Pomphlett Primary School who took part in the Little Troopers roadshow

thousands of military children across the UK and the support they receive in school is very varied depending on where they live in the country and what school they go to.

“Our aim with the Little Troopers at School programme is to make it really easy for schools to have targeted resources they can use with their military children – whether that’s one or two military children or two hundred. We want to make sure that wherever children live and however many schools they go to, they can access support if they need it and that all schools have a good understanding of the unique challenges that military life can bring.

“We had originally planned to run a physical roadshow last summer, but as with many things, the pandemic changed our plans. It’s actually turned out for the best as our virtual workshops

have enabled us to reach far more military children than we could have seen in person and we hope that the children who have taken part will really benefit from the session, as well as having had lots of fun!”

2021 marks ten years since Armed Forces veteran, Louise Fetigan, registered a charity to support children with parents serving in the British Armed Forces.

As well as the charity’s school programme, Little Troopers also has a number of free resources that parents can use to support children at home including the Little Troopers Treasures story recording app for military parents to record themselves reading stories for their children to watch while they are away.

For more information visit www.littletroopers. net

runs between Somerset Place and Ponsonby Road.

The path has been widened and resurfaced with new lighting installed to make the path safer and more attractive to walk and cycle to Central Park and the Life Centre from Stoke and other neighbourhoods to the south and west of the park.

Councillor Jonathan Drean, Cabinet member for Transport, said: “Encouraging the use of sustainable transport is so important to our fight against climate change and so I hope these will be the first of many schemes of their kind, that

cater for both experienced cyclists and those either returning to, or getting on a bike for the first time.”

Both routes have received funding from the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund, which was awarded in January 2019 to help increase investment in sustainable transport.

In addition, the scheme at Broxton Drive was also funded by the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, thanks to successful funding bids by the council, as well as developer contributions.

Two new local cycle routes open to residents

Two new, off-road cycling and walking paths have been opened to residents in Plymouth.

The first is a brand new, purpose built path in Plymstock that links Broxton Drive to Saltram Meadow roundabout It runs parallel to Billacombe Road along the route of the old railway line and is an extension to the current route that stretches back over Laira Rail Bridge.

The other, in Milehouse, is the significant upgrade and widening of an existing path that

A Comedy

co-written and directed by John Nicholson and Tony Hawks

Playing until 4th July theatreroyal.com 01752 267222

July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Fit and Fed summer activity programme available for young people in Plymouth

15

Europe’s first immersive dome set to open in Devonport’s Market Hall

up to

Parents and carers throughout Plymouth may be eligible to benefit from a free holiday clubs programme for children and young people over the school summer break.

The Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food programme (HAF) will be available throughout the region this summer. Backed by a nationwide investment of up to £220 million, the expanded programme ran initially during Easter in all local authority areas and is also scheduled for the Christmas holidays.

In Plymouth the programme is called Fit and Fed and the summer programme was launched in June.

Fit and Fed aims to support families with children aged five to 16 years old who currently receive benefits-related free school meals. As well as providing children with a healthy nutritious lunch, the holiday clubs also include a wide range of different activities including; sport, music, dance, drama, art, cooking and science.

Councillor Dave Downie, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills and Children and Young People said: “I’m delighted that once again we are able to deliver this vital support to children and young people during the six week school holidays. It’s a fantastic opportunity to help with improving socialisation and helping young people to have fun with friends this summer.

“The Government’s investment into the HAF programme will build on the foundations laid by the Council, sporting organisations, charities and the voluntary sector during the successful programme over the Easter holidays.”

Fit and Fed will be delivered by a mix of holiday club providers such as; Argyle Community Trust, Fit for Sport, Hamoaze House, the Mount Batten Centre and the National Marine Aquarium amongst others.

Parents and carers of children aged five to 16 years old that receive benefits-related free school meals and who would like to know more about the Fit and Fed programme, should visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/fitandfed.

Councillor Downie added: “While this programme is fantastic news for children who are entitled to benefits based free school meals, we understand that the school holidays can be difficult for families on lower incomes.

So I would remind those families who are eligible for Universal Credit that they may be able to claim back up to 85 per cent of their childcare costs. Please visit Help With Childcare Costs to find out more.”

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Opening this summer, the Market Hall in Devonport is inviting the people of Plymouth to experience its awe-inspiring 15m immersive dome - the first of it’s kind in Europe!

With a wide range of events and experiences for all the family, the dome provides the opportunity to explore immersive realities without the need for a VR headset. From films and entertainment, to health, wellbeing, and play, the Market Hall is open to everyone.

Created by Real Ideas Organisation – the team behind Devonport Guildhall and Ocean Studios in Royal William Yard – the Market hall will also offer educational immersive experiences and workshops for all ages and abilities.

Alongside mind-blowing immersive experiences, the Market Hall will also provide inspiring co-work space for all kinds of local creative, digital and immersive businesses.

With the addition of a café and bar area, the Market Hall offers barista coffee, delicious cake or a wholesome lunch for visitors to enjoy with their family.

Visitors will also be able to pop by in the evening and enjoy a glass of wine and an immersive experience with a friend or two!

A space to work, learn, meet, eat, create… and have fun! Go and immerse yourself at the Market Hall!

Sign up for news and events at www. realideas.org/markethall

See the spectacular live performance of Trigger’s The Hatchling in Plymouth this summer A giant dragon will hatch in the city, roam the streets and then take to the sky from The Hoe. Join us on 14th & 15th August for this highlight event in the Mayflower 400 programme – an adventure never to be forgotten.

FREE for all the family.

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16 July 2021

David Draffan is awarded MBE in recognition of his service to the city

David Draffan, Plymouth City Council’s Service Director for Economic Development, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

David has been awarded the honour for Services to Local Government through his dedication and commitment to supporting and developing Plymouth’s business economy.

David came to Plymouth in 1999 as the first city centre manager and then set up the City Centre Company in 2005 and established the first Business Improvement District outside of London.

He then moved to the City Council where he established the Economic Department in 2009 and has led the delivery of Plymouth’s major transformation projects over the last decade, ranging from retail and leisure, through science and technology.

He spearheaded the Oceansgate Marine Enterprise Zone, winning funding and international support for the creation of a world class hub for marine industry research, innovation and production located adjacent to the city’s naval base. David also led on the major extension of Plymouth Science Park.Some of the major retail developments in the city including the £53m leisure and entertainment destination at The Barcode and the new Range Head Office to Plymouth in 2019, have bucked national trends in attracting institutional investment to such ventures, largely due to David’s unswerving commitment to the city’s vision for growth.

In 2010 he set up Destination Plymouth with the aim of increasing the number of visitors to the city, tourism related jobs and to grow visitor spend.

Then in 2012 he set up the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership to drive the Visitor economy and promote the waterfront.

One of his most significant and lasting contributions to the cultural life of the city has come to fruition with the opening of The Box last year. A £47m project described as the most significant cultural initiative in the UK in 2020. Through eight years of planning, he led the team that has brought together the city’s museum, art gallery and archive into a single, landmark destination.

At the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, David led the city’s response to the impact on businesses, inviting and receiving 3,000 grant applications from local businesses and distributing £32m of financial support within four weeks of the scheme being launched. His commitment to smaller businesses is also illustrated by the launch of SHOP4Plymouth and Call4fish over the last six months, providing invaluable support and recognition for these threatened sectors.

David said: “It’s been an exciting, humbling and at times surreal few weeks since I found out in May and my wife and I couldn’t believe it. Since the public announcement the highlight has been to share messages with so many friends and colleagues that I have worked with over the last 20 years in Plymouth. I have always been so proud to work for the City Council and its elected members.

“The people I currently work in my job with are the best I have ever worked in my career and what binds us all together is a deep passion for our city. Like many others, I am entirely driven by the fact that this amazing city is where I live and have chosen to bring my family, having moved here in 1999.”

16 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Appeal for £10,000 to install new wheelchair swing in Victoria Park Determined to step up its drive to improve a much-loved greenspace, the Victoria Park Community Project has launched an appeal for a new exciting and game-changing piece of play equipment.

Michelle Quintrell, chair of the project said: “Our volunteers, supported by Plymouth City Council and local councillors, have done an amazing job so far. Our Park is now a flower filled, safe oasis, complete with CCTV and a very welcoming café.”

Although the Millbridge park is very flat, with excellent mobility friendly pathways, Michelle and the team believe there’s one disabled improvement still very much needed – a speciality swing that accommodates wheelchairs.

Unfortunately, COVID-019 scuppered all the group’s fundraising plans so they’re now pinning their hopes on Crowdfunding the project. They need to raise £10,000 for the special swing.

Stoke Ward Councillor Jemima Laing said: “I think this would be a brilliant addition to our wonderful park. Michelle and I have an ambition to make Victoria Park as inclusive and accessible as possible and getting this swing in place would be a big part of achieving that aim.”

Any individual or business willing to donate to the project an contact Michelle on 07522565022 or e-mail vpcp@btinternet.com. Or go straight to www. crowdfunder.co.uk/victoriaparkwheelchairswing

Artist’s impression of the new wheelchair swing

Theresa celebrates her 107th birthday Plymouth care home resident Theresa Ryan has celebrated her 107th birthday.

Mrs Ryan blew out her candles at the party held for her at Anchor Care’s Manor Court Home in Efford where she has lived for seven years.

To celebrate her incredible achievement, Theresa was treated to a high tea by the care team at Manor Court, who also made her a delicious chocolate birthday cake. This remarkable day was topped off by a special visit from members of Theresa’s family visiting in line with latest government guidelines.

Grandmother to three grandchildren, Mrs Ryan was born in Malta and moved to Plymouth to be closer to her daughter Margaret.

Before she retired at the age of 60, Mrs Ryan worked in a clothing factory and as a playground

Theresa pictured on her 107th birthday

assistant.

Mrs Ryan said: “I am happy to have lived, and still be living, such a good life and still to have loved ones around me.

“My motto for a long and happy life is: always be kind to others, have all the chocolate you

want, work hard, and have the occasional whisky or Baileys!”

Manor Court Care Home manager Clair Webb said: “Theresa is a wonderful, caring person. She always likes to take part in the activities like dancing using pom pom’s whilst listening to old

music.

“She always enjoys Elvis Presley songs and will often sing along to ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love.’

All our colleagues love having a chat with Theresa, she has a wicked sense of humour and infectious laugh which lights up the room.”

Charges to be dropped as changes made to waste services by new administration

Plymouth’s new administration wasted little time in making a range of changes designed to make disposing of waste easier for residents.

New Council Leader Nick Kelly was chairing the first meeting of his new cabinet when he announced that the garden waste period would be extended, charges for non-household waste at Chelson Meadow will be scrapped and the delivery of new bins will now be free of charge.

“I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to get straight to business and make the decisions that residents have told us they want,” said Councillor Kelly.

“It was not right that people had to pay £15 to have a bin delivered; it was not right that we were risking an increase in fly-tipping by charging people at Chelson Meadow and it was not right that we weren’t collecting garden waste at a time when the most leaves were still falling.

“These decisions are all about applying common sense and will make it easier for residents throughout our city to dispose of their waste in a more environmentally friendly way and lead to an increase in recycling rates.”

The council’s Garden Waste collection service previously ran from April until October but will now be extended until the end of November.

In addition, residents will no longer need to remember to register for the service every year.

Meanwhile, the charges brought in at Chelson Meadow for soil, rubble, plasterboard, asbestos and other DIY materials in January will cease.

Lastly, the £15 charge for the delivery of additional or replacement bins has been suspended, although will still apply for the provision of bins for new build properties.

The opportunity for residents to collect containers themselves is currently suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic but will be reinstated as soon as possible, and this method is being actively encouraged by the council.

18 July 2021

18 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Devil’s Point all set to blossom

The giant puppet parade about to set off for the back alleys of Keyham Photo: Josh Marsh

Beautiful new blossom trees could be planted at Devil’s Point thanks to a new national nature initiative.

Barbican Theatre’s giant puppet parade is a big hit with residents in Keyham A giant puppet parade has taken place in the cobbled back alleys of Keyham much to the delight of local children and residents.

The parade snaked its way through Fleet Street, Victory Street, Renown Street and Ocean Street before ending at the junction of Royal Navy Avenue and Fleet Street.

It was the second parade presented by the Barbican Theatre - the first took place in St Judes in September last year and was watched by just under 1,000 people.

At Barbican Theatre are unable to bring performances to its small auditorium due to COVID restrictions, they have been taking their work out to the people and communities of Plymouth.

Working with expert puppet makers Ruth Webb and Zenna Tagney, Barbican Theatre held puppet making workshops at St Johnstone’s Sport & Social Club in Keyham in early May. Working with local people – in creative

bubbles to ensure safe social distancing – over the two days they built their own Funky Prawns to accompany the custom made 20 feet high Fisherman puppet. Materials used were predominantly scrap or upcycled, much of which was sourced from Plymouth Scrapstore.

Most of those who attended the creative workshops also performed with their puppet during the parade.

Also joining the parade in Keyham were members of Barbican Theatre’s ReBels who designed and built their own giant Jellyfish plus members of Above Bound Theatre who took their Fish-Go-Disco light up puppets to entertain residents.

Accompanying the parade to get everyone in the party spirit was the theatre’s own Junk Band featuring members of Barbican Theatre ReBels, who have been working with percussionist Benji Isbel.

James Woodhams, Barbican Theatre ReBels

co-lead and parade coordinator said: “We’re so so happy with the reactions from the amazing Keyham community to our second giant back alley puppet parade.

“The Barbican team had a fantastic time creating the Funky Prawn puppets with members of the local community and we were genuinely thrilled that so many of them wanted to join the parade and wear their creations.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to Ruth and Zenna from Lostwithiel Puppets who designed and built the 7 metre tall fisherman puppet I had the privilege of puppeteering during the parade and also to Nigel Cross and the wonderful team at St Johnstone’s Sport and Social Club who let us use their space for the making workshops and as a base on the day of the parade.

“The past year has been so difficult for so many so this is our way of taking some entertainment out to the community to spread some joy and meet some lovely people.”

Plymouth has been selected as a partner in the National Trust’s Blossom Together initiative – a multi-year programme that aims to get the UK celebrating its blossom season and help people connect with nature.

The scheme was launched earlier this year and received praised both regionally and nationally.

Devil’s Point has been chosen as Plymouth’s blossom site in recognition of its unique marine and green environment, while funding is from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

The aim is to improve an existing, tarmac area within Devil’s Point to create a beautiful, blossoming place accessible for all.

The key criteria is to include blossoming trees that suit the local geography and weather and ensure we respond sensitively to the special historic and natural features on the site.

Plymouth City Council want to develop a space that is meaningful and unique to the local community, as well as being welcoming to the many visitors that the site greets daily - situated as it is along the South West Coast Path.

To turn this vision into reality, they want to hear the views of Plymouth residents, including what they like about Devil’s Point already and how the project can add to that.

Councillor Patrick Nicholson, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This is a fantastic project that will bring a wonderful new splash of colour to what is already a beautiful place.

“It’s so important that what we deliver is what residents want and that’s why we’re running a consultation before any designs are commissioned, to make sure that this new space has community backing from the very start.”

The City Council would like to hear the views of local residents and a questionnaire can be found at www.plymouth.gov.uk/newsroom/ pressreleases/devilspointsetblossom

Volunteers needed in Plymouth for summer food collection Volunteers are being sought in Plymouth to help two leading charities support children and families this summer.

From July 15 to 17, charities FareShare and the Trussell Trust will be collecting long-life food in Tesco’s large Plymouth stores as part of a special Food Collection to support children and families throughout the summer holidays.

Food donated by Tesco customers during the collection will go to support food banks in the Trussell Trust’s network and to local charities supplied by FareShare, including holiday clubs providing healthy meals and activities to youngsters outside of term-time.

Tesco will once again top up customer donations made in store by 20% in cash to aid the two charities in their work.

Plymouth volunteers are needed to encourage shoppers to leave their donations in the collection point at the front of stores, as shoppers are more likely to donate if volunteers are present, and to spread awareness of the collection through social media. The appeal for volunteers comes ahead of Volunteers Week, which celebrates the work of volunteers in the UK. Julian Mines, CEO at FareShare South West, said: “More people than ever are struggling to put food on the table and will do for months if not years to come as the economy recovers.

We have seen a huge increase in people turning to their local grassroots community groups for support and demand for food

remains high.

“We would be incredibly grateful to anyone who is able to volunteer just two hours

of their time this year to encourage more shoppers to donate much needed long-life food to those who need it most.”

Emma Revie, chief executive of the Trussell Trust, urged others to give their support by becoming digital volunteers and spreading news of the collection via social media.

She added: “We’re seeing more people than ever struggling in extreme poverty and pushed to the doors of food banks because they do not have enough money to survive.

This isn’t right.

But over the last year, we have been overwhelmed by the support people in Plymouth have shown towards food banks in our network by donating food at Tesco.

“This summer, we would be so grateful if people can share shopping lists of their local food bank’s most-needed items on their social media, support the Tesco Summer Food Collection when they are next in store, and encourage friends and family to donate.

Together we can make a difference and work towards building a hunger free future.”

The summer collection is in addition to the pre-Christmas Tesco Food Collection, which takes place annually at the end of November.

It is the second year running that Tesco has run a summer Food Collection; following on from a special collection held last summer as the charities were faced with a rise in need caused by Covid-19.

To find out more about volunteering during the Tesco Food Collection and to sign up visit: www.fareshare.org.uk/foodcollection/

Suits You Sir £250 a POP Launched last September and designed to offer a ‘quick fix’ to community groups during Covid, the “£250 a POP” fund has been such a success that instead of coming to an end, more money has been put into the pot. A total of £15,000 was set aside for the fund when it launched last September but now, after learning about the many wonderful ways in which communities are putting the money to use and with demand still high, POP trustees have decided to double the investment and adapt and extend the initiative.

More than fifty different ways of spending the POP money have been put to effect across the city: from new panes in a community greenhouse to buoyancy aids; paying for PPE for counsellors to a license to ‘Zoom’, the £250 a POP cash has been making its mark and providing a much-needed lifeline to some.

Now, with the POP pot replenished, changes have been made to the original conditions and organisations can apply more than once.

POP on tour!

We have set up a series of events in and around Plymouth where POP will be out in the community giving people a chance to meet the team, learn about our work and the many ways we support individuals and organisations.

We are really excited to be going out and doing what we do best: connecting with people and projects.

Jodie Clarke used the money from the £250 a POP fund to buy some much-needed clothes rails. In January, Jodie and some friends brought the nationwide project “Take One; Leave One” to Plymouth streets supporting people sleeping rough during winter with clothes, food and toiletries. An appeal for donations brought a variety of smart clothes, suits and shoes and, after hearing from some of the men they were helping about the challenge to find suitable clothing for a funeral or job interview, a new project, Suited To Help, was born.

Coming from a military family and working as the Volunteer Co-ordinator for the Royal Navy Family and People Support, Jodie was particularly aware of the difficulties facing ex-servicemen;

“There are people donating to us that we know are on benefits themselves and we get such decent stuff. I think people are really happy to give it to us because they know it’s going to a good cause; they can see what we’re doing with it and they like to know they are giving back to the community.”

“The transition to civilian life can be difficult for some service personnel and not everyone would have suitable workwear for an interview” With the launch of the project and an appeal for smart clothing so donations have been rolling in: people have taken special journeys to bring clothes from all over the south west to Plymouth while surplus ‘menswear’ has been despatched from national companies, such as, Next, Slater Menswear and Asda .

Before long, Jodie, her Royal Marine husband and four children were fighting for space;

Suited to Help received £146 from the £250 a POP fund to pay for some much-needed clothes rails.

“It has been amazing but for a while you couldn’t move in our house for rails and boxes of clothes! We’ve got a bit of temporary storage, but it would be really great to have somewhere where people could come; try clothes on and leave with something there and then.”

“We gave one man a pair of shoes as he only had his trainers to wear to a job interview. He was really worried that he was going to create a bad impression, but he said that wearing the shoes, he felt more confident and was able to concentrate on his performance rather than his appearance.”

Despite being only a few months old the project has already helped more than twenty unemployed men and veterans dress for the occasion. As Jodie says the impacts of a jacket and tie are often invisible:

POP Collectives Fund The POP Collectives Fund, launched last September, is now offering POP members up to £5,000 to pay for community work carried out in a collaboration. In the first round, twelve very different projects were awarded £3,000 each: Digital Inclusion - a collaboration between Borrow Don’t Buy (the library of things) and Timebank - has refurbished and handed-out eight digital devices, so far, to individuals and families.

And Kintsugi Radio has received £3000 to support its internet radio station with new equipment. The radio station, based and run in collaboration with Leadworks in Rendle Street, helps to create opportunities for people with disabilities.

Our tour kicks off at Efford Community Centre, Monday July 5th 1.00 ‘til 5.00pm.

Community Researchers Needed:

POP has embarked on a major South West study into ‘ageing’ to try and find out what helps or hinders people to remain independent as they get older.

We are looking for people to be trained as an interviewer and capture these conversations. You will be financially rewarded for your time for both the training and interviews. We would particularly like to invite ‘younger’ people to participate.

Contact info@plymouthoctopus.org

As the suits keep coming, it is clear this project has touched a chord with many people. Despite it being designed to help ‘individuals’ it has, says fellow director, Louise Hurley, community at its heart;

Lewys Tapscott-Nolt

Across the city, Neighbourhood Care Networks continue to support individuals in their communities. If your or your organisation would like to volunteer to help others, text 07411 949 742.

POP has recently relaxed the rules: applications from a collaboration of (minimum) three organisations can now be made for a maximum of £5,000 www.plymouthoctopus.org/funding/

As word spreads and introductions to organisations such as The Plymouth Veterans’ Hub, The Royal British Legion and the YMCA are made so the project grows.

What’s needed now, says Jodie, as a priority, is somewhere to store the suits and offer fittings. The next step, she says, is to offer the same help to women so that Suited To Help is providing smart occasional wear to anyone going anywhere significant.

For more information or to donate, contact Jodie at suitedtohelp@gmail.com

NEWS FLASH:

Suited To Help is extending its support to school leavers. Aware of the financial impact of Covid and lockdown on many individuals and families, the project is now offering smart clothes to help young men leaving school, college and/or university make a positive impression at interview.

Helpline Numbers:

Efford Community Network

Efford 07380 309586 Glenholt 07849 413125

If you would like the opportunity to promote your project to the POP community and tell us what a difference you make to others please phone us on 395131 or email, info@plymouthoctopus.org

20 July 2021

20 July 2021

Plymouth tipped as a UK staycation hotspot

Plymouth has been tipped to be a UK staycation hotspot this year.

The city is one of the locations in the country likely to benefit from people not booking holidays abroad this year, according to ‘UK Staycations 2021: A Year of Opportunities’.

The report, published by commercial property specialist Colliers, predicts Plymouth will build on last year, when it was the third best performing of UK hotel locations in terms of revenue per available room (RevPAR) during the period in which lockdown restrictions were lifted and hotels were able to open.

While hotels around the UK typically experienced a decrease of 66 per cent in RevPAR between July and October 2020 compared to the same period in 2019, hotels in Plymouth only experienced a decline of 19.6 per cent, behind Bournemouth at 10.1 per cent and Eastbourne at 13.4 per cent.

Marc Finney, head of Hotels & Resorts Consulting at Colliers, said: “Plymouth has traditionally attracted a predominantly domestic tourism base and has had limited reliance on the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector. As a result it benefitted last year from the

staycation effect, which dominated the hospitality sector during the brief periods when hotels were open to the general public.

“We believe that Britain’s Ocean City will be popular again this year, as people unable to book travel abroad decide to instead enjoy a seaside break in this country.”

The full list of UK locations identified by Colliers as likely to benefit further from staycation demand this year is Bournemouth, Eastbourne, Plymouth, Norwich, Brighton, Bath, Blackpool and Southampton.

The report also predicts that this year will see a new trend for luxury staycations, which could see domestic tourism benefitting from an increased spend of £22 billion this year, and which could bring long term benefits of around £5.5 billion a year.

Marc added: “Guests will be seeking luxury and treats following the stresses of the pandemic lockdowns, resulting in an increase in spending within hotels in the form of room upgrades and more expensive meals, and also indulgences such as spa treatments, and afternoon teas.

“It looks like it will be a bumper summer season for some locations, which is very welcome news indeed.”

Home Park protected Home Park stadium is to remain on the register as an Asset of Community Value.

An application to renew the status of the land and buildings at Home Park has been approved by Plymouth City Council’s legal team and will remain on the register for another five years.

It covers the football stadium at Home Park, including the ticket office, club offices, car park and hospitality accommodation at Higher Home Park.

The nomination was put forward by the Argyle Fans’ Trust for the following reasons including: • Home Park has been home to Plymouth Argyle FC since 1901 • The stadium is crucial in enabling the club to deliver social value and community benefit through sporting and social activities in which the club needs a suitable home to host its matches • The money invested into developing Home Park over the years from various sources – the Football Club’s owner and shareholders, the Football Foundation, the Club (and its supporters), and Plymouth City Council, means that Home Park remains the only realistic and viable home for Plymouth Argyle FC Deputy leader Councillor Patrick Nicholson said: “Plymouth Argyle plays such a big role in the city and over the last year or so we have been blown away by the incredible work the club has done with the public and with the NHS through the pandemic.

“There is a huge sense of community pride in this club and

the fans’ trust put in a really strong application which was a great reminder of the scale of what the club do on and off the pitch. We were more than happy to see the application renewed.”

Being on the list means that should the owner intend to sell the asset he must notify the local council. A community interest group then has six weeks to ask to be treated as a potential bidder.

If it does, the sale cannot take place for six months. Known as the moratorium, this period allows the group to come up with an alternative proposal – although at the end of this period it is up to the owner whether a sale goes though, to whom and for how much.

Since 2016, when the land was originally a nominated as an asset of community value, Home Park has become a conference and hospitality venue following a major multi-million-pound investment by the club owner and major shareholder.

The club’s facilities are now capable of being used on nonmatch days as a facility for nonsporting purposes to the benefit of Plymouth, not least recently by the NHS to bolster the NHS’ capacity during the coronavirus crisis.

Home Park now operates seven days a week, all year round, which were it not for the current crisis, brings thousands of people from all over the country into the city each year with non-player employees, volunteers and supporters all helping in the club’s success.

@PlymChronicle

IGNITE Festival showcases the brilliant work of city’s talented creative students Creative arts students are poised to transform Plymouth into a living gallery this summer in a groundbreaking project combining exhibition with employability.

The IGNITE Festival of Creativity will use buses and buildings as the blank canvas for artwork created by graduating students at the city’s two biggest creative education institutions – Plymouth College of Art and the University of Plymouth.

With the support of major organisations, including Plymouth Citybus, the City Centre Company, Drake Circus and Real Ideas, the festival will run for more than six weeks, using a variety of venues and digital platforms to showcase the work of painters, film-makers, sculptors, designers, and craftmakers among many other disciplines.

There will be a strong performing arts presence, supported by Plymouth Conservatoire, with organisations such as the Barbican Theatre scheduling music and performance events around the city, as well as creating opportunities for costume and set design.

IGNITE 2021 will also enable businesses and organisations to research and recruit graduates via the IGNITE website, containing hundreds of professional profiles, both enabling the local economy to take advantage of creative talent –

IGNITE is being promoted by Plymouth Citybus

and helping to retain that talent in the region.

“The IGNITE Festival of Creativity very much puts a unique spin on the traditional arts degree show,” said Dan Howson, project producer.

“It not only brings together the University and Plymouth College of Art in a genuinely collaborative way, but it takes the art of its students into the community: from the sides of buses to Barclays Bank; from shop windows to Sutton Harbour and the waterfront, this will be a city-wide celebration of creativity. And it is allied to an online platform that will connect that creativity with local industry.”

It is the third staging of IGNITE, which is supported by Plymouth City Council as part of the iMayflower project, and by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport,

who fund the Cultural Development Fund, which is administered by Arts Council England).

Organisers have identified a number of locations for artwork to be displayed, along with other activities such as film screenings and live performances. These include the big screen at The Barcode, inside the Market Hall in Devonport and Ocean Studios at Royal William Yard, and in a number of shops in the city centre and within Drake Circus.

Artwork is also emblazoned on the sides of public transport thanks to the support of Citybus.

Recognition for IGNITE has been growing, and it has been shortlisted in the 2021 HEIST Awards for Best Student Engagement Campaign or Initiative. The event will run until July 19, and for more information, visit: www.ignitefutures.co.uk.

Plymouth’s Tourist Information Centre is ready for busy summer after makeover

Plymouth’s Tourist Information Centre has been given a refresh ahead of what’s set to be an incredibly busy summer.

Councillor Mark Deacon, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “We’re expecting this summer to be a very busy one in terms of tourism, with many people across the UK choosing a staycation due to the ongoing Located on the Barbican, close to the Mayflower Steps, the coronavirus restrictions. centre has a shop packed full “With that in mind, it made of brilliant Plymouth-themed sense to take advantage of the goods and is the gateway to the closures earlier in the year and popular Mayflower Museum, as give the Tourist Information well as offering guidance and advice to visitors.

Centre a makeover, to make sure Taking advantage of lockdown it’s fit for purpose and offers closures, the ground floor has the best possible welcome to been given some much needed Britain’s Ocean City.

TLC to make it much brighter “It also shows our and more inviting. commitment to the tourism New digital screens will give industry after an incredibly businesses opportunities to tough year – we want to do Makeover for the Tourist Information Centre engage with and advertise to everything we can to help our visitors, reducing the use of businesses get back on track, leaflets and posters which has and a great visitor welcome has the added bonus of being more such an important role to play.” environmentally friendly.

The centre offers a huge range A small seating area has also of services to tourists, including: been added for people waiting free accommodation booking; for guided walking tours or to comprehensive information see the Elizabethan House, as about local attractions, events the centre acts as the front-desk and transport; free maps and for the recently refurbished guides; wheelchair hire; and a attraction which is set to open left luggage facility. in July. The shop, which stocks The Tourist Information a huge range of gifts, souvenirs, Centre’s summer opening times books and clothing, has been are 9am to 5pm Monday to given a complete makeover to Saturday and 10am to 4pm on make it more appealing, with a Sundays. brand new layout.

July 2021

It’s litter picking good at KFC! @PlymChronicle

Team members at the KFC eatery at Marsh Mills took to the streets and the local areas surrounding the restaurant to do a litter pick to mark both the launch of the Great British Spring Clean and KFC’s newest commitments to tackling litter.

Team members were joined by Plymouth litter picking group, Clean Our Patch, and discussed the range of initiatives that KFC will be implementing.

KFC’s latest initiatives include the launch of a new consultation with local councils initially in five regions across England to roll out targeted, pilot programmes around alternative solutions to tackling litter and increasing local investment in addressing the problem.

With people spending more time closer to home in the past year, the impact of litter across high streets, retail sites, parks and other green spaces

Drake Circus team join in the Great British Spring Clean

Volunteer litter pickers from Drake Circus recently joined the Keep Britain Tidy Great British Spring Clean in a bid to help tidy up Plymouth.

A team of four volunteers joined forces for the first of two community litter picks, where they conquered the stretch from Civic Square to Plymouth Hoe. In a team effort, Sylvia Hamilton, James Farley, Joe Meakin-Scott and Barrie Smith members from the Drake Circus team collected roughly 22kg of mixed waste and bottles.

The team were supported by Plymouth City Council, who sourced special bin bags for the activity and disposed of their rubbish. Greg Lumley, Centre Director at Drake Circus, said: “We’re really proud to be participating in this year’s Great British Spring Clean, joining thousands of people across the UK to clear litter from our streets, parks and benches.

It’s been great to help tidy up our local area and to give back to our local community in Plymouth.”

in the South West has become an ever-increasing problem for local councils, businesses, and local communities.

With this new approach, KFC UK and Ireland will look for ways to partner and work together with local councils and explore longer term and local solutions.

As part of these new initiatives, a dedicated mailbox has also been set up to answer issues and queries related to litter in the South West, which will provide the local community with direct access there and then to deal with ongoing litter problems around KFC restaurants.

In addition, KFC is also introducing internal training for its 28,000 team members to increase their knowledge of the environmental impact of litter.

Commenting on the litter pick, Ash Bowman, KFC area coach at KFC Plymouth Marsh Mills, said: “The day after Bank Holiday always leaves one big litter hangover, so what better way to launch our latest litter pledge than getting outdoors and joining the Great British Spring Clean to tidy local spaces.

“We’ve always taken the issue of litter seriously, but, from today, we are going further on our commitments to tackling litter in Plymouth. We want to be part of the longer-term solution, and that’s why we’re looking forward to working closely with our community as well as Plymouth City Council to

21

Members of the KFC team at Marsh Mills preparing to start their litter pick

explore ways to keep spaces tidy in Plymouth and the South West region.”

El Samuels, co-founder of Plymouth litter picking group Clean Our Patch, said: “It was great joining the team at KFC Marsh Mills and we’re delighted that KFC is taking action to address the litter problem in Plymouth through the launch of these latest initiatives.

“It is essential that all groups in the local community work together to address this issue and we are looking forward to seeing KFC taking this commitment seriously in our local area.”

For those who want to get in touch with KFC’s litter mailbox to share issues and queries related to litter around KFC restaurants, please contact: litter@kfc.co.uk.

Sponsored Content

St Luke’s announces return of ladies much-loved walk

Ladies across the city are being invited to celebrate the lives of their lost loved ones and put their best foot forward for local hospice care when one of Plymouth’s best-loved charity events returns this summer.

Following its cancellation last year because of lockdown restrictions, Midnight Walk in aid of St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is set to take place on Friday 20 August. The popular event raises vital funds to help the charity provide its specialist end of life care for terminally ill people, as well as emotional support for them and their families – services that will be needed more than ever in the months ahead due to the impact of the pandemic.

ones, this is it, and we are thrilled Midnight Walk is an opportunity that after such a long wait we can for women and girls of all ages finally welcome ladies back to come together as one to pay to take part in Midnight tribute to relatives and friends Walk. We can’t wait who are gone but will never to see them, and be forgotten, sharing precious as always, we are memories and creating new going to make it a ones as they stride the streets really fun night for of Plymouth for the sponsored them all. walk.

“We are conscious This year, the ladies will set out though, that alongside from Home Park Stadium, taking the excitement as we move on their choice of a 5, 10 or 15towards the lifting of restrictions mile route across Plymouth in on big outdoor events like their brightly coloured teeours, there is sadness shirts adorned with the “If ever for so many who have names of the loved there was a been bereaved as ones whose memory year for coming they continue to they are honouring. together to walk gradually adjust Speaking about in memory of lost to life without that the event, Penny loved ones, this special person by Hannah, Head of is it.” their side.

Fundraising at St “It’s possible that for Luke’s, said: “If ever there some, Midnight Walk could even was a year for coming together be the first opportunity they will to walk in memory of lost loved

have to reunite with friends and family they have been forced apart from – and perhaps unable to grieve with - because of the pandemic, which means it will be an extra poignant occasion.

“All ladies are welcome, regardless of whether or not their loved one received care from St Luke’s and, of course, you don’t need to be walking in memory. You can join us simply for the fantastic uplifting atmosphere, knowing you will be making an important difference for local families right when they need it most.”

Registration for Midnight Walk costs £22. Visit www. stlukesmidnightwalk.co.uk for more information and to sign up.

22 July 2021

22 July 2021

Prince Rock man guilty of fly-tipping offences A Prince Rock man who allowed his van to be used to dump corrugated asbestos sheets, two fridges, a meat slicing machine, signs and table and chairs in a maize field in the South Hams has been given an 18 month community order and ordered to perform 200 hours of unpaid work.

Shane Barton (46), of Embankment Road pleaded guilty to five offences at Plymouth Crown Court after being taken to court

by Plymouth City Council working with South Hams District Council.

He was also ordered to pay £150 compensation and £85 victim surcharge.

Barton advertised Shane’s Waste Removals on Facebook, even sharing videos promoting the business on the site. The court heard that neighbours complained about him persistently dumping waste including a large freezer, doors and rubbish bags in a nearby lane in 2019.

Barton admitted he committed various waste offences when he did so. In August 2019, South Hams District Council officers were called

after a gamekeeper found items including asbestos dumped in a in a farmer’s field on the Puslinch estate in the South Hams.

The items were traced back to a Plymouth café which was being refurbished. It was found that Barton had been paid by the café’s owner to clear waste from the premises.

Barton accepted he bore some responsibly for what happened after he lent his van, which contained that waste, to another person. This person then, unknown to Barton, also collected asbestos and fly tipped the van’s contents in a field.

A member of the public photographed the van carrying the waste and the asbestos a few days before it was dumped.

Councillor Maddi Bridgeman, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Street Scene said: “Environmental crime is not only a blight on our city and community but also a significant waste of taxpayers’ money. We will not hesitate to take action against anyone who is involved in fly-tipping and acts in such an anti-social manner with no regard for others.”

@PlymChronicle

Classic car show is back

Local artists exhibiting their work at South Tamar Art Trail

Art lovers are invited to see the work of more than 20 local artists in the Tamar Valley later this month.

The South Tamar Art Trail takes place from June 19 to June 27 and involves seven venues and four public locations. Visitors will have the opportunity to talk to the artists and join into pop up workshops.

The venues include the Art & Framing Centre in Kelly Bray, The Barn and Rising Sun in Harrowbarrow, Chilsworthy, Gresham House StudioGallery and Calstock Arts.

Visitors will be required to wear face masks at all times and usual COVID precautions will apply.

It will provide an opportunity to immerse into creativity and support local artists. The Art Trail is organised by the Kernow Creative Partnership and full details can be found at their website www. kernowcreativepartnership.com

Saltram Rotary Club’s Classic Car Show at the Lyneham Estate, just north of the village, is going ahead on Sunday September 5, in aid of Devon Air Ambulance.

More details will be announced nearer the date, but entries are already being received from a wide variety classic car owners and several major car clubs, across the region.

The event will include a variety of stalls, entertainment for all the family, refreshments and a bar, all of which will be very welcome in the absence of this year’s Yealmpton Show.

More imformation about the event can be found on Saltram Rotary’s website at www.saltramrotary.uk

City Centre looks blooming lovely for summer Giant flowers have been installed in the city centre for the summer to welcome shoppers to the high street.

The flowers, which have been installed above Cornwall Street, Armada Way and New George Street, as well as inside Drake Circus will be in situ for the summer, alongside games that have been added onto the pavement in Frankfort Gate to make the city centre more welcoming and bright for shoppers during the summer months.

Steve Hughes, chief executive of Plymouth City Centre Company said: “We’ve been working hard to brighten up the city centre, from our redevelopments in the West End through to installing these flowers above the streets to welcome shoppers back to the city centre.

“Businesses throughout the city have had an incredibly tough time over the last year, and we hope that by continuing to improve the city centre with activations like this, and by running

our hugely successful Geddon Plymouth Shop Local campaign that the people of Plymouth, and visitors to the city, will support the shops,

restaurants, cafes and attractions that have reopened.”

A programme of activities and entertainment is planned throughout the summer to further drive footfall from shoppers and visitors.

For more information of events and activities planned head to www. visitplymouth.co.uk The activity forms part

of the ongoing Geddon Plymouth, Shop Local campaign funded by ERDF and HM Government to support the reopening of the high street and welcoming shoppers and visitors back to the city.

The campaign is delivered in partnership between Plymouth City Council, Plymouth City Centre Company and Plymouth Waterfront Partnership.

July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plymouth Arts Cinema announces busy programme of indoor and outdoor screenings this summer Plymouth Arts Cinema reopened on June 4 following months of closure because of the pandemic.

The city’s independent cinema has announced a packed programme of films during June and July as well as offering audiences the opportunity to enjoy new releases and old favourites with its annual Open Air Cinema events returning to Inside Lido on the weekends of August 20 to 22 and September 2 to 4.

The programme at the Arts Cinema - which is located in Plymouth College of Art’s main campus in Tavistock Place - includes films such as Nomadland, The Father, Sound of Metal and Another Round: all top prize winners at the recent Oscars ceremony.

Other films to be screened during June and July include Dream Horse, Judas and the Black Messiah, After Love, The Mauritanian and Frankie.

Plymouth Arts Cinema also offers relaxed screenings suitable for those with dementia, autism and anyone who finds stranded screenings overwhelming. There are also ‘Bringing in Baby’ sociable screenings for parents,

grandparents and carers of babies under 12 months.

Also on Saturday June 19 as part of National Lottery Cinema Weekend two people can view a film for free. Visit www.cinemaweekend.co.uk for details.

The cinema is also hosting ADAPT 2021 - the graduate showcase for Plymouth College of Art film, game arts, animation, photography and media production graduates - between July 3 and 9.

For more information and ticket details visit www. plymouthartscinema.org

A scene from ‘Dream Horse’ which is being screened at Plymouth Arts Cinema from June 25 to July 1

23

Victoria Pomery is appointed chief executive of The Box The Box has announced the appointment of Victoria Pomery as chief executive of the city’s newly opened £47 million museum, gallery and archive.

She will be stepping down as director of Turner Contemporary in the autumn after 19 years in the post and the Kent gallery’s first 10 years of operation.

She said: “I have been so lucky to work with so many incredible artists, organisations and individuals over the years. Having seen first-hand the impact that art can make on people and places I am looking forward to taking the work at The Box forward at a critical and exciting time for the organisation.”

Plymouth City Council Leader Nick Kelly said: “It was a huge achievement to launch The Box in the middle of a global pandemic and visitors’

early reactions are extremely positive.

“With Victoria’s success using culture as a catalyst for place-based regeneration; driving economic growth, raising aspirations and improving community cohesion, we are incredibly excited that she will take The Box forward as a centre for creativity and a major cultural attraction for Plymouth and the South West.”

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council’s Labour Group, said: “Victoria’s passion for connecting local communities with culture will allow us to build on The Box’s early success and ensure local audiences and visitors take the venue to their heart. Her impressive track record in working with contemporary artists of international renown fits perfectly with the city’s ambitions.”

College staff have created ‘otterly’ brilliant sculptures for Otters Trail

Two members of staff at Stoke Damerel Community College have had their designs selected for this summer’s Moor Otters Trail organised

by Dartmoor National Park Authority.

dwarfian and had the ability to turn himself into an otter. Sadly, he was killed for his pelt in a case of mistaken identity by a hunter who did not realise Ótr was in fact a human. In repayment, Ótr’s father, King Hreidmar, demanded the pelt be made into a bag filled with gold The painted sculptures by arts coins. technicians James Roberts and Lee James explained: “Technically Jackson are among 81 Otter with Cub mine does have a cub, Ótr, but he sculptures on the trail at locations takes the form of a bag of coins. It is across Dartmoor and in nearby behind the shield which I made with ‘gateway’ towns and cities. Sixteen wood and leather. So, it is definitely can be founded dotted around a bit different to all the other otters Plymouth in the city’s ‘Mayflower’ in the trail.”

Otter Trail. The trail was scheduled The otters went on display from to take place last year but was May 28 to mark World Otter Day postponed because of COVID. After collecting their blank canvas and will be in place until October.

James said: “There has been a lovely ‘bare’ response otters, the so far, and artists had I’m looking to decorate forward them to taking with their my family designs to see as and then many otters apply a as we can coat of on the trail. specialist Hopefully, protective it will raise varnish on James Roberts and Lee Jackson lots of top of the paint. money for the cause, too.”

All the otters are available for Lee added: “It’s just nice to get people to bid for online, with the otters out there for people the money raised going towards to enjoy because they’ve been in conservation and access projects storage for a year! And from our within the National Park. perspective, to have two otters James’ otter, ‘Ótr - The accepted for the trail is great for the Viking’, is at Bovey Castle near college.”

Moretonhampstead and is based For details visit www.dartmoor. on a tale from Norse mythology. gov.uk/enjoy-dartmoor/moor-otters According to the legend, Ótr was

The Flag is raised...and honoured

Falklands War is remembered on The Hoe with flag raising ceremony Trainee sailors from HMS Raleigh in Torpoint along with their Commanding Officer, Captain Suzi Nielson, attended a service of dedication of the Falklands Islands’ Flag at a ceremony on Plymouth Hoe at the start of Armed Forces Week.

Organised by The South Atlantic Medal Association 1982, (SAMA 82) the special event, 39 years after the end of the Falklands Conflict, was also attended by many veteran Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines who had served on Devonport ships and with 3 Commando Brigade, who went down south in 1982.

The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Terri Beer and Commanding Officers of some of the units that took part in the

War were also in attendance, as well as Richard Hyslop, the Falkland Islands Government representative to the UK and Europe.

Richard said, “It is a real pleasure to be here, representing the Falklands Islands Government and its people, and It is an honour to be able to present the Lord Mayor of Plymouth with this Falklands Island Flag. There are already very strong links between Plymouth and the Islands and today this handover of the flag to the City is the next step in that relationship.

“39 years ago, Falkland Islanders celebrated their liberation from Argentina occupation, but that liberation came at a price, with 255 members of the UK Armed Forces and three Islanders losing their lives. Amongst those killed were many who had associations with Plymouth.

“It is fitting that as we approach the 40th anniversary of the war, that a flag will now fly here in Plymouth a part of the UK that contributed so much to the liberation and a symbol of longstanding ties between our communities.”

Captain Suzi Nielson also unveiled a new memorial bench in the adjacent Belvedere memorial gardens, dedicated on behalf of SAMA 82 to the people of Plymouth.

The inspiration for the design are taken from plaques that are located at the SAMA82 memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum. The plaques on the bench were chosen as they are not only keeping the memory of the conflict alive, but also provide an overview of key moments of the conflict and the distance that was travelled to liberate the islands.

24 July 2021

24 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Love is more than a feeling...it’s a way of life THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience I received some genuinely positive responses to the article I wrote on ‘hope’ a couple of months back in the April issue of the Chronicle.

Hope seems to be such an important part of our humanity and for us as Christians a very important part of our world view and convictions. The concept of hope, spiritually, sits between faith and love in the amazing scripture about love in 1 Corinthians 13: “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

Chris Cole “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labour of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”

This passage is recited at so many weddings as an encouragement for the start of married life together, and it is understandable that these beautiful biblical verses are spoken at the altar to help people aspire within their marriage for an enduring life together. Hope leads to love.

On the Cross Rhythms radio programme called the Cross Rhythms Experience, I use

this phrase. “Faith, hope and love and the greatest of these is love, but love is more than a feeling it is a way of life.”

It says in Hebrews 11 verse 1: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

Faith, hope and love are entwined in a developmental journey where the definition of faith means something or someone you trust in, cling to, and rely on as a foundational worldview.

This means that hope is then generated and built up through experience of trust in that faith, and this leads to the love of our neighbours as we love ourselves correctly with sober judgement - loving our neighbour as we love ourselves.

During the Covid pandemic we have witnessed so many people who have gone beyond their own challenges and invested

either through charitable fund raising or caring for vulnerable members of our communities.

This attitude of service is at the heart of church communities. The voluntary sector and NHS have worked so hard for others whilst also having a genuine and real concern for their own safety.

Genesis 1 verse 27 states that “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

From a spiritual perspective we are all in this together and when people go the extra mile for their neighbours in love and sacrifice then that image of God is readily seen.

Bible references are from: THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission.

All rights reserved worldwide.]

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

Citizens Advice Plymouth thanks its volunteers for their dedication Citizens Advice Plymouth has continued giving advice to those in need throughout the coronavirus pandemic thanks to the tireless dedication of its staff and volunteers.

The team quickly rallied to ensure as many people as possible could be helped over the phone or webchat.

As part of Volunteers’ Week, at the beginning of June, Citizens Advice Plymouth recorded their thanks to the 50 volunteers for their contribution of over 100 hours a week not only during this exceptional time, but throughout the year.

In the last year, Citizens Advice Plymouth has helped 25,796 people with 209,815 of problems, such as debt, housing, benefit and employment issues.

Anna North, equality diversity and inclusion outreach volunteer of Citizens Advice Plymouth said: “I applied for my volunteering role after

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Phone 01752 225623

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losing my job during the pandemic in the hope that I would be able to build new skills and confidence with which to re-enter the jobs market. As an Equalities worker with Citizens Advice Plymouth, I have not only been supported, trained, and empowered to take ownership of my work, but have also had light shed on a completely new potential career path.

“Thanks to the flexibility and understanding of my line managers, my remote volunteering has been able to continue alongside other paid employment. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend volunteering with Citizens Advice to anyone looking for a way to learn and develop while having a real positive impact on their community.”

Emma Handley, chief executive at Citizens Advice Plymouth said: “Throughout the year our wonderful volunteers contribute their time and energy to make a huge difference to people’s lives and help keep our vital service running.

“Whether they have been able to continue in their role recently, or have paused their volunteering, their support throughout the year has been truly invaluable.

“I cannot thank them enough for their continued dedication. We really couldn’t do it without them.”

The volunteering is also accredited by the United Kingdom Volunteering Forum, we were awarded the Investing in Volunteers quality mark for the volunteer programme from July 2020-2023.

Volunteer development officer, John Naismith, said: “A lot of work went into ensuring that we continued to meet the high standards required to achieve the Investing in Volunteers status. As we look to grow our volunteer workforce, this recognition that Citizens Advice Plymouth is a great place to volunteer really helps us.

Volunteers Week was a great time to express our gratitude to our amazing volunteers and reflect on the massive impact their generosity has on those that live, work and study in Plymouth.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering with Citizens Advice Plymouth should contact John Naismith, Volunteer Development Officer. For more information about the types of roles available visit the Citizens Advice Plymouth website.

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26 July 2021

26 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Ultracardiac playing a key role reducing the backlog of vital NHS appointments Specialist health service providers have faced huge challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic - and Plymouth based Ultracardiac is no exception.

Based at Plymouth Science Park in Derriford, Ultracardiac provides a range of cardiac services including echocardiogram and cardiac screening solutions.

When the pandemic hit last year, Ultracardiac had to move from ‘business as usual’ to the postponement of routine appointments. Normally the team at Ultracardiac would see upwards of 200 patients a week, but had to reduce to skeleton staffing seeing only local urgent referrals in the

shortest times possible.

After the first lockdown eased, Ultracardiac was able to resume its normal clinics, regardless of urgency. At the same time sites in Exeter and Truro were opened which meant they could assist GP surgeries and NHS trusts across Devon and Cornwall in clearing their backlogged waiting lists.

Sarah Gundry, managing director of Ultracardiac said: “For us at Ultracardiac, being a provider of NHS services, the last 12 months have more often than not been spent with heightened adrenaline.

We have had to risk assess our decisions faster than ever before and we have been operating in an environment that nobody has faced previously.

“There has definitely been a see-saw effect

Ultracardiac offers echocardiagram and cardiac screening services

State-of-the-art monitoring technology is available at Ultracardiac

Uber pilots new taxi product in Plymouth Uber has announced a pilot of its new product, ‘Local cab’, which will enable passengers to book a trip with a local taxi company via the Uber app in Plymouth.

Anyone opening the Uber app in Plymouth will see the ‘Local cab’ option which will connect passengers to the taxi firm Need-A-Cab. Users will have to download the latest version of the app to be able to see the Local cab product.

Despite the Uber app being opened as many as 16,500 times per month in Plymouth, passengers have not previously been able to book a ride in a local cab.

To meet this demand, and enable use of the app beyond the 40 towns and cities Uber currently operates in in the UK, Uber is looking to work with local operators across the country.

Dave McIntosh at Need-A-Cab, said: “We’re

delighted to be the first local operator in the UK to pilot ‘Local cab.’ This will give the people of Plymouth another way to book with Need-A-Cab – and anyone visiting the city, that already uses the Uber app, will now find it easy to book a ride with a local operator.

“With the boost in passengers, we will also be looking to welcome new drivers to the company.”

Ash Kebriti, UK general manager, Uber, said: “Every month, we see thousands of people in towns and cities across the UK where we currently don’t operate open the Uber app and try to request a trip.

“Launching this pilot of Local cab in Plymouth is an exciting first step in connecting these riders with local operators so that eventually the Uber app can be used anywhere in the country.”

Plymouth’s Marine Tech Expo returns virtually The Marine Tech Expo, Plymouth’s marine and maritime industry conference, will take place on July 12 and 13 July and free tickets are available to book now.

Designed to demonstrate the South Coast’s marine credentials to the world, the expo brings together decision makers, innovators and enterprises involved in the latest advances in marine technology with a focus on autonomous applications and sustainable marine developments.

Organised by Plymouth City Council with the support of key industry partners from across the city, the event is moving to a virtual format this year due to coronavirus.

The conference will provide a platform for businesses to showcase, network and collaborate with the world class marine technology sector that exists in the South West.

Leader of Plymouth City Council, Councillor Nick Kelly said: “The Marine Tech Expo gives us a unique opportunity to showcase the strength

of the marine and maritime industries here in Britain’s Ocean City. We’re proud to be home to such an incredible array of businesses and research institutions that are creating groundbreaking new technologies and changing the world around us for the better.

“The event also offers a fantastic opportunity for business leaders to network and keep up to date with the newest industry innovations.”

Delegates will also be able to engage directly with a broad range of businesses through an online exhibition, showcasing the latest marine technology developments. Drop in sessions will be held throughout the conference, but there’s also the option to set up 1-to-1 session for in-depth discussions.

The first Marine Tech Expo was held in 2016 and was a sell-out success, with the second being held in 2018. This year’s event is free and will take place entirely online, opening it up to an international audience. For more information about the Marine Tech Expo see www.marinetechexpo.com and to buy tickets visit marinetechexpo.eventbrite.com/

of feeling like we were hitting a brick wall with our efforts, balanced by the incredible feeling of smashing through backlogged waiting lists whilst keeping staff and patients safe!

“Our own backlog of postponed appointments was cleared in a matter of weeks and while there is still plenty of work to be done, we have played a key role in helping the NHS get back on top of waiting times.

She said that during the pandemic they had seen an increase in the number of people being more proactive about their cardiac health.

“We have witnessed a significant rise in patients who are seeking definitive reassurance about health concerns that don’t necessarily fall under typical NHS referral parameters,” she said. “With the backlogs throughout the NHS we are seeing more and more patients wanting to take control of their waiting times for diagnostic tests too.”

To meet the demand Ultracardiac reinstated and expanded its private services to be as accessible as possible. Services range from a simple ECG to a full telephone consultation with their specialist cardiology consultant.

Sarah added: “While the pandemic has been difficult, lonely, and frankly scary at times, we have also seen some of the most amazing displays of community spirit, gratitude, and selfless efforts from key workers to ensure life can continue as close to normally as possible.

“It has been truly humbling to play a role in this and witnessing the extraordinary power and what can be achieved by working together has certainly been an unforgettable experience.”

For more information about the range of services offered by Ultracardiac call 01752 875665, e-mail info@ultracardiac.co.uk or visit the website at www.ultracardiac.co.uk

£50,000 funding available for outdoor projects in Sovereign communities Sovereign residents living in Plymouth are invited to submit project ideas for creating great outdoor spaces for their whole community.

Proposals can be submitted through Sovereign’s Your Community, Your Choice (YCYC) grants programme, with up to £10k available per project.

YCYC lets people submit project ideas for their community to vote on to receive funding - last year, ten of them won a share of £80,000.

Kate Sheppard, Sovereign community development officer, said: “Your Community Your Choice gives Sovereign residents the opportunity to have a direct influence

on where this funding is spent in their community.

“All project proposals for this round of funding must come from a Sovereign resident but Sovereign’s Communities team will offer full support with scoping out their idea and can engage local charities and groups to work with them if they feel they have an idea that will benefit the whole community.

Projects must be uploaded to YCYC by August 2. The community will then be invited to vote for their favourites between August 16 and September 17.

For more information on YCYC and how to submit an idea or vote, please visit www.sovereign.org.uk/your-community-yourchoice This attractive outdoor feature was funded by a Sovereign community grant

USEFUL New Lord Mayor chooses two NUMBERS July 2021

@PlymChronicle

27

charities close to her heart

The new Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Terri Beer, has announced the mayoral charities that she will be supporting and fundraising for over the coming year.

The two chosen charities are Bowel Cancer West (BCW) and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

Bowel Cancer West Bowel Cancer West is a local charity working tirelessly to ensure the survival rates of people in the South West of England diagnosed with the condition.

It’s a charity close to the Lord Mayor’s heart as her husband Colin was diagnosed with bowel cancer in October 2017. After five weeks at Derriford Hospital ICU, Colin was transferred to the Plym Unit in Mount Gold where he struggled to initially walk and talk before undergoing rehabilitation ahead of his recovery.

Last year, it was discovered Colin had a spot on his lung that would require part removal of his lung, he has since made a recovery once again. Colin will join the Lord Mayor on many of the duties and engagements as they look forward to sharing their experiences and supporting families in similar challenging circumstances.

New Lord Mayor of Plymouth Cllr Terri Beer

The second charity is the UK’s leading children’s charity the NSPCC, who prevent child abuse and help those children affected to recover.

The Lord Mayor wants to use the mayoral role to make a difference to the children in our city impacted by physical, mental or sexual abuse.

The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Terri Beer said: “I considered the selection really carefully, particularly since the pandemic, as there are so many great causes and projects doing valuable work for Plymouth.

“But bowel cancer as a disease has a dangerously low-profile, I want to help Bowel Cancer West change

that through their dedicated team of volunteers, knowing that every pound we raise is invested in the south west. I know first-hand the impact bowel cancer can have on a family, and along with my husband Colin look forward to sharing our journey to help other families get a positive outcome.

“My second charity is the NSPCC, for many years I worked with the NSPCC at the Crown Court in Plymouth. My dream would be to see the NSPCC’s Witness Support project up and running again, so that young people who give evidence, can do so safely and not in a court room. It’s all about getting justice when such

horrific crimes happen.

“I do hope the residents of the city will support these charities this year, so that we can all make a difference.”

Councillor Beer was first elected to the City Council as Councillor for Plympton Erle in May 2007. She has served the city for 14 years and was Deputy Lord Mayor of the city of Plymouth in 2019/2020.

Councillor Beer was born and raised in Plympton St Maurice and has lived in Plymouth all her life. She gained a qualification in Personal Management at Plymouth’s City College and subsequently embarked on a career working for Victim Support at Plymouth Crown Court with an interest in assisting and advising victims and witnesses attending court to give evidence.

During this time she undertook specialist training to enable her to support families and the victims of crime during the judicial and court process.

Until quite recently she has been employed with Devon and Cornwall Police in the Witness Care Unit, providing guidance and support to victims and witnesses required to give evidence in court.

Terri enjoys spending time with her husband Colin and family, especially her six grandchildren and her two cats Sebastian and Dolly.

Award-winning Plymouth entrepreneur Nadia bounces back with plans to expand Club Kombat A Plymouth entrepreneur who set up a completely new fitness experience, underpinned by her commitment to diversity and inclusion, has described how the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a ‘rollercoaster of emotions’ as her business finally emerges from lockdown restrictions.

Nadia Millinship, a single parent of two children, founded Club Kombat in 2018. Originally solely based at Revolution in Derry’s Cross, a venue Nadia chose because of its accessibility for people with disabilities, Club Kombat combines kickboxing and mixed martial arts to create a high intensity, unique fitness workout. Each cardio interval – packed full of ‘Kombat’ moves – is followed by a strength training exercise to tone and build the entire body.

Under Nadia’s model, the venue is utilised with groups at different stations around the space, as instructors move through each group to support and coach each exercise safely and efficiently.

Whistles are used over the music to alert everyone about the change, and visual cues allow everyone to be able to look and follow the movements. The sessions, which include regular appearances from DJs, have been a real hit.

“I wanted to set up a business where people from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds would be able to take part in a fitness class with a mix of kickboxing and combat moves to give a full body workout,” said Nadia, who has recently completed her Masters’ degree in Entrepreneurship for Creative Practice, specialising in embedded diversity in fitness, at City College Plymouth. “I did not want it to be just another fitness class as it was important to me that I broke down barriers to enable people from all backgrounds and situations to be able to benefit from better health and a more positive mindset as part of a wider inclusive community.”

Nadia Millinship

Nadia made steady progress in her first 18 months, hosting fitness classes every Wednesday evening and building her Facebook community, and was even awarded a Diversity Business Incubator Champion Award in January 2020.

However, with COVID-19 restrictions in place and the Revolution venue being temporarily closed, she adapted quickly to take her fitness offering online and host her classes from her back garden.

“Such an exceptional event forced me to pivot and make swift decisions to ensure that my offering remained relevant and to keep my business afloat,” Nadia explained.

“This meant a change to how I structure my working week and also consider how my children could also feature positively in my content to demonstrate the role of fitness in improving physical and mental health for all the family.

“Ironically, however, the move online has got me closer to the digital delivery model that I previously had in mind because it enables anyone to access my classes, including those who have no childcare support. I have also had people on my online classes who have been recovering from COVID-19.”

Through this difficult period, Nadia has been supported by YTKO’s GrowSmart programme, a national online learning platform giving SMEs the knowledge, skills and insight to scale up their businesses, teaching practical ways to reach markets and increase sales and profitability, as well as maintaining and improving productivity, equivalent to an intensive two-week course.

“This has forced me to focus more and prioritise the activities that will monetise quickly and also be even more entrepreneurial in my approach,” Nadia said.

“But you also need to keep calm and carry on at times like this. By believing in yourself you can get through this – remember why you started it in the first place.”

With lockdown restrictions slowly being lifted, Nadia plans to resume her classes at Revolution as well as continuing her online provision.

“I would like to see Club Kombat go from strength to strength within this online platform, as well as building my new Nadia K Coaching brand,” she added.

“My aim is to continue online and create more opportunities for instructors to join my platform, offering more options for people especially those who are underrepresented. I will also be running events in the nightclubs, starting in Plymouth but with a plan to recruit ambassadors in different areas, bringing members of the community together through fitness. “ I have experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and have had to remain positive and resilient with the hope that all my efforts will pay off. But I am feeling excited about what lies ahead.”

Emergency Numbers

Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard 999 or 112 Police general enquiries 101 Derriford Hospital 01752 202082 Electricity, Western Power Distribution 0800 678 3105 Gas, Wales & West Utilities 0800 111999 Water, South West Water 0344 3462020 Environment Agency (Emergency) 0800 807060 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Helplines

Age UK Plymouth 01752 256020 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 0800 917 7650 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (Debt Advice) 0800 328 0006 Citizens Advice 0300 3309 043 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Action 01752 651800 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Drug Addicts Anonymous: Helpline 07818260811 Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre 01752 203670 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 National Christian Helpline 0300 111 0101 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Osteoporosis Support Group 075958 500314 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 116 123 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stop Hate Crime 24/7 Helpline 0800 138 1625 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

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

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 662271 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

Entertainment Theatre Royal 01752 267222 Barbican Theatre 01752 267131 Devonport Playhouse 01752 606507 Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre 01752 266079 Plymouth Pavilions 01752 936363 Plymouth Pavilions Ticket Store 03337 727727 Cineworld 03303 33444 Vue Cinema 0345 308 4620 Tourist Information 01752 306330 National Trust Saltram 01752 333500 Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery 01752 304774 Plymouth Arts Centre 01752 206114

Leisure

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Chronicle, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623

Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

28 July 2021

28 July 2021

@PlymChronicle

Elizabethan House to open again Advertise to over after £1.7m restoration Elizabethan House, part of The Box family, opens this summer after a £1.7m restoration which has taken six years.

The Grade II Listed historic building in the Barbican’s New Street, has stood almost unaltered until now, while the fortunes of those living and working around the Barbican have risen and fallen.

It will reopen on July 20 following a major restoration as part of Plymouth’s Mayflower 400 commemorations. The historic property, which dates from the late 1500s, has survived the slum clearances of the early 1900s and the Blitz of World War 2.

The new attraction takes visitors on an immersive yet authentic journey through its history, as well as offering an insight into the history of Plymouth’s Barbican area, and introduces them to some of the people who have lived in the House since it was built 400 years ago.

Now one of Plymouth’s oldest buildings, Elizabethan House was built as a letting house and has been lived in by many people whose lives and

livelihoods were based around the waterfront. It’s a rare, surviving example of its time with centuries of stories to tell.

The new multi-sensory audio-visual tour of the building lasts for around 45 minutes and is led by the ‘voice’ of the House.

Acting as a narrator, she shares her memories with visitors as they are led through each of the carefully restored rooms. Visitors meet the first owner, a washerwoman, a wig maker, get a glimpse at the House’s architecture and see what life was like for the rich and the poor. Projections, images and smells all add to the experience.

Each room is dressed with a series of carefully selected props to enhance the stories even more – from a dreidel to represent the Jewish owner of the House to a fishing rod to symbolise a fisherman lost at sea. Other objects, some of which have been specially commissioned, include Wedgwood pottery, clay marbles and a christening dress, in memory of the babies who sadly died in the House.

Local actors have been used to voice the

Displays reflect the Elizabethan era

Extensive work has been undertaken at Elizabethan House

24,000 homes in Waterside & West

different characters visitors meet. June Marlow, the voice of the House, is a 90-year-old Plymothian who was actually born on New Street, where the House is located.

Councillor Nick Kelly, Leader of Plymouth City Council said: “This transformation not only safeguards one of the city’s most historic buildings, but also creates a brilliant new addition to our visitor offer. The development of the characters, the voice of the House itself and the overall visitor experience are the end result of many hours of hard work combined with some painstaking research. I can’t wait to experience for myself how it all brings the story of the House and this historic part of Plymouth to life.”

Councillor Tudor Evans, Shadow Leader said: “This is a great new visitor experience that will really take people on a journey. Elizabethan House is a survivor which, thanks to this restoration and reinterpretation, will stand the test of time. Best of all, it’s telling real stories about real people, some of which are being shared for the first time in centuries.”

The restoration of Elizabethan House has been led by a project team from Destination Plymouth and Plymouth City Council working with specialist heritage architects Dittrich Hudson Vasetti.

The restoration has been funded by Plymouth City Council, Mayflower 400, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Coastal Revival Fund, Historic England and The Pilgrim Trust. Work has included internal and external structural repairs, the strengthening of the floors and foundations, a new two-storey extension to the rear of the property and authentic decoration of all the rooms.

Tickets for Elizabethan House will be available to book later in June from www.theboxplymouth. com and in person from Plymouth’s Tourist Information Centre. Tickets are £10/£7.50 concessions, £5 for 5-17 year old and free for under 5s and must be booked in advance.

On arrival at the House, visitors will be guided around in groups of up to 12 people. Due to the age of the property and the length of the audiovisual experience, visits are most suitable for adults and children aged eight and over.

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 August edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on July 23, with a copy deadline of July 12. 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).

For more information, or to talk to one of our sales advisors, call

01752 225623

or email info@cornerstonevision.com www.cornerstonevision.com

Chronicle Plymouth

July 2021

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Page 2

CONNECT WITH US @PlymChronicleWW

@PlymChronicleWW If you would like to submit a story, email info@cornerstonevision.com or if you would like to find out more information on the Plymouth Chronicle or our other publications, please visit www.cornerstonevision.com

Waterside & West

The Hatchling, a stunning outdoor production, is coming to Plymouth in August. Details in ‘Out and About’ See page 3

The historic Elizabethan House is to reopen in July after a £1.7m restoration project lasting six years See Back Page

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Midnight movers!

Midnight Walk, the much-loved charity event, is returning to Plymouth in 2021. Ladies across the city are being invited to celebrate the loves of their lost loved ones and put their best foot forward for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth on Friday August 20.

• See feature on page 21

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