Plymouth Chronicle Waterside & West June 2021

Chronicle Plymouth

See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

@PlymChronicleWW

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

Waterside & West

June 2021

COVID UPDATE

CONNECT WITH US

Global superstar Deadmau5 will be headlining at the 1 Big Summer event on Plymouth Hoe in August See page 16

Gables Dogs & Cats Home appeal for donations to help treat Wanda, who was rescued from a puppy farm See page 4

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

SailGP is coming!

Plymouth will host the spectacular SailGP event in July, promising spectators the fastest and most adrenalinfilled sailing action. Thousands of people are expected to watch the action and tickets are now on sale for premium viewing locations and on-water viewing • See story on page 13 Photo: SailGP

Finding SAFE, RELIABLE CARE just got easier Call us on: (01752) 648 320 Email: plymouth@friendshelpingathome.co.uk

friendshelpingathome.co.uk

2 June 2021

2 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Let’s move forward...carefully!

We’ve all been looking forward to restrictions easing after a long period of lockdown, but the truth is the country now faces a difficult balancing act between re-opening our economy, while also protecting ourselves and each other from this devastating disease.

The majority of indoor and remaining outdoor businesses have now reopened and the number of people allowed to meet up has increased to six people or two households indoors and up to 30 people outdoors.

Guidance for close contact between friends and family, such as hugging, has also changed, and people are able to travel to a small number of countries.

This is the good news – the not-so-good news is that COVID-19 has not gone away.

You will have seen that our local numbers have started dropping again, which is good.

However - I am sure you will have seen in

the media that there are concerns about new variants.

Whilst we have not seen any cases in Plymouth, it underlines the point that everyone must continue to be sensible and follow the rules. Over the last few months, we have been able to reduce the virus down to much lower levels, rates of people in hospital have dropped and, of course, many people have now been vaccinated.

However, the rising number of people with the virus in other parts of the country, is a reminder that it can still spread quickly and easily.

While some people have mild or even no symptoms, others can be significantly impacted by this disease and its longer term effects. This is why people can’t let their guard down now and must follow the rules, keep social distancing, continue to wash their hands and wear face coverings where required.

As people are out and about more, it

becomes even more important that everyone remembers to take a test twice a week. There are a number of testing sites across the city and people can also pick up free testing kits from libraries and local pharmacies or order them online so they can regularly test themselves at home.

The Council’s website has all of the details about how and where to get tested or pick up free home testing kits: www.plymouth.gov.uk/ gettested

All residents across Plymouth can now access rapid lateral flow tests, enabling them to test themselves twice a week.

Our mobile testing van will be visiting the below locations next week: • Monday: Plympton Chaplins • Tuesday: St Budeaux Lidl • Thursday: Union street Lidl • Friday: Transit Way Tesco • Sunday: Barbican Leisure Centre All sites are operational 10am to 3pm.

Our network of libraries are also available for picking up home testing kits, but tests themselves will not take place at these locations.

Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health for Plymouth said: “We’ve had a great response from Plymouth people so far, with a lot of people picking up their kits. These tests are lateral flow tests, which schools and businesses have been using for some time. Now we are trying to encourage the rest of the population, as they go out and

By Dr Ruth Harrell Director of Public Health for Plymouth

HOW TO KEEP UP-TO-DATE

You can check the latest number of COVID-19 cases in Plymouth on the Council’s website at: www.plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19. There are also daily updates on the Council’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Are you taking a COVID-19 test twice a week?

Did you know that one in three people with COVID-19 do not display any symptoms? As the restrictions continue to be eased, more people will be out and about, returning to work, going to the gym, to their place of worship or seeing friends and family.

To keep control of the virus, and ensure that those people who have COVID-19 aren’t spreading it without knowing it, everyone can now take a free regular test.

The Council has a mobile testing van which is travelling across the city to hand out free COVID-19 testing kits.

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

about more, to get into the habit of testing themselves at least twice a week.

“These tests play a key role in detecting cases of COVID-19 where there are no symptoms and will help us all to keep the infection rate down.”

There is also a stall at the Place de Brest in the city centre, which is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm, offering assisted testing and handing out home testing kits.

Each box contains seven individual tests and should last one person three and a half weeks, when testing twice a week.

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

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

WHAT ARE THE CURRENT RESTRICTIONS?

30+ Keeping Plymouth safe30+

Schools and colleges are open

Indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities are open

Shops and libraries are open

Hairdressers and beauty salons are open

Outdoor hospitality is open

30+30+

30+

30+

30+ Limits on meeting others outdoors have been lifted

Indoors, rule of six applies

30+

Gatherings of over 30 people remains illegal

You should make informed decisions on close contact with friends and family

Indoor hospitality has reopened – customers will have to order, eat and drink while seated

Cinemas, play areas, hotels, B&Bs and indoor 30+classes have exercise reopened

Visit plymouth.gov.uk/covid-19 to check the latest information 30+

30+

June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Community funding to help high streets bounce back Community groups are being encouraged to apply for funding to help unlock the potential of Plymouth’s city centre.

‘High Street Sparks’ is a new bursary scheme that will run for the next three years.

It’s part of the £95 million governmentfunded High Street Heritage Action Zone programme delivered by Historic England, which has been designed to give 60 different high streets across the country a boost.

Post-pandemic Plymouth, like many other towns and cities, is evolving. The ‘High Street Sparks’ scheme will gift small grants of up to £2,500 (and £5,000 in exceptional cases) to community projects that focus on a specially designated conservation area in the city centre.

Adopted in 2019, the conservation area is focused on Royal Parade and the Civic Square and bounded by New George Street to the north; Old Town Street and St Andrews Cross to the east; Notte Street to the south and Raleigh Street, Derry’s Cross

and Athenaeum Lane to the west.

‘High Street Sparks’ grants can be used to fund projects or events that utilise underused buildings, empty shops or outside spaces, or other initiatives that will give people a chance to discover, celebrate and appreciate the area’s fascinating heritage.

Community groups don’t even need a bank account to apply.

Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “We are delighted to support this project which is a great way of involving the people of Plymouth in the future of their city centre.”

The deadline for applications is midnight on September 30, 2021. Application forms and more information are available from fiona.evans@plymouth.gov.uk or www. theboxplymouth.com – click on ‘Visit’ then ‘Outside The Box’.

‘High Street Sparks’ and Plymouth’s High Street Action Zone project are managed

by The Box, Plymouth Octopus Project and Plymouth City Council.

Students invite to vaccine Q & A Students who are studying or living in Plymouth are invited to come to a virtual Q & A and hear the facts about the COVID-19 vaccine.

As the rollout of the vaccination continues across the city, it won’t be long before those aged under 30 will be invited to have the jab.

To help students cut through the many vaccine myths on social media and make an informed decision, they are invited to special Q & A – hosted in partnership with the NHS, Plymouth City Council and the University of Plymouth. The event will be on the 9 June, at 5.30pm on Zoom. Attendees will need to register: https://covidvaccinestudents. eventbrite.co.uk Hosting the event will be Emi Dowse,

Green light for pregnant women to get the COVID-19 vaccine

the Vice-President for Education from the University of Plymouth Student’s Union (UPSU). She said: “I know how important it is for students to return to some form of normality and receive a full university experience again.

“The vaccination programme will be a big part in making this happen, but it’s a personal decision and one that we want students to be empowered to make in an informed and considered way.

“Understandably some of you may have concerns about the vaccine, so this is a really good way to share these in a dedicated safe space for students as a chance to listen to and share experiences with public health experts and each other.”

Pregnant women will now be offered the COVID-19 vaccine following a change in national health guidance.

Previously, lack of trial data involving pregnant women meant the vaccine was only recommended for those in certain high-risk groups such as health and care workers.

However, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation have said enough evidence is now available to give the green light for all pregnant women to get the jab. If you are pregnant, you will be offered a jab when the vaccine programme

reaches your age group.

In addition, women can be reassured that there is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 vaccines will affect future pregnancy.

The Royal College of Midwives has reassured women that there is​​no biologically plausible mechanism by which current vaccines would cause any impact on women’s fertility.

However, if concerned – please speak to your GP. More information www.nhs. uk/conditions/coronaviruscovid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/ coronavirus-vaccine/

NOTE: The information on these pages was correct at time of going to press on May 20.

Please visit plymouth.gov.uk/COVID-19 for latest updates or sign up for email updates with the latest news and information at bit.ly/plymouthemailalerts

3

Thought For The Day

“I destroy my enemies when I make them my friends.”

- Abraham Lincoln

A PRITCHARD PLUMBER & CENTRAL

HEATING ENGINEER

• Central Heating 24 H • Boiler Changes Cal our l Ou • All Plumbing Work t • Free Estimates • Landlord Certs • All work fully Insured & Guaranteed

Mob:07968 949558 pritchardplumbing@btinternet.com All major debit & credit cards accepted.

www.a1plumberplymouth.co.uk 223130

Free Quotations and Rapid Response

BUILDING & ROOFING

   

New Roofs Roof Repairs Slating Tiling

   

4 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Timely grant for COVID-safe toys helps toddler group in Barne Barton relaunch A grant to pay for COVID-safe toys for children has been secured to allow a toddler group in Plymouth to restart.

Tamar View Community Centre in Barne Barton applied to leading housing association LiveWest for the funds to help them to reopen in a safe way.

The £500 grant has paid for toys that can be easily wiped down and sterilised to guard against the potential spread of coronavirus.

With play centres across the region opening their doors, the new measures are a welcome boost for families used to using local community centres or children’s play areas.

Lorraine Cox, manager at Tamar View Community Centre, said: “The grant from LiveWest was warmly welcomed and has helped us to buy a range of COVID safe toys for the children to use.

“The welfare of the residents in Barne Barton is our number one priority and this will add to the Covid measures we are taking to keep everyone safe.

“Play areas are a vital part of a child’s development as they help them to develop vital motor skills and social skills and give parents and carers that well-deserved rest to have a coffee and a catch-up with other adults while also seeing the joy of their children’s energies and imaginations run wild.

“Being unable to have the experiences they are used to – or mix with other children – started affecting not only kids’ social and motor skill development but their emotional wellbeing. So, thank goodness we are able to once again provide a service.

“LiveWest has supported us before with grants and we are incredibly grateful for their help. It will mean a great deal welcoming people back through our doors.”

In the past, LiveWest has supported the community centre with two grants of £1,000 and £500 to support its Food Hub

Flat Roof PVC Fascia Soffits Guttering

01752 218447 07950 264496 www.kmbuildingandroofingltd.co.uk/plymouth All 100% positive reviews on ALL PLYMOUTH ENQUIRIES CONTACT ABOVE NUMBERS

PRIDE & JOY The Home and Garden Maintenance Team Our services include:

• hedge & shrub maintenance • weeding • tree work • lawn care & grass cutting • creation of flower & veggie beds • trellis work • shed & greenhouse work • general garden tidying • pond care • fencing & gates • patios & decking Call NOW to discuss your needs We can help! One-off or regular service.

01752 721528 / 07773339470 www.prideandjoy-homeandgarden.co.uk

PART-TIME, SELF EMPLOYED

JOB VACANCIES

£ DELIVER KEEP FIT PAPERS

EARN MONEY

service and also helps to pay for training in food hygiene and first aid.

Justine Cheffers, Community Connector for LiveWest, also provides support and training for the centre’s Community Ambassadors Project (CAP), a youth programme designed to help young people make positive change in their community.

As well as introducing COVID-safe toys, the group has reduced numbers to 15 to ensure social distancing can take place.

Justine said: “We have working with the community at Barne Barton for quite some time, helping to support the young people into making a difference in their community.

“When COVID-19 hit and we were all confined to our homes, parents and children were hit hard by massive changes in routine.

“It has been challenging for everyone in society, but now there is a renewed sense of hope and optimism.

“The toddler group is important to parents and their children during these socially isolating times, many of who have been largely cut off during the past year, especially if they don’t have any technology to support virtual gettogethers.

“The previous toys used by the group cannot be used as they cannot be wiped down to ensure they are Covid safe.

“This grant has enabled the group to restart with lots of new equipment for them to enjoy.”

For more information or to apply, contact us:

Phone 01752 225623

Find us on Facebook @PlymChronicle

Or online at cornerstonevision.com

June 2021

5

@PlymChronicle

Gas network upgrade in Wolseley Rd

Compton & Mount Gould Morning and evening groups Tel: Lauren 07494 754493

PILATES WITH LORNA FLEXIBILITY. STRENGTH. CONTROL Tuesdays

10am - 11am St Budeaux Church Hall, The Green, Higher St Budeaux PL5 2HN

£6 drop in or discounted block bookings, reserve your place now!

For more information, other classes, zoom and videos, visit www.pilateswithlorna.com Call Lorna on 07827 997790 or email info@pilateswithlorna.com

@pilateswithlorna

Apply now for September 2021 Are you looking for a fresh start where you can pursue a career in something you love?

Come and study in the heart of the city at Achievement Training.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Contact our friendly team on 01752 202269 or at admissions@achievementtraining.net

Wales & West Utilities has started work on upgrading the gas network in the Wolseley Road area of Plymouth.

The £147,000 work, which started on May 17, is essential to keep the gas flowing safely and reliably to local homes and businesses.

To plan the work and make sure disruption is kept to a minimum, Wales & West Utilities has worked closely with Plymouth City Council.

To keep the local community, road users and engineers safe, it has been agreed that a lane closure and a bus lane closure will be in place along the length of Wolseley Road until the end of June. A road closure on the junction of Wolseley Road and Royal Navy Avenue will also be in place between May 24 and June 21.

Roxanne Whittaker of Wales & West Utilities, who is managing the gas pipe upgrade work said: “While most of the gas network is underground and out of sight, it plays a central role in the daily lives of people across Plymouth.

“Whether it’s heating homes, making the family dinner or having a hot bath, we understand how important it is for your gas supply to be safe and reliable and there when you need it.

“This work is essential to keep the gas flowing to local homes and businesses today, and to make sure the gas network is ready to transport hydrogen and biomethane, so we can all play our part in a green future.

“We will work as safely and as quickly as possible to finish the work, while keeping inconvenience to a minimum for local people and road users. Our engineers are following all hygiene and social distancing guidelines and we would respectfully ask that you keep a 2m distance if passing our work site.

“To support communities through Coronavirus, we’re working hard to keep the gas flowing so local people are safe and warm.”

Wales & West Utilities teams will follow clear guidelines to keep themselves and local people safe during the work. Any residents with queries about the work can contact the Customer Service Team on freephone 0800 912 2999 or email enquiries@wwwutilities.co.uk.

Coupon MONEY ADVICE PLYMOUTH

FIRST CLASS FREE (New customers only)

FREE, CONFIDENTIAL, EXPERT AND IMPARTIAL NEED HELP TO OVERCOME ISSUES WITH DEBT? CONTACT ONE OF OUR EXPERT ADVISORS:

01752 208126 or 01392 686752 www.moneyadviceplymouth.org.uk

Pilates with Lorna Call Lorna on 07827 997790 or email info@pilateswithlorna.com www.pilateswithlorna.com

S GLA

S your

En Hin Call

6 June 2021

Child poverty on the increase in Plymouth New figures reveal that nearly 30 per cent of children in Plymouth are living in poverty.

The total number of children in the city growing up in poverty rose to 14,170 in 2020, according to the End Child Poverty coalition. This was a rise of 0.7 per cent between 2015 and 2020.

The report released by the coalition showed that across the whole of the South West 26 per cent of children live in poverty after housing costs are factored in. That represent a total of a quarter of a million children in the region living below the poverty line.

As the pandemic risks pushing ever larger numbers of children into poverty, the End Child Poverty coalition is calling on the Chancellor to make the uplift in Universal Credit Benefits permanent rather than remove it at the end of the summer.

Anna Feuchtwarm, chief executive of the National Children’s Bureau said: “Poverty can hold children back in many different ways. It can mean children don’t reach a good level of health or development, do well in school or reach their potential in employment.

“The Government has pledged to level up communities worst hit by poverty.

Boris Johnson must acknowledge that there are pockets of deprivation where children are growing up in families that can barely afford the basic necessities of life. Levelling up must address this across the length and breadth of the country not just in certain areas.”

Churches rally round to help local families Churchgoers at St Paul’s Efford have been supporting their local community during lockdown with emergency food parcels.

Things changed as the months passed.

Organisers Nick and Jo Connett have said: “We started a scheme before COVID to distribute food to needy families, but since lockdown the needs have changed and so have the sources of our donations.

“At the start of lockdown the church started an emergency food bag scheme for families which could be requested by the local school which knew of families needing support.”

During the second lockdown more schools were giving them referrals. By the time of the third lockdown a food larder was established, and they distribute 30 bags a week from outside of the church which includes fresh veg on Tuesday mornings between 8.30am and 11am.

The suppliers have changed over this time with the local church and their sister church Emmanuel in Mannamead donating food and money.

Now they are supported by the ARC Aid Distribution Centre, the Co-op’s donations of food on Torridge Way, and Fare Share, which has since stopped.

Rev Bev Cree, deacon evangelist said: “The church is about being involved in the community. We hope that people helped will want to become more involved in the church and learn more of the life of Jesus and the example of love for others.”

6 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Rescued from a puppy farm, Wanda just wants some pain free walkies!

Gables Dogs & Cats Home have recently taken in a heavily pregnant dog from a puppy farm, who had been used solely for breeding to make money.

The poor girl, who the charity have named Wanda, had been living in a totally unsuitable location, exposed to the elements, knee deep in mud and freezing cold during the winter.

When she arrived at Gables she was taken straight to deputy manager Ruth Rickard’s home, where she could relax and begin bonding with Ruth in preparation for her imminent labour. She was given a large, comfortable whelping box and the best nutrition to help her and her puppies.

Wanda gave birth to five healthy puppies, who chose a very special day to arrive Valentine’s Day! She proved to be a very good mother and helped her puppies to grow big and strong. Now that Wanda’s endless cycle of pregnancies is over it is time to focus on her.

Wanda is only a young dog, estimated to be around three or four years old, but she is already starting to show the stresses and strains associated with intensive overbreeding. Wanda seemed very unsteady on her feet and her leg would collapse under her when out for walks or playing with her puppies.

She was taken to Gables’ vet for X-rays, where several medical issues were sadly discovered.

She is now facing several operations to enable her to go on and live as close to a pain free life as possible. She will also need to maintain her

weight and build her strength up slowly, so she can become more active as time goes on.

Wanda has hip dysplasia in both of her hips and a luxating patella in her right knee. With such painful hips and a knee joint that pops out regularly, Wanda finds it difficult to run and play as a dog of her age should be able to.

As well as the surgeries needed to help her joints, Wanda will need to be spayed to ensure she never has to endure another pregnancy. The charity will provide Wanda with the very best after care, along with vaccinations and regular flea and worm treatment.

Ruth Rickard said: “Wanda is a very sweet, clever girl who has a cheeky side which never fails to make us all smile. I have loved having her in my home and I know that everyone loves puppies, but I have to admit that it’s the poor mums and the older animals that I have a soft spot for.

“As Wanda’s puppies have now all found their forever homes, it is time for her to get the treatment she requires so she is fit and well enough to find the loving home that she deserves. We will give her the best aftercare and she will stay with me in my home to ensure I can give her the extra care and attention she needs until she finds her perfect forever home.

“We are confident that this treatment will greatly improve her quality of life so she can go on to have a happy and healthy future with her forever family.”

It is estimated it will cost Gables at least £2,000 for the surgeries that Wanda will need. If Gables is lucky enough to raise more money than is needed it will go towards helping the other animals in their care.

To make a contribution to ‘Wanda’s Wish Vet Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www. virginmoneygiving.com/fund/wandaswish to donate online.

Charity helps retired Ministry of Defence dog as his owners struggle during COVID A new charity set up to support ex-working dogs in their retirement has helped a former military dog receive vital hydrotherapy as his owners struggled due to COVID.

Rescue dog Kaiser was 10-months-old when he was found straying in Plymouth having been turfed out of his home by his owner who couldn’t cope with him.

Staff at the rescue centre who took him in contacted the Ministry of Defence where he was paired with handler, Ian Brake, and started his general purpose training.

For five years, the duo worked hard to patrol an atomic weapons establishment in Berkshire.

Kaiser lived at home with Ian and his wife, Heather.

But, during a night shift in 2016, German Shepherd Kaiser was on patrol when he fell down a hole and broke his leg.

Heather said: “He shattered his leg and had it in a cast for eight weeks; four of which it was held in a bent position to encourage it to heal correctly.”

Kaiser, who turns 11 this summer, had three months of physio and rehab, but was then retired from duty and the couple were given the opportunity to adopt him as their pet.

“There was never any doubt that we wanted to adopt him when he retired,” Heather said. “We had to pay £5 to adopt him – but we’d have paid 1,000 times that!”

He’s gone on to cost them much, much more and – as an ex-working dog – is uninsurable.

He has weekly hydrotherapy, costing £45 a session, as well as a daily immunosuppressant, costing £5 per tablet, plus regular pain relief, supplements and other treatments like canine massage.

Kaiser at home with the family...

“Kaiser is riddled with arthritis and has spondylosis, partly caused by his leg break and also due to wear and tear from his working life,” Heather added. “Hydrotherapy really helps Kaiser live life to the full and that’s all that matters to us. We’ve paid for it for almost five years now and we’ve always managed it. He comes first.

“But times have been really tough during Covid. I’m a dog walker and my business has taken a huge hit. My clients have been amazingly supportive but, with a young son at home too life has been tough! So when we registered with the Thin Blue Paw Foundation and saw that they were offering grants to retired working dogs with ongoing treatments we sent in an application and were absolutely thrilled when he was accepted.”

The charity has agreed to pay for 22 sessions of hydrotherapy, giving Heather and Ian some financial respite.

Trustee Kieran Stanbridge said: “Police and

...and enjoying the hydrotherapy

military dogs receive wonderful care during their working lives but, when they retire, most dogs receive no ongoing support and that leaves a lot of pressure on their new owners.

“Dogs like Kaiser worked incredibly hard to do their job and keep us safe. They deserve to live long, happy retirements and the Thin Blue Paw Foundation is here to ensure they receive the support they need to do so.”

Heather said she felt really emotional when the charity stepped in to help.

“We’ve tried so hard for years to help him live his life as best as possible, so for someone to turn around and offer to help has been amazing.

He really does deserve it. Kaiser is everything to us. He attended our wedding with our other dog, lurcher Radley, and the dogs come everywhere with us,” she said.

“The charity is such a weight off our mind. If something really bad happened we know we have somewhere to turn and ask for support.”

@PlymChronicle

Michael Rowe’s Boat Ashore Barbershop!

Popular Plymouth barber Michael Rowe is back in business and looking forward to welcoming customers old and new.

Michael spent 34 years working for a family barbers in Albert Road, Stoke and was devastated when the pandemic left him without a job.

But now he has bounced back and opened his own barbers shop just up the road from where he worked before.

Michael said: “It was really hard for me when the lockdowns started.

I managed to find some temporary work in security at Tesco and did some mobile barbering to make ends meet.”

When he saw an empty shop next door to the Co-op in Albert Road he decided to look into starting his own business. “I took over the premises - which used to be a takeaway - in August last year,” he said. “It was in a pretty poor state and needed a lot of work, including the flooring and electrics.”

With plenty of help from family and friends Michael was able to complete an impressive refurbishment and open up under the name of Boat Ashore Barbers.

For those of a certain age they will understand why Michael chose the name.

7

Respect Festival is back again well virtually!

Barber Michael Rowe...back in business in Albert Road

“There’s an old song called ‘Michael row the boat ashore’ and all my mates would start singing it when we met up in the pub - so I decided to use Boat Ashore Barbershop for the name of the business,” he said.

Unfortunately it hasn’t been plain sailing since Michael opened up the business in the last quarter of 2020, with further national lockdowns forcing him to close.

But he has been open again since April 12 and wants to get the word out to all his old customers.

Michael, who is 50 and lives in King’s Tamerton said: “I am here at

Before and after...Michael has transformed the former takeaway

160, Albert Road and I’m open six days a week, so it would be great to see some of my old customers again.”

At the moment Michael is the only one working in the barber shop, but he has plenty of space to take on extra staff.

“I’ve got two chairs at the moment with space for a third, so I hope to be able to take on another person or two soon.”

Contact Michael on 01752 243275 or visit his Facebook page Boat Ashore Barbershop for opening times and prices.

Sponsored Content

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

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

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

June 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plymouth & Devon Racial Equality Council have announced that they will be presenting the first Virtual RESPECT Festival – in line with Government guidelines and restrictions.

Having had to cancel the event in 2020, with the support and assistance of partners, organisers have been planning to livestream broadcast the event on the Plymouth Respect Festival YouTube Channel on Saturday June 5 from 11am to 5pm.

The Barbican Theatre, FotoNow, NubSound, Plymouth Dance, Karen Evans, WonderZoo, Beyond Face, Kaos Productions and Clever Cow Consultancy are all working together to make the event possible, technically and logistically.

The day will start at 11am with a Digital Parade, followed by music, dance and spoken word performances, interspersed with films and the stories of individuals connected to the city who have influenced the history of Plymouth and beyond.

Leading up to the event, there will be art, dance and spoken word workshops with schools and community groups which will result in the creation of the Digital Parade, with music provided by the Bhangra band, R.S.V.P. There will also be Plymouth’s Human Library event on June 2. For more information, please contact Carmel Lawless at humanlibraryplymouth@ gmail.com, phone 07849 655990 or search Human Library at Plymouth RESPECT Festival on Facebook.

The event has been made possible with the support of Arts Council England, the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner, Devon & Cornwall Police, Mayflower 400 Community Sparks Fund, Refugee Integration Service Community Fund, University of Plymouth, the Citizens Advice Bureau and contributions from Plymouth City Councillors Community Grants.

More details will be released on the Respect Festival Facebook page.

10% DISCOUNT

at Cattedown or Mutley Plain Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer in store.

E&OE, Terms and Conditions apply. Valid until 31/08/21

See our advert on previous page

8 June 2021

8 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Eye-catching improvements for Plymouth’s waterfront to support the local businesses Steps have been taken to create a better welcome for visitors to Plymouth’s Waterfront, which will help local businesses bounce back as restrictions slowly lift.

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership Business Improvement District (PWP BID) has been working hard to ensure the area is ready to welcome both locals and visitors back, with fresh street art as well as new information points and leaflets for tourists.

New murals have been painted along North Street and Moon Street in Bretonside, transforming a neglected area into a fantastic Instagrammable feature which is already attracting new footfall for local businesses.

The bright, eye-catching murals were created by Big Ups, James Edgar Design and David Tetley at 51Studio. The work has been funded by PWP and the Reopening the High Street Safely Fund, part funded by the ERDF and HM Government.

PWP has also funded a new information monolith at Royal William Yard, matching the monoliths across Plymouth Hoe and Barbican. This contains a map and other key information to help visitors travel around the city and discover where to visit.

PWP worked with Shekinah Mission on these projects, with their team helping prep the wall for murals and installing the new

Moon Street makeover

we’re providing a fantastic welcome to shoppers and visitors.

“The new murals really brighten up the areas between Ebrington Street, North Street and Moon Street and on top of this we’ve added in some new signage to welcome people to the Bretonside shopping area.”

Work is also ongoing to drive footfall to the Waterfront with the creation of a new ‘Experience Plymouth’s Waterfront’ leaflet.

The leaflet, which showcases the area’s range of attractions, activities and points of interest, is being distributed widely across Devon and Cornwall to target visitors to the region this summer.

It includes a newly illustrated map, created by local artist Sarah Smalldon, helping visitors to identify key locations. It also highlights how easy it is to travel around Plymouth, with information about travelling by boat, bus, bike or on foot.

The leaflet was also funded through the Reopening the High Street Safely Fund, part funded by the ERDF and the Government.

Find out more about PWP and its work at www.waterfrontbid.co.uk.

Colourful treatment in North Street

monolith. The charity engage with people who have experienced homelessness, prison or mental health issues or are exservice personnel, offering meaningful work experience with the aim of helping to

New look for North Street underpass

support people into employment.

Diane Mansell, chief executive of PWP, said: “We’re working hard to make the Waterfront area the very best it can be, supporting our businesses as they reopen and ensuring

New leaflet to promote the waterfront

Information monolith at Royal William Yard

...and a blooming beautiful makeover as well A fresh burst of flower power will be brightening the streets of the Barbican this summer.

Plymouth Waterfront Partnership Business Improvement District (PWP BID) has entered

Brightening up Basket Ope

into the BID category for the 2021 South West in Bloom initiative, a regional heat of the renowned Britain in Bloom competition.

A floral welcome now awaits visitors to the Barbican, with new planting along Basket Ope and Southside Street.

Diane Mansell, CEO of PWP said: “We’re brightening up the Barbican and shining a spotlight on the beauty of Plymouth’s Waterfront by entering the South West in Bloom competition. The flowers will really stand out and help to create a welcoming environment, making it a nicer place for tourists and locals to shop, eat and dine.”

A total of 19 new planters have been installed along Southside Street to replace the old ones, many of which were damaged.

Standing at nearly five feet tall but with the same footprint as the previous planters, they are recycled and are filled with soil from a local recycling company.

The planters have been filled with more than 2,000 flowers: brightly multi coloured trailing petunias.

The new, taller planters will not only bring a splash of colour to the area but also aim to make it safer for everyone by discouraging parking on the pavements, which

The new planters in Southside Street

not only damages the pavements but also makes it difficult for people with disabilities or families with pushchairs to navigate the street.

Businesses on the Barbican helped to plant the flowers and will be helping to maintain them in the future alongside a weekly maintenance regime from local landscaping company, Sound Site Services.

The new planters were funded by the Reopening the High Street Safely Fund, part funded by the ERDF and HM Government.

Diane Mansell continued: “In addition to the new planters, we’ve also been working hard to tidy up the wider Waterfront area getting it ready for reopening as Covid-19 restrictions lift. This has included litter picking and repainting street furniture, including benches, all to make the area more appealing and support our businesses through reopening. This work will continue throughout the summer.”

Find out more about PWP at www. waterfrontbid.co.uk.

@PlymChronicle

The Club House restaurant and bar set to open in Royal William Yard Plymouth’s Royal William Yard has welcomed a new restaurant and bar.

Hospitality heavy-hitter The New World Trading Company has opened its 30th restaurant - The Club House – and it is their first in Devon.

The new site continues the company’s recent expansion in the South West, following openings in Bristol, Cheltenham and Bath.

Expanding yet further into the South West, this new addition to Royal William Yard’s vibrant array of eateries will be the second location for The Club House brand, after a successful five-year spell in Liverpool. The company – named as one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK – boasts an array of award-winning sites, including The Oast House, The Botanist, The Canal House, The Smugglers Cove, The Trading House, The Florist and The Club House.

Welcoming guests from May 17 onwards, The Club House is located in the Yard’s Grade I listed Brewhouse building and promises a relaxed holiday-feeling all year round; perfect for the summer of staycations ahead. A distinctive, casual bar and restaurant will extend outside, overlooking Royal William Yard’s marina. There will be an extensive food menu alongside a wide selection of beers, wines and cocktails.

Emily Handslip, commercial director for Urban Splash, said: “We are delighted to welcome New World Trading Company to Royal William Yard. This is the perfect location for their first Devon-based opening

shop4plymouth.co.uk

The Club House will be located in Royal William Yard’s Brewhouse building

June 2021

Hefty fines for litter louts - and for woman who didn’t keep her dog on a lead Seven more litter louts have been handed hefty fines after appearing before Plymouth Magistrates Court.

and we are excited about The Club House opening. Visitors are going to love this new bar and restaurant, whether they want to relax in comfort indoors, or sip a cocktail in the sun by the water.”

Hailey Cattle, regional marketing manager for Urban Splash, added: “With such a variety of hospitality, leisure and retail businesses on offer at the Yard, combined with our picturesque waterfront setting, we truly are a must-visit destination.

“The Club House will open on the banks of our marina in our Brewhouse building, offering the perfect location for sundowners and to watch yachts moor from local harbours and far away shores. The Club House will allow visitors to kick back and relax at any time of day.”

Natasha Waterfield, chief operating officer at The New World Trading Company said: “It’s been a tough year for hospitality, but I’m incredibly proud to be at the helm of such a resilient business that is powered and supported by our amazing teams across the country.

“To be able to still open a venue is a testament to the talent within our NWTC family and we’re delighted to bring our unique brand to a historic location like Plymouth.”

The Club House is boosting the local economy by recruiting kitchen staff, bartenders and servers of all levels. Those looking to join the award-winning employer should head to jobs.nwtc.uk.com to view the vacancies available.

Join our city’s cast of amazing characters

9

The court heard how the offenders were witnessed dropping litter on the city’s streets by the council’s environmental enforcement officers, who issued them with a fixed penalty notice.

However, despite several reminders, the fixed penalty notices remained unpaid, and the cases were put before the court.

The court found the defendants guilty in their absence and ordered them each to pay a fine of £150, pay costs of £200 as well as a victim surcharge of £34.

The original fixed penalty notice was for £100.

Also before the same court was a woman who failed to keep her dog on a lead in a dogs on lead area.

Like the litterers, her offence was witnessed by a council officer who issued her with a fixed penalty notice.

When it was unpaid, the case was brought to court.She was found guilty in her absence and ordered to pay a fine of £150, pay costs of £200 as well as a victim surcharge of £34.

Check where you need to keep a dog on a lead at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ dogcontrol

Part of the Reopening High Street Safely Fund, funded by

10 June 2021

MPs praise for Plymouth Oracy Project in helping improve pupils’ speaking skills

A Plymouth Oracy Project, lead by Plymouth Teaching School Alliance, has been praised in a parliamentary report highlighting the urgent need for schools to improve children’s spoken language.

The report singled out the Plymouth-wide initiative across a number of schools in the area for its outstanding work to improve students’ oracy - which has supported academic achievement and closed the attainment gap, and helped pupils build the essential speaking skills they need for a successful future.

The report explores the extent to which oracy - the ability to articulate ideas, develop understanding and engage with others through spoken language - is developed and prioritised in schools in England and the necessity to prioritise children’s spoken language development.

The Oracy All-Party Parliamentary Group highlighted the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the already marked spoken ‘language gap’ between disadvantaged students and their peers. One teacher in two said school closures negatively impacted the spoken language development of their most disadvantaged pupils - just one in five said the same of the most advantaged pupils. Concern about the widening language gap stretches across all primary school years and secondary schools.

MPs also highlighted the link between poor oracy and unemployment. YouGov polling and for the report showed young people (aged 16 to 25) in full or part time employment were more than 50% more likely to ‘strongly agree’ (35%) than young people who are unemployed or not working (23%) that their schooling/education helped them develop sufficient oracy skills for success in later life.

The report suggests some schools may struggle to understand the minimum oracy requirements that feature in the national curriculum, meaning that many children miss out on the opportunity to develop these vital skills while at school, hampering their future opportunities. On understanding the statutory spoken language national curriculum requirements, only 46% primary teachers are ‘confident’ and just 23% of secondary teachers are ‘confident’, while 39% of secondary teachers are ‘not at all confident.’

The report commends the work of The Plymouth Oracy Project in showcasing how a focus on oracy throughout the school can create a lasting impact for students and raise standards, proving that MP’s ambitions are realistic and achievable.

Headteacher Kim Dorian-Kemp said: “Developing oracy skills in children is empowering. At High View School, the Plymouth Oracy Project has transformed how our children communicate: how they listen, build upon the ideas of others, how they answer questions in full sentences and engage in lively debates – it is incredible to witness. Developing oracy skills will have lifelong benefits for our children and in giving them the confidence to have a voice, they are prepared for life in our ever-changing world.”

A Year 5 Pupil in Plymouth said: “At the end of the day it is more than exam results, communication skills help you get on in life.

Exam results are important, but you need good communication in everyday life because you’re always communicating with others. In our opinion we think that parliament needs to hear that everyone in the world needs to know about Oracy and feel comfortable to use their voice in all subjects. You should use Oracy to help you feel confident and valued in everyday use, whatever age you are.”

10 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Urgent appeal by Argyle fans to save school in Nairobi A school in Kenya set up with the help of a group of Plymouth Argyle fans, is in danger of having to close its doors just two years after opening in May 2019.

Welicar Educational Centre in Nairobi offers a free education to the poor and needy children of the slums and relies solely on donations and child sponsorship. Although primary education is supposed to be free in Kenya the schools still charge for uniform, lunchtime meal and school equipment, which is beyond the means of people in the slums.

The school currently has 278 pupils many of whom are orphaned and disadvantaged.

The school rents the land that it’s situated on but now the landlord has decided to sell the land as he no longer lives in the area.

However, he admires what the school and staff are doing for the community and he Welicar’s Under 14s football team in their Plymouth Argyle shirts

The Welicar school is facing an uncertain future

has given them the opportunity to purchase the land before it goes on the open market.

Unfortunately with a near £50,000 price tag there is little hope of the school being able to buy it.

As a result, the Argyle fans’ charity, Friends of Welicar, has set up a Just Giving page in an attempt to raise the money. One of the trustees, Plymouth Argyle season ticket holder Bob Wright, said: “It would be a disaster if Welicar had to close.

“You’d have 278 children left to roam the streets of the slums at risk of being drawn into forced labour, gang crime, prostitution and drug abuse, to name just a few. We’ve got to save this school from closure to give these children the education they deserve and an opportunity of escaping the poverty.”

Any help would be gratefully received.

The appeal can be found on the Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/campaign/ SaveWelicarEducationalCentre

Every little helps - charities and community groups in Plymouth encouraged to apply for new grants Charities and community groups in Plymouth are being encouraged to apply for funding for local projects that matter to them.

The newly-rebranded Tesco Community Grants scheme will award funds to charities and community organisations whose focus is on helping children and families access the food and support they need for a good start in life. Eligible projects will include breakfast or holiday lunch clubs, food banks, youth clubs or schools.

From July, community groups in Plymouth will be selected to receive votes from the public to decide which project receives the most funding.

Funding pots of £500, £1,000 and £1,500 will be available for the shortlisted projects, and Tesco customers will be able to choose which one receives the most funding by voting in store every time they shop.

Among the Plymouth community schemes to benefit from Tesco funding in recent years was Ocean Discoverability, a project within the Island Trust, which used the money to help disabled young people learn sailing know-how and develop social skills.

Keith Jackson, Tesco community grant manager said: “Over the years, we’ve been delighted to support so many charities, community groups and organisations from every corner of the UK. The help and support they provide to families and children is now more important than ever.

“We’re encouraging groups in Plymouth to apply for funding as we hope to see the fantastic community work they provide to continue long into the future.”

Originally launched in 2016 as Bags of Help, the scheme has supported over 36,000 community groups with more than £86million in grants since 2016, including 2,000 sports teams and 1,400 groups supporting vulnerable older people.

Tesco funded Ocean Discoverability giving disabled youngsters the chance to learning sailing know-how

In 2020 alone, more than 10,000 groups were awarded grants of more than £7.9million

by Tesco throughout the UK. The Tesco Community Grants scheme, in partnership with the Groundwork charity, will support thousands of community projects and good causes across the UK. It is open to registered charities and not-for-profit organisations, so eligible organisations can apply for a grant now. Tesco customers or colleagues can nominate a cause that they would like to see supported.

Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK chief executive, said: “The last year has been

extremely difficult for everyone, and that includes community groups and charities who will have been hit particularly hard by the pandemic.

Many groups have seen a surge in demand for their services while volunteer numbers decrease, which has caused mounting pressure.

“We’re delighted to be working with Tesco to provide these much-needed funds, which will help to support local communities as we recover from the pandemic.”

To apply for a Tesco Community Grant, visit tescocommunitygrants.org.uk

June 2021

@PlymChronicle

11

Tickets available now for major international Mayflower 400 commemoration on July 11 The major international Mayflower 400 commemoration event will take place on Plymouth Hoe in July and free tickets are available to book now.

Having been postponed from the original anniversary date of September 16 due to the pandemic, the Mayflower 400 Four Nations Ceremony will now take place on Sunday July 11 on the biggest stage Plymouth Hoe has ever seen.

The ceremony is the UK’s flagship Mayflower 400 event and a grand finale to the commemorations. The 70 metre stage will host an epic production, which tells the story of the Mayflower Pilgrims’ journey in search of religious freedom and explores the impact of this on the world.

A massive array of singers representing choirs and schools from throughout the region will be accompanied by the full concert orchestra of HM Royal Marines Band Plymouth.

Together they will perform brand new music, accompanied by actors on stage and bespoke film footage all narrated to tell this unique story.

The script and lyrics have been written

by Nick Stimson, associate director at the Theatre Royal Plymouth, with music by Chris Williams.

For the first time ever, this commemoration event will include leading representatives of the Native American Wampanoag tribes, who have historically been excluded from the narrative despite having been greatly

affected by the Mayflower’s arrival and subsequent European settlement.

All four nations involved in the story – the

UK, USA, Netherlands and the Wampanoag tribes – will be represented by high-ranking dignitaries who will speak during the

ceremony and reflect on what the historical voyage means for the world today.

Adrian Vinken, chair of Mayflower 400, said: “This is the major moment for the international Mayflower 400 commemorations and the culmination of all the activity that’s been taking place around the world to mark this significant global anniversary.

“Nothing like this has been done in Plymouth before, bringing together all four nations to tell the story that has had a profound impact on global history.

“It’s going to be a memorable, once-in-alifetime event so I’d urge people to book their tickets quickly.”

The event is being ticketed to safeguard COVID-19 precautions, with all tickets free.

Tickets must be booked prior to entry.

Gates will open at 1pm on the day, with the ceremony taking place from 3pm to approximately 4.30pm. There will be activity taking place on stage from 2pm, food and drink stands and toilets.

Visitors are welcome to take their own food and drink with them, as well as blankets or camping chairs as seating will not be provided.

Free tickets are available to book now at: visitplymouth.co.uk/ mayflower400ceremony.

Everyone over the age of two years will need a ticket and a maximum of six tickets can be booked per transaction. More information and full FAQs are available on the Visit Plymouth website.

When changes happen in your life, don’t neglect to review your will to accommodate those circumstances.

Wolferstand can do that for FREE Experts at your fingertips, available 7 days a week from the comfort of your own home.

“Exemplary service from Gemma Smith and her team.”

“In these times of uncertainty it was lovely to get probate done.”

We’re only a PHONE CALL away

01752 292201 or message our LIVE CHAT on

www.wolferstans.com Wills, Trust & Probate Team Ranked 1st out of 22 Local Solicitors For Expertise by Review Solicitors and voted 5.0/5 by clients.

12 June 2021 French Consul, Stephanie d’Haussy laid a wreath at the Napoleon Monument

12 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plymouth father and son serving together on HMS Prince of Wales A father and son from Plymouth are helping to bring Britain’s biggest warship to life right now off the Devon coast.

Bicentary of Napoleon Bonaparte’s death is marked in Plymouth The Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Chris Mavin and French Consul, Stephanie d’Haussy have laid wreaths at the Napoleon Monument on Madeira Road to commemorate the bicentenary of Napoleon Bonaparte’s death on May 5 1821.

Plymouth is proud of its unique connection to the history of Napoleon, and in 2015, the Napoleon Monument which marked the 10 days Napoleon Bonaparte spent captive in Plymouth Sound in 1815 was unveiled at an event with representatives from Plymouth City Council, St Helena, Brittany Ferries, HMS Northumberland and officers from the French Navy.

Napoleon Bonaparte was held as a prisoner at Plymouth Sound onboard HMS Bellerophon from July 26 to August 4 1815 following his defeat at Waterloo, while the British Government decided his fate.

He was later sent into exile on the South Atlantic Island of St Helena. Napoleon Bonaparte and the Bellerophon left Plymouth Sound and he was transferred to HMS Northumberland for the long voyage south. He died in exile, on St Helena.

To commemorate the two-hundred year anniversary of the death of Napoleon Bonaparte, Destination Plymouth has created a dedicated online resource called ‘Napoleon 200’ to be enjoyed by locals and visitors with support from The Box and the University of Plymouth.

The new resources will be included in a cross European programme to commemorate Napoleon’s death led by the Federation of Napoleonic Cities of which Plymouth is the only one in the UK. The online resources include detailed information on various Napoleonic experiences; activities and places to visit incorporating walking tours and cycling routes.

Additionally, when The Box, Plymouth’s major new museum, art gallery and archive, reopens on May 18, visitors will be able to enjoy a portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte created by John Harris the Younger. Despite the subject being a prisoner at the time, Napoleon is shown posing in all his finery.

Other highlights on display include detailed bone models made by the prisoners of war from the Napoleonic era, these can be viewed in the gallery. The models were created with handmade tools and represent high-quality examples from the period.

For more information on Napoleon 200 in Plymouth, please visit www.visitplymouth. co.uk/Napoleon200 For more information on the Federation of Napoleonic Cities, visit www. napoleoncities.eu

Engineering Technician Ashley Smith and his dad Warrant Officer 2nd Class Duncan Thornhill are two of more than 700 crew serving aboard new aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales.

The Portsmouth-based warship is currently in Torbay carrying out trials and training as she works her way towards joining her older sister HMS Queen Elizabeth on front-line operations.

The 65,000-tonne aircraft carrier sailed for the first time in over a year earlier this month after an extensive period of upgrades, enhancements and maintenance in her home base.

Ashley is charged with ensuring salt water pulses through the pipes of the carrier so that it is always available for use by firefighting teams in the event of an emergency.

As a marine engineer he’s also responsible for monitoring machinery and systems as a watchkeeper.

And dad has the small task of ensuring everyone aboard is properly fed three times a day – over 2,000 meals daily – by ensuring the fridges, freezers and stores are filled by sticking to a tight budget as the catering services manager.

With a full complement of aircrew, battle

HMS Prince of Wales heading out for sea trials off the coast of Devon

WO2 Duncan Thornhill with his son Engineering Technician Ashley Smith pictured on board the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales

staff and commandos aboard, when the carrier deploys on operations, the catering team’s task rises to nearly 5,000 meals every day.

Both father and son are enjoying their different experiences aboard – and say the support they receive from the rest of the family at home in Devon is crucial.

“Growing up it was hard with the amount of time dad spent deployed, but after seeing what the service had provided for him and our family it was easy to understand why he enjoyed it and I wanted to be a part of that,” said 27-year-old Ashley, who has spent two years aboard the carrier with one left to go.

“It’s nice to have a familiar face on board and makes it that little bit easier when away from the family. The guaranteed lift home each weekend is also quite a nice perk! But working in two separate departments we rarely cross paths.”

Originally from Blackburn in Lancashire, dad has served in the Royal Navy since 1989, spending

almost his entire career with Plymouth-based ships and submarines, plus served as an instructor at HMS Raleigh for raw recruits and trainee chefs and caterers. His service has taken him to the Caribbean, Adriatic, Mediterranean and Middle East.

The 49-year-old is understandably proud of his son’s progress. And there may yet be a third family member joining them, for Ashley’s youngest brother Mason, has applied to serve in the Navy.

“Although a bit on the cheesy side, it was too good of an opportunity to miss.

Before submitting my preference I did chat with Ashley about it to make sure he was comfortable, which he was,” said Duncan, who is known by shipmates as ‘Thorny.’

“We work in two different departments, so we haven’t seen much of each other, but it is good to see him when we do cross paths.”

Like his son he relies on the moral support of loved ones at home in Plymouth to get through tough times and appreciate the good times.

“I’ve always had great support from my family through my career, the importance of this can’t be understated and Ashley will get the same support from us. Hopefully he’ll enjoy it as much as I have.”

Come to the finale of the Mayflower 400 year!

See the Mayflower 400 Four Nations Ceremony on The Hoe. Live music, theatre, choirs, big screens and more including the living voice of the Native American Wampanoag Tribes – FREE for all the family Don’t miss this historic event Sunday 11 July 2021 For your FREE tickets go to: visitplymouth.co.uk/mayflower400ceremony (Tickets subject to availability)

Mayflower 400 National Supporters and Sponsors

June 2021

@PlymChronicle

13

Spectacular action is promised as tickets for SailGP go on sale One of the world’s most impressive sailing events, SailGP is coming to Plymouth in July, following opening events in Bermuda and Italy.

Plymouth has been selected to host SailGP’s Grand Prix in Britain now the global league has restarted in 2021. Following the season opener in Bermuda in April and the Italy Grand Prix in Taranto in June, the championship will take place in Plymouth on July 17 and 18 for the third event in Season 2, featuring the world’s fastest sail racing.

The adrenaline-filled racing between competing nations will take place on Plymouth Sound in partnership with Plymouth City Council, with support from Associated British Ports, English Cities Fund and Sutton Harbour Group.

The Great Britain Sail Grand Prix in Plymouth will also form part of the city’s Mayflower 400 commemorations, marking the anniversary of the signature voyage across the Atlantic Ocean to America. Plymouth was selected following a competitive six-month-long bid process involving five other UK cities.

Thousands of spectators are expected to crowd The Hoe and waterfront areas to watch the adrenalin-filled action featuring F50 catamarans, capable of speeds of nearly 60 mph. The action will also be seen from Jennycliff and Mount Batten. While viewing will be free from these locations, a range of options are also available.

There will be a free access area within the Spectator Area which includes live race commentary, refreshments, official merchandise store, entertainment and athlete appearances on the stage. This access will be subject to registration.

Ticket options include a Waterfront Premium

High speed action will take place in Plymouth Sound Photo: Sail GP

ticket costing £30 which will give fans access to an exclusive space within the Spectator Area, providing a front-row seat to the action. Tickets include a complimentary drink, dining options, comfy seating, commentary and big screens.

SailGP has partnered with Plymouth Boat Trips to provide the official on-water fan experience for the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix.

With two ticket categories available – Access and Premium – official spectator boats will offer the closest vantage point to the racing and allow fans an unrivalled view of the world-class athletes and supercharged F50 catamarans as they compete at electrifying speeds on Plymouth Sound.

On-Water Access tickets cost £45 and provide unrivalled viewing on the racecourse perimeter during the three hour experience, departing and

returning to Commercial Wharf.

On-Water Premium tickets are £120 and include privileged viewing positions, selection of canapés and a premium bar with a selection of alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.

There is also the opportunity for fans to watch from their own boat at a cost of £150 plus fees, which includes breathtaking views of the action, positioned at one of the turning gates, as well welcome pack including tote bag, cap and souvenir flag.

Boat owners can also register for free and will receive all the essential course details from the race organisers to help position their boat in the best area to witness the action.

Tickets are on sale now and can be booked at www.sailgp.com

Senior police officer appointed to tackle dog thefts Devon & Cornwall Police have appointed a senior officer to head up efforts to deal with the increasing number of dog thefts in the region.

Chief Inspector Rob Curtis has been assigned to help tackle what is currently perceived as a rising crime. There has been an increase in demand for dogs nationwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has inflated prices for puppies and dogs.

Nationally, dog theft cases increased by 170% in 2020.

Chief Inspector Curtis said that Devon & Cornwall Police take dog theft very seriously.

“Theft of a beloved pet causes major distress to the owners. Although dog theft is very rare, we want owners to be aware and to take safe precautions to help protect their dogs from this

up to

crime. At home make sure your garden is secure, try not to leave your dog outside unattended, be careful of bogus callers or displaying signs that say, ‘my poodle lives here’.”

Microchipping is a legal requirement and essential to helping returning pets to their owners.

Chief Inspector Curtis urges all owners to visit their vet and have their pet microchipped with all contact details kept up to date in the event of moving home or changing a phone number.

Devon & Cornwall Police now have 30 microchip scanners, some of which have been donated by Dog Lost to help reunite dogs with their families.

This is another step towards helping tackle dog theft.

What to do if your dog goes missing It’s important to establish if your dog has been

stolen or has got lost. If your dog has gone missing from your garden, it usually won’t wander far.

Check with your neighbours and ask them to check their gardens and garages. If you still cannot find your dog, check with the local dog warden, tell the microchip company your dog is missing and call local vets and rescue centres.

If your dog is being stolen and someone has physically taken your dog from you, shout that your dog is being stolen and attract attention. If you can take photos or videos and report it to the police by calling 999. If there are any witnesses nearby, ask for their contact details and report your missing dog to the microchip company. There is more information on our website that will give you more information and places to go for help: dc.police.uk/dogsafety

Cylinder Cleaner

GREAT DEAL

C1POWERLINE • 800w Power • 5.5Kg Weight • 2 Year Guarantee

£159.00

Upright Cleaner

GREAT DEAL

NV602UKT • Anti Allergen Seal • Pet Powerbrush • 5 Year Guarantee

£199.00

Cordless Athlet Cleaner

GREAT DEAL

BBH6POWER • upto 65min Runtime • AllFloor High Power Brush • 2 Year Guarantee

£199.00 GREAT DEAL

Cordless Stick Cleaner V7ANIMALPLUS • upto 30min Runtime • 2.2Kg Weight • Animal Turbobrush

£249.00 MANY MORE REDUCTIONS IN-STORE

14 June 2021

14 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Plymouth key worker diagnosed with brain tumour after boss spots symptoms at work A key worker from Plymouth is undergoing treatment for an aggressive brain tumour after her manager noticed her behavioural changes at work and called an ambulance.

Nicky Sale who lives in the Barbican, now credits her boss Sheena Adams, a former neurology nurse, with saving her life.

Sudden behavioural changes set alarm bells ringing for deputy manager Sheena as healthcare assistant Nicky went about her work at Sanctuary Care’s Furzehatt Residential and Nursing Home in Plymstock.

As a result of Sheena’s quick-thinking, Nicky was admitted to Derriford Hospital in February where she was diagnosed with an aggressive glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Nicky was stunned to be told by doctors that, without treatment, she would be dead within three to four months but, with treatment, she could survive 13 to 15 months or maybe longer.

Within days, Nicky underwent surgery which removed around 80% of the tumour and is now nearing the end of six weeks of radiotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy. She then has a month’s break before starting more aggressive chemotherapy.

Nicky, 57, mum to 18-year-old son Leo, said: “Sheena is an absolute superstar. If it hadn’t been for her, God knows what would have happened. I probably would be dead by now. There is no doubt in my mind that she saved my life.”

Sheena, 37, says she is grateful the diagnosis came before it Sheena Adams pictured with Nicky after she was discharged from hospital

was too late. Sheena, who had previously worked with neurology patients at Derriford during her nursing career, spotted her colleague was struggling with words and having problems with completing paperwork.

She said: “Nicky has a bubbly and lovely eccentric personality.

I noticed that the documentation she is required to fill in as part of her job was uncharacteristically poor and made a mental note to raise this when she returned to work a few days later. As soon as she was back from holiday, I realised Nicky was really having to think about her words. I asked her whether she had been drinking or taking drugs, although I thought that was unlikely. It was then I noticed a tremor in her arm and things started to add up. I did some clinical observations on Nicky and phoned for an ambulance.”

Now, three months on, and motivated by Nicky’s diagnosis, Sheena is joining thousands of other fundraisers around the country, by taking part in Jog 26 Miles in May to raise money for Brain Tumour Research. The miles can be completed however and with whoever participants like, ensuring they follow COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Whether it’s jogging around the local park or running track, clocking up the miles on a treadmill or doing laps of the garden, the possibilities are endless. Registrants can complete this virtual challenge in a way that suits them and at their own pace.

For example, they could jog a different distance each day in May, to make up a total of 26 miles by the end of the month. Or, they could even choose to complete a full marathon in one go.

Sheena said: “I am not a runner, so I am mixing walking with running and involving our residents, many of whom suffer with neurological conditions including Parkinson’s, dementia or even brain tumours. I am often pushing someone in a wheelchair along a half-mile route so they feel part of our fundraiser inspired by Nicky.

And I am also asking their relatives to sponsor me!”

Nicky added: “I am very touched that Sheena is fundraising for Brain Tumour Research along with the residents, inspired by me.

Treatment for brain tumours has barely changed in decades.”

To join Sheena by signing up to take part, join the Jog 26 Miles in May Facebook Group and follow the three simple steps to get started. Once registered, Brain Tumour Research will send a free gift and printed mile tracker. Anyone raising £274 or more, will receive a special medal in June, once they have completed the challenge.

Melanie Tiley, community development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “We were so very sorry to learn about Nicky’s diagnosis and wish her all the best for her gruelling chemotherapy treatment.

“What Sheena is doing is really inspirational and we will be cheering her and the residents on, every step of the way. Nicky’s

Nicky Sale pictured with her son Leo

story reminds us that brain tumours are indiscriminate; they can affect anyone at any age. We are determined to continue in our mission to find better outcomes and ultimately a cure for this terrible disease.”

Brain Tumour Research funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK, including at its Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth. It also campaigns for the Government and the larger cancer charities to invest more in research into brain tumours in order to speed up new treatments for patients and, ultimately, to find a cure. The charity is calling for a national annual spend of £35 million in order to improve survival rates and patient outcomes in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia and is also campaigning for greater repurposing of drugs.

Impressive line-up of artists at Plymouth Contemporary 2021 An international line-up of established and emerging creative talent has been selected for exhibition at this year’s Plymouth Contemporary.

Twenty-nine artists from around the world, working across different and varying disciplines including fine art and performance, will exhibit 44 works of art for this third staging of the prestigious event.

Held across two galleries in the city – the University of Plymouth’s Levinsky Gallery and KARST in Stonehouse – and with support from The Box, Plymouth Contemporary 2021 will run from July 7 to September 5, and will explore the theme of ‘Making It’.

“Plymouth Contemporary 2021 is testament to the unbridled creativity of our contemporary artists,” said Mary Costello, exhibitions coordinator for The Arts Institute at the University.

“Despite all challenges, they continue ‘making it’ and have responded to this theme in a myriad of interesting, intriguing and innovative ways. Most of all, the sheer joy of creating shines through, and we’re delighted to invite the public to visit this celebration of today’s contemporary artists.”

First staged in 2015, the Plymouth Contemporary supports new ideas and a risk-taking approach across all art forms - and previously featured artists, such as Naomi Frears, Thomas Goddard and Michael Cox, have gone on to achieve national and international success.

Jennifer Taylor’s Lunar Dawn photo of Live Performance For the 2021 event, an open call was made to artists to respond to the Making It theme, and more than 130 from Europe and America submitted proposals. Some focused upon the act of making or shaping a physical work or idea; others interpreted it in terms of success, or making a difference to people or the community.

A selection panel, including renowned artist Heather Phillipson and independent arts consultant, writer and mentor Manick Govinda, as well as representatives from the University, The Box and KARST, then considered the submissions and selected the final line up.

Nicoletta Lambertucci, contemporary art

curator at The Box, said: “After an incredibly tough year for the creative sector, I am thrilled to finally see Plymouth Contemporary 2021 taking shape with such a strong list of artists.

“It is a project that offers an insightful commentary on the world through a diverse range of practices. It has been great to be part of the selection panel, I really enjoyed the process and I look forward to seeing the exhibition.

“It was a great pleasure to be on the selection panel for this year’s Plymouth Contemporary, and to be able to get an insight on how artists interpreted the theme of Making It,” she added. The process was rigorous and I am delighted by the choices we collectively made. I look forward to seeing the show.”

Members of the public will be able to attend Plymouth Contemporary 2021 without the need to book. Several prizes will also be awarded before the end of the exhibition.

Ben Borthwick, head of creative programme at KARST, said: “Plymouth Contemporary 2021 will be the first time KARST reopens its doors to the public since a major refurbishment and upgrade of our building. We can’t wait to invite visitors back into our massively improved space to see the exciting range of works on display. KARST is really pleased to have partnered on Plymouth Contemporary since it was created as it continues to go from strength to strength.”

16 June 2021

16 June 2021

John Govier pictured in 2016

@PlymChronicle

Global superstar Deadmau5 to headline at 1 Big Summer

Global superstar Deadmau5 has been announced as the first headline act for the 1 Big Summer Festival in Plymouth.

The end of an era as John Govier leaves The Brook

It’s the end of an era at The Brook in Plympton St Maurice as popular publican John Govier has now handed over the keys to the new owners.

During his tenure of seven years at The Brook the pub became a focal point of the community, hosting countless charity events which raised thousands of pounds.

It was also an organised meeting place for the lonely and isolated and the venue also hosted many community projects such as art classes and U3A groups. It also gained a positive reputation for live music as well as good food.

Now it’s over to the new owners

to take on the difficult task of re-establishing the venue post lockdown and building on the foundations which have been laid over the past years.

The lockdown has prevented the community giving John a proper send off but in one final act which typifies the community spirit he created, a sum of just over £1,700 is being passed on to the NSPCC as proceeds raised from online quizzes which have been organised during the period the pub has not been able to admit customers in person.

This latest sum brings the overall amount raised for various causes by John and his team to over £35,000.

Deadmou5 is one of the world‚‘s most respected electronic music producers of modern times and his critically acclaimed albums reached No 1 in the Billboard charts.

1 Big Summer, a three-day music events takes place on Plymouth House on the August Bank Holiday weekend August 27 to 29. Deadmau5 will be performing the closing set on the Saturday night.

Event organisers have promised that this will be bigger and filled with more special effects and bright lights than any performance to have taken place in Plymouth over the years. It will be a must see moment in Plymouth Hoe history!

The event opens on Friday August 27 with Ibiza Classics 2021, featuring a full live 26-piece orchestra and a soundtrack that will transport listeners through three decades of iconic white isle classics.

The orchestra night will also feature a huge headline DJ set and several support acts direct from the shores of Ibiza, all to be announced in the coming weeks.

On Saturday August 28, the ‘1 Big Summer’ day festival and main event follows suit with one of the biggest events ever held on the Hoe. Featuring an array of top UK chart topping acts and entertainment

throughout the day, it’s ‘the party we’ve all been waiting for’, and as announced, will feature a huge closing set from none other than Global superstar and icon, Deadmau5.

Sunday August 29 is one for the whole family. ‘The Great British Sausage and Cider Festival’ will offer an array of craft cider, sausage flavours, street food and entertainment, including stage games, and competitions throughout the day.

Not only that, there will also be some remarkable special guests in the shape of some of the UK’s best known arena and festival bands, alongside a fantastic line

up of local talent. This is set to be the perfect bank holiday Sunday.

Over 60 per cent of the tickets have already been sold across the three days. Organisers have said that more announcements of artists will follow in the coming weeks, along with at least two additional headliners across the weekend. As such, they expect demand to stay high. To manage that demand, tickets will remain limited to four per person per day.

For more information and the latest updates, see www.1bigsummer.com or like the 1bigsummer Facebook page.

Art collections at The Box boosted ...and by new contemporary acquisitions it’s the The Contemporary Art Society has donated three works of art to The Box’s permanent collections.

Based in Miami, Florida, Doucet is a multidisciplinary artist who works with ceramics, print and illustration.

Black Death – Crown of Thorns is made up of a pair of Plymouth’s major new museum, art gallery and archive has Rococo-style porcelain vessels decorated with the textures of acquired a film and a diptych by multidisciplinary artist duo, coral, sea sponges and shells and other flora and fauna.

Quinlan & Hastings. It’s also acquired a stunning porcelain work Although they’re made from porcelain, the pots are a

by Haitian-American artist, Morel Doucet. metaphor for fragility and vulnerability – particularly in relation Through sound, moving image, live events and incredibly to the biodiversity of Miami’s coastal areas and the African skilful drawings, Hannah Quinlan & Rosie Hastings explore American and Caribbean the history, politics and communities who live there iconography of queer and are affected by it. culture; mapping the Once again, the work has queer landscape in a a great connection with The variety of ways that place Box’s existing collections underrepresented narratives which include a significant in the spotlight. number of maritime In Gaby, a 2018 video influenced porcelain works, work named for one of their as well as its natural history close friends, they present gallery which highlights three vignettes highlighting the diversity and fragility the relationship between of life on earth through its gay culture and the police. displays.

The vignettes explore Art curator at The Box, storytelling on a broad scale Terah Walkup said: “The from personal experience to The pair of porcelain vessels created by Morel Doucet Box has several examples wider political impact. of shell-shaped pickle In the diptych They will bowls and elaborate sweetmeat dishes decorated with a variety flee like chaff scattered by the wind or like dust whirling before of corals, shells and marine botanicals delicately formed of a storm, the graphite drawings were inspired by Michelangelo’s porcelain from the 1700s. Doucet revisits these motifs from the ‘Archers Shooting at a Herm’. They show protestors confronting past to spark conversations about the health of the sea and the a group of police and other armed forces with limbs in motion; communities that are impacted by its global use. creating a sense of urgency alongside their representation of “His work allows us to bridge our historic collections and power and masculinity.

Plymouth’s maritime history, especially that of transatlantic Contemporary art curator at The Box, Nicoletta Lambertucci migration, to the lived experiences of coastal communities on said: “We are thrilled to receive these new acquisitions by both sides of the Atlantic. This is a really fitting acquisition for Quinlan & Hastings who continually produce thought-provoking us at a time when we’re reflecting on the 400th anniversary of work that establishes relationships between notions of the Mayflower’s voyage.” belonging, institutional power and the safety of the LGBTQ+ The works by Quinlan & Hastings and Morel Doucet will be community through lived experiences.” displayed in future exhibitions at The Box. Find out more about The Contemporary Art Society’s Omega Fund has also The Box and its permanent collections at www.theboxplymouth. recently acquired a porcelain work by Haitian-American artist com.

Morel Doucet for The Box’s decorative art collections.

one and only Frank Turner on Sunday!

Legendary singer songwriter Frank Turner joins the bill for 1 Big Summer, and will be headlining the Sunday Sausage and Cider Festival.

Originally from Hampshire, Frank Turner began his career as the vocalist of the band Million Dead, before releasing his debut solo album, Sleep Is For The Weak, in 2005.

Since then he has released a further seven studio albums, with his latest record, 2019’s No Man’s Land, becoming his fourth consecutive top three album to date.

He is also a prolific live performer, having played over 2,400 live shows in his solo career. Over the last year, the folk-punk-acoustic singer has become an idol among real music fans, namely due to his contribution and ongoing support for live music venues.

Through a series of virtual gigs and special performances, he has raised a huge amount of money for many of the country’s most well-loved establishments, and has even supported a local Plymouth business on this journey.

Dan: Ready steady and moving on

Ready Steady Thrive!

A pioneering mental health project is underway in Plymouth in which people with significant and long-term mental health problems are not just benefitting from the Ready Steady Thrive initiative but are helping to deliver it as well. Dan, a former chef, has spent the last four and a half years unemployed, fighting cancer and suffering from depression. Dan admits that at times he was unsure whether he would ‘make it’ but today, he is free-of-cancer, invigorated by exercise and about to start a new career. Dan who took part in the first course of Ready Steady Thrive last autumn says it helped to turn his life around: “My life has been a bit of a train wreck really and a year ago, I hit a really dark depression and things were spiralling out of control. I was struggling with another bout of cancer; in pain and not exercising; nothing. Now, I’m not even the same guy and Ready Steady Thrive has just been a cog in the whole recovery plan but it’s a really important cog and from that I’m doing alright now.”

Five Ways to Wellbeing

Georgie admits that one of the biggest lessons she has learnt from the course is to be thankful for things, no matter how small or insignificant. Every night and every morning she writes in her Gratitude Book, she’s now on her second; “It keeps me on a level and on ‘down days’ I can look back and see what I’ve done: even if it’s something silly like I did the ironing, then it goes in the book, because what it shows is that I got off my bum and did the ironing! It’s little things that most people will say ‘that’s stupid’ but no, it’s not stupid; it’s what is needed in some people’s lives and I definitely needed it.”

One in four of us will experience a mental health problem each year. For some it may be a short-term affliction; others may learn to manage their illness perhaps with medication, counselling or both but, for some less fortunate, it can ruin their lives. Ready Steady Thrive helps people get back on their feet by following ‘the five ways to well-being’.

Working through five weekly two-hour zoom sessions it aims to give people basic tools to manage life’s daily ups and downs and help them look forward, one manageable step at a time. Georgie admits, when she started the course, she was on the edge of a breakdown but with help from her peers, she has been able to overcome some of her fears: “I’ve always struggled to answer the telephone in case it was a male on the other end and we were doing one of the practical parts of the session and someone said, ‘think of a funny face when you answer the phone; one that will make you laugh’ and now I do that every time I answer the phone.”

Being alongside other people who are also experiencing their own challenges enables the individuals to learn from each other, to offer each other possible solutions and coping-strategies. For Dan it has had such a profound effect on his health; his confidence and his life that he is now volunteering as a peer-facilitator on the course; “You have to buy into it and put your trust in the process,” says Dan. “If you’re not mentally well then it’s really hard to do any of these things, but the course has been designed to help you. My support network has grown and when things go wrong now, I’m just about mentally able to cope with it.”

Calling all budding community researchers.

We want to find people who can have conversations with friends, family or co-workers about aging well or building social connections. It’s a great opportunity to just sit and listen to someone. If you are interested please get in contact at info@plymouthoctopus.org

such as, mountain-biking, photography and wood-whittling. As Chris Maccullie, the project’s community enabler says, the Ready Steady Thrive course is another way of supporting people, but one that can bring about a profound change and give people a sense of hope for their future.

“For some people it is a kind of therapy. It allows them to find out new things about themselves; to get them out of their comfort zone while learning new skills. Here, they learn it’s ok to make a mistake.”

POP Bites - Wednesday 26 May 2021 Join us for our next POP Bites on May the 26th and hear about the Government’s new Community Ownership Fund (ever wanted to buy your own community a pub!?). We will also be talking about the significant role POP has played in the research of ‘Human Systems Learning’ where the individual is put at the heart of their own recovery and where the complexity of their situation is embraced. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pop-bites-tickets-133691263167

Residents and community leaders in Devonport are joining forces to set up a neighbourhood care network (NCN) which will support all residents and make better use of resources. While there are many different, formal and informal, community projects and organisations working across the old town, traditionally – just as in other places – they have concentrated on doing their own work to bring about positive change.

Now, with the help of POP to co-ordinate an NCN, organisations are seeing the benefit of how much more can be achieved by coming together. The fledgling group includes Residents’ Associations; local members of the clergy; sports & community groups and local businesses. For more information about the Devonport NCN please contact stuart@ plymouthoctopus.org or ring 01752 395131.

NCN’s Helpline Numbers:

Ready Steady Thrive - which is delivered by the Positive People project under the POP umbrella – is unique to Plymouth and Torbay.

It is funded by the Big Lottery Community Fund and the European Social Fund until September 2022. For more information contact Chris Maccullie on 07951 313163 or chris.m@plymouthoctopus.org.

Positive People The Positive People project in Devon has been supporting people since 2017, many of whom have been living with serious difficulties and challenges that have left them feeling over-whelmed and disempowered. The Positive People programme helps people to face their problems and overcome them, for example, supporting them on issues such as, building their confidence; coping with anxiety and improving relationships. At the same time, people are encouraged to try new things,

Devonport Rallies

SUPPOSE YOU HAD £1000 TO SPEND IMPROVING YOUR COMMUNITY

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Efford Community Network

Efford 07380 309586 Glenholt 07849 413125

Want to help out in your community?

If you’re an individual or an organisation that wants to be involved, text 07411 949 742 and you will be contacted by someone local to you, who will welcome your support.

POP is working with Street to Scale to bring grassroots community ideas to life. There is no application form; no targets and no need for written outcomes. If you’d like £1000 to spend on your community, contact: 07842 043399 (WhatsApp)

18 June 2021

18 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Open air cinema returns

Plymouth Arts Cinema is to reopen on June 4 following months of closure due to the pandemic.

The city’s independent cinema will also be offering audiences the opportunity to enjoy new releases and old favourites with its annual Open Air Cinema events returning to Inside Lido on the weekends of August 20 to 22 and September 2 to 4. It is also working on additional events at the end of July, details of which will be announced soon.

Director and film programmer Anna Navas said, “As we start getting ready to re-open Plymouth Arts Cinema, one of the absolute highlights of the summer is coming together. Open Air Cinema at Tinside Lido has become a firm fixture in Plymouth’s cultural calendar and was one of the things we missed more than anything last year.

“We are so looking forward to bringing iconic films back to one of Plymouth’s most iconic locations. It feels wonderful to have a summer of cinema to start getting excited about.”

Booking for films in the cinema will open on June 1, with films such as Nomadland, The Father, Sound of Metal and Another Round, all top prize winners at the recent Oscars ceremony tipped for inclusion in the programme.

Plymouth Arts Cinema has safeguarded its future sustainability throughout three lockdowns in the past year with extensive fundraising. It secured £47,000 support from the Culture Recovery Fund, £15,000 emergency funding thanks to the National Lottery and multiple grants allocated by Plymouth City Council, plus a Crowdfunder, also supported by Plymouth City Council, which raised over £5,000.

Photo: Dom Moore

Stoke College cleans up as pioneers for city eco drive!

Stoke Damerel Community College has joined forces with Plymouth-based Clean Our Patch CIC to become the environmental organisation’s first secondary school Ambassador.

Clean Our Patch visited the college in April to provide the school with litter picking equipment for students to use on site and in the local community. College governor Jemima Laing attended, to present the school with its Ambassador certificate.

At first, the school’s Clean Our Patch group will comprise students in the college’s recently established Eco Club, who are working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Awards. They will be doing regular litter picks each week and will be able to take the kit out to do community litter picking, to add to their Bronze Award volunteering hours.

But the Eco Club is being expanded for more students to join.

In May, Stoke Damerel Community College plans a beach clean at a local beach, and the school is also committed to doing two ‘totaliser’ litter picks with Clean Our Patch annually. Clean Our Patch will also be running student-led workshops at the college.

The link-up came about after geography teacher Abbie Evans approached Plymouth City Council to ask how the school could get involved with community work to help the local environment. The council suggested joining up with Clean Our Patch.

Abbie said it was the students themselves who were keen to do something: “We taught a plastic pollution unit during lockdown and it sparked a lot of interest, especially in Years 7 and 8. That is lovely to see. They are the next generation and have the biggest potential to make the difference.

“Being a coastal city, with beaches right on our doorstep, the Eco Club seemed like a really good idea, and everything has grown from that.”

Clean Our Patch was set up three years ago by El Clarke and her husband Ashton Samuels, initially in Keyham. It now has 36 groups right across Plymouth and into the South Hams.

El is delighted that Stoke Damerel Community College has come on board as the first secondary school. And she explained why young people’s engagement with the environment is so important: “They are a catalyst for actual change. They are more likely than older generations to take positive action, rather than just talk about it.

“They have the drive, and they can also be very persuasive with their parents and carers and other family members, so the message reaches more people in the community. This is why we are so pleased that Stoke Damerel has become a School Ambassador.”

She added: “One of our key messages is: don’t feel daunted; don’t think of climate change as a big scary thing that we cannot change. Everyone can be empowered to do something, by doing small things in our own communities. Because all those small things add up to make a big difference.”

Stoke Damerel Community College is already making a difference. Abbie said: “We’ve had a great start! It’s nice to be taking a lead, and hopefully more schools in the city can join.

Together, we can make a really big impact.”

Photographs courtesy of Clean Our Patch CIC.

@PlymChronicle

June 2021

Mama Bear’s invests in staff training scheme Mama Bear’s which has nurseries in Pennycross and Crownhill as invested in a new staff training scheme to help progress the careers of current staff members and attract new practitioners.

Andy Slade on the start line in his beautifully restored MG Metro 6R4

Big entry for Plymouth Motor Club’s popular Hill Climb - but spectators miss out on action

Mama Bear’s Day Nursery & Pre-School group runs 24 settings across the South West and is committed to developing the best talent in the early years industry.

The new development programme offers staff the opportunity to progress to a Level 3 childcare leader or a Level 5 childcare operational manager.

The training is provided externally by The Childcare Company and represents an investment of £5000 per staff member in the scheme.

Mama Bear’s managing director, Chris Marston, said: “Providing quality training and support to our valued staff members is of vital importance to us and our commitment to this can be seen in the renowned childcare we deliver to our families.

“We are constantly updating our training to keep up with the latest industry standards and legislation and to give our practitioners the most comprehensive support we can. By helping our

19

staff to further their careers we hope that they will grow with us and move up the ranks.

“Career progression is hugely important to us and there’s nothing we love more than to see new qualifications being achieved. We have had several apprentices who have gone on to become nursery managers through our training and development programmes. We want to nurture the next generation of early years talent.”

Established in 2002 Mama Bear’s cares for children aged three months to five years.

Consistently rated by OFSTED as Good or Outstanding, all the settings benefit from indoor and outdoor space and top-quality play and educational resources.

Chris continued: “There is an industry-wide shortage of nursery practitioners so we’re hoping schemes like this will help to attract people looking for a stable and rewarding new career. As well as training we are also offering 50 new apprenticeship positions for those just starting out.”

Anyone interested in a career at Mama Bears can email recruitment@mamabear.co.uk or visit the website at www.mamabear.co.uk

Plymouth Motor Club’s popular two day Southwest Motor Sport event at Werrington Park, Launceston, was able to take place this year, but within strict COVID rules, including the exclusion of any spectators.

seconds with a new record time of 39.64 seconds.

Steve Clarke in the over 2600cc Road Car class in his Subaru Impreza beat the existing class record by 0.23 seconds, but Jack Ellis driving another Subaru Impreza in the same class set a new record time of 37.64 seconds, an improvement of 0.78 Unfortunately last year, the event had to be seconds, again also securing the Fastest Road Car cancelled at the last minute, due to the pandemic, award. but the 42nd running was able to go ahead this James Kiff managed to improve on the new year. record time set on Saturday by Steve Furzland with The organisers of the Hill Climb, ‘Team Locke’, a time of 38.97 seconds, but Steve responded with had to overcome many difficulties to comply an impressive on the limit drive of 38.37 seconds with COVID rules, but were rewarded by an winning him also the Best Veteran award. overwhelming number of entries, which had to Ben Bonfield set a new Racing Cars up to 1100cc be applied for ‘online’ and was filled within three record time of hours of opening.

34.74 seconds Such was the in his Jedi Mk interest by motor 4, whilst Simon sport fans to be Kelleway broke involved again, his own class the response for record by 5.61 marshals was seconds in the also high.

Vintage Car class On the driving his Riley weekend Sprite, a spirited everyone had the drive, the new bonus of near class record now perfect weather standing at 49.30 conditions and seconds.

PMC chairman Rob Selley driving his borrowed over the two The long 1380cc Austin Cooper Photos Howie Fowler days many standing outright records were track record of broken. The 94 33.85 seconds, held by Terry Graves was finally entries on Saturday and 100 entries on Sunday broken by Phil Montgomery-Smith with a time of were sub-divided into 12 classes, ranging from 32.59 seconds in his 1299 cc OMS 2000M single small road going saloons to powerful single seater racing cars. The event was also a contending round seater.

The Best Under 25 award was won by the for six different championships, so competition 21-year-old Plymouth Motor Club chairman Rob was fierce.

Selley with a time of 46.96 seconds which was also On Saturday three drivers broke existing class the second fastest time in the up to 1400 cc Road records: Rodney Eyles in his Alfa Romeo 4C in the Cars class. Rob and his dad Keith Selley who also 1800cc to 2600cc Road Car class with a time of drove in the same class, had borrowed the 1380cc 40.57 seconds. He also won Best Veteran award. In Austin Mini Cooper from Andy Slade and it was the the Rally Car class, two drivers broke the existing first time Rob had driven a Mini competitively, so record, James Kiff in his Mitsubishi Evo 5 and a good effort!

69-year-old Steve Furzland in his Subaru WRC who Finally, the Spirit of the Event award was had the faster time of 39.63 seconds. Steve also presented to Craig Davey who was not a won the Best PMC award. competitor but a marshal who spent many Fastest Time of the Day was achieved by Andrew hours not only helping set up the event but also Forsyth in his 1400cc OMS CF04 single seater with worked tirelessly to make repairs to the club’s a time of 35.05 seconds. Best Lady was awarded to hired telehandler so that all the safety barriers Danielle Furzeland in a Subaru Impreza with 46.28 etc. could be removed after the event, very well seconds. Fastest Motor Cycle Engined Car award deserved. went to Ben Bonfield in a Jedi Mk 4 with a time of It is hoped the club will be able to run the two 36.56 seconds . Fastest Road Car was Jack Ellis in a day event again next year but with spectators Subaru Impreza with a best time of 38.53 seconds.. being allowed to attend as in all the previous Eight drivers broke existing class records years. To see in-car videos visit: YouTube and the outright hill record on Sunday. Rodney ‘Werrington Park hillclimb 2021’ Eyles improved on the class record again by 0.93

Nurseries take part in ‘Captain Tom 100’ Tops Day Nurseries in Plymouth honoured Captain Sir Tom Moore by taking part in their own ‘Captain Tom 100’.

Second World War veteran Sir Tom raised more than £32 million for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden before his 100th birthday.

His daughter Hannah Ingram-Moore encouraged people to create their own challenge based around the number 100 to raise money for the Captain Tom Foundation or a charity of their choice. Suggestions include; walking 100 steps, running 100 metres, scoring 100 goals, baking 100 cakes or climbing 100 stairs.

The challenge took place from April 30 to May 3 and many celebrities, companies and the public have been getting involved, including Tops Day Nurseries.

Tops Devonport, located at Green Ark Children’s Centre, were more than happy to get involved in the amazing challenge to support the Captain Tom Foundation. The challenge they

came up with involved ringing a bell on top of their climbing wall 100 times. The children were very excited to not only climb the wall but ring the bell and make some noise in honour of Captain Sir Tom. Tops Efford, part of DELL Children’s Centre, also joined in with the fundraising event for Captain Tom Moore by carrying out 100 different moves while on their forest school adventure! They managed to do 100 steps, 100 laps of the field and 100 star jumps.

Tops Devonport and Tops Efford are part of an eco-sustainable Early Education and Care nursery group, Tops Day Nurseries.

Tops Day Nurseries have 30 nurseries across the South and South West including six nurseries across Plymouth and Torbay. The award winning childcare provider offers early education and care for children aged three months to school age, as well as before, after-school and holiday clubs for children up to 11.

20 June 2021

20 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

The Missing Peace in the jigsaw of life...

THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience True love is such a powerful force and for many it is the foundation of their philosophical, spiritual, or religious world view.

Especially those who live in oppressive regimes like China, North Korea, Iran or Russia where the suppression of freedom of speech and religious conscience is an everyday reality.

These are also the nations around the world where the Christian faith is miraculously expanding under severe persecution from these repressive governments. So, we can surmise that True Love takes massive courage and an understanding of genuine personal faith, which as a definition of faith means ‘to cling to, trust in and rely on’ means millions of Christians walk through this oppression every day in their genuine hope of Eternal Life.

As a Christian, I also pray for those like the Uyghurs Muslims who are being severely persecuted because Jesus teaches us to pray for our fellow man from hearts

of love. Love your neighbour as you love yourselves.

With these thoughts in mind, I was driving into work recently and listening to Cross Rhythms radio and heard a song by JJ Heller Chris Cole called The Missing Peace.

I thought to myself that this was a very clever lyric based on a person who has a faith and yet is going through some hard times.

On the radio programme called the Cross Rhythms Experience, I often share the experience many of us find on the journey of faith, that life is not always plain sailing and even a cursory read of the Bible will confirm the words of Jesus Himself in John 16 v 33. “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.”

At our recent Cross Rhythms fund raiser

event on Zoom, we shared the story of a Chinese pastor called Pastor Han who lived near the North Korean Border. Pastor Han was executed by a North Korean government hit squad in 2016 for sharing the ‘good news of Jesus Christ to more than a thousand North Koreans.

There are some 200,000 – 400,000 Christian believers in North Korea and one has to ask oneself in the comfort of the Western World why so many people would risk their lives for their belief in the Christian Faith in such hostile and lifethreatening circumstances.

You can check out Pastor Han’s story on YouTube (Sang-chul: North Korea) or by searching for Pastor Han and Christianity in North Korea.

Unlike those of us living in the West, the Christian community across the globe

Support available for victims of stalking and domestic abuse There were over 200 reports of stalking to the police in Plymouth last year and as part of Stalking Awareness Week Plymouth City Council has highlighted the help available to anyone dealing with stalking, harassment or any other form of domestic abuse.

Reports of stalking increased by 164 per cent in Devon and Cornwall and reports of cyber stalking increased almost tenfold in Plymouth. This rise can be partly attributed to victims feeling more willing to report this kind of abuse.

Harassment and stalking are often used as interchangeable terms. However, they relate to similar but different offences that can cause victims, their families and loved ones physical, psychological and emotional harm.

Offenders can stalk or harass their victims in a number of different ways, including: • a text, answer phone message, letter or email • a comment or threat in person or online (e.g. social media or online chat rooms) • standing outside someone’s house or driving past it • an act of violence • damage to someone else’s property • maliciously and falsely reporting

someone to the police without any

wrongdoing Stalking is still very present during the pandemic, with perpetrators changing their tactics to stalk their victims online and through social media.

Reports of stalking in and cyber stalking have increased significantly in Devon and Cornwall in the last year.

Anyone being stalked or harassed online can contact Devon and Cornwall Victim Support for local support or call the National Stalking Hotline on 0808 802 0300.

Image by Diana Cibotari from Pixabay

Katy Fisher, local service manager for Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services, said: “Stalking and harassment are unacceptable and victims shouldn’t have to live in fear. We hope that National Stalking Awareness Week highlights this important issue and raises awareness of the support available.

“If you’re experiencing any form of domestic abuse, including stalking or harassment, Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services are here to help. You are not alone.”

Support is available for victims of stalking and harassment, as with all victims of domestic abuse.

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021, due to receive Royal Assent in the next few weeks,

will see further rights and support for victims of domestic abuse.

The Act includes a new statutory definition of domestic abuse, emphasising that domestic abuse is not just physical or sexual violence, but can also be emotional, coercive or controlling, and economic abuse.

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, you can contact Plymouth Domestic Abuse Services here or call 0800 458 2558, if you are in immediate danger always call 999.

Someone who is being harassed in a pub, club or bar, can approach the staff and ‘Ask for Angela’.

Staff will help you leave the situation safely and securely.

really do put everything on the line for their beliefs.

We showed this video on our fundraising evening for no other reason other than to encourage us who live in relative freedom in the world to be inspired by brothers and sisters in Christ who like Jesus Himself, for the joy that is set before them, endure the cross they must carry in their communities and nations.

These folk experience miracles which confirm that their experience is based on a person who is 100% Divine and 100% human and who has an answer and hope that life does not end when we die.

Christianity is a personal experience which we outwork together for the Love of Christ. True Love takes courage, especially in the tough times which we all go through in life.

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

Neighbourhood grant boost for village hall A community hall on the outskirts of Plymouth has received funding to improve its outdoor facilities for local families.

South West Water’s new Neighbourhood Fund is helping Sparkwell Parish Hall and Playground Trust to accommodate more families in a COVID-secure manner, thanks to a generous grant.

The Parish Hall is a registered charity and is run entirely by a group of volunteers as well as a committee. They meet regularly to plan village events and activities, with the aim of raising funds to cover the upkeep of the hall. Due to the pandemic and lockdown restrictions, any sort of fundraising has been unable to happen for well over a year.

Sparkwell Parish Hall hosts several clubs and events for the area, including badminton, meet ups of the local WI and a club for nearby over-60s. However, it has been forced to remain closed since March 2020. The much-needed funding from South West Water is going towards creating an improved outdoor space, and therefore a more COVID-compliant area that allows families in the community to come together and reap the benefits of such activities, while maintaining social distancing precautions.

Diana May, secretary of Sparkwell Parish Hall and Playground Trust said of the water company’s Neighbourhood Fund: “Everyone at the Sparkwell Parish Hall and Playground Trust is grateful for the funding that we have received from South West Water. All of our usual fundraising activities have been curtailed due to the pandemic and to be able to purchase something that will enhance the Hall’s outside space, be long lasting and enjoyed by the community for years to come is very welcome.”

Jo Ecroyd, customer service director at South West Water, added: “We’re proud to be able to help such worthwhile organisations to continue to offer places that local families benefit so much from. After the past year, being able to reconnect in a COVID-safe environment is incredibly important, and we hope that the residents in and around Sparkwell will enjoy using the upgraded outdoor space.”

The pandemic has emphasised the importance of local communities and South West Water is investing in supporting people across Devon and Cornwall to build back and connect communities.

To find out more about the South West Water Neighbourhood Fund, visit southwestwater.co.uk/community/ support/neighbourhood-fund.

Dial the Experts The handy guide to Plymouth trades & services

ARCHITECT

ROWE NET - Electrical & Home Automation

J & M ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN House & Building plans Extensions • Conversions • Alterations Planning & Building regulation applications Fast & efficient service 01752 936125 07745 392764 jjmmdesign@yahoo.co.uk • www.jmdesign.org.uk

Do you find it hard to get someone to come and do a small job?

• Fully Insured • Fully Qualified Electrician • NIC EIC Registered • No job too small or big • Free Quotations • Reasonably Priced • Satisfaction Guaranteed

BATHROOMS Dream Bathrooms We cover all aspects of bathroom and wet room installations. Easy access walk in shower. Bathroom alterations.

Supply and fit or supply only.

Visit our showroom at Unit 12 Sugar Mill Business Park

by The Range in Plymstock.

07786 864375 or 01752 242897

Call 01752 548766 or email info@rowe-net.net STEVE ELECTRICAL Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 25 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert • Rewires • Certification for minor or major work Very competitive prices/ high quality work.

Will beat all other reasonable quotes.

• Call Steve 07894 208842

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

ROB'S LANDSCAPES

BLINDS

UK Blinds Plymouth Ltd We won’t be beaten on price or choice!

Comprehensive Range of Styles & Fabric Free Measuring, Quotation & Fitting Discounts for Multiple Blinds 01752 300923 | 07765 033470 www.ukblindsplymouth.co.uk

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

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

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

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

MALCOLM WILLS CARPENTRY Home Improvements, Alterations, Flooring and Doors, Small jobs undertaken.

Senior Citizens Rates.

Call for an estimate: 07599 888841 or 01752 255154

ELECTRICAL

Landscaping • Gardening • Natural Stone Walling • Fencing Block & Brick Walls • Patios • Decking • Ground Maintenance Block Driveways • Pressure Washing • Turfing Artificial Grass Free estimates • 18 yrs experience • Find us on Facebook

07506 739819

robslandscapes@icloud.com

colourfenceplymouth.co.uk Storm proof garden fencing.

Professionally installed with a 25 year warranty.

CALL NOW! 01752 544944 GUTTERING

TOTALLY GUTTERED BLOCKED, BROKEN OR DIRTY GUTTERS? Domestic & Commercial, High Level Gutter Vacuum (up to 4 Storey) Prompt, Efficient Service from a Local Family Business Call on 07467 297363

LOCKSMITH The Door Doctor - 24 hr Locksmith • Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting • Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs • Replacement Glass • Free Quotes 30 PERCY TERRACE, PLYMOUTH, PL4 7HG Tel 01752 516877 Mob 07989 599969

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES

R.C. Electrical - Ryan Cross

Fully qualified ‘Approved Electrician’ Which? Trusted Trader & Reviews on Yell.com • Over 19 years experience • FREE quotes •

www.rc-electrical.net info@rc-electrical.net 07813 195943

GREENS OVEN CLEANS Let me give your oven a new lease of life Call Trevor on 07501 645208 trevgreen4@gmail.com Fully Insured

PAINTERS & DECORATORS A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • Kitchen & Bathroom fitting 16 Lympne Ave, Ernesettle, Plymouth Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

Decorating internal & external • Plastering Renovations • Flooring • General maintenance Garden decking & fencing • Friendly & reliable Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis-ball@hotmail.co.uk

S.G.F Decorating Services Plastering & Decorating Specialist Painting - Plastering - Wallpaper - Interior & Exterior Work - Over 30 years experience C.S.C.S Registered - Friendly & Reliable 07859 804389 stevefull@live.co.uk

PLASTERING

B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk PINK PLUMBERS Fast, Friendly, Reliable and tidy service by your local FEMALE plumber.

Specialist in small to medium jobs (NO VAT) 01752 412070 07540 956436

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

One Call Maintenance

Call Richard • WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS 07974101028 • GLAZING REPAIRS • GARAGE DOOR REPAIRS or email

1callplymouth@ • ANY PROPTERY MAINTENANCE gmail.com All repairs expertly undertaken

ROOFING

A R PLASTERING & BUILDING From a small repair to the whole house All Internal & External Work undertaken • Plastering • Rendering • Building work • Decorating • Damp proofing • Tiling • and more Free estimates call Alex on 07904755491

STEVE BENNETT PLASTERING

Special OAP Rates Internal/External Plastering • Spar Dash Specialist • Insurance Work Welcome • UPVC Facias, Soffits and Guttering • Property Maintenance • Painting/Decorating • Coving Prompt Polite Friendly Service • No Job Too Small • Free Estimates 01752 368601 • 07971 741068 www.stevebennettplastering.co.uk • facebook.com/plasterersofplymouth

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

A Boiler 4 U Boiler servicing, boiler repairs, boiler replacement.

Radiator replacements. All plumbing and gas work undertaken. Book your boiler service with us today.

Visit our showroom at Unit 12 Sugar Mill Business Park,

By The Range in Plymstock.

07786 864375 or 01752 242897 MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • • No job too small • 24 hour emergency call out • VAILLANT approved installer Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429

T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant

Full Heating Systems • Boiler Exchanges • Fire and Fireplace Installations • Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation • Former British Gas Heating Installer • Gas Safe Registered Special offer on servicing boilers £50 (T&C Apply) 0790 6706 799 www.trbheating.co.uk trbheating@live.co.uk

DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

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

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

Call or email Neil for a free estimate • 07543363225 • 01752216765 devonshireroofing@live.co.uk • www.devonshireroofing.co.uk 10% discount to Forces Veterans

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

45 Years experience in the building industry.

Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

WASTE REMOVAL

J&S RUBBISH REMOVALS House/Loft/Garage/Garden Clearances Licence carriers. Discount for OAPs. Free estimates Call Steve today to take it away Tel: 01752 600570 Mob: 07929000918 info@js-rubbish-removals.co.uk

KSR Licensed Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE Cheap rates for OAPs, For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940 Please Stay Safe!

We can do it all for you from start to finish!

Want to reach 90,000 homes around Plymouth?

Interested in advertising in Dial The Experts?

Call Dave on 01752 225623 or email dave@cornerstonevision.com

Whether you need to reach private individuals or business owners and managers, our Door to Door and Business to Business leaflet distribution services can reach your audience.

Get in touch to find out more information.

28 Old Park Road, Peverell, PL3 4PY 01752 225623 www.cornerstonevision.com

22 June 2021

22 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Top award for Devonport catering team HMS Drake’s Catering Services Shore Employment Team (CSSET) has been named the Logistics Branch Catering Services Team of the Year, recognising their collective efforts over a difficult past 12 months.

The award recognises the team’s contribution to the Naval Base response to the COVID pandemic, including their support of the Quarantine and Isolation Facility, which has been pivotal in ensuring the safety of all Messing and Accommodation areas.

In a constantly adapting situation, meeting the challenges set against them has allowed smooth and essential support to ships and units within the Dockyard.

As part of their work within the COVID isolation facility, the atering team created ‘goodie bags,’ which were delivered to those isolating before being deployed as a way of improving morale. Selfless work like this has enabled the isolation facility to move through a difficult and ever-changing environment, continuing to provide essential personnel to units around Devonport Naval Base.

The award was gladly presented by Rear Admiral Martin Connell on his visit to the base. As the Royal Navy’s director of Force Generation, he took the time in his visit to thank the team for their highly professional application of their duties, for which the base

Rear Admiral Martin Connell (right) presents the award to the HMS Drake Catering team

has reaped the reward of.

“My job is to ensure that the naval service is ready for operations, and this last year that has been particularly challenging. It has been reliant on the energy, industry, initiative, and compassion that many people have shown in order to keep everything going”

Plymouth University - best in the world for marine research and teaching

Plymouth University is leading the world in marine research The University of Plymouth has been named as one of the top 25 institutions globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2021.

The rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In its first appearance in the tables, Plymouth has been ranked 23rd of more than 1,100 universities, reinforcing its reputation for world-leading and award-winning sustainability research and teaching.

It also achieved considerable worldwide success in a number of individual tables including globally first in marine research and teaching and ninth for its efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals through collaboration with other countries, the promotion of best practices and the publication of data.

The university was also in the top 20 in the world for its research on hunger, teaching on food sustainability and its commitment to tackle food waste and address hunger among students and local communities. It achieved top 50 rankings in relation to affordable

and clean energy and sustainable cities and communities.

Professor Judith Petts, ViceChancellor of the universityis one of four sector leaders heading up a Climate Commission for UK Higher and Further Education Leaders.

She said: “This is an outstanding achievement and a ringing endorsement of our excellence in all aspects of sustainability. At a time when climate change is at the forefront of people’s minds, particularly with the UK hosting the G7 summit and Climate Change Conference in 2021, this global endorsement will support our efforts to ensure our work and knowledge continue to have both impact and influence.

“This ranking celebrates decades of building on our core strengths, investing in research teams and facilities and, in particular, it reinforces our leadership in all things marine and rightfully positions us at the global forefront of this field.

“It acknowledges our longstanding partnerships with industry and academia, and our long-standing commitment to use our own sustainability practices to inspire change on a local, regional, and international scale.”

“In the last year, people have gone the extra mile, and I am really grateful to the team here, all of you and your colleagues, for doing exactly that. On behalf of the First Sea Lord, thank you.”

The Logistics Branch Catering Services Team of the Year award notes that the

team had delivered above and beyond in challenging times and also attracted a cash prize as way of rewarding the hard work put in by the team. This will be used to fund a suitable event in recognition of this achievement once the COVID restrictions allow.

Plymouth is blazing a trail when it comes to saving the planet – but there’s still plenty to do Plymouth residents’ planet-saving exploits are blazing a trail for the rest of the UK to follow.

But TV naturalist Chris Packham still issued a rousing rallying cry after it was revealed the city is bucking the national trend – with seven in ten Brits admitting they’re not doing enough to help the environment.

New figures have uncovered the staggering impact of the pandemic on the country’s carbon footprint.

Chris Packham But Plymouth tops the list of the cities where people believe they’re doing enough to be green, with 43 per cent surveyed reckoning they’re pulling their weight compared to the national average of just over three in ten.

Just two per cent of Plymouth admit to doing absolutely nothing to help the environment, with almost three in five (55 per cent) believing they don’t do enough and could do more.

Research from The National Lottery showed Plymouth is a shining light for the country to take inspiration from but Packham, a fervent environmental campaigner, hopes the national figures serve as a wakeup call.

The Springwatch presenter, 59, said: “If we do want to make the future a greener – and greater – place for future generations, we do really need to start changing our behaviour today. It’s good that the public is being so honest about not doing enough to be environmentally friendly – but it does surprise me the figure is so high.”

Cardiff (39 per cent), Bristol (37 per cent) and Brighton (36 per cent) are among the other UK cities where the highest proportion of people believe they’re doing enough to be green, with 36 per cent of all respondents in the South West saying they do enough.

The findings come as part of nationwide National Lottery research, which also revealed more than seven in ten people (73 per cent) admit to using more electricity during lockdown.

And over a third (34 per cent) say they have had the heating on more than ever before.

But almost half (47 per cent) still reckon the world will be a greener place for future generations, with many admitting they will change their habits for the better as restrictions finally ease.

The National Lottery has contributed more than £2.2bn towards green projects and initiatives across heritage, art, community and sport since 2010.

The support has given a shot in the arm to vital projects all around the country – from community groups preserving natural habitats to art installations educating young people on climate change.

The National Lottery is encouraging the public to make a vital contribution to the future of the planet by making a #PlanetaryPromise on social media.

To find out more visit www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/ stories/planetary-promise

USEFUL Lord Mayor’s Centurion Challenge raises NUMBERS June 2021

@PlymChronicle

23

over £20,000 for local dementia charity Sponsored wheelchair half marathons, giving up alcohol, crisps and chocolate and generous donations from local residents and businesses have all contributed to the significant funds raised for a charity close to the heart of the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Alderman Chris Mavin, in the past year.

Despite the restrictions of the last year, more than £21,000 has been raised for Plymouth-based charity the ‘Memory Matters Foundation’ thanks to the efforts of a dedicated group of local fundraisers known as the Centurions.

Former Councillor, Alderman Mavin chose the charity after his father-inThe Lord Mayor, law passed away just before the first Alderman Chris Mavin lockdown after living with dementia with Laura Walker for a number of years. and Kate Smith of Alderman Mavin, who took over Memory Matters the role of Lord Mayor at the start of the pandemic, has worked with retired bank manager, Dawn Young, to help set up the Lord Mayor’s Centurion Challenge. In the past year, the Centurions have taken part in a number of sponsored activities including a wheelchair half marathon, cycling, running, walking, giving up alcohol, crisps or chocolates, cake sales and raffles.

Memory Matters was started in 2010 by two nurses, Laura Walker and Kate Smith, who wanted to ensure there was more support for people affected by dementia across the city.

In March 2017, the duo opened Moments Café in Plymouth City Centre, with all profits going back to the charity. Advice and support is offered to anyone free of charge at the café, and last year 386 people received on the spot support thanks to the charity.

An estimated one in four of all coronavirus deaths have been people with dementia and the ongoing social isolation has made the day to day management of dementia, much more difficult.

Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Alderman Chris Mavin said: “Memory Matters offers vital support to people and families living with dementia and is a charity close to my heart after witnessing the experiences of my father-in-law over a number of years.

“The Lord Mayor would normally have been very busy with many events and functions but due to COVID lockdowns, we decided to concentrate on fundraising for one deserving local charity. Working with my friend, Dawn Young, who volunteered to be the charity fundraiser manager, we have managed to raise over £21,000, which is just incredible given the restrictions we have all faced.

Dawn Young, a retired Santander bank manager, who was instrumental in setting up the Lord Mayor’s Centurion Challenge said: “It has been an absolute pleasure to work with both the Lord and Lady Mayoress raising much needed funds for Memory Matters and I am blown away with the results achieved.

“This all boils down to the amazing people of Plymouth who agreed to be Centurions. Special thanks go out to Santander employees Debra Wood, who arranged activities in three of the city’s branches and Elaine Bleazard, who arranged for all funds raised by her teams to be matched by Santander.”

Kate Smith, co-founder and joint chief executive of Memory Matters said: “We were over the moon to be chosen as the Lord Mayor’s charity. This year has been hard for everyone and harder still for those affected by dementia.”

Blue plaque unveiled in honour of Plymouth air raid shelter victims A new plaque marking the site of an air raid shelter where nine people tragically lost their lives during the Blitz has been unveiled.

The plaque is located on the site of the

former Inverdene Underground Air Raid Shelter in Central Park. It lists all those who were sadly killed after the shelter took a direct hit on the night of April 21/22, 1941.

They were: Charles Alfred Collins, aged 72; Maurice Arthur Creber, aged 15; John William Cuthbert, aged 52; David Charles Hawking, aged 11; Patricia Margaret Hawking, aged 15; Winifred May Hawking, aged 41; Percy Morcam Hobba, aged 35; Dennis Martin, aged 13 and Olive Eliza Pue, aged 49.

All nine were local Peverell residents. The campaign to create a permanent memorial to them has been led by current Peverell resident and Blitz survivor Shirley Stapley.

She was moved to get the plaque installed after the story of the site was shared with her

by Brian Searle.

Brian, who was aged six at the time, was

Pictured at the unveiling of the plaque are (from left) Rachel Eyley (daughter of Shirley Stapley); Shirley Stapley; Louisa Blight, collections manager at The Box and Alan Barclay, collections assistant at The Box

Emergency Numbers

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

Helplines

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

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

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

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

Leisure

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

Weather also in the shelter that night with his mum and granddad. Sadly, his granddad was killed along with a neighbour, her two children and five others when the shelter was hit by a bomb.

Collections manager at The Box, Louisa Blight said: “Over the last few weeks we’ve been humbled by Brian’s story and the many other stories people have been sharing with us about their Blitz experiences. Unveiling this plaque is a very fitting way to round off the city’s commemorations for the

80th anniversary of this significant event in Plymouth’s recent past.

“We hope it will provide a permanent way to honour the people who lost their lives in the Inverdene shelter, and help shed even more light on the events of 1941 which have had such an enduring impact on the city.”

The Inverdene air raid shelter was located just inside Central Park, not far from where Durban Road meets Inverdene. The plaque site is best accessed via the Barn Park entrance to the park or by using shop.games. punch on the what3words app.

The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

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

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

24 June 2021

24 June 2021

@PlymChronicle

Major new exhibition at The Box centred Advertise to over on the creation of Native American belt 24,000 A major new exhibition entitled Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America is one of the major features at The Box which opened again on May 18.

The exhibition is centred on the creation of a newly crafted wampum belt featuring over 5,000 hand-crafted wampum beads and measuring five feet by long by 10 inches wide.

It will appear alongside rarely seen historic wampum belts on loan from the British Museum and Saffron Walden Museum.

It is the first-ever wampum exhibition to be staged in the UK and forms a key part of the Mayflower 400 commemorations involving the UK, USA, Netherlands and Wampanoag Nation.

The key pieces of wampum history, together with contemporary images and films, will be brought together for the first time and told entirely by authentic voices of the Wampanoag Nation who met the passengers of the Mayflower and ensured their survival.

Wampum belts tell stories of communities and culture and embody the Wampanoag’s connection to the sea as well as to life itself.

Whether a spoil of war, an ornament, a souvenir or a gift, each shell is imbued with memory and meaning.

The extraordinary new wampum belt forms the centrepiece of the exhibition at The Box. The belt has been created by over 100 Wampanoag craftspeople of different ages and backgrounds and it is an authentic replication of the wampum belts that were made during the 1600s.

The design has been inspired by tribal elders from the Wampanoag community to reflect their creation story and respect for the earth and its preservation.

The belt depicts the people of all the Wampanoag villages and clans, hand-in-

Making the wampum belt in the traditional Wampanoag Nation way

homes in Waterside & West

Danielle Hill with the new wampum belt

hand, engaging in a round dance.

The creation of the belt has emerged from a special partnership between The Box and members of the Wampanoag, notably SmokeSygnals, plus research at the British Museum. The exhibition promotes the significant renewal of this art form and will take visitors into the world of the Wampanoag who have lived in Massachusetts for 12,000 years and remain on their ancestral lands today.

The exhibition includes a 55-minute documentary that is significant to the Wampanoag. Exclusively shown at The Box, it shows how they have reclaimed their

ancestral language after generations of suppression. Through these authentic voices, Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America explores the Wampanoag’s cultural history and life in America today, the impact of the past on its people, and their creative aspirations for the future.

Jo Loosemore, co-curator of the exhibition said: “400 years ago, England took its culture to Native America. 400 years on, Native America is bringing its culture here. We are honoured to be able to welcome the Wampanoag people and the wampum that is so special to them to The Box. It’s been a privilege to work alongside Wampanoag artists and educators as part of this exhibition.”

Louisa Blight, collections manager at The Box said: “Creating the new wampum belt has been a truly collaborative project that demonstrates the strength of the Wampanoag community and connects the UK and USA in so many ways.

“It’s a hugely important element of the Mayflower 400 programme and it was vital to us right from the start that we made a stepchange from any previous commemorations that have taken place. Recognising the Wampanoag’s involvement is critical in helping everyone understand the history and legacy of the Mayflower, and in helping us to shape an ongoing relationship that stretches across the Atlantic.”

The exhibition is at The Box from May 18 until July 11. Following the exhibition at The Box, it will travel to the Guildhall Art Gallery, London from July 23 to September 5.

For more information and to book a visit go to www.theboxplymouth.com

The Waterside and West Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Stonehouse, Mount Wise, Devonport, Stoke, Keyham, Millbridge, Milehouse, Beacon Park, Pennycross, Ford, North Prospect, Ham, Weston Mill, Barne Barton and St Budeaux.

The July edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on June 25, with a copy deadline of June 14. The Waterside & West edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

We welcome submissions but cannot guarantee publication. We accept press releases in the form of text documents and images in JPG or TIFF format (high resolution please).

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

01752 225623

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

Chronicle Plymouth

June 2021

COVID UPDATE See inside for news and information from Plymouth City Council Pages 2 and 3

Global superstar Deadmau5 will be headlining at the 1 Big Summer event on Plymouth Hoe in August See page 16

CONNECT WITH US @PlymChronicleWW

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

Waterside & West

Gables Dogs & Cats Home appeal for donations to help treat Wanda, who was rescued from a puppy farm See page 4

ALSO INSIDE:

• Dial the Experts • Local news and views

• Cross Rhythms Experience • Useful numbers

SailGP is coming!

Photo: SailGP

The Plymouth Chronicle is published by Cornerstone Vision Limited, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL2 1AE. Registered in England Company Number 05563986. Printed by Newsquest, Weymouth.

Plymouth will host the spectacular SailGP event in July, promising spectators the fastest and most adrenalinfilled sailing action. Thousands of people are expected to watch the action and tickets are now on sale for premium viewing locations and on-water viewing • See story on page 13

Finding SAFE, RELIABLE CARE just got easier Call us on: (01752) 648 320 Email: plymouth@friendshelpingathom e.co.uk

friendshelpingathome.co.uk