Plymouth Chronicle June West

25 vulnerable puppies rescued from bleak conditions – now Gables need the public’s help to care for them

Gables Dogs and Cats Home have taken in 25 puppies and dogs from a terrible situation where they had no food, water or shelter from freezing conditions.

A few months ago on a bitterly cold Saturday morning Gables were called to help remove these poor dogs. Deputy manager Ruth Rickard and general manager Claire Sparkes jumped in their vehicles and made the 90 mile trip. On arrival they were horrified to see the living conditions these vulnerable creatures were having to endure but they started to get them out one by one.

Gables took as many as they could including nine young puppies that were

around 8-12 weeks old, a six month old puppy with terribly matted, sore and infected skin and three mothers each with litters of puppies. In total they rescued 25 puppies.

When they arrived back at Gables their dedicated staff had stayed late to help unload all the dogs and get them tucked up for the night with plenty of food, clean warm bedding and heating. The three mothers and litters of puppies went home with Ruth to her on site bungalow so she could provide nursing care throughout the night in a warm calm environment.

One tiny puppy appeared to have lost the will to live and was rushed to the vets to have some warm fluids injected under the skin. It was quickly established that the mothers were too stressed to care for their puppies and two weak ones kept being trampled so Ruth had to remove them to start hand rearing them and give them a fighting chance at survival.

Claire said: “Although the conditions were shocking to see we are grateful that we could help. The journey home was very emotional as we processed what we had witnessed but we are determined to change the lives of these poor dogs. The hardest part was leaving some behind but we knew other rescue centres were taking in the rest”.

After three weeks of round the clock care and love these puppies and their mothers are doing really well thanks to the dedication of the Gables team but they now need the public’s help.

It is estimated it will cost Gables £6,000 for all the intensive care, neutering, other surgery needed such as hernia repairs, skin infection treatment and basic care such as vaccinations, flea and worm treatments.

To make a contribution to the ’25 Puppies Rescued Vet Appeal’, visit justgiving.com/ campaign/25puppiesrescued to donate online or call Gables on 01752 331602 for more information on making donations.

MAY TO SEPTEMBER:

One of the tiny puppies which were found in dreadful conditions

Meaningful midnight miles will benefit St Luke’s Hospice care

St

Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s

iconic Midnight Walk is back for 2023, shining a light on precious memories of lost loved ones while supporting a well-loved and respected local charity.

Hundreds of generous and caring walkers will be taking to the streets of the city wearing the event’s distinctive pink T-shirts on Friday July 7 in a poignant and colourful celebration remembering those family members and friends who are no longer with us.

Funds raised will help St Luke’s continue the charity’s vital work providing specialist care for terminally ill people at home, in hospital and at its specialist unit at Turnchapel, as well as emotional support for their families.

Route options for 2023 – three miles, six miles, or 13.1 miles (the equivalent of a half marathon) – open up the walk to the whole family, from young children, teenagers and occasional strollers through to seasoned long-distance striders of all ages.

Entrants will leave from and return to Plymouth Argyle Football Club’s Home Park stadium, gathering as evening falls and setting off towards Derriford and beyond between 8pm and 9pm, depending on the distance they are walking. This year a Reflection Mile at

the beginning of the route will feature entrants’ words of remembrance about friends or family members who have died, and there’s also an option to sign up to be a Midnight Walk VIP, with lots of extra benefits.

Penny Hannah, head of fundraising, said: “While Midnight Walk is a poignant occasion, it’s ultimately a celebration in honour of those we have lost, and it always has a lovely, positive atmosphere.

I’m delighted that we’ve made some exciting changes and additions this year that will make it more special

New Backgammon club in Plymouth

Backgammon is the world’s oldest board game with relics found from some 5,000 years ago!m A game of great skill, but easy to learn and have a go!

Ocean City and Devon Backgammon is a recently formed backgammon club based in Plymouth.

Founders Gerald and Rosemary Whitehouse are members of the UK and French Backgammon Federations with many years’

experience. They regularly play in tournaments against international players which gives them a great insight into the game. Rosemary has even played a match against world number two Michihito Kageyama.

smoothly, you get ‘dumped’ on from a great height every now and again, and because dice are the shakers and movers within backgammon they can let you down badly, just like life itself,” he added. “That’s why it’s a great game, exciting because you never know the outcome until the last throw.”

Ocean City and Devon Backgammon welcome players who would love to learn the game, as well as welcoming others who play regularly online, but would like to play face to face from time to time. Others may have played in the past and would like to resurrect their playing, so feel free to go along.

and inclusive than ever, and we’re very grateful to our new sponsors Michael Spiers, along with Marchand Petit.

“Whether you have taken part in our event before or are participating for the first time, we can’t wait to see all our supporters striding out in their pink T-shirts. What really makes the night for everybody though, is that they’re doing what they can to help local families.”

Regular registration costs £24 for ages 11 and over, and £12 for ages 10 and over. You can sign up at www. stlukesmidnightwalk.co.uk

VEGAN BAKERY COOKING UP SOME GREAT DEALS TO MARK ITS FIRST ANNIVERSARY

Plymouth’s only 100 per cent vegan sourdough bakery is celebrating the first birthday of its shop next month with a host of giveaways and discounts on baked goods.

Heyl Bakery, which specialises in using stoneground and heritage grains and plant-based ingredients, opened its shop doors at Alma Yard, Cattedown in spring 2022 following a successful year and a half baking from the kitchens in the Devonport Guildhall.

To mark the occasion, on June 3 the bakery is running a series of offers, including giving away free branded tote bags to the first

10 customers of the day, dishing out free slices of birthday cake, and a 10 per cent discount on all products.

They will also be running a prize draw in the run up to the event, which will offer participants the chance to win a goody bag of Heyl bakes and a selection of locally and sustainably made pantry goods.

Co-owner Sam Dennis said the celebration is an opportunity to say thank you to all the customers who have supported the bakery over the last year.

“The last 12 months have been really challenging for a lot of families and small businesses like ours, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has come to visit us, either at the new shop or one of our markets, it means so much to us,” he said.

“At times like this, it’s especially important to celebrate these milestones and show our appreciation to our amazing customers.”

Set up in 2020, Heyl Bakery produces a range of sourdough loaves, baguettes and focaccia from its Alma Yard site, as well as sweet buns, cakes and cookies. Last year they launched their Slice of the Yard pizza night - an event they plan to bring back this summer - and have also started running one-day sourdough bread classes.

The bakery specialises in using a variety of organically and regeneratively-grown, locally-milled stoneground grains in their bakes, to maximise the flavour, character and nutrition of their bakes.

Founders and partners Kate Langston and Sam Dennis are also passionate about sustainability, which is demonstrated through their commitment to veganism, as well as their decision to use only plastic-free packaging in the bakery and shun hard to recycle disposable coffee cups to minimise waste.

Alma is a new development located just a short walk from the Barbican and Drakes Circus. Consisting of a series of renovated 19th century factory buildings, once completed it will be home to a host of artists, designers and independent businesses.More information is available at www.heylbakery.com or on Instagram and Facebook at @heylbakery

Gerald said: “Backgammon has been referred to as the Game of Life and a book has been written about backgammon entitled The Cruellest Game because players never know what will happen. The game is not won (achieved your objective) until the end, the last throw of the dice.

“Like life itself not all goes

If you have a backgammon board do take it with you, if not no worries they’ll have them there. All over 18s are welcome.

The club meets every Monday at 7pm at Raffles 5 Ermington Terrace, Mutley, Plymouth PL4 6QG.

For more information contact Gerald at geraldwhitehouse4@ gmail.com or call 0776 7567366

Heyl Bakery’s Sam Dennis at work

Photo Tom Carder

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

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

Houseplant Family Fun Day

May 31

At Boston Tea Party, Vauxhall Street, Sutton Harbour from 1pm to 6.30pm. Multiple houseplants and eco friendly stalls, support local independent eco friendly businesses who will be taking part, food and drinks available and free prizes to be won.

The Browne House

June 1 and 2

Presented by Plymouth’s Theatre of Boom! at The Muse Theatre, Lipson Co-operative Academy and starring local legend Rick O’Shay as Mr Browne. Based on a true story, this little-known series of dark and chilling events takes place in the heart of Dartmoor. Tickets cost £11 and can be obtained through www. wegottickets.com or contact Katrina on 07596 545739.

Plymouth Motorshow

June 3 and 4

Annual two day car show at Plymstock Albion Oaks Rugby Club from 10am to 6pm is open to vintage, old classics and sport cars including high performance car rally vehicles, kit cars and modern cars of interest of all motor sport clubs and motor cycles. Children’s entertainment, a family fun dog show (courtesy of Paws4Proceeds) an assortment of live local bands, food and of course, bar. Overnight camping is available for vendors and car show entrants.

Coffee Morning

June 3

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon in aid of Shekinah Mission. Books, cakes, raffle and more.

Charity concert

June 9

Mustard Seeds Singers in concert at Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 2.30pm. Donations in aid of Funds for Human Need

Southway Fun Day

June 10

Day of fun for the whole family at Bond Street Field from 11am to 3pm. BBQ, stalls, entertainment, Army Cadets, Plymouth Argyle fun, games, activities, face painting, fire engine plus lots more. For smallholder information email karen.stewart@fgct.co.uk

Ceremonial Music

June 10

West Devon Chorale present Handel’s four Coronation Anthems at St Andrew’s Minster Church at 7.30pm. Also Parry’s I Was Glad and Blest Pair of Sirens and music by Dove, Harris, Thompson and Esenvalds. Tickets £14 or £12 in advance. Students and children £4. Available from www.wegottickets/ westdevonchorale or from the choir administrator on 01752 776479.

Dinosaurs in the Park

Unil June 11

An educational and enjoyable day for the family with 40 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Visitors can wind their way along the Dinosaur Trail, solve puzzles and even carry out some Jurassic dnetistry by brushing the teeth of the resident T-Rex. For tickets and information visit www.dinosaursinthepark

An Evening with Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards

Jun 11

The legendary ski jumper - the first and only competitor to represent Great Britain at the Winter

Olympics is appearing at the Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 7.30pm. Tickets from www. comicalentertainment.com

Models and Railway Exhibition

Jun 17

Five model railway displays along with numerous built scale models kits including aircraft, sci-fi, ships and military vehicles. Plymouth Tothill Community Centre from 10am to 4pm. Traders will also be selling railway and modelling items. Tombola during the event and hot and cold food on sale. Disabled access and plenty of parking. Entrance fee: adults £2, family £5 and concessions £1. Children under 12 free.

Table Top Sale

June 17

Trinity United Reformed Church, Hartley from 10am to 12 noon. Entry 20p. Light refreshments available. To book a table call Jill on 01752 249337.

Rehabilitation Triathlon

June 22

Hosted by the Royal Navy Recovery Centre Hasler on The Hoe. Over 200 participants from the UK Triservices and veterans will attend this event, along with International teams from the United States Marine Corps and Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. The swim will take place in the Tinside Lido and the cycle will consist of a time trial on rowing machines in a marquee positioned on the Hoe promenade. The allimportant Awards Ceremony will be held on the main stage on Plymouth Hoe.

Armed Forces Day

June 24

Plymouth Armed Forces Day, in association with Babcock, will be returning on Saturday June 24, with an exciting day for all the family to enjoy on Plymouth Hoe, and celebrate our military and all the great work they do. Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come along and show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to reservists, veterans, cadets and their families. There will be activities for all the family to enjoy and get involved in, from exploring military vehicles and equipment, to tackling the Royal Marines obstacle course. Event starts at 10am and finishes at 10.30pm with a free evening concert.

Newspapers of the World

June 24 and 25

A display of newspapers of the world will be held on Saturday June 24 and Sunday June 25 at the Visitor Centre in Ford Park Cemetery. It will be open from 12.30pm to 3.30 pm. The historical newspapers will include ones of the Plymouth Blitz, old Plymouth, Royal events going back to the 19th century, the assassination of President Kennedy and more.

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir with Children from Fletewood School

June 24

The choir presents John Rutter’s The Sprig of Thyme and Andrew Carter’s Benedicite in The Minster Church of St Andrew, Plymouth at 3.30 pm. A cream tea is included in the price of the ticket. Tickets £20 in advance or £22 on the door, students and U16s £5. Tickets from www.wegottickets.com or the choir ticket manager 07949 311030. For more information, please visit plymouthphilchoir.org

Abba Tribute Night

June 24

Hosted by the Crowne Plaza Hotel, the Take a Chance on Us is a live Abba Tribute band. Two course dinner, DJ and drinks promotion on the night. For information and tickets call 01752 639900.

How to Keep Going

June 30

Plymouth Samaritans annual literary event will be held at the Copthorne Hotel, Armada Way, Plymouth from 9am to 5pm. Entitled How to Keep Going, the event will be a day of inspirational speakers who will share their journeys through life’s challenges. Authors include Beth Greenaway, Jessica Harrington, Floyd Steadman OBE and Michelle Thomas. Tickets £25 can be obtained from janetasherriff@btinternet.com

Grand Summer Fayre

July 1

St Boniface Church, St Budeaux from 10am to 12 noon. Delicious refreshments, stalls including gifts, bottles and tins, jams and chutney, home baked cakes, and more. Grand draw with lovely prizes, including a superb hamper. Admission 20p.

Coffee Morning

July 1

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to

12 noon in aid of Water Aid. Books, cakes, raffle and more.

70th Anniversary Celebrations

July 8 and 9

Morice Baptist Church, Ham Drive celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the laying of the Foundation Stone on its present site. Saturday 2pm to 4pm Fun Afternoon with bouncy castle, fun activities and cream teas. Sunday 10.45am Thanksgiving Service followed by lunch. For further information please contact Chris on 01752 364513.

Plymouth Triathlon

July 9

Plymouth Triathlon Club’s annual Triathlon race at Mount Edgcumbe Country House and Park. There is a distance for everybody. From a Super Sprint to a Middle Distance and everything in between. Also the kids can race in their respective age categories on a great course. Don’t you fancy a Tri? Then why not enter the Aquathlon or Aquabike. Bring the family too, as this location is not only a stunning place to race, but great for spectators as well. Visit www. plymouthtriclub.com to enter.

Plymouth Arts Club Exhibition

Aug 1 to Aug 6

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

British Firework Championships

Aug 16 and 17

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

Summer Exhibition

Aug 16 to Aug 20

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

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

Plymouth Armed Forces Day returns to The Hoe on June 24

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Nominations invited for the National Lottery Awards

Plymouth organisations, groups and individuals received over £5 million of funding from the National Lottery in 2021/22.

Now the National Lottery Awards are back for 2023, in search of the inspirational individuals and organisations who do amazing things with the help of National Lottery funding.

An incredible £5,006,878 of National Lottery funding went to projects in Plymouth in 2021/22 according to new figures released today to mark the launch of the 2023 National Lottery Awards.  A total of 100 National Lottery grants were allocated in this period, providing crucial support to arts, sports, heritage and community organisations in Plymouth.

The National Lottery Awards are the annual celebration of the ordinary people and projects who do extraordinary things with the help of National Lottery funding and attracted more than 1,300 entrants last year.

Again, this year, The National Lottery is looking to highlight the exceptional work of local heroes who have gone the extra mile to make a difference in their communities, especially during these challenging times.

Any person or group who has received National Lottery funding is eligible for nomination.

Jonathan Tuchner, from the National Lottery, said: “Since it was established in 1994, The National Lottery has continued to make a remarkable contribution to life in the UK.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, an incredible £47 billion has been raised for good causes, with £30 million supporting people and projects around the UK every single week.

“The National Lottery Awards seek to honour those who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the people around them. In difficult circumstances, this selfless dedication has never been more important, and we want to thank them and celebrate their incredible efforts.”

The National Lottery Awards will recognise outstanding individuals in the following categories:

• Community & Charity

• Arts, Culture & Film

• Sport

• Heritage

• Environment

• Young Hero (Under 25s)

There will also be a Special Achievement Award to mark the accomplishments of an exceptional individual who has gone above and beyond to make the lives of people that little bit better in their local community.

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

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

Individual winners will be chosen by a judging panel made up of members from The National Lottery family and partners and will win a £5,000 cash prize and an iconic National Lottery Awards trophy.

To make nominations for this year’s National Lottery Awards, tweet @LottoGoodCauses using the hashtag #NLAwards with your suggestions or complete an entry form through our website: www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards

Entries must be received by midday on May 16.

Students design and produce recipe book for food bank users

Two students from Arts University Plymouth have designed and produced a recipe book for people supported by Plymouth-based Provide Devon, the charity that supplies food parcels and other essentials to people in crisis.

The booklet, designed by BA (Hons) Illustration student Hannah Harvey and BA (Hons) Graphic Communication student Liam Olczyk, features accessible recipes for users of the charity, utilising ingredients provided in the food parcels.

Using a combination of fresh produce and donated food from retailers, businesses and the local community, Provide Devon distributes food parcels within hours to the charity’s referral agents. The project is part of the arts university’s Knowledge Exchange work, funded by Research England.

Twenty-year-old Liam, who is in his second year of study, said: “I worked alongside Hannah to create a recipe book for individuals benefiting from the charity’s donations. We wanted to provide them with a homely and cosy recipe book that would look lovely in someone’s kitchen, while including accessible and easy recipes.”

Third-year student Hannah, who is based in Plymouth, said: “We visited the food bank a few times in order to see how they worked on a day to day basis. They wanted a recipe booklet, and we came up with the idea of including activities and games in the back of the booklet for kids, engaging them with cooking, or to work as a distraction while parents are cooking.

“All of the recipes are simple and feature ingredients that are sourced from the food bank. There are vegetarian recipes as well as some with ingredients you can swap out for dietary requirements such as halal. It was a really collaborative process with the volunteers and me and Liam. I produced the recipe illustrations and Liam pulled it all together.”

Liam added: “After getting to know the volunteers and their needs within the charity’s operation, I also

created a brand guide for their social media; a how-to guide for creating their own Instagram and Twitter posts, as well as refreshing the design of their physical advertisement materials.

“This was my first professional design job experience so I learned a lot about breaking out of my comfort zone as a design student and really meeting the clients’ needs in my work.”

Hannah said: “It was really cool working alongside another creative. I’d not really done a lot of collaborative work, so it was quite freeing to draw the different elements and have someone else pull it together. We’d not met before the project but it worked out really well, a taste of what I can expect collaborating with other creatives in the future.”

Originally from Poland and based in South Wales before moving to Plymouth to study, Liam said that the pandemic affected his decision when it came to studying a creative degree.

“I chose Graphic Communication at Arts University Plymouth because I was really looking to throw myself into the creative world after my experience studying my A-Levels during Covid. I want to be surrounded by creatives and I felt that Arts University Plymouth ticked a lot of boxes for me, especially as a specialist university.

“My lecturers have been my biggest inspiration since starting my course. It’s so important to me to interact with and gain knowledge from people who have been on this path before me. Seeing them with very successful careers both in teaching and design is a great motivator for me. After I graduate, I would love to work locally in Plymouth. I think the creative community here is amazing and I definitely want to stay a part of that.”

Twenty-one-year-old Hannah previously studied at Arts University Plymouth’s sixth form campus at Palace Court, achieving a Distinction in a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice:

Graphics, Illustration and Game Arts in 2020.

Hannah explained why she chose Palace Court: “I didn’t want to do traditional A-Levels. I always enjoyed doing art, but I felt A-Level Art was more focused on fine art and that was never what I did. I just wanted to pursue art as much as possible, and that’s what’s great about Palace Court, you’re not stuck doing one thing. I then chose Arts University Plymouth for my degree.

“I’d really not seen any other university that appealed to me like Arts University Plymouth did. There’s so much freedom on the Illustration course. It was my grandmother who inspired me to create. She would draw a U shape and some simple facial features and I would draw the accessories and the hair. I’m so into illustration, there’s so many things I can do with it. I’m going to be so lost when my degree is over!”

Hannah and Liam’s project with Provide Devon was an Arts University Plymouth Knowledge Exchange placement supported by Research England’s Knowledge Exchange Funding for Smaller Providers.

Wolferstans Solicitors Stand by Grieving Family, Securing Justice & Closure After Asbestos Tragedy

The loss of a loved one is a difficult and painful experience, made even more so when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence. This was the situation faced by Sharon, whose husband had passed away due to mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

The family had suspected that his illness was caused by exposure to asbestos during his apprenticeship as a fitter and turner for the Ministry of Defence (MOD) at Devonport Dockyard in the 1940s. However, no witness evidence was available as legal help was not sought during his lifetime, so no one had been able to take a statement from Bryan, and none of his former colleagues could be identified.

Two years after Bryan’s death, Sharon turned to Wolferstans Solicitors for help.

Liz Makin, an asbestos expert, took on the case, determined to get justice for the family.

Despite the lack of witness evidence, Liz and her team carefully prepared the case and obtained supportive lay witness evidence from another dockyard worker who had worked there in the 1960s. This was used to persuade the MOD’s claims handlers that conditions regarding exposure to asbestos would have been no better in the 1940s than the 1960s, and the MOD accepted they were to blame.

The case was complicated by the fact that Bryan’s mesothelioma could not be confirmed during his lifetime by biopsy surgery, and the coroner chose not to order a post-mortem examination. However, with the help of a medical expert, Liz was able to diagnose mesothelioma and prove that Bryan’s death was caused by asbestos exposure.

The case was settled successfully, with substantial damages awarded to Bryan’s estate for the benefit of his bereaved wife, Sharon. The damages covered pain and suffering, care, funeral expenses, and a financial and services dependency claim.

It was a victory for the family, who had been through so much pain and suffering because of Bryan’s illness and death. Liz Makin’s expertise and dedication were crucial in securing justice for the family,despite the lack of witness evidence.

Asbestos-related illnesses are often difficult to prove, but with the right legal team on your side, you can fight for the justice you deserve. If you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos, don’t hesitate to contact Wolferstans Solicitors today. Their experienced asbestos experts, like Liz Makin, can help you navigate the legal system and get the compensation you deserve.

Hannah and Liam with one of the Provide Devon volunteers

Are you over 18 and need help or support with something that is affecting you or your life but doesn’t need direct help from Adult Social Care or Health Services?

A charity at the heart

We are trialling this new support from Monday 11th April until 31st July 2023 and would urge you to get in contact.

Plymouth Community Assist (PCA) at the charity Improving Lives Plymouth is a free service to help Plymouth residents find information and support from voluntary and community groups and businesses in your local area.

Our aim is to allow people to live healthier more independent lives for longer by offering both preventative and complimentary services that work alongside the NHS and Adult Social Care. This could include conversations about accessing community group’s to combat isolation, maximising income, form filling, discussions about utility and food provision, long term health condition support, housing and where to gain free legal advice.

The PCA team are waiting to provide you with good quality information, advice, support and signposting that helps you to make informed decisions about your well-being, and will work with you to discuss the options available to find the best solution for you.

Your wellbeing request may feel small but if you need help and support with it give us a call…

We are open Monday – Friday, 10.00am – 4.00pm, closed on Bank Holidays.

LABOUR BACK IN CONTROL OF PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL AFTER TORY VOTE COLLAPSES

Labour swept back to power in the Plymouth City Council elections on May 4.

Labour increased its number of seats from 24 to 31, reducing the Conservatives to 18 seats. Prominent councillors such as Nick Kelly - a former Cponservative leader of the council - Chaz Singh, Jonathan Drean and George Wheeler all lost their seats.

Tudor Evans becomes the new leader of the council - the fifth time he has held that post. He has represented Ham Ward since 1988 and has led the Labour Group on the council since 1998.

It was a good night for Labour, gaining seven seats, as well as holding onto all the seats that they were defending. It meant that they won 15 of the 19 seats being contested on the night.

Labour gained seats from the Conservatives in Budshead, Eggbuckland, Moor View, and Southway and also gained St Budeaux, where Green Party candidate George Wheeler was ousted.

The only seat the Conservatives held on the night was Plymstock Radford where Kathy Watkin finished ahead of Labour’s Roger Dodd by less than 250 votes.

Independent Terri Beer held Plympton Erle with a substantial majority, while former Conservative Patrick Nicholson standing as an Independent won Plympton St Mary with a majority of over 1,000 votes.

Turnout was 32.1 per cent - marginally higher than the last local elections in 2022. It was the first local election when voters were required to provide ID before casting their vote.

The new Labour Cabinet, which took control at the council’s annual meeting on May 19 has been announced. See next page.

Telephone – 01752 201898

Email

Tudor Evans...leader of the council for the fifth time

Thomas Jefferson

Information Commissioner reprimand for Plymouth City Council

Plymouth City Council has been reprimanded by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for failing to respond to the public when asked for personal information held about them - known as a Subject Access Request (SAR).

Plymouth City Council repeatedly failed to meet the legal deadline of one to three months for responding to a SAR. The ICO has issued a reprimand to the council instructing it to take steps to ensure that the public receive their personal information within the statutory period.

Following enquiries, the ICO found that delays were found at Plymouth City Council over the last three years, with 18 requests taking up to two years to complete and a further 18 requests taking between three months and one year. There were 20 outstanding requests up to a year old, and eight requests still outstanding up to two years later. The highest compliance rate for SARs completed on time was 77% in 2022-2023.

Stephen Eckersley, ICO director of investigations, said: “Asking an organisation for the personal information they hold is a fundamental information right, helping people to understand how and why their data is being used. Delays to this process can cause anxiety or distress and have significant impact on people’s lives if they cannot receive copies of their data on time.

“With these backlogs of requests, Plymouth City Council is undermining public confidence by failing to be transparent and accountable. It is also denying residents access to their other information rights, such as asking for the information to be changed or deleted. Other organisations should take note that we will act if they fail to meet their legal obligations when responding to SARs.”

While the council invested in staff to tackle the requests, the reprimand outlined further steps to improve compliance with data protection law. The council must ensure that it has adequate staff resources in place to respond to SARs on time, and continue to implement effective measures to address the outstanding requests.

The ICO has asked Plymouth City Council to provide details of actions taken to address these recommendations within six months of the reprimand being issued.

An SAR is a request made by or on behalf of an individual for the information which they are entitled to ask for under Article 15 of the UK General Data Protection Regulation.

City Council’s new top team is named

Leader of the Labour administration, Tudor Evans has announced his top political team that will lead Plymouth City Council. The 10-strong Cabinet is responsible for the political leadership of the council and making the key decisions following the annual meeting on May 19.

Councillor Evans said the team would immediately start implementing the ambitions set out in the Labour manifesto and working on top priorities, including providing more support to help residents deal with the cost of living crisis and resolving the urgent issues with the Armada Way scheme.

He added: “It is clear that people in Plymouth have an appetite for change and we will not let them down. We will create a council that is focused on addressing the things that matter. We have an exceptionally strong team to lead the council’s new Labour administration and one that will bring a fresh and more dynamic approach to tackling the key issues.

“Each member brings extensive experience to their portfolio, from their previous service on the Council and from their work in their communities and in a wide range of sectors.

“All of them are passionate about doing their best for local people and are ready to get stuck in and build a better Plymouth.

“The council faces many challenges and there’s a huge amount to do, but I am confident that we have an extremely capable and driven political leadership team that will demonstrate just how much can be achieved for the residents of Plymouth when the ambition and commitment is there.”

The new administration’s priorities that the Cabinet will be charged with delivering, include working with the police to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, repairing potholes, clamping down on litter and fly-tipping, supporting house building for social rent and affordable ownership, ensuring Plymouth benefits from green jobs by

helping companies create them and working with the NHS to tackle waiting lists for GPs and dentists.

The Cabinet membersare:

Coun Tudor Evans OBE – Leader

Coun Jemima Laing – Deputy Leader and Cabinet member for Children’s Social Care, Culture, Events and Communications

Coun Mary Aspinall – Cabinet member for Health and Adult Social Care

Coun Sally Haydon – Cabinet member for Community Safety, Libraries and Cemeteries and Crematoria

Coun Chris Penberthy – Cabinet member for Housing, Co-operative Development and Communities

Coun Sally Cresswell – Cabinet member for

Education, Skills and Apprenticeships

Coun Mark Lowry – Cabinet member for Finance

Coun Mark Coker – Cabinet member for Planning and Transport

Coun Tom Briars-Delve – Cabinet member for Environment and Climate Change

Coun Sue Dann – Cabinet member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and Human Resources and Organisational Development.

As well as strategic leadership of the council, Councillor Evans’ portfolio of responsibilities includes economy and enterprise, regional and local economic strategy, the corporate plan, corporate policy development, HM Dockyard and defence issues, strategic and commercial projects and the National Marine Park.

NSPCC seeks volunteers to help deliver Speak Out, Stay Safe programme in schools in Plymouth

A series of information events are set to be held by the NSPCC across the South West in a bid to recruit new volunteers for the charity’s successful schools service.

Last year in Plymouth the NSPCC delivered its Speak Out, Stay Safe programme to 10,735 children in 36 schools across the city. Volunteers play a big role in going out to local schools to help children stay safe.

Speak Out, Stay Safe is a safeguarding programme provided by the NSPCC for children aged 5 to 11. It is available free to all primary schools in the UK.

It helps children, in an age-appropriate way, to understand abuse in all its forms and how to recognise the signs; that abuse is never a child’s fault and that they have the right to be happy and safe; and where to get help including the NSPCC’s Childline service.

The NSPCC is currently recruiting volunteers in Plymouth and across the South West to deliver workshops to Year Five and Six primary school children. Full training and support is provided for volunteers and they work alongside school staff and other volunteers to deliver the workshops.

Volunteering for the Speak Out, Stay Safe programme is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. All volunteers are asked to be available to deliver two school visits a month with a minimum commitment of 12 months.

Sheila Simpson is a Speak Out, Stay Safe volunteer. She said: “After leaving the civil service, I retrained as a psychotherapist and was struck

when people described difficult childhoods and said they hadn’t realised this wasn’t normal for all children, so they had never asked for help.  That led me to research how to help inform children better at a younger age, and I found the NSPCC Speak Out, Stay Safe programme. I’ve been volunteering for about eight8 years now and have made some wonderful friends too.

“I really enjoy seeing how the Speak Out, Stay Safe programme engages the children. It both informs and empowers them. I absolutely love going into schools to deliver it.”

Fellow volunteer Janice Sibthorpe explained why she volunteers for the NSPCC: “I began volunteering for Speak Out, Stay Safe in 2013, after reading an article about it in the Evening Standard. The article described the service and talked about bullying and how devastating it can be if there is no one to talk to, no one to turn to.

“Previous to this a family member had been bullied, verbally and physical at school to the extent that they were the one to leave the school and look for a different school.

“Had they seen a Speak Out, Stay Safe assembly or workshop they may have had the courage to seek help sooner and to keep on speaking out until someone listened. The idea of speaking directly to children in a safe and age appropriate way about all forms of abuse, and that abuse is never a child’s fault resonated with me then and still does.”

Michelle Green, NSPCC South West and Channel Islands Schools Service manager, said: “The Speak

Out, Stay Safe programme began in 2011 and we currently deliver the service to 90% of primary schools in South West and Channel Islands

“You don’t have to have previous experience working with children to become a volunteer, but we do ask that you are over 16, have good communication skills and that you are passionate about children’s rights and letting children know about their rights.

“We are looking for volunteers from throughout the South West. Full training is provided and all we ask is that you commit to at least two workshops a month in schools that are convenient to you.”

Volunteer Information Meetings are being held in May and June for people who are interested in becoming volunteers for the NSPCC with Speak Out, Stay Safe. These meetings, held online, will give anyone interested more information about the role as well as a chance to ask questions.

To register an interest as a volunteer and sign up for a Volunteer Information Meeting in Plymouth go to https://join-us.nspcc.org. uk/volunteers/vacancy/speak-out-stay-safevolunteer-information-meeting-cornwall/6594/ description/

The closing date to register is June 23 and the webpage also has more information about becoming a volunteer for the NSPCC.

Anyone worried about a child, contact the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc. org.uk Children and young people who need help and support can contact Childline by calling 0800 111.

Council leader Tudor Evans (centre) with his new Cabinet

IT’S A SCHOOL TRIP OF JURASSIC PROPORTIONS!

A Plymouth primary school has won a school trip of Jurassic proportions, giving all 114 pupils the opportunity to visit a dinosaur experience coming to Central Park this May half term.

Marlborough Primary Academy School in Devonport entered the competition to win tickets to Dinosaurs in the Park after receiving an email about the giveaway.

Their headteacher, Jackie Green, composed the winning 100-word entry on why the school should be considered for the prize, which was selected from over 50 submissions.

Dinosaurs in the Park is a unique and educational day out, offering fun for all the family. Running from May 19 to June 11, the attraction comes to Plymouth just in time for the school holidays.

Featuring 40 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, including classic favourites such as the Stegosaurus, Triceratops and Velociraptor, Dinosaurs in the Park gives visitors the opportunity to explore the Dinosaur Trail, solve puzzles, and

even carry out some Jurassic dentistry on the resident T-Rex!

The youngsters at Marlborough Primary Academy will be able to experience everything the park has to offer, from walking among the giant life-sized dinosaurs, to playing dinosaur-themed mini golf and getting hands-on in the dinosaur dig enclosure. Speaking after hearing about the school’s big win, Mrs Green said: “We are really thrilled to have won this great day out at Dinosaurs in the Park and are looking forward to a fun filled day. This is a great family day out for the family of Marlborough Primary.”

Sven Schmidt, co-founder of Dinosaurs in the Park, is looking forward to welcoming Marlborough Primary Academy for the trip.

He said: “We’re delighted to give the students the opportunity to experience our event; we always like to show our support for the local community when we visit different cities, and it will be an enjoyable and educational day out for students and teachers alike!”

For details visit www.dinosaursinthepark.co.uk

Armada Way scheme axed by new city council leader

The new leader of Plymouth City Council has set out his firm intention to rescue, reinvigorate and renew the city centre and reunite a divided city.

New council leader Tudor Evans said his new administration’s top priority would be to sort out Armada Way.

Within hours of becoming the Leader of the Council he has overturned the decision of previous Leader, Councillor Richard Bingley, in relation to the Armada Way scheme.

This means the current scheme will not be implemented. Officers will bring forward options to regenerate Armada Way.He has tasked officers with ensuring that further engagement takes place with key groups and businesses, to consult on the next steps for Armada Way.

Councillor Evans said: “I think we can all agree that the decision to fell the trees has been hugely damaging – not just to the council, but to the city and Plymouth’s growing reputation as a place that cares passionately about getting greener.

“There are many lessons we can learn from this sorry affair that has polarised opinion in Plymouth and about Plymouth.

“We need to move forward and make sure we get this right. In the first instance, we need to focus on cleaning up the current site and talking and listening to communities, businesses and key stakeholders in the coming weeks. It is time for the Council to take back control of this project.”

The new Council leader and other senior politicians will be having a

walkabout of the Armada Way site and urgent meetings will be arranged with city business representatives.

A ‘hit squad’ will be deployed to tackle the litter that has built up in the city centre around the site, while officers are currently liaising with the council’s independent ecologist over next steps to clear the stumps of the felled trees, before looking at how and when the remaining felled trees can be removed, without damaging any birds nests, which may now be in the brush.

The Box selected for key role in exploring conflicts through art

The Box has been selected as a partner for the Imperial War Museums’ national art commissioning programme.

The Box will be part of the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund, a national partnership programme of over 20 artist commissions inspired by the heritage of conflict. The fund was created following the success of 14-18 NOW, the official UK arts programme for the First World War centenary.

The Box is one of nine new partners who each receive £20,000 from the IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund to realise their commissions, tackling subjects that range from rebuilding after the Second World War to reconciliation in the aftermath of the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

The Box will be using the Falklands conflict of 1982 as a starting point for its project, which will explore the idea of home and what it means to come home during or after a time of war.

The project team will be working with veterans

and service families over the coming months and hopes to select an artist later this year. The outcome of its commission will take place in spring/summer 2024.

Rebecca Newell, Head of Art for Imperial War Museums said: “The IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy fund builds on Imperial War Museums’ rich and longstanding history of commissioning art.

“One year into this programme, we are delighted by the diversity of exceptional arts experiences that have been created and shared with audiences. We look forward to expanding this work with artists, organisations and communities across the UK, continuing to highlight stories of conflict in engaging and creative ways.”

The IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund is made possible by a share of the royalties from Peter Jackson’s critically acclaimed film They Shall Not Grow Old.

PLYMOUTH’S NEW LUXURY CINEMA OPENS ON JUNE 2

Plymouth cinema goers are in for a treat when Everyman opens its 41st venue in Royal William Yard’s Melville Building on June 2.

The new cinema will set new standards of luxury with three extensive screens and 190 seats all fitted with Everyman’s velvet sofas and armchairs for ultimate comfort.

Customers will benefit from an extensive food and drink menu, all available to be ordered and served directly to their seat. The menu offers hand-stretched pizzas and small plates from salt and pepper squid, to buttermilk chicken, as well as a range of plant-based dishes. There also a choice of premium burgers and desserts.

The new venue will also be operating a full bar with speciality wine and beer, cocktails and a range of alcohol-free drinks.

The Box joins a diverse existing cohort of national partners who have all received £20,000 each for their commissions.

The Fund has also awarded £250,000 each to five major partners or ‘co-commissioners’ who will be working with five world-leading artists including Turner Prize nominees, to explore themes that include care work in conflict and the current refugee crisis.

Jodie Bishop, public art officer at The Box said: “The IWM 14-18 NOW Legacy Fund creates new opportunities for organisations to collaborate with artists and bring art to audiences in new and relevant ways.

“War should never be celebrated, but we are pleased to be given the chance to collaborate with an artist and members of the community to create something that will examine and explore a conflict that took place within many of our living memories in a different way.”

Each of the three screens will present state of the art technology for high quality viewings of various blockbuster films, documentaries and intimate live screenings.

Tickets for the new Everyman cinema are on sale now and can be purchased at www. www.everymancinema.com/venues-list/g01rjeveryman-plymouth

Everyman Plymouth also presents an exclusive Founder Membership offer, available for a limited time. Founder members at Plymouth will receive complimentary popcorn for their first year, plus a unique Founder Members card that isn’t available anywhere else. Those who choose to become an EVERYWHERE member will also receive six bottles of Everyman’s favourite wines.

For more information on Everyman Memberships visit www.everymancinema.com/ plymouth-founder-membership.

Velvet sofas at Everyman

PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE

Top award for owner of Devonport care home

Southern Healthcare group, who own four Devon care homes – including Parkwood House in Devonport – has won a national award recognising their commitment to care.

Managing director Geoffrey Cox, received The Care Home Employer Award at the Great British Care Awards 2023.

The award acknowledged and celebrated employers ‘commitment to care and their delivery of an excellent service.’ To win the award, employers had to demonstrate ‘considerable acumen and entrepreneurial flair‚‘ while at the same time having a sustained track record of delivering high quality care and managing improvement.

The award judges said: “Geoffrey leads from the front. His dedication, research, and commitment to follow the true principles of person-centred care is admirable. How he has applied these theories to support his team, not just the residents, is reflected in the work they do and the relationships he has with them.”

The judges also said Southern Healthcare had a track record of delivering good quality care and managing improvement, of demonstrating a willingness to change to meet the new social care priorities, and of demonstrating good practice in personcentred care and support.

Geoffrey has worked in the care sector for 22 years and is a dementia care specialist.

He said: “This award means a lot to me because it recognises the commitment of our employees to the residents in their care. We are constantly striving to change the culture of care for the better, whether its through further training, or by providing a fulfilling life for our residents where they are cared for and empowered.”

The Great British Care Awards national award ceremony was held in Birmingham and the awards were presented by celebrity host Peter Andre.

The award follows Southern Healthcare’swin of The Care Employer of the Year Award at the South West regional finals last year.

SPECIALIST CARE FACILITY IN STOKE IS RATED ‘GOOD’ AGAIN BY CQC INSPECTORS

A specialist care facility in Stoke has retained a ‘good’ rating in its latest Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection, a rating it has held since its first inspection in 2013.

Klein care home provides support for younger adults with additional needs around their mental health, learning disability or autistic spectrum disorder.

The CQC inspects every health and social care service and grades it based on five criteria: safety, effectiveness, compassion, responsiveness to individual needs and management.

The service was deemed to have followed the CQC’s ‘right support, right care, right culture’ guidance and staff were praised for their treatment of the two individuals supported by the service.

The report stated: “People told us they liked living at Klein and the interactions we observed were relaxed, supportive and gentle.” And “People told us they could decide what they did each day and relatives expressed their loved ones had choice and control.”

As part of the inspection, a professional fed back: “Klein House try their best to ensure that [person] has a consistent team supporting them which benefits [person] greatly. If a new member of staff is introduced, it is done in a sensitive and compassionate way.”

Relatives the CQC spoke with felt engaged, with one stating: “I can’t fault the staff they are amazing; they talk to me all the time, they listen to me and they apply it…We think they all have halos.”

Sharon Field, acting manager at Klein, said: “We’re obviously delighted to have retained our ‘good’ rating from the CQC and we welcome the lovely comments from the professionals, inspectors and relatives included in the report.

“It is a testament to the consistent hard work of the team that we continue to be recognised as a home that is good in all areas.

“Of course, we won’t rest on our laurels

now the inspections over, and will continue to provide the best care possible to the individuals we support.”

Martyn Heginbotham, chief operating officer at Salutem Care and Education, which operates the service, said: “We are incredibly proud of the team at Klein for delivering another great inspection report from the CQC.

“All of our staff work incredibly hard to support the individuals in our care, and it is always a pleasure to see them recognised with such brilliant comments.”

Klein is based on Albert Road, Stoke, and is operated by Modus Care – part of Salutem Care and Education.

Great British Care Awards winnert Southern Healthcare managing director Geoffrey Cox (second from right), pictured with celebrity host Peter Andre, event sponsor Rachael Anstee from Hazlewoods, and compere Steve Walls.

Klein care home acting manager Sharon Field (left) pictured with Caroline Heath, Michelle Burchell and Beth Lawson

Wolferstans move mountains for The Mustard Tree charity

Staff from Plymouth-based law firm, Wolferstans Solicitors, recently embarked on a gruelling climb up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, to raise funds for The Mustard Tree, a charity that supported their late colleague Sharon Roberts during her battle with cancer.

The team, made up of Holly Bowditch, Julian Burrows, James Twine, Jack Harvey, Paige Bartlett, Pippa Tanner-Wood, Mara Cunha and Sam Porritt, took on the challenge in memory of Sharon, who passed away last year, and to give back to the organisation that had supported her and her family during such a difficult time.

The climb was no easy feat, with the team facing both physical and mental challenges throughout the journey. The team persevered though and successfully reached the summit of Ben Nevis, raising an impressive £3000 for The Mustard Tree in the process.

Reflecting on the experience, team member Julian Burrows said: “The climb was tough, both physically and mentally. But we kept Sharon in our hearts and minds throughout the journey, knowing that the challenges we faced were nothing compared to what she had gone through. We were absolutely determined to succeed for Sharon and for The Mustard Tree.”

The Mustard Tree expressed their gratitude for Wolferstans Solicitors’ support, saying: “We are passionate about supporting people effected by cancer here at the Mustard

Tree, and it’s great to work alongside the Wolferstans team who clearly feel the same.

“Every pound donated goes toward local service provision or plans in some way improve outcomes for those we support; on behalf of all the staff at the Mustard Tree, future cancer patients, carers, and families

across our locality, thank you Wolferstans Ben Nevis team!”

Wolferstans Solicitors is committed to supporting charitable causes and making a positive impact in their local community. This is just one of many initiatives undertaken to support organisations in need.

Taking a well-earned break on the climb

Peak performance at the top of Ben Nevis

Enjoying the spectacular scenery

It’s chess - but not as we know it!

An intriguing exhibition in Stonehouse will open with a battle to make an art of chess.

Celebrated sculptor Miranda Housden from Torpoint will stage her first exhibition as a painter when ‘Players’ has opened at the Old Morgue in Stonehouse.

She has depicted each of the 32 pieces on a chess board as a representation of someone she knows, transferring emotions and memories associated with each of her ‘subjects’ onto canvas.

“Behind each painting,‚“ said Miranda, “is a real person and a relationship that is constantly at play. Exploring scale from the towering bishop to a minute pawn, it is the six-foot black queen – my mother - who dominates.”

Miranda’s inspiration for the ‘chess’ paintings began during Covid following a conversation with a stranger online. Imagining the pieces as real people, Miranda started to think about how, over a lifetime, people drop in and out of our lives becoming more, or less, significant.

She added: “I started working on this in lockdown and spent many months selecting characters, agonising over relationships, and swapping people in and out of the game.”

Just as the game inspired the exhibition, so the exhibition now returns to the game. In the midst of the artistic drama, Miranda has invited chess clubs from across Devon and Cornwall to battle it under the paintings on the opening night.

Players are taking part from clubs in Exmouth, South Hams and Plymouth to compete in the Blitz Chess Tournament. Phil McConnell, secretary of the Torbay Chess League said the games will be fast and furious.

“Typically, a traditional game of chess lasts more than three hours but with Blitz Chess it’s reduced to about ten minutes: it’s really exciting to play and really exciting to watch.,” he added.

The competition is also hotting up, said Phil, because of the trophy: “Chess trophies aren’t normally very exciting!”

This one is unique. It has been designed and made by Miranda’s close friend, the internationally renowned glass artist, Gill Mannings Cox, who is herself depicted in the exhibition as one of the two black bishops.

For Miranda, however, it is more than just a prize, and will be presented in memory of her grandfather, Richard, who taught her how to play the game when she was a young girl.

Now more than 50 years later, her grandfather is back in the room as the white rook along with 31 extraordinary paintings which collectively convey that life is more than just a game.

‘Players’ the exhibition by Miranda Housden runs in The Old Morgue in Manor Street, Stonehouse from 10am to 6pm until July 22. For more information visit www. mirandahousden.com

Firestone Bay declared official bathing water site after MP Luke’s campaign

Devil’s Point and Firestone Bay has become an official bathing water, following an 18 month campaign by Plymouth MP Luke Pollard.

The bathing water season officially started on May 15, with regular testing of water quality from the Environment Agency now underway at 150 designated bathing sites across Devon and Cornwall - including newly-designated Firestone Bay and Devil’s Point.

High standards of water quality at swimming locations are important for people’s enjoyment of beaches and other beauty spots in England. Throughout the season, which runs until the end of September, the Environment Agency will regularly monitor water quality at bathing waters across the country to give bathers the up-to-date information they need.

The monitoring also means the Environment Agency can assess whether extra action is needed to address water quality at these sites. Dips in water quality can occur due to factors like rainfall, wind and high tides.

Information on all designated bathing water sites nationally and any forecasted drops in water quality will be published on the Swimfo: Find a Bathing Water website.

This provides immediate access to information on every bathing water in England, including coastal locations, inland lakes and the newly designated areas, including Firestone Bay in Plymouth.

Luke launched his bathing water campaign in

January 2022 after shocking reports of sewage being routinely discharged into seas and rivers across the country. Defra confirmed in April 2023 that the campaign had been successful, with official bathing water status granted.

The campaign attracted widespread support from Plymothians with 1,000 residents signing Luke’s bathing water petition, which he presented to Parliament in March 2022.

More than 100 local volunteers helped Luke count swimmers at Devil’s Point in June 2022. Over 6,500 water users were recorded in the single month, helping to strengthen the bathing water application.

The Environment Agency must now regularly test water quality at Devil’s Point and make the results publicly available, giving swimmers, kayakers and paddleboarders peace of mind that it is safe to take a dip.

Speaking on May 15, Luke Pollard, said: “Today is a big day for Plymouth as Devil’s Point and Firestone Bay becomes an official bathing water after an eighteen-month campaign.

“I want to thank everyone who helped me in getting this campaign over the line, from signing petitions to counting swimmers to submitting written evidence. It’s been a huge team effort.

“As a Janner and wild swimmer, I’m proud to have launched this campaign. With raw sewage being regularly discharged into Britain’s rivers and seas, our communities need peace of mind that it’s safe to take a dip.

“I will be pushing for bathing water status to be a catalyst for further investment at Devil’s Point, with repair of the tidal pool next on the to-do list.”

In the autumn, Defra will publish its classifications – Sufficient, Good, Excellent or Poor – for each designated bathing water site.

Plymothian Harrison’s vital charity work helping young people in South Africa

An award winning humanitarian returned to Plymouth in May to mark 15 years of charity work in South Africa.

Plymothian Harrison Dax Nash visited the city for the first time in two years after returning in time for the Coronation weekend. Harrison, aged 34, said that he was thrilled to be part of the celebrations having been invited to Buckingham Palace last year to receive a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his services to children and young people in South Africa.

His visit to Plymouth coincided with Harrison having started his journey in founding the UK Charity Maranatha Care Children 15 years ago. It was after a visit to Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape of South Africa in 2007 as a volunteer, that he identified the potential to make a substantial difference to young lives on a longer-term basis.

He launched the charity whilst studying social work at the University of Plymouth, where he now also gives lectures from his own international perspective as an Honorary Lecturer for the faculty.

For the past 11 years, Harrison has been based full-time in South Africa, in a role locally as programme manager of the Maranatha Siyakatala Child & Youth Care Centre. This is the primary project that the charity supports, having been established over 20 years ago by Dr Trudi Basson and Albie Basson, themselves being an inspiration for Harrison, providing essential residential support to children and young people in need of care and protection from three years through to young adulthood.

Here Harrison jokes that the kids all call him ‘Mr Nash’ - a name he hears from the children tens of time every day.

Harrison explained how the vision of the project was one that he was drawn to. “We believe in helping our young people to achieve their

full potential,” he said. “This starts with early childhood development and goes right through to support in adolescence and transitioning into adulthood.”

Harrison speaks proudly of young people that they have supported for over 10 years who now, having overcome horrendous and abusive circumstances leading to them coming into care, have seen doors open for higher-education, university level studies and vocational training.

“We are supporting two young people in their early 20s this year, one completing a diploma in hospitality and catering and the other a learnership in sustainable building and maintenance. Not only will this provide them with work opportunities for the future, but it also gives the younger children positive role models that have been through the care system to aspire to.”

It has been positive that the charity has seen numerous success stories. However, Harrison explains that service delivery is crucially important. The youth centre has to see that each child receives therapeutic, developmental,

recreational and caring services aligned with an individual development plan.

“Of course we have severe cases of abuse and neglect, but with the right support, residential environment, social work intervention and love, we can see young lives turned around.”

The work of the charity in the UK is essential to help with the on-going fundraising needs of the projects. It has also been positive that Maranatha has started to reach out to the rural areas in South Africa, with a further initiative focusing on family preservation in the small village of Nieu-Bethesda and the Pienaarsig Township.

Social economic challenges remain a big concern in the country, which is where Harrison speaks of the importance of ‘sustainable solutions, investing in youth development so that such children become adults who can become independent, give back and contribute positively in society at large.’

Meanwhile, Harrison has expressed his excitement at returning back to visit Plymouth. He described his parents as his biggest supporters, who have also visited numerous times to support the work in South Africa. His father’s company, Edge Global Marketing Services, is also a big supporter of the charity, and Harrison says he is always hopeful more companies or even schools will reach out to help with fundraising activities, as ‘a little goes a long way when it comes to the work we do.’

Harrison added: “I love Plymouth and it will always be home. It is a beautiful city with incredible people. The motivation I continue to receive from the people here, it has all contributed to help transform many young lives in South Africa. I would love these young people to visit here one day.”

To find out more and support the work of the charity visit www.maranathacarechildren.com.

Miranda’s white knight

Luke Pollard MP (third from left in the water) pictured with fellow wild swimmers and campaigners

Care home staff in 24 hour sponsored cycle ride to raise funds for specialist entertainment equipment

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Staff at Butterfly Lodge, a specialist care home in St Budeaux, are organising a sponsored 24-hour bike ride in June and hoping to raise the final £800 needed for specialist new entertainment equipment for their residents living with dementia.

The team has been actively engaged for nearly a year in fundraising to buy a new interactive mobile unit for use by residents, with activities including a spring fair last weekend which raised £300, and a sponsored bike ride along the Camel Trail last summer which raised £500.

Participants in the sponsored cycle ride on June 7 and 8 will use two static bikes installed in the reception area of Butterfly Lodge, to be ridden in turn by various staff members and relatives. A dedicated team of 20 colleagues and friends of the home have committed to taking part and the riders will achieve their 24 hour target by doing two 12 hour stints over two days.

The high-tech audio-visual kit to be purchased with the sponsorship money will enable residents confined to their rooms to share in activities taking place elsewhere in the home, so everyone can benefit equally from music, singing, reminiscence and other fun activities via live-streaming.

Deputy manager Sarah McCaffrey said: “We

are so close to having the full amount of money we need for the Jolly Trolley that we are hoping this will be the final push to bring in the remainder.

“It really is an amazing piece of kit which will enable everyone at Butterfly Lodge to benefit equally from music, singing, reminiscence and other fun activities via livestreaming.

“We’ll also be able to support people to more easily access live-screening from outside the home, as well as using it for playing video messages from families and friends and for other activities such as karaoke. We absolutely can’t wait to get it installed and see our residents enjoying it!

“This sponsored cycle ride will be hard work, so we’re putting in a fair few hours in the gym in preparation. We’ve told residents what we’re doing and they’ve said they are glad they aren’t doing it but will be happy to cheer on our brilliant team!”

Donations in support of the fund raiser can be made at www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/butterflylodgeresidentsfund

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Riders in training (from left) Kelly Tennant, activities coordinator, Zoe Cook, senior healthcare assistant and deputy manager Sarah McCaffrey

Plymouth boy raises funds for the Children’s Air Ambulance

A nine-year-old Plymouth boy has raised over £700 for the charity which played a key role in his hospital treatment after he was born 17 weeks early.

Young James Berry was just four months old when he was transferred from Leeds General Infirmary to Derriford Hospital by the Children’s Air Ambulance (TCAA) to continue the specialist care he needed. James weighed just 1lb 5oz when he was born prematurely.

His family were moving home to Plymouth but a 300-mile journey by ambulance or car was out of the question due to his fragile condition.To travel from Leeds to Plymouth by road would have taken up to nine hours with traffic delays, so the safest and quickest option was to fly James with a specialist team from Embrace, Yorkshire & Humber Infant & Children’s Transport Service – one of the clinical partner teams that work with the Children’s Air Ambulance. The flight took just two hours.

With the Children’s Air Ambulance celebrating 10 years of service in 2023, James decided to raise funds for the lifesaving charity and took part in the Plymouth Half Marathon School’s Challenge to raise funds.James’s mum Natalie is forever grateful that the Children’s Air Ambulance was available to transfer her son. She said: “It will always have a special place in our hearts.”

Since his flight onboard the Children’s Air Ambulance, James has celebrated nine birthdays and has thrown himself into life.

James has been trying hard at school and

becoming a brilliant mathematician, he loves to write and illustrate stories and enjoys family walks with his beloved spaniel, Pippa – amongst many other things.

Natalie added: “James’ favourite sport is rugby, and he plays for Plymouth Argaum. He is very proud of his team, and he has wonderful coaches. The team have decided to support the Children’s Air Ambulance and Shine charities, as they both hold something special for his team. James is very proud to play rugby with TCAA on the front of his shirt.”

More recently - as TCAA celebrates 10 years of vital transfer missions - James, and his friends, Jayden and Lucas, have decided to raise funds for the charity through the school’s Half Marathon Challenge.

Running weekly, the friends finished their brilliant challenge at the Plymouth Half Marathon on May 14. With his target set at £700, James is asking for kind donations through his JustGiving page, to support the charity so close to his heart.

“To us, TCAA meant we had a safe way to move to be close to our support network, so his father, Ian, could start his new job and so we could start our life as a family in Plymouth. We do not know how long that wait would have

Talented Alyssa wins national table tennis championship

Plymouth youngster Alyssa Nguyen from Mannamead is celebrating becoming the champion after an amazing comeback in the final match. Alyssa, 11, was top seed in the under-11 girls’ category at the Butterfly National Schools Finals and battled through group and knockout stages to reach the final against second seed Hannah Saunders from Peterborough.

In a high-quality match which enthralled spectators, Nguyen turned the tables after going 2-0 down to win 3-2 (5-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-6, 11-7). It meant she went one better than last year, when she won the silver medal.

Alyssa said: “I feel very happy. When I was 2-0 down, I thought I was still there, so I kept going and tried to get the next three. I really wanted to win this year after getting silver last year.”

Alyssa’s brother Hugo, 13, narrowly missed out on a gold of his own in the under-13 boys’ event. Despite being unseeded, he reached the semi-finals, going down 3-1 (11-5, 11-13, 15-13, 11-7) to eighth seed

been if we had had to wait until James was strong enough to travel by land, or if Ian’s job would have waited that long,” explains Natalie.

“The Children’s Air Ambulance means a lot to me because if it didn’t exist, I would have been stuck in Leeds for ages! Also, I am the only nine-year-old I know who has been in a helicopter and that’s cool,” adds James.

Community fundraising executive for TCAA, Fiona Franklin, recently visited James and his friends. She said: “James is a remarkable young man, and what he and his friends have accomplished to raise funds for our charity is wonderful, and it’s especially poignant as TCAA celebrates 10 years of service.

“We are a charity which receives no government funding, so we’d like to thank James, Jayden and Lucas for their efforts, and encourage people to support by donating to James’ JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ BezzaJFor further information on the lifesaving charity, please visit: www.childrensairambulance. org.uk or call 0300 3045 999.

James and his friends Jayden and Lucas meet up with TCAA fundraising executive Fiona Franklin

Nine-year-old James Berry and (inset) pictured during the helicopter flight to Derriford when he was four months old

A Plymouth girl has become a national schools tables tennis champion – a year after finishing as runner up in the same competition.

Joseph Cooper, and therefore had to settle for a bronze medal.

The siblings, and Hugo’s twin brother Leo, were back in action on the national stage at the end of April when they competed at the Mark Bates Ltd Cadet, Under-17 & Junior National Championships, organised by Table Tennis England, in Nottingham. The twins Hugo and Leo reached the semi-finals in the doubles, but all three struggled in the singles where they were competing against much older players.

Alyssa Nguyen in action

Coronation wallhanging unveiled

Captain of the Base at Devonport Naval Base, Capt David Preece has unveiled a Coronation themed Community Wall Hanging made by local children in HMS Drakes Haven.

Zoe Lavers from Aggies Community Waves Plymouth arranged the amazing legacy art project, with Military Families from local schools for the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

This will leave the city of Plymouth with four beautiful wall hangings made of little portraits and displayed at Citadel, The Haven in HMS Drake, Royal Navy Community Centre at Crownhill and the Royal Marines Barracks at Stonehouse, funded by Naval Children’s Charity.

Zoe, who put in a huge amount of work in organising said,:“We are blessed at HMS Drake Chaplaincy to be a venue that can receive one of the two wall hangings. It’s located on the staircase wall leading up to Chaplaincy.

“It is an amazing piece which mean a huge amount to lots of people and brightens up a very blank area. We look forward to enjoying it for years to come.”

Aye-Aye the geriatric cat in need of lifesaving care

Gables Dogs & Cats Home have recently taken in an elderly cat called Aye-Aye from the RSPCA.

The lovely elderly girl was found lying in a road in a collapsed state and was extremely cold, underweight and lethargic. She was taken to a local veterinary practice where it was found that she was hyperthyroid and in need of urgent medical care. Sadly she was not microchipped so there was no way to trace her owner. Now that she is in the care of Gables they can effectively treat her condition and find her a new home where she will be comfortable and happy.

Gables are determined to help Aye-Aye back to good health. General manager, Claire Sparkes said: “When Aye Aye arrived she was clearly very underweight with a body score of just two out of nine, and in a very poor condition. She was not underweight due to just being old, she has untreated medical issues and has not been fed properly.

“We were pleased to be able to offer her our help. She is already starting to put on weight due to receiving six small meals a day of a top quality veterinary diet in the short time she has been with us. She has such a lovely character and she will be a lovely companion for someone very lucky.

Once she is strong enough she will need dental treatment to remove some very rotten teeth and a tumour on her jaw inside her mouth. She will also need a heart scan and bloods taken to assess how well her hyperthyroidism medication is working. In the mean time she will still enjoy plenty of

attention from Gables staff and lots of good food.

It is estimated it will cost Gables £4,000 for all the treatment and medication that Aye-Aye will need now and into the future, as well as basic care such as flea and worm treatment and vaccinations. As she is an elderly cat Gables will continue to support her new owners with her veterinary care.

To help to ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to Aye Aye’s Vet Appeal call 01752 331602 or visit www.justgiving.com/ campaign/AyeAye to donate online.

Pictured at the unveiling (from left)

Lt Cdr Andrew McConochie, Zoe Lavers, Capt David Preece and WO1 Steve Harvey

Aye-Aye pictured with Gables deputy manager Ruth Rickard

Tributes paid to former Lord Mayor Brian Vincent

Tributes have been paid to Plymouth City Councillor and former Lord Mayor Brian Vincent, who passed away in April.

Councillor Vincent was a ward councillor for Efford and Lipson. He was first elected in 1997-2000 and was re-elected in 2003. He represented the City as Lord Mayor from 2008 to 2009. Prior to that he was the Deputy Lord Mayor.

Councillor Vincent was also the Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Planning and sat on a number of committees, including the Children and Young People committee, Planning committee and more recently the Performance, Finance and Customer Focus committee.

Councillor Sue Dann, Lord Mayor of Plymouth, added: “This is very sad news. Councillor Vincent was a real community champion in every sense of the word and will be sadly missed.

“He was a true gentleman and was a pleasure to work with in the Council chamber. He was a very intelligent, thoughtful and methodical person, which made his contribution to the many council committees he served on a valuable one. He will be missed.

“Brian was also well known for his love of Plymouth’s green spaces. He was a champion of the environment and will leave a lasting legacy in Efford and Lipson not just as a councillor, but as someone who put family, community and compassion front and centre in everything he did.”

Councillor Mark Shayer, Interim Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Brian was a hugely dedicated councillor, he was well respected by everyone and will be sorely missed.

“He was a defender of local decision making, a committed public servant and a champion for the people he represented. His loss will be felt by all councillors, regardless of politics. He will be sorely missed.

“All our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends at this sad time.”

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of the Labour Group at Plymouth City Council, added: “Myself and all my colleagues in the Labour group are extremely saddened at the passing of such a valued friend and respected colleague.

“Brian had a great sense of humour and was always available for a few words of advice when needed. He was a talented councillor who always conducted himself on the Council with great dignity and politeness to everyone.

“Plymouth has lost a true friend. Our condolences go to his family and friends.”

SPAR WHOLESALER RAISES £30,000 FOR MARIE CURIE

South West SPAR wholesaler, Appleby Westward, has raised over £30,000 for endof-life charity, Marie Curie.

Over the past year, the Cornwall-based company has held multiple fundraising events at its head office and has encouraged its company-owned and independently-owned SPAR stores to do the same. Many of Appleby Westward’s South West stores have got involved in fundraising by holding cake sales, raffles and competitions.

Each store has also donated 10p from each bunch of bananas (including 5p per bunch donated to the fund by banana-giant Fyffes) and each bunch of daffodils sold during March, to tie in with Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal during the same month. Stores also stocked Marie Curie’s daffodil pins.

The staff at Appleby Westward’s head office have created a ‘staff shop’ containing snacks and office supplies. They also hold regular raffles and donate any money raised through Christmas Jumper Day to Marie Curie each year.

One area manager even went the extra mile and got his legs waxed to raise money at one of his Plymouth stores.

Appleby Westward has supported Marie Curie since 2017 and has raised over £143,000 since then.

Marie Curie Corporate Partnerships manager, Imogen Duffin, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Appleby Westward’s staff and SPAR stores for their support of Marie Curie. From staff members fundraising individually, to cross-store promotions, their donations mean that we can be there for people at the end of life.”

In addition to its fundraising efforts, Appleby Westward helped the charity during the COVID-19 pandemic by transporting PPE around the region and enabling Marie Curie nursing staff to collect it from their local SPAR store.

Across the South West, Marie Curie nurses used an average of 21,000 pieces of PPE a week during the pandemic, including face masks, aprons, gloves, visors, goggles, and hand sanitiser, so Appleby Westward’s generosity ensured that nurses could continue to care for their patients safely.

Imogen added: “Their community spirit shone through in the pandemic when despite being extremely busy themselves, they helped deliver PPE to our local nurses. This meant our nurses could be in people’s homes safely, delivering vital

care when families needed it most.”

Other charities Appleby Westward and its SPAR stores have supported recently include St Luke’s Hospice, St Michael’s Community Fridge & Larder, memory loss charity Prama Life, and The Tree Council.

Appleby Westward hopes to continue its fundraising efforts throughout the year and will continue encouraging its SPAR stores to support Marie Curie and other local charities wherever possible. To find out more about SPAR, visit www. spar.co.uk

FUNDING BOOST FOR POPULAR VETERANS PROJECT

A much-loved project for Armed Forces veterans, aged over 50 or living with a disability, is set to continue for a further three years.

The Veterans Project run by Age UK Plymouth will continue to operate thanks to a £98,000 grant from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

In just over a year the project, which now supports over 100 people a month, has gone from strength to strength with regular events including a weekly social morning, two monthly brunches and a walking football team.

As part of Age UK Plymouth’s commitment to over 50s and those living with dementia in Plymouth, clients and their carers were consulted prior to the grant application and their thoughts, views and opinions have been fundamental to shaping plans for the project.

As well as a wider range of groups and activities, there was significant interest in the additional provision of counselling and wellbeing support. The funding has seen a qualified, independent therapeutic councillor appointed to provideoneto-one counselling sessions designed to support veterans who might be looking to build and maintain good mental health.

A flexible six to 10 week programme will be made available free of charge to veterans over 50 years or with disabilities and will be an opportunity for change for those living with a range of challenges to their mental wellbeing including PTSD, low level depression and social isolation.

Counterpoint Therapy Plymouth’s Georgina Edwards said: “I’m looking forward to working with

Age UK Plymouth to offer face to face counselling for individuals through a series of regular, free sessions in a comfortable and confidential environment. These sessions will provide an opportunity for veterans to speak to someone who is accepting of who they are and of their life story.

“I will compassionately acknowledge and hold their thoughts, experiences and reactions, and together, we can explore new possibilities at their own pace.”

The Veterans Project at Age UK Plymouth comes under the remit of its new Wellbeing Hub, and Sarah Allen the charity’s Information, Advice and Wellbeing Hub manager is delighted at the opportunity to continue working with veterans through the charity.

She said: “It’s a huge testament to the success and hard work of the team who have built and developed our Veterans Project over the past 18 months that we are now able to not only continue to support but also massively increase our offering

and the range of opportunities for our clients.”

Over the past 12 months the project was able to arrange subsidised trips to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, Drakes Island, Plymouth’s Citadel and the naval base at Devonport as well as hosting a Walking Football tournament and working with partners including the Eden Project and the Defence Gardens Scheme.

The Veterans group has also welcomed volunteers from the Royal Navy and Sky among others who have kindly given their time to support the activities hosted at Age UK Plymouth’s Mount Gould Centre.

With future plans set to include social and gardening groups, walking and sports activities and much more, Age UK Plymouth look forward to supporting our military community for many years to come.

Any Armed Forces Veteran over the aged of 50 or living with a disability in Plymouth is welcome to join the group.

The regular breakfast club is popular with veterans

Diva, a Marie Curie nurse, pictured with Nick Vivian head of marketing at Appleby Westward

It has been a good time to be an avid football fan here in Plymouth of late.

At the time of writing Plymouth Argyle have just finished their season and have done so in some style, winning League One with a huge points total of 101!

They beat some very large club sides to the title including Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich Town who took the fight right down to the wire. With the comparative operating budgets of the clubs, Argyle’s success can be seen as a bit of a David v Goliath victory. Argyle representing David in this particular case.

When the squad celebrated their victory with a boat trip to the Barbican and an open top bus parade of the city, the impact of their success on the people of Plymouth was clear. People lined the streets and thousands turned up at Home Park to cheer on their heroes. All that despite wet weather all day!

Whether you are a football fan or not the success is a mark of civic pride for many and will reap economic benefit for the city. The club sides in the Championship are on another level again and will bring more fans, and more revenue, to the city. The challenge of competing at the next level is one which the club are relishing and the Green Army are very much

Classic story of redemption

By Dave Simpson, Station Manager Cross Rhythms

looking forward to witnessing.

This success is made all the more special by considering the recent history of the football club. 10 years ago almost to the day the club only just avoided relegation out of the football league entirely. That narrow escape had been preceded by dreadful ownership issues and the club having to go into administration. Plymouth Argyle had been perilously close to disappearing from existence all together.

Thankfully with the initial takeover by James Brent and the subsequent investment and current ownership of Simon Hallett the club is now sustainably run and back where it should be.

Redemption stories like this are so wonderful to hear. All too often we are fed in the media the fall from grace parts of these but it is so important to learn of how situations and even people’s lives have been turned around for the good. The main reason being that we need help to turn things around too.

You may be reading this and find yourself in the midst of a very low life ebb. Perhaps through even your own actions you find yourself in the personal equivalent of where Argyle found themselves all those years ago. Directionless, without much resource and clinging on for survival.

Anyone in the know will tell you that the transformation that has taken place at Home Park has only happened through the hard work and dedication of a whole host of people who have gone about their business consistently behind the scenes. Turning things around takes this sort of commitment.

Encouragingly Plymouth Argyle’s turnaround has happened much quicker than anyone thought possible.

It is my hope that in reading this article you are encouraged that the same can happen to you. The comparison to a football club might be too tenuous to do that for you so I want to encourage you with the wonderful Life

Plymouth

Stories interviews we hear on Cross Rhythms Plymouth.

I mentioned these in my last article and if you are struggling at the moment, listening to these real people telling their stories of redemption in their own lives may be exactly what you need.

You can listen to them online at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth and click on ‘Listen Again’ and ‘Life Stories’.

The common theme among them all is how they have personally encountered God for themselves and come to know and follow him in their lives.

At its core the Christian message is all about redemption. Through the person and sacrifice of Jesus all of humanity is redeemed.

This redemption is open to you as much as it is to anyone else. I encourage you to reach out to God in your own way.

As a result, like the situation for Plymouth Argyle, your life may well turn around for good much sooner than you can currently imagine!

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

Care team cycle over 600 miles to raise funds for vulnerable girls in Africa

Thirteen team members at Catalyst Care Group virtually cycled 603 miles, over four hours at Bodyworld Gym in Plymouth to raise money for Catalyst Foundation’s SHE (Secure, Hope, Empowered) Programme, a charity founded to empower vulnerable girls in Sub-Saharan Africa, through education.

The distance cycled is equivalent to the collective distance that all 62 beneficiaries being supported must walk daily, to receive an education.

Across Africa, 32.6 million girls of primary and lower secondary school age are out of school. This number rises to 52 million when looking at girls of upper secondary school age. As a result of not going to school, girls may become victims of child abuse, child rape, early child marriages/ pregnancies, HIV/AIDS, and more.

As an organisation, the Catalyst Foundation recognises that for a young girl to fully benefit from education, it is necessary to offer tailored support to empower the ‘whole’ child, and so the foundation decided to implement seven pillars of support to achieve this.

Their three core pillars of direct beneficiary support include instilling security, promoting education, and providing healthcare services.

In addition to these, their other four pillars of additional school and community support, include educating all students about climate change, establishing school feeding programmes for all students, setting up family resilience projects to help bring themselves out of poverty, and giving infrastructural and resource assistance to ensure that all students study in a dynamic environment, fit for learning.

The daily ‘School Feeding Programmes’

established in schools by the Catalyst Foundation has made a big impact, as all students are now able to receive a healthy, balanced, meal every day at school. Through the implementation of this initiative, school dropout rates have fallen by nearly 75%. Many students previously suffering from malnutrition, are now on the road to better health, and because of this support – academic performance from all students has improved significantly, which has been amazing to witness.

Participant Ellie Baxter, from the Exeter office at Catalyst Care Group, which employs 50 people locally, said prior to the event: “We are such a strong team in Devon and regularly spend time outside of work together with each other and our

families. Our families all know each other too. We all champion each other and really want every single one of us to succeed.

“We had other members of Catalyst Care Group come down to cheer us on too, along with family members and clinicians. We also all have in the forefront of our minds, that this is a one off for all of us. The girls we are aiming to fundraise for must travel long distances every day to access education.”

Ellie added: “I want to raise as much money as we can so we can increase our group of girls in Zimbabwe and Zambia and sponsor many more. Every child deserves the right to learn, read and write and have a safe space to express themselves

and develop. Even though the miles we need to cycle are going to be tough, I couldn’t think of a better group of people to do it alongside. We have had so much support from our own family and friends alongside our work family. Laughter and love will get us through the bike ride with the knowledge that we are making an impact and changing lives.”

Another team member, Vicky Norey said: “I’m taking part, because I think everyone should have the right to an education. So many of us take this for granted and I want to be a part of something that will make a difference.”

Following the event, Gemma Clark, general manager said: “The team had a great approach to keep the bikes moving on a tag team basis. Looking back, all I can say was that my knees hurt, but it was so very much worth it. Everyone in the room brought their A-game positive attitude, and we cycled, danced, and cheered the miles down.”

The founders of Catalyst Care Group have always been passionate about empowering the girl-child within Sub-Saharan Africa.

They decided to research about the issues that the girl-child faces. After analysing these statistics, they concluded that there was a dire need for their support.

The statistics were frightening, and they were determined that through the birth of and successful implementation of Catalyst Foundation’s first programme, they would be able to provide support to deal with all these girl-child related issues, by empowering one girl at a time. The Catalyst Foundation sits firmly under the Catalyst Care Group umbrella.

To find out more information visit www. catalystfn.org.

Dave Simpson

Catalyst team members and supporters prepare for the cycle ride

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NEW LORD MAYOR AND DEPUTY LORD MAYOR ARE ELECTED

Councillor Mark Shayer has been elected as Lord Mayor of Plymouth, with Councillor Kathy Watkin as the new Deputy Lord Mayor for the upcoming year.

They were both elected at the annual general meeting on May 19. Councillor Shayer was first elected to the Budshead Ward in 2022. Until recently he was the interim leader of Plymouth City Council, and prior to that the deputy leader, responsible for human resources, economic development and finance, as well representing Plymouth on the Devon and Somerset Fire Authority.

Councillor Mark Shayer, served on three ships for the Royal Navy before joining the Submarine Service, where he served as an engineer on five submarines over the course of nearly 25 years.

After leaving the Navy, he worked at Devonport Royal Dockyard as a project manager, before retiring in 2020.

He has always been active locally, sitting on a number of local boards, including at the Four Greens Trust, the Drake Foundation and is the Joint Chair for the Mount Edgcumbe Trust Board.

Councillor Shayer, said: “It is an honour to be elected as the new Lord Mayor of Plymouth for the coming year.

“I have always been passionate about Plymouth, and it will be a real pleasure to have the opportunity to connect with people across the City from all walks of life. I will take

this year as an opportunity to say thank you to those who make Plymouth such a lovely place to live, to work and to visit.

“I am looking forward to representing as many communities, organisations and the people of Plymouth and working hard to showcase Plymouth.”

Councillor Watkin was first elected as a ward councillor for Plymstock Radford Ward in 2019.

In addition to serving on the Planning Committee of which she was vice chair in 2022-2023. She also sat on the licensing committee, budget scrutiny committee, health and wellbeing board and the corporate parenting group.

Councillor Watkin trained as a speech and language therapist in London and practised for a few years. She then decided to pursue a career in law which brought her to Plymouth and has worked in and near the city as a solicitor for her lengthy legal career, and prior to her retirement had her own practice in the city.

Councillor Watkin, said: “To be elected as the next Deputy Lord Mayor is a privilege and an honour.

“I have loved Plymouth since first visiting as a child and feel that the people have a strong sense of community spirit. I am looking forward to meeting people from organisations and charities as well attending civic events during the next year”.

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Make a splash for local charities

Since the start of Covid 19 three years ago, the war in Ukraine and the increase in the cost of living, local charities and good causes have been affected by the lack of charitable donations.

Over this period, the Lions Club of Plmouth have endeavoured to serve the community to the best of their ability by assisting in feeding the homeless by way of the Plymouth Soup Run, also collecting unwanted food from bakeries and delivering to the homeless hostel.

Now the Lions are trying to serve other local and national charities who are feeling the pinch by organising a sponsored Swimathon at Plympton Swimming Pool on Sunday July 2 and in order that all should benefit, the teams of five swimmers will name their own charity who will share the money raised with the Lions nominated charities on a 50/50 basis.

The nominated Lion charities are the local Pisces Swimming Club for disabled children and nationally Macmillan Cancer Support Swimathon is a fun event, not a race and it’s open to all ages provided participants can swim 25m every fifth length, over a 50 minute period.

It is an opportunity for healthy exercise while contributing to local charities. For more information on the event and how to enter a team, please contact Lion Roy Russell by email to lion.royrussell@yahoo.co.uk

A major chess congress for Plymouth primary and secondary age students, will be held at Plymouth College in June.

The tournament is being organised by Plymouth Chess Club and takes place on Saturday June 24.

Alan Crickmore, president of Plymouth Chess Club said: “We currently have a group of students attending the Plymouth Chess Club every week for tuition, and the benefits are already evident.

“We know there are many more students, both boys and girls, playing chess in schools, and our objective is to encourage these groups, and what better way than to hold a congress with free entry.

He said there were many advantages playing chess. “It appears to improve logical thinking, academic performance, confidence, patience, a sense of fair play, and above all, the ability to meet and communicate with new friends.”

Prizes will be awarded and all players will receive a certificate. A bookstall with books at modest

MAJOR CHESS TOURNAMENT PLANNED IN PLYMOUTH

prices suitable for players, but particularly those in the early stages of playing chess, will be available.

Alan added: “We have a very experienced committee, who are keen to ensure that this inaugural congress is a success.”

Further information will be sent to all Plymouth schools in the next few weeks and it is hoped this will lead to more chess being played in schools and lead to an online inter-school league.

For more details call 01752 768206.

Theatre Royal partners with Stage One for trainee producer placement

Theatre Royal Plymouth has partnered up with Stage One to provide an opportunity for an up-and-coming producer to spend a year gaining handson experience of theatre production.

Stage One’s trainee producer placements, which was launched 10 years ago, offer aspiring producers a 12-month fixed term contract within an established production company or producing theatre.

The placement not only benefits the producer but also the host theatre as the producer becomes an additional member of the in-house production team. Other theatres and producers involved this year are Bristol Old Vic, Northern Stage and Nottingham Playhouse.

Three out of four participants in the placement scheme are still actively working in the theatre industry.

Joseph Smith, chief executive of Stage One, said: “This scheme offers four emerging producers hands-on training in producing in-house productions, commercial tours and transfers, as well as the opportunity to immerse themselves in the daily activity of four busy producing organisations.

“The aim is for the trainee producer to support the theatres in all areas of producing, from artistic support to reaching new audiences and support them to capitalise on new commercial opportunities.”

As Theatre Royal Plymouth is the largest regional producing theatre in the UK, it is passionate about the distinctiveness of the South West, its people and their potential and it aims to reflect them, in all their diversity, by partnering with them to deliver this programme.

For 40 years, TRP has produced and presented professionally-made theatre, opera and dance made locally, nationally, and internationally. Over the last four decades, the theatre has delivered an extensive programme of projects, skills development, training, and performance opportunities on its stages and across the city and region.

James Mackenzie-Blackman, chief executive and executive producer for Theatre Royal Plymouth said: “As we continue to develop our producing and co-producing for the months and years ahead, we’re delighted to have been successful in our application to host a Stage OnepProducer. The combination of TRP’s fantastic team and incredible buildings, Theatre Royal Plymouth and TR2, and the brilliant training offered by Stage One, we are confident we have come together to create a really fantastic opportunity.”

Spend the night with sharks!

Children and families will get the chance to experience what happens underwater at night with the return of Sleeping with Sharks at the National Marine Aquarium.

Launching on May 27, the Aquarium is opening its doors late at night to give the public a chance to explore the venue, before sleeping in the Eddystone Reef exhibit, where the sharks and other sealife dwell.

It’s a great opportunity to uncover the maritime-mysteries of what sea life gets up to when no one is around, Sleeping with Sharks is a combination of education and entertainment.

Evenings at the aquarium are geared at getting across a great understanding of the marine environment and how to help keep it safe.

The series of events includes an after-dark tour of the aquarium, arts and crafts, games throughout the aquarium, a big screen movie in front of the Eddystone Reef Tank, midnight snack, followed by breakfast in the morning.

For tickets and more information visit www.national-aquarium. co.uk/events/sleeping-with-sharks-at-the-aquarium/

Optometry taster day for clear-sighted pupils

Plymouth University hosted a special taster day for 50 South West pupils to inspire them to be tomorrow’s opticians.

The event was organised by Lecturer in Optometry Alice Cottle and sponsored by Specsavers.

The pupils, all in Years 10 to 13, met academic staff from the University’s Optometry programme, attended mini lectures on eye anatomy and visual processing, and had the opportunity to participate in a practical session using equipment in the optometry lab.

They also met students from the University and optometrists from different settings to highlight the range of opportunities available and support the message that, as a career choice, optometry is much broader than people might think.

Miss Cottle, the module lead for Clinical Optometry Skills in Year One of the BSc (Hons) Optometry programme and herself a graduate of the University, said: “Optometry is a hugely

rewarding profession, and it was great to see so many young people enjoy learning about it.

“We want to inspire the next generation of optometrists and provide practical learning and opportunities for patient facing activity to help achieve that. Our student satisfaction rating reflects the popularity of our approach,

and we hope the pupils we met during this event will become the next generation of satisfied students in the future.”

Lucy Knock, Early Careers manager at Specsavers, helped facilitate the day and gave a presentation on how Specsavers can support students through school and university.

Luke Serle, a pre-reg optometrist from the Plymouth Armada Way practice and another Plymouth graduate, also joined her for a question-and-answer session on what life as a pre-reg is like.

Lucy said: “This event was a remarkable success and I want to thank the University for its efforts to inspire students to consider optometry as a career. It was fantastic to see the profession being showcased by Alice and her colleagues and Specsavers was pleased to be able to support the day, not least because our purpose is to change lives. We may have just done that for some of the young people during the day.”

BY-ELECTION TO BE HELD IN EFFORD AND LIPSON WARD

A by-election will be held in the Efford and Lipson ward on Thursday June 15, following the sad passing of Councillor Brian Vincent last month. (See story on page 18).

A Notice of Poll has now been published on Plymouth City Council’s website. The deadline for registering to vote in this by-election is midnight on Tuesday 30 May. Anyone who is not yet registered, the easiest way to do this is online. Details of name, address or voting preferences can be updated on the same page online. Residents who are already registered and would like to vote by post you can download a form at www.plymouth.gov.uk/how-vote#voteby-post. Postal vote applications must be received by 5pm on Wednesday May 31.

Anyone with queries should contact the electoral services team on 01752 304866 or email ero@plymouth.gov.uk.

Anyone wishing to stand as a candidate in the by-election will need to complete a set of nomination papers, available online and from the electoral services team.

It’s bags of comfort for Plymouth children who are going into care

Plymouth children who have to leave everything that’s familiar to go into the care of the local authority will now be given a My Journey bag full of items to make the experience easier.

Hand knitted toys, books, pyjamas and toiletries will be among the items packed into a special rucksack they can call their own throughout their care journey.

It’s thanks to a partnership between the children’s charity Barnardo’s and Plymouth City Council, who together deliver Plymouth Care Journeys, and the Buddy Bag Foundation, a charity that has been providing bags of comfort and inspiration since 2015.

Children who are taken into care may have to leave their home with nothing, or just have a plastic bag with a few basic items.

The idea of the My Journey bags is to provide a child with their own personal bag full of essential and comforting items which they can keep with them, helping them to increase their sense of self-worth, security and belonging.

Jemma Flower, Barnardo’s Children’s Services manager with Plymouth Care Journeys, said: “These bags have the potential to make a real difference to the experience of many children and young people during those first few days when they enter care.

“Coming into care for the first time can be extremely daunting and emotional, we hope these bags will provide children and young people with some comfort and distraction.

“Each bag was packed with love and care and will be personalised to each individual young person with a handwritten card,” she added.

Care experienced young people from the city joined a team from Barnardo’s and Plymouth council to pack 200 My Journey bags and explained what having such a bag would have meant to them.

One said: “It would have made a massive difference if I came into care with supplies, I had nothing with me. It would make

young people think people do care and don’t want to see us struggle.”

Another said: “I think this is an amazing idea and will really help young people who may be coming to a strange home with little or nothing. Having something they can use or play with that may be a comfort to them may help them feel more welcome.

“It’ll give them something to do while they settle in, especially if they wish to stay in their room while they get used to their surroundings.”

The team travelled to the Buddy Bags base in Sutton Coldfield to pack the rucksacks. The foundation is run entirely by volunteers and has won the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Volunteers have packed more than 51,000 bags since 2015.

Founder Karen Williams was inspired to set up Buddy Bags after coming across a similar scheme in Australia.

Plymouth children and young people will receive their items packed into Madlug bags.

The Madlug (Make a Difference Luggage) foundation provides a free travel bag for a child in care for every bag purchased by a member of the public. Bags can also be gifted and the charity gives care experienced young people job training and entrepreneurial opportunities.

For more information: plymouth.carejourneys.org. uk/ www.buddybagfoundation. co.uk/ www.madlug.com/

Bags of comfort: Care experienced young people and staff from Plymouth Care Journeys and Plymouth City Council with Buddybags chief executive Karen Williams (second from left)

Bags of comfort: Kirsty, a Buddy Bags volunteer, Sophia Morgan, Care Journeys project worker and Ibby, a care experienced young person filling the bags

Soldiers and sailors in E-Sports challenge

As part of the Royal Navy’s ongoing project to make recovering from an illness, mental health condition or an injury better, some new recovery courses have been introduced this year to try to encourage everyone who is medically unfit, to take part in something to assist their recovery journey.

The latest course was an E-Sports, ‘Call of Duty’ event between the Royal Navy and the Army in Plymouth.  Sailors from across the Senior Service went up against soldiers from 29 Commando Regiment, based at Plymouth’s Royal Citadel.

Able Seaman ‘Was’ Hollis from the Personnel Support Group in Devonport Naval Base, came up with the idea for the contest, and was readily assisted by Dean Linstead from Belong Arena in Plymouth City Centre where the competition took place.

‘Was’ said: “The E-sports week was unique and benefitted everyone, who due to injuries have been unable to perform many physical tasks,” said ‘Was’. “I could see that the event improved everyone’s mental wellbeing and was also a huge boost to our morale. Throughout the week there was some great teamwork as well as a competitive edge for all. Everyone wanted to win, and everyone put the work in.

“It required bags of attention from each individual and progress was persistent each day. Many became better at in-game strategies and left the week with a sense of pride acknowledging their efforts and progress.”

‘‘Was’ who is medically downgraded himself, added: “In a sense it helped distract me from my own thoughts for a while, and kept me focused on an objective rather than sitting in my cabin, it encouraged me to socialise, work with others and help build the confidence to lead the team.”

Commander Gordon Jones, Chair of the Royal Navy Video Gaming and Esports Association visited the event to play some games with the Royal Navy team. He said how important E-Sports and video games are to help people feel connected and part of something, especially when they are in recovery.

He added: “Having recently been assigned to recovery myself, I’ve found that my contacts in E-Sports have significantly helped my mental health, especially in terms of being able to speak to people who share a common interest. The games themselves were exciting and it’s been good seeing the way the teams took the opportunities given to them to improve their skills and communicate during the run up to the event.”

The teams spent three days of intense online training, with the event coming to a dramatic finale with a ‘Best of 7 fight out’, which was live streamed

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on Twitch by members of the Royal Navy E-Sports Team. The Army put up a spirited fight but could not overcome the ‘mad skills’ of the Royal Navy, who took the trophy with four straight wins.

Army’s team leader Sergeant Ryan Donahue from 29 Commando said: “We’ve had a brilliant week. The lads have really enjoyed doing something different and it’s great to all be together in a gaming arena, rather than playing separately online. Despite it being an Army/Navy event, we have all mixed and had lots of banter, and the guys at Belong Gaming Arena went out of their way to accommodate us.

“We may have lost this time, but since we started training for this event, we have procured an on-Base E-gaming room at the Citadel, so we’ll be much better prepared for the next event. The Royal Navy team were on fire, so it was a well-deserved win.”

The June edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on June 23 with a copy deadline of June 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).

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The views expressed in the Plymouth Chronicle are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of all information contained in this publication. However, the publishers do not accept any liability for any advice or information included in the publication.

Gables has been helping the regions unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats since 1907. We take in and care for nearly 1000 cats and dogs every year.

We are a non-euthanasia charity, which means no healthy animal in our care is put to sleep. We receive no Government funding so rely completely on the generosity and support of the public through donations and legacies. We need your help to care for unwanted and aban doned animals in your local area.

Any donation, large or small, would make a significant difference to the work we do and will help to protect our future.

The Royal Navy and Army teams who took part in the E-Sports event