Plymouth Chronicle Waterside & West May 2021

Chronicle Plymouth

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

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Waterside & West

May 2021

COVID UPDATE

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A Plymstock mum is receiving five star reviews for her book which charts her battle against cancer See page 24

Young people in Plymouth are set to be inspired by a special programme as part of the big Sail GP event See page 13

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

High octane spectacle!

Barbican Theatre and Plymouth Gladiators Speedway have joined forces to present Petrrol Headz over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The high octane event will feature the best of the modified car scene along with the associated street culture and music • Story and more pictures on page 16

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2 May 2021

2 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

As lockdown eases, let’s not blow it!

I am sure that the continued easing of lockdown measures will be a relief to many people in the city.

It’s great to be able to see our friends and loved ones again, enjoy a drink in our local pub, tidy our lockdown hair and return to our local gym.

We have all given so much over the past few months and this latest milestone in the roadmap is welcomed by us all.

However, without wanting to sound like a broken record, the need to follow the safety rules is just as important now as it was last year. If we do not, we run the risk of welcoming COVID-19 back into our communities.

With the vaccine rollout going well and COVID-19 cases staying relatively low, it is easy to see how people might drop their guard and bend the rules in order to get that much-missed normality back in their

lives. But this would be a huge mistake.

We do expect to see the number of cases go up and down.

However, if we see a significant rise, we risk further restrictions. Therefore, please make sure you remember the rule of six and hands, face and space.

One issue that is getting a lot of local coverage is the increased litter that has come with more people being out and about.

There are over 1,000 bins across the city, with some in popular spots being emptied more than four times a day! We have more loos, more enforcement officers, more COVID marshals and increased CCTV. We are doing all we can, but it is everyone’s responsibility to keep Plymouth safe and tidy.

If you are heading out for a sociallydistanced meet-up with friends, please put

your litter in the bin or take it home.

Over the next few weeks more of our services that have been impacted by the pandemic will begin to reopen.

Make sure you follow our social media feeds and website updates for more information.

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.

COVID-19 vaccine rollout update

More than 132,200 people in Plymouth (over 60 per cent of residents) have now had their first COVID-19 vaccination and 40,500 have had their second vaccination.

Everyone aged 50 and over, frontline health and care workers and people who are clinically vulnerable have all been offered the vaccine. Anyone in these eligible groups who hasn’t already had the vaccination is still being advised to make an appointment through the National Booking Service: • Visit www.nhs.uk/conditionscoronaviruscovid-19/coronavirusvaccination/bookcoronavirus-vaccination • Or call 119 Now, people aged 45 to 49 are eligible for their jab. Appointments on the National

Booking Service are filling quickly but new slots are being released regularly for Home Park, as well as selected pharmacies.

Dr Paul Johnson, a GP and Chair of NHS Devon Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We are delighted to be able to start offering coronavirus vaccinations to the next cohort of people – those aged 45 and above.

“New appointments are being regularly added so please keep checking back on the national website over the next few days.

“Please do not contact your GP practice about an appointment – they will contact you when they are able to book you in.”

The vaccine rollout has been boosted by the first delivery of the Moderna vaccine in Devon.

Moderna is the third COVID-19 vaccination to be offered by the NHS and uses

technology similar to the Pfizer vaccine.

Eligible people aged under 30, with no underlying health conditions will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, where available.

The NHS is reassuring people that the Astra Zeneca vaccine is safe, effective and has already saved thousands of lives.

They estimate that the overall risk of blood clots for the Astra Zeneca vaccine is four in every million people who receive the jab and advises that people should have their second dose unless they experienced blood clots.

Second doses normally take place 11 to 12 weeks after the first vaccination. Anyone who has not had their second vaccination after 12 weeks should email: d-ccg. devonvaccinationsupport@nhs.net or call 01752 398836.

Pick up your free COVID-19 test kit @PlymChronicle

Nearly 5,000 symptom-free home testingkits were handed out at the new pop-up COVID testing stand in the city centre in its first week.

The Government has announced that everyone who is going to work, or regularly going out and about, should take a rapid, lateral flow test twice a week. The tests are for people who are not displaying any symptoms of COVID-19.

To make it as easy as possible for local people to get these tests, there are a number of locations in Plymouth where they can be conducted under supervision or collected and carried out at home.

May 2021

Plymouth City Council has set up a temporary stall in Place de Brest, near Barclays bank. It is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 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.

Free tests are also available through the mobile testing van, which visits locations around the city, although test numbers are limited each day. All of the city’s pharmacies now stock the testing kits too.

To book your test or for further information visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/gettested.

Libraries reopen their doors People can now browse the shelves and book PCs at the city’s libraries again, although special measures and reduced opening hours are in place to ensure the safety of staff and customers.

As before, there are limits on the number of people allowed in at any one time and everyone is being asked to check in with the NHS Test and Trace app or provide their details on arrival.

Customers are also asked to wear a face covering (unless exempt) and use the hand sanitiser provided, as well as follow social distancing guidance and the one-way systems in place.

Additional cleansing is being carried out and there are ‘quarantine’ containers for items handled but not borrowed (and returned items), along with protective screens at service counters.

You can still take advantage of the Select and Collect service and download free eBooks,

eAudiobooks and eMagazines, as well as digital comics and newspapers, with your library card.

Regular library events and activities remain suspended for now but some sessions, including Storytimes, Rhymetimes and Book Troop, are hosted on Facebook.

For each library’s opening hours and full details see the Council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ coronaviruscovid19informationaboutlibraries

COVID-safe voting this May Plymouth is getting ready to head to the polls on Thursday 6 May for the City Council and Police and Crime Commissioner elections.

The Council has been busy making preparations to ensure that the whole election process is as safe as possible during the pandemic and things are going to look a bit different for voters this year.

Around 35,000 people have taken the opportunity to vote by post in these elections but a range of measures will be in place at polling stations to help those voting in person to stay safe.

People can expect many of the things they’ve become used to in shops and banks over recent months, such as hand sanitiser, floor markings and face coverings. There will also be queuing systems and, of course, social distancing Polling booths will be cleaned very regularly throughout the day. Voters are encouraged to take their own pencil or pen but pencils will be provided and sanitised between uses.

For more information about the elections visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/votingandelections.

NOTE: The information on these pages was correct at time of going to press on April 22.

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

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4 May 2021

4 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Horticultural havens set to open in support of local hospice care

Memorial to the victims of slavery is unveiled

Plymouth marked the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade with a new memorial.

Earlier this year, the council committed to commemorating the victims of slavery and the memorial has been unveiled to pay tribute to all of those who suffered and died as a result of historical slavery and also as a result of modern forms of slavery. The memorial features former Plymouth MP and artist William Elford along with the countless other individuals and organisations who worked tirelessly to ensure the abolition of the slave trade.

It is mounted on a limestone plinth and features a plaque with an image of the British slave ship Brookes, designed by William Elford.

This image was first published in a pamphlet by the Plymouth chapter of the Society for Effecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade and became one of the most important symbols of the national abolitionist campaign.

The memorial sits within the Plymouth Hoe Peace Garden, a space for contemplation and reflection.

A local charity is marking the return of one of its most popular annual fundraising events by inviting people to enter an online competition for the chance to win an original painting by internationally acclaimed, Plymouth-based artist Brian Pollard.

Brian has donated the captivating land and seascape to St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, of which he is a Patron, to help the charity launch its Open Gardens scheme for this spring and summer, following a hiatus to the event last year because of COVID-19 safety restrictions. The charming image also features on the cover of the flyer promoting the scheme, which sees kind-hearted owners of beautiful gardens across Devon and Cornwall throw open their gates in aid of St Luke’s and its specialist end of life care for local people with terminal illness.

Brian, who works from his Plymouth studio and regularly shares his new work on Instagram, enjoys visiting the gardens each year with his wife Jane. He said: “As a former GP, I know just how needed St Luke’s is and the important difference it makes to local families at a very tough time. The Open Gardens scheme is one of the most enjoyable and inspiring ways people

Artist Brian Pollard with the painting competition prize

can show their support for the charity and help build its resilience for the future, and I’m delighted to be able to help by donating my painting as a competition prize.

“In it, I chose to highlight the

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beauty of the South Hams because St Luke’s care extends beyond Plymouth to people living in the rural surrounding areas, and the waves on the sea are a reminder of the therapeutic power of the water

that surrounds our coast.”

This year’s Open Gardens season gets underway on April 18 with the opening of Lower Coombe Royal, near Kingsbridge, where eight acres of gardens and woodland await visitors. Next to open, on April 21, is Weir Cottage near Bere Alston followed on April 25 by country house Gnaton Hall, near Yealmpton, where visitors can discover stunning terraced lawns and walled gardens as well as peaceful woodland walks.

With more gardens set to be added to the programme over coming weeks, St Luke’s is also introducing a special event likely to appeal to young families in particular – its first-ever Open Farm.

On August 4, South Battisborough Farm, on the road to Mothecombe Beach, will welcome visitors in aid of the charity, giving them the opportunity to see a working farm in action.

Also new is St Luke’s online booking system for Open Gardens and Open Farms, which has replaced the pay in-person on the day process of previous years. Tickets, which are £5 per adult, can be purchased at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/ opengardens, where there are details of all the locations taking part in this year’s scheme.

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@PlymChronicle

Multi-million investment in digital infrastructure for Plymouth

Plymouth will see tens of millions pounds investment in expanding its digital infrastructure over the next three years as part of an ambition to become one of the best-connected cities in the UK for residents, businesses and visitors.

Plymouth City Council recognises that investment in digital technology will be vitally important as the city’s economy looks to bounce back from the effects of the pandemic. Easily available, low-cost high speed digital connections will boost business productivity, innovation, create thousands of jobs and deliver hundreds of millions of pounds in economic benefits for the city.

The council also aims to tackle the issue of the digital divide in the city with an estimated eight per cent of Plymouth residents (around 20,000 people) digitally excluded and lacking the skills, equipment or motivation to take up online services Investment in digital infrastructure already underway across Plymouth includes: • Working with CityFibre, the UK’s third largest national infrastructure platform, on a £52m project which will see gigabit full fibre connectivity delivered to nearly every property across the city. The project will create a competitive alternative to existing copper cables with a full fibre network transforming the digital connectivity of the city. CityFibre estimates the project will boost Plymouth’s overall economy by around £600m in the next 15 years.

• By this summer, BT, working with engineers from Openreach, will have delivered 131 full fibre connections to public sector properties across Plymouth and surrounding area. The Local Fast Fibre Network project, which has been given £2.3m funding by the Government, means key public services such as hospitals, clinics, doctors’ surgeries, schools, youth centres, libraries and council buildings will benefit from ultrafast fibre broadband with download speeds of up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit per second).

• Openreach has also already started work to extend its existing superfast fibre network at two of the seven local exchanges in the city, increasing speeds available from up to 80Mbps available today to full fibre 1Gbps.

• Across the city this year, VirginMedia, will be upgrading its network of coaxial cable to 1 Gbps speeds.

• Widespread availability of fibre broadband will enable provision of the next generation of mobile services using 5G, which is already live in the city with more coverage being rolled out over the next three years.

• Smart Sound Connect is an extension to the established Smart Sound Plymouth marine innovation testing and proving ground administered by our European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) supported marine innovation service, the Marine Business Technology Centre (MBTC). Providing the world’s first oceanbased 5G testbed, Smart Sound Connect allows marine businesses to utilise high speed data networks to accelerate the development of marine autonomy, clean propulsion, environmental monitoring and modelling and cyber security solutions.

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Hair today, gone tomorrow for kind-hearted Esmae

Six year old Esmae Heaney was out shopping in Plymouth with her mum Tegan when she saw another little girl of a similar age who had no hair.

Esmae asked her mum why the little girl looked like that. Tegan explained that she was receiving treatment for cancer and that this was one of the effects caused by chemotherapy. Nothing more was said and Tegan thought that was the end of it.

But several days later Esmae asked her mum: “If I cut my hair off could I give it to that little girl.”

Esmae had not had her hair cut since she was born, with the exception of trims to tidy it up and so her request came as a big shock as both mother and daughter loved her hair long but, she insisted that was what she would like to do.

Tegan with the help of her grandfather Ray Sparkes who lives in Exeter looked into how they Esmae before... could carry out Esmae’s wishes and after a long search they found an organisation called The Little Princess Trust. ...and after The Trust was founded in 2006 and provides free real hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions.

Providing free real hair wigs is at the heart of what they do and they have supplied over 8000 free wigs since 2006 and have invested £5 million for ground breaking research towards the development of less aggressive and less toxic cancer treatments.

Not only did Esmae donate 50cm of her hair but she also raised hundreds of pounds in sponsorship including £200 from her great grandfather’s Masonic lodge, St. John the Baptist, one of the oldest English Freemasons lodges in the world which is based in Exeter.

6 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Tom Jones September concert will take place in Central Park Tom Jones has confirmed that he will be performing in Plymouth later this year - with a new date and venue.

His much-anticipated concert was originally scheduled for June 18 on The Hoe, but this was just a few days before Government restrictions are due to be lifted for large scale events. The re-scheduled date of Saturday September 18 will allow organisers time to ensure the safest, most secure environment for all fans attending.

The concert venue has been switched from The Hoe to Central Park, following determined efforts by Plymouth City Council to ensure the event went ahead.

Tom Jones said: “After such a tough year for us all I’m delighted that I will be able to get back on stage and perform for you all this summer.

We’re going to have one heck of a party!”

It has been confirmed that tickets purchased before the change of venue and date remain valid for the concert.

Promoter Liz Doogan-Hobbs said: “We are delighted to confirm that Tom will be performing in Central Park in Plymouth this summer. It has been such a tough time for everyone with no live events being able to take place for more than a year.

“By re-locating the concert to Central Park, we are able to take

advantage of better facilities and have been able to involve the football club who have been extremely supportive and will be also offering a hospitality upgrade.

“We must also extend our thanks to Plymouth City Council for their on-going support, who have been extremely flexible and worked really hard to make the change of venue possible.

“We know it will be one epic party in Central Park and we’re looking

forward to sharing that with everyone in Plymouth!”

Tickets to see Tom Jones on Saturday September 18 in Central Park are on sale now priced from £39.50 plus booking fee. Hospitality upgrades are available from pafc. co.uk but tickets must be purchased separately.

For more details or to book tickets visit www.tomjones.com; www. lhgtickets.com; www.ticketmaster. co.uk

“He is going to be a very loving addition to a home once he has had all the treatment he needs.”

It is estimated it will cost Gables an additional £600 for all of Lumpy Larry’s treatment and aftercare to ensure that he is well enough to go on to find his purrfect, forever home.

Gables Dogs & Cats Home does not receive any government funding and

has felt the financial strain from the pandemic, but they are determined to help Lumpy Larry.

People can help ease Gables financial burden by making a contribution to ‘Lumpy Larry’s Vet Appeal’, please call 01752 331602 or visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/LumpyLarry2021 to donate online.

Gables help unwanted cat in need of urgent medical care Gables Dogs & Cats Home have taken in an unwanted, overweight cat which desperately needed medical care.

Lumpy Larry, as he has affectionately been named, arrived at Gables with tightly matted fur all over his body and a large tumour on his face, which had been left untreated.

Lumpy Larry is a friendly, affectionate cat and Gables are certain he will have no problem finding a new home once he is well enough.

As well as needing to lose some weight, nine year old Lumpy Larry is going to need a lot of medical treatment and TLC to get him back to peak condition. His fur was so tightly matted on arrival, he had to be shaved all over under anaesthetic, but he feels much more comfortable now.

He will also be fully vaccinated, treated for fleas and worms, have a much needed dental and his tumour removed.

Deputy manager, Ruth Rickard said: “It is always so distressing to see an animal suffer from something that is so easily preventable and treatable.

As soon as I heard about poor Lumpy Larry I just knew we could help him and he is such a sweet, friendly boy.

Our vet even had trouble listening to his heart properly as he was purring so loudly on examination.

May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Campaign to plant thousands of trees in city A fast-growing online Plymouth business has launched an initiative to plant thousands of trees in the city.

The CMOStores group has a proven record as an ambitious and forward-looking business and the construction products and DIY e-commerce specialist is now applying these same principles to its environmental commitments.

The online builders’ merchant, based in Ernesettle has launched a new charitable and environmental initiative called ‘CMGrow’ with an initial target of planting 5,000 trees – that’s around two acres - in its local area within two years. The company is aiming to not only reduce its own carbon footprint but also to improve air quality in Plymouth.

To help realise this ambitious goal CMOStores.com, together with the group’s latest acquisition, Total Tiles, has officially partnered with Trees for Cities, the only UK charity working at a national and international scale to improve lives by planting trees in urban areas.

Under the campaign, CMOStores.com and Total Tiles are encouraging staff, suppliers and customers to contribute through fundraising and donations with a target of raising £30,000, which will be funnelled directly into the treeplanting.

Members of the CMO team will also undertake a series of

fundraising challenges throughout the summer, and hope to begin putting trees in the ground later this year.

Commenting on the CMGrow initiative, CMOStores. com’s managing director, Sue Packer, said: “As a business, we’re increasingly conscious of the impact we have on the natural world, and we feel we have a duty to play our part in taking care of our planet. As a peoplefocused business that understands the importance of getting stuck in on a project, we were searching for a way to take a hands-on approach to this challenge, and Trees for Cities gives us the opportunity to do just

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that.

“I love the great outdoors, so this is a cause that is close to my heart. I’m delighted that we’re able to have a positive impact on our environment, and can start by making the South West even more beautiful as well as contributing to the wellbeing of all.

Rory Field, corporate partnerships director at Trees for Cities, added: “The more trees we plant, the greener our towns and cities become, so we’re delighted to have corporate partners like CMO on board and we’re looking forward to supporting the company with its ambitious goal of planting 5,000 trees.”

For details visit www.cmostores.com on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

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Controversial phone mast plan rejected after local protests Plans to site a mobile phone mast in a quiet residential area of Morice Town have been turned down after a wave of objections.

A planning application had been made by Mobile Broadband Network Limited on behalf of HG3 and EE networks and would have seen a 20 metre high mast and associated equipment cabinets located on the pavement at Cross Hill in Morice Town.

The mast would have been almost equivalent to the height of five double decker buses.

The application had been recommended for approval by planning officers but was overturned by members of the Plymouth City Council planning committee when they reviewed the plan earlier this month.

The proposal was opposed by local residents as well as local MP Luke Pollard and Devonport’s Labour councillors.

Luke Pollard MP said: “We need a better mobile signal across Plymouth but this mast was too big for a quiet residential area. I shared the concerns of local residents that it would have blighted the area with extra street clutter while returning little extra benefit to local residents.”

Charlotte Cree, Labour’s candidate in Devonport ward said: “I was very worried about such a huge mast being erected in the middle of Morice Town during a pandemic. A lot of people living close to the proposed site were unaware of the proposals. For a communications company, their communications with local residents was not good enough.”

Cllr Mark Coker called for the application to be referred to the planning committee and it was rejected when the committee met on April 8.

He said: “A mast this size would not be acceptable in the middle of Peverell or Plympton and it isn’t acceptable in the middle of Morice Town. We were determined to fight this all the way.”

Devonport’s other councillor, Cllr Bill Stevens chairs the Planning Committee and was prevented by law from having a view on the matter until it was considered at the planning committee.

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8 May 2021

Government’s public health funding for Plymouth is ‘shameful’

8 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Mountain of litter collected over Easter weekend break

Government funding for local public health services in Plymouth has been described as ‘shameful’ after a year of struggling with coronavirus, and will put the health and wellbeing of local people’s lives at risk.

Despite having additional responsibilities to combat COVID-19, Plymouth City Council will receive a belowinflation increase to public health funding.

Throughout the pandemic, the council has been responsible for providing a range of services to help tackle COVID-19 infection rates, from local track and trace, supporting the roll out of the vaccine and protecting the vulnerable. These responsibilities are set to continue for months to come.

Yet despite Kate Taylor this, and the growing uncertainties of the wider impact of the pandemic on the city, the Government has only allocated the council £58.61 per head of population, a rise of only 64p per person, which is effectively a cut in real terms.

Councillor Kate Taylor, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, and Chair of the Health and Wellbeing Board for Plymouth Council, said: “This funding allocation is nothing short of shameful.

The Government’s investment in the health and wellbeing of local people is woefully inadequate.

“We have local people who need our help and these additional pennies don’t even scratch the surface “Throughout the last 12 months, we have seen all too clearly how public health matters, and for that not to be recognised in this funding announcement will make the job of tackling the issues that COVID-19 has either caused, exacerbated or highlighted, so much harder.

“How are we supposed to improve lives and reduce the strain on the NHS if the Government aren’t prepared to put their hand in their very deep pockets?

“Yet again, councils will be forced to come to the rescue and bail out the Government when they have failed to act.”

Public health funding per head of population for Plymouth has been historically lower than it should have been since the service moved from the NHS to the local authority.

Plymouth’s allocation is once again substantially lower than other areas of the country. For example, the City of London has been allocated over £188 per head of population, and Kensington and Chelsea £138. In addition, the allocation does not take into account the health inequality in the city – with one in five children living in poverty.

The Local Government Association, which represents councils, has said that nationally, since 2015, funding for public health services from the Government has reduced by a quarter.

Over 24 tonnes of litter was collected from across the city over the Easter weekend - despite pleas to people to take their rubbish home.

In preparation for the long weekend, Plymouth City Council stepped up measures to ensure that the city was ready for an influx of people out and about, keeping popular hotspots like The Hoe, clean and safe for everyone.

Additional efforts included: • Dozens of additional bins were installed in high footfall areas. All were regularly emptied. This resulted in over 24 tonnes of litter being collected across the weekend, with nearly six tonnes being removed from the waterfront alone - the average daily collection from the waterfront is half a tonne

• A small army of cleaning staff collecting rubbish that people had abandoned in public places. This included staff working from 6am each day to clean up the rubbish left on The Hoe – including Easter Sunday.

• As well as the public toilets being open, there were 10 temporary portaloos on the Hoe and two portaloos in Vauxhall Street car park which are emptied daily and cleaned three times a day.

• Increased COVID Marshals gave out advice and guidance across the city for longer hours • A team of youth officers workied with young people to help support on any issues arising.

Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council said: “We worked hard to make sure that there were more bins, loos, staff

Lecturers pulling out all the stops as City College prepares to host Year 11 taster sessions in June City College Plymouth is looking forward to welcoming prospective students back to the campus as it prepares to host its popular Year 11 taster sessions for the first time in more than a year.

The short, hands-on sessions are ideal for those still unsure about what they would like to study in September or, for those already with a career in mind, these tasters are a great way of finding out what City College has to offer.

With a session for each main subject area, lecturers are devising a schedule of activities for all who sign up to these tasters, which are due to be held during the June half-term holiday.

Those interested in science will get to take a look at their own blood under a microscope, whilst those who are planning to attend the media taster will experience the college’s green room before heading outside for some drone action (weather permitting).

Marketing and student recruitment officer, Ellen Cotter, said: “After such a long period of not being able to hold taster sessions, our lecturers have put a lot of effort into planning some truly exciting activities that will showcase what the college has to offer.

“There will be gel polish and nail art techniques for those hoping to study beauty therapy, whilst aspiring engineers will look at microcontroller simulations. City College prides itself on its highly experienced lecturers who value the importance of hands-on, practical learning, and they are looking forward to hosting these popular sessions once again.

“Our courses range from entry-level right up to degree-level and our staff are fantastic at supporting students of all abilities and backgrounds. We also offer outstanding facilities, a diverse range of enrichment activities, and a wealth of support services.”

There is no limit on the number of sessions a person can attend, but booking is essential. Please see the full schedule below. To sign up, please see www.cityplym.ac.uk/event/year-11-taster-sessions-2/. Spaces are limited due to strict social distancing measures. Booking will close on May 21.

The sessions will take place from June 1 to June 3 and will involve more than 20 different course opportunities, ranging from Art to Computing and Games Development, Dance to Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy, Painting and Decorating to Travel and Tourism.

collecting litter and COVID Marshals. But it was disappointing to see that many people still felt it was okay to leave their rubbish on the grass, where they were sitting. It was very selfish.

“As the city continues to unlock over the weeks and months ahead, we will continue to play our part. But we need all residents and visitors to do their bit too.

“Over the next few weeks, we will continue to prioritise safety and cleanliness. But our enforcement officers will be out and about across the city, targeting hot spots when we know there is an issue and working closely with the police. It is not just for the council to ensure that the city is clean – it is a responsibility for all residents and businesses.”

Fly-tipped fridges lead to thousands in fines and costs

Two fridges dumped on a Plymouth street led to an unregistered waste carrier being ordered to pay £2,218 in fines and costs by the city’s magistrates.

Glynn Hobbs of West End Road, Beacon Park, pleaded guilty to four offences under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 in a prosecution brought by Plymouth City Council.

They were for fly tipping two fridges in a Devonport lane with no environmental permit and failing to provide written information to the council about the transport and disposal of garden and household waste by GKH Waste on 9, 16 and 17 July 2020.

The 35-year-old, appeared via video link from Charles Cross Police Station was fined £480 for the first offence, £100 for the second with no separate penalties for the further offences. He was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £58 and costs of £1,580 to the Council.

Magistrates heard that a resident got in touch with the council after he saw a man with a tipper van throw two fridges from the back of the van onto the lane on 16 July before clearing off. The resident was able to supply the council with CCTV footage.

The concerned resident also carried out some sleuthing of his own and discovered the GKH and phone number on the van could be traced via Facebook to a waste removal company, GKH

waste removals.

A council investigation got underway and an officer contacted the company to ask for their waste carriers licence number. Hobbs, who answered the call, explained he was applying for one but could not provide confirmation that the application had been received.

He also claimed that fridges were only left for a few hours and he had planned to pick them up.

The resident contacted the council again to explain the fridges had been removed. The CCTV time indicated this happened minutes after Hobbs had received the call from the council.

The court was told that the waste company had stopped trading and magistrates took on board his guilty plea and the fact he had tried to pay some of the fines.

Nicola Horne, the council’s environmental health protection manager said: “This reinforces the importance of making sure people who take your rubbish follow the law and are registered waste carriers and have the correct paperwork – you can check if someone is registered as a waste carrier onlineenvironment.data. gov.uk/public-register/view/index “We would also like to thank the resident who was rightly outraged by what he saw and decided enough was enough.”

If anyone sees any flytipping they can report it, and provide as many details as possible www.plymouth.gov. uk/streetcareandcleaning/ reportflytipping

May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Mental health charities launch new initiative

Two of Devon’s leading mental health charities have joined forces to tackle poor mental health in Devon in the wake of the pandemic.

Devon Mind and Step One Charity have launched Devon Mind x Step One, a joint initiative created in response to the desperate need for mental health services across the county in the wake of this unprecedented challenge.

COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on the mental health of the nation. In Devon, an area heavily reliant on tourism and hospitality and where rural locations can lead to isolation, the true cost on the mental health of people in the county has yet to be calculated. In June of last year, estimates suggested as many as 12,500 people in Devon would be seeking support for their mental health as a result of coronavirus.

As we emerge from our third national lockdown, that figure is likely to rise significantly.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, both Devon Mind and Step One have been working hard to identify opportunities to deliver their services in ways that are as safe and accessible as possible – with both charities offering innovative online support.

Devon Mind x Step One is a strong, positive response to COVID-19 which draws on the resources and specialist knowledge of both charities. It sees the two collaborating in an effort to create better outcomes for people across the county, at a time when it is most needed.

Devon Mind x Step One offers highly accessible, free to access digital mental health and wellbeing support, through a unique blended approach to delivery. By working together, the charities bring the best Devon has to offer in online mental health support through a mix of live modular courses, pre-recorded webinars, and bite size briefings and workshops.

This is just the first step in a planned series of collaborative programmes throughout 2021.

Delivering support where it will have the biggest impact, courses cover topics such as anxiety, depression, bereavement and change management and everything is free and open to everyone.

Speaking about the collaboration, Devon Mind CEO Olivia Craig commented: “Our collaboration was borne out of a desire to ensure that people had access to a wide support offer – that they should only need to go through ‘one front door’ to discover courses, workshops and groups that will benefit their mental health. We will continue to work together to develop and grow more opportunities to support people in Devon who need us.”

CEO of Step One, Eilis Rainsford, added: “During the pandemic, we recognised people’s need for mental health support was increasing and our charity wanted to do something to address this. We have been running free online support and training sessions since last November and the demand for these courses has continued to rise.”

All courses in the Devon Mind x Step One programme are now available for self-referral at www.devonmind.com/devon-mind-x-stepone and www.steponecharity.co.uk/devonmind-x-step-one. More courses, webinars and workshops will be added in the coming weeks based on popularity and feedback from local communities.

9

‘Bold decisions will be needed on future of Debenhams and House of Fraser buildings’ - city centre company chief Bold and brave decisions will be needed on the future of the former Debenhams and House of Fraser stores in Plymouth City Centre.

That’s the view of Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company. He called for landlords to be more realistic on rents and urged for reforms to be made to the business rates system ‘which is crippling the retail and hospitality sector and stifling investment.’

Steve’s views were included in a document called ’Saving the High Street’ which was published in the latest edition of Plymouth White Papers - a collection of reports by civic leaders and other members of the community.

The Plymouth White Papers are an initiative of Luke Pollard MP and the third in the series was launched in mid-April with the title ‘Recovery.’

Previous White Papers published in 2018 and 2019 were entitled ‘Ambition’ and ‘Marine.’

The latest publication focussed on how Plymouth would recover from the effects of the pandemic and featured reports by a number of influential figures including Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth, Laura Kriefman, chief executive of the Barbican Theatre and Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council.

There were also contributions from individuals involved in the education sector, food poverty and young children and families.

In his section Steve Hughes said: “In Plymouth city centre retail vacancy rates rose to more than 20 per cent in March this year with more than 100 units now permanently closed.

Hundreds of retail staff have lost their jobs as a result.

“Against this backdrop, it would be easy to think the high street in general and Plymouth City Centre will never be the same again. And that’s true - we will never again fill all those empty shops with similar retail offers, nor should we.

“But that doesn’t mean the death of the high street - it means we have to adapt and COVID-19 has simply accelerated the pace of that change.

“What successful high streets need now is a new approach. Strong high streets need to be places people want to go to, not just for shopping, but for everything that they have been missing during these toughest of times. They will want to go to

places where they can meet friends, family and colleagues in pleasant surroundings. Somewhere, they can sit outside, eat and drink, and take in some street theatre or public entertainment.

“The spaces between the buildings should be every bit as important as the spaces inside.

Clean, green, clutter free, contemporary, well-lit, safe and a pleasure to walk or cycle through.

“Successful high streets will have a year-round events programme, a strong evening economy and variety of things to do and see. Culture and public art will become increasingly important.

And so will the customer experience. If it’s not good enough, the customer will simply go elsewhere.”

He said that thanks to a forward thinking city council and its strong ethos of partnership working, Plymouth was ahead of the game and much of this was happening or already on the way.

“We recognised years ago that the city centre retail footprint was too large and that we needed a much more vibrant and diverse offer, encompassing leisure, commerce and culture, giving people more reasons to visit.

“That work started to bear fruit last year with the opening of The Barcode, a £53 million new leisure and restaurant complex, including CineWorld multiplex cinema and giant IMAX screen. This was quickly followed by the opening

of The Box, Plymouth’s new £50 million museum and art gallery – the biggest cultural attraction to open in the UK in 2020. The benefit of both those schemes to the city centre economy will be huge, but has been delayed by the COVID lockdown.

“With the easing of COVID restrictions, and a huge city centre renaissance programme underway, we are doing the right things in Plymouth to create a city centre that we can be proud of and will, once again, be a focal point for residents and a popular destination for new visitors. With the conversion of the Civic Centre into a conference centre and apartments now confirmed, along with huge improvements at the railway station, new health hub for Colin Campbell Court and major improvement works to its streets and public spaces, Plymouth has much to look forward to.

“Investors are interested in Plymouth’s plan for the future as shown by the recent opening of Hugo Boss in Drake Circus and the soon-to-be open craft ale bar BrewDog at The Barcode. Add to this, the move by B & M and two restaurants into the former BHS building, the planned Premier Inn at Derrys Cross and the new 95-bed Hotel Oyo above the former Woolworths store and there is strong evidence that there is huge potential for our city centre to emerge from this crisis in good spirits.”

In his introduction to the White Papers, Luke Pollard MP said: “Plymouth is an incredible place to live, visit, work and play. Our challenge is to ensure that as we emerge from the pandemic, from austerity and from the recession we are a better, fairer and greener city. It can be done - and it must be done.”

10 May 2021

10 May 2021

SAVE OUR SANCTUARY: CHARITY IS ON THE BRINK OF COLLAPSE An equine sanctuary which has rescued over 200 horses and ponies has launched a desperate appeal for help.

Hoofbeats Sanctuary was formed 21 years ago

by Sharon Vieira and for nearly 10 years has been based at Lower Collard Farm at Wotter on the outskirts of Plymouth.

At a time where many charities are struggling, and fundraising events have been at a standstill for 12 months or more, Hoofbeats Sanctuary have been told they must find a new home as their landlord takes back their rented land.

The charity has rescued and rehomed over 200 horses and ponies since they were first launched in 2000. The sanctuary offers a safe haven for horses of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds and has seen troubled residents go on to find forever loving homes thanks to the hard work and dedication of Team Hoofbeats - the charity’s completely volunteer based team.

Having turned so many horses and ponies’ fortunes around from their quiet and unassuming fields on the edge of Plymouth, Hoofbeats are now hoping their fortune can be turned around by the generosity of members of the public, without which, the future for Hoofbeats and the horses that call it home is uncertain.

The charity’s ‘Save our Sanctuary’ appeal has been launched as an emergency response to the ‘devastating’ news that their landlord wishes to take back the land they rent for his own

Devonport Boxing Club in fighting form thanks to new £1000 funding

Members of a Plymouth boxing club will be as pleased as punch to get back in the ring when lockdown ends – and they’ll be doing it in smart new kit.

Fighters at Devonport Amateur Boxing Club (DABC) are getting branded club gear for competitions thanks to a £1,000 grant from South West Water, alongside a host of new training equipment in the gym.

The popular club is free of charge to join and welcomes members from the age of eight upwards, offering boxing training for fitness.

Gym users can also spar with fellow members, with talented boxers often taking part in regional and national competitions for the club.

In normal times, it raises funds from local business sponsorship and boxing exhibitions, so COVID-19 restrictions have seriously affected its ability to raise its running costs. Three fundraising exhibitions have had to be cancelled over the last 12 months and it is still not clear when amateur boxing competitions will begin.

Despite the challenges, DABC has continued to offer training to members, with the management committee – all ex-boxers with connections to the club – insisting its valuable community work should continue. Club volunteer Marie McNaught applied for the club’s grant after seeing information about South West Water’s new Neighbourhood Fund in her water bill.

The water company is currently handing out £100,000 to worthy causes this year across its operating area.

Marie said: “We never usually ask for money for kit and equipment, so South West Water has really taken this burden off us and ensures the team remains on equal footing.

We are committed to never charge fees so we can welcome as many users as possible, but not being able to run our usual fundraising exhibitions has hurt us financially. We are very grateful for the help.”

To find out more visit southwestwater.co.uk/ community/support/neighbourhood-fund.

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Hoofbeats founder Sharon Vieira with some of the ponies the charity has rescued

business venture.

Sharon Vieira said: “As a team, we find ourselves in a heart-breaking situation, this is very raw for

us and we are desperately trying to find a way forward.

“At a time that all charities are struggling to

keep their head above water and with us being unable to do any fundraising events this could not have come at a worse time.”

Having made Lower Collard Farm their home over the past ten years, the volunteers at Hoofbeats have put in ‘an unimaginable amount of hard work, money, effort and time’ to make it the safe haven the horses and ponies so deserve.

Sharon added: “Hoofbeats is so much more than just a horse welfare charity: our horses have helped people along the way too.

“I have been overwhelmed with the messages of support received in just a few days that tell stories of our work, and the horses, having such a positive effect on many of our supporters and volunteers’ mental health.

“This news is such a blow for the charity, the horses, and for us all as a team personally too.

“As a charity we cannot face this sort of turmoil again, which is why this urgent appeal, at what is already a difficult time, is asking for anyone who supports our mission to give generously if they can to help us purchase a permanent residence for the sanctuary.”

Hoofbeats have set up a crowd funding campaign to help raise the money to do this so that the future of its work, and its horses and ponies, is never at risk again.

To pledge your donation to the charity’s emergency appeal, please visit: www. crowdfunder.co.uk/save-our-sanctuary

Explosive search dog who helped protect Royal Family is now retired in the Devon countryside A military police dog who helped to protect the Royal Family during public events is now enjoying a quiet retirement in Devon.

Retired police dog Atos worked with his partner, PC Claire Addems, to keep members of the Royal Family and the public safe at large events. But the springer spaniel was forced to retire early after being diagnosed with a fear of travelling in the car and chronic arthritis.

Claire, from Ivybridge, was paired up with 12-month-old Atos in 2013 for their initial explosive search course at the Ministry of Defence Police HQ in Essex, after he’d been brought over from the Netherlands. Following the eight-week training course, Claire and Atos were based at Atomic Weapons Establishment Burghfield in Berkshire, for their entire five-year career together.

Claire said: “Atos was a fantastic search dog.

He was so full of drive and had such a passion for his work. We worked together on many important jobs, including searches for members of the Royal Family in Portsmouth Dockyard and at Horseguards in London.

“Atos never failed me and always passed his licensing with ease, he loved to work and loved to please me and, of course, loved to get that tennis ball at the end of a job!

“Atos was incredibly enthusiastic in his job.

Sometimes that caused problems. He had no fear and wouldn’t hesitate which ended up in a few visits to the vets with split pads or cuts from running through bracken and forest.”

In 2019, at just six-years-old, Atos was diagnosed with arthritis and Claire also raise some concerns about the springer spaniel’s travel anxiety.

“He started to suffer from arthritis – due to the pressure he’d put on his body during his years of service – and as he got older his travel fears worsened,” Claire added. “It got to the point where I’d have to physically put him in the car as he’d avoid the vehicle at all costs.

Claire with Atos

“It was decided that Atos would retire and he then became my responsibility. The Army take care of food and medical costs during the dog’s working life but, as soon as they retire, all costs become the sole responsibility of the owner.” Just a year into his retirement, in September 2020, Atos ruptured his cruciate ligament during a walk. The Thin Blue Paw Foundation – a charity established just a month earlier to help support ex-service dogs in their retirement – stepped in to help Claire and Atos, and pay for £3,000 vet bill.

“We were faced with a substantial vet bill and, due to him being a retired police dog, we had struggled to get insurance for him,” Claire added.

“That is when Thin Blue Paw Foundation stepped in and approved to cover all of Atos’s medical bills which were in excess of £3,000. I cannot express how grateful I am to the charity for their

generosity and the financial pressure it has taken off me and my family.

“As a working explosive search dog Atos had all his vet bills paid for by the force he served, but, on his retirement, it fell to me as his new owner.

This was a burden I was more than willing to take on but with charities like The Thin Blue Paw Foundation that burden is eased.”

Atos was the first dog helped by Thin Blue Paw Foundation which launched in August 2020.

Trustee Kieran Stanbridge said: “Police and 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 Atos are heroes; they’ve served our country and worked incredibly hard to 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.”

“It was a long journey to help Atos recover,” Claire said. “We would sleep on the floor of the kitchen to keep him company while he was on crate rest, we took him to weekly vet checks, and helped him completely regular physio and exercises to get his mobility back.”

Atos has recovered from his surgery and is now enjoying life once again.

Claire added: “With lots of love and cuddles, Atos is now back to himself. He’s pain-free and can enjoy walks again, he can run and he can swim.

It’s so wonderful to see. He’s on pain relief for his ongoing arthritis but he is comfortable and happy, and that’s all I could wish for.”

Atos loves water, enjoys jumping in big puddles and will bark with excitement if the outside hose is switched on to water the garden.

“He’s got so much character and such a big personality. He has a basket full of toys that he knocks over when he wants to play, he loves belly rubs and cuddles on the sofa, and will do anything for a biscuit!”

Follow Atos on Instagram (@the_atos).

May 2021

@PlymChronicle

11

Gdynia Way’s new bridge art unveiled Leading members of Plymouth’s construction industry have delivered the re-energised ‘Polish Bridge Art’ on Gdynia Way as part of their community engagement efforts towards a lasting legacy for Mayflower400.

Coordinated by Building Plymouth, The Road to Mayflower volunteering team has aimed to improve the visitor welcome experience from Marsh Mills Roundabout through creating The Mayflower Forest and now, by delivering the striking new art design on the well-known Cattedown Road Bridge along Gdynia Way. Project lead Emma Hewitt said: “As a team of volunteers who feel passionate about Plymouth, we wanted to make a difference and recognised that this bridge located on a main gateway into the city could offer a much improved visitor welcome impression.

“We also felt it provides the perfect opportunity to more explicitly promote and celebrate the Twinning relationship between the cities of Plymouth UK and Gdynia in Poland which has existed since September 1976.

“We have enjoyed engaging with the Saturday Polish School and Plymouth Gdynia Twinning Panel to help inform our new bridge art design.

“I must extend huge thanks to construction friends including Stride Treglown, Midas Construction and Jem Scaffolding, who along with support from Mayflower400, South West Highways and Plymouth City Council, have enabled us to make this project a reality.”

Charles Hackett, chief executive of Mayflower400 said:”This is an impressive achievement and we are very grateful to The Road to Mayflower team who have

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Project leader Emma Hewitt pictured with other members of the bridge project team

worked hard in their own time to improve the experience for visitors arriving in Plymouth and support the Mayflower400 commemorations.

“The Road to Mayflower team have engaged with the local Polish community, fundraised, co-ordinated the project, and commissioned a local designer, delivering a legacy project for us to be proud of. The refreshed art design speaks so positively to visitors and residents of Britain’s Ocean City, and prominently acknowledges our local Polish community and twinned relationship with the city of Gdynia which is fantastic!”

Once The Road to Mayflower team had secured private sector sponsorship from the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, City Centre

Company, WBD and Midas Construction, along with Mayflower Sparks Funding successfully applied for through Plymouth’s Saturday Polish School, James Edgar Studio, a local design agency, was commissioned to create and install the new art design for the bridge.

James Edgar, owner of James Edgar Studio said:”Our bridge art design has been informed through in-depth research, design thinking, and our insightful field trip to Gdynia which enabled us to fully immerse ourselves with the city’s amazing culture. We learnt that Gdynians are known as the ‘Sledz’ (the Herrings) with two Sledz featured on their flag as Herrings spawn in the shallows of the Baltic.

“Gdynia is firmly focused on the future

Join our city’s cast of amazing characters

and there is a real sense of positivity and determination so we felt it was important for our design to reflect a similar positive message. ‘Make Waves’ is positive and bold whilst acknowledging the city’s relationship with the ocean, and strengths and expertise in marine and maritime.

“In the studio we decided to embrace the complicated bridge structure and develop a grid to complement the design.

A Herringbone pattern was developed in line with Gdynia’s graphic aesthetic and architecture. The pattern evolves from herringbone into waves which joins both sides.

“As a Plymothian, I hope this will be a catalyst to literally build bridges between countries, communities and cultures and showcase our city as a positive and creative coastal destination.”

Wiktor Dworznikowski, President of the Plymouth Gdynia Twinning Panel said:”I grew up in Gdynia, but I have called Plymouth my home for the last 20 years. I am one of 15,000 Poles living in Plymouth and everything in Plymouth that reminds me of my hometown, Gdynia, is close to my heart.

“I was delighted when Emma Hewitt proposed the idea of raising funds to update the bridge art over Gdynia Way. I have been so impressed with the professional approach from the team and I’m happy that James Edgar the designer used ideas he gained from working with the children from the Plymouth Saturday Polish School and his visit to Gdynia. The Gdynia Way Bridge is important to us, it is a symbol of the longlasting relationship between our cities, which I hope continues long into the future.”

To find out more about The Road to Mayflower visit www.buildingplymouth.co.uk

Part of the Reopening High Street Safely Fund, funded by

12 May 2021

Council supports the roll-out of regular speedy COVID-19 tests for local businesses Businesses in Plymouth are being encouraged to sign up to the Government’s new rapid home testing programme, enabling their employees to have free, rapid and regular COVID-19 tests that can be taken at home!

Up to one in three people who have COVID-19 have no symptoms. Twice weekly testing for businesses using ‘lateral flow’ tests will help to identify these people before they can spread the virus to work colleagues or customers.

Any business with more than 10 employees can now join the national workplace testing programme.

Businesses are now eligible to order home test kits online to distribute to their employees. These self-test kits will be picked up by staff, from their employer, with clear instructions on how to take the test.

Staff will then complete the home test in the normal way, before reporting their results to the NHS. The workplace testing programme uses lateral flow tests (LFD) to rapidly detect the virus in 30 minutes. Swift detection of cases means that those who test positive can isolate immediately, apply for a PCR test, and in doing so, break chains of transmission and suppress the virus.

Plymouth City Council urges them to register their interest by visiting www.gov.uk/getworkplace-coronavirus-tests Ruth Harrell, Director of Public Health for Plymouth City Council, said:“We are pleased to support the roll out of regular lateral flow testing in the city. Many residents are unable to work from home, particularly as businesses begin to reopen. They are vital to keep Plymouth moving.

“Offering regular testing will keep them and their colleagues safer by identifying infectious people before they can spread the virus to others.

“It is important to remember that lateral flow testing is just one essential part of the roadmap. We urge businesses and employees to make sure they use it as well as, and not instead of, hands-face-space and COVIDsecure working practices.

“Regular testing for key workers with no COVID-19 symptoms means we can stop people from unknowingly spreading the virus to their colleagues or customers.”

Smaller businesses, or businesses that do not have on site testing, can encourage their staff to attend the mobile Lateral Flow Testing van regularly. Appointments are pre-booked only and take around 15 minutes.

Tests are free and available to book www.plymouth.gov.uk/covid19 asymptomatictestinglateralflowtest In addition, home tests are available for those businesses who’s staff are in a household with children, school staff or in their support bubbles.

They can either collect home test kits from a local test site or order a home test kit at www. gov.uk/order-coronavirus-rapid-lateral-flowtestskit Plymouth City Council has reminded residents that regular rapid testing is for people who do not have symptoms.

People who have any symptoms must self-isolate and get a PCR test through the Government website: www.gov.uk/getcoronavirus-test

12 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Huge seagrass planting programme underway in Plymouth Sound

Work on England’s largest seagrass planting effort has taken place in Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.

It is estimated that the UK may have lost up to 92 per cent of its seagrass due to wasting disease, pollution and physical disturbance have been identified as contributing causes.

Seagrass meadows provide homes for juvenile fish and protected creatures like seahorses and stalked jellyfish. Seagrass also has an integral role in stabilising the seabed, cleaning the surrounding seawater and capturing and storing significant amounts of carbon.

A total of 16,000 seagrass seed bags and 2,200 seedling bags were planted as part of the LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES project being led by Natural England to help support and improve the resilience of our marine environment. The planting is being carried out this month by project partner the Ocean Conservation Trust.

ReMEDIES is funded by the EU LIFE programme and led by Natural England in partnership with Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT), Marine Conservation Society, Royal Yachting Association and Plymouth City Council/Tamar Estuaries Consultative Forum.

The four-year project aims to plant a total of eight hectares of seagrass meadows - four hectares in Plymouth Sound and four hectares in the Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation.

The seagrass seeds were bagged at the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth by Aquarium and Ocean Conservation Trust staff, as well as volunteers. Seedlings have been growing in the Aquarium’s special seagrass laboratory since January.

Volunteers bagging the seagrass seeds at the National Marine Aquarium

Volunteer litter pickers from Plympton, Plymstock, Derriford and other areas of the city joined with the newly-formed Estover Ambassadors to clear literally tons of litter and waste from the woods behind Yewdale Gardens in Estover.

A team of more than 30 volunteers, all socially distancing, managed to clear a staggering 250 bags of litter, along with a mountain of larger items.

Estover Ambassadors was launched in March by George Keast and his partner Abigail Rowley and

The Ocean Conservation Trust team involved in the seagrass planting programme

Mark Parry, development officer at Ocean Conservation Trust, said: “Our first successful planting effort is only possible because of all the hard work of the partners in the LIFE ReMEDIES project. These events have taken over 12 months of planning and include a combination of volunteers who have visited the National Marine Aquarium creating our planting units and our dive volunteers.

This truly is a community effort.

“It is incredible to see the support from local communities supporting habitats for our animal coastal communities, a very proud moment.”

Paul Barnard, service director for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure at Plymouth City Council, said: “We’re really pleased to be a partner in this exciting ReMEDIES initiative in Plymouth Sound, which not only supports our ambition to become a National Marine Park but also marks an important action in our Climate Emergency Action Plan.

“By working together, we can raise awareness

over the last few weeks their efforts have resulted in more than 500 bags of fly-tipped rubbish and other items weighing around seven tonnes collected.

El Clarke, co-founder of Clean Our Patch CIC said: “It has been a truly outstanding effort to tidy up these woods in Estover. It has shown just how much team spirit there is among community litter pickers across the city.”

More volunteers are always welcome. To find out more visit the ‘Clean Our Patch’ page on Facebook.

about the importance of seagrass, reduce the impact on these sensitive habitats and encourage both local communities and visitors to help look after Planting our ‘blue’ environment for the the future.” bags of Seagrass is delicate seagrass and can be damaged by activities such as the anchoring, mooring and launching of leisure boats, as well as other shore and water-based activities.

That’s why, in addition to planting new seagrass meadows, ReMEDIES is working to protect existing ones by helping recreational users to minimise impacts on these sensitive habitats.

Natural England and ReMEDIES partners plan to extend the benefits of this work beyond the UK to assist with international marine recovery efforts. Techniques and evidence gathered will be captured and shared with marine conservation organisations across Europe to allow them to learn from and replicate the work.

Find out more about LIFE Recreation ReMEDIES by following on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook @ EULIFERemedies, or visiting www.saveourseabed.co.uk

May 2021

@PlymChronicle

13

Inspirational SailGP programme will create a lasting legacy for young people in Plymouth

up to

Young people in Plymouth will have the chance to learn new skills and try out sailing for the first time when SailGP comes to the city in July.

SailGP, the most competitive racing on water, will come to Plymouth from July 17 and 18 for the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix – the third event in its global championships’ calendar, following opening events in Bermuda and Taranto, Italy.

As well as being a thrilling spectator event, plans are in place to ensure that it has a positive impact and opens up opportunities for the city’s young people through its three programme pathways – Learning, Careers and Racing.

Plymouth City Council and SailGP are working together on a number of inspirational programmes that will include sailing experiences and learning events focusing on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

The aim is to engage with schools and young people right across Plymouth, especially in deprived areas in the north of the city where many will not have had to opportunity to try sailing before.

In the week running up to the race, SailGP Inspire, the league’s community, education and outreach initiative, will offer a unique full day experience for 200 young Plymothians.

The day will include the chance to try out sailing, likely for the first time, and hands-on education sessions inside the technical base at Millbay. The initiative will be delivered in partnership with the Mount Batten Centre, with further support from Plymouth Youth Sailing and Horizons.

SailGP Inspire is powered by the belief that sailing can be a force for good and it aims to leave a lasting legacy in all of the eight grand prix host countries in 2021-22, promoting diversity and building a sustainable sport.

In addition to the on-water activity taking place in Plymouth, the council will run a week-long STEM celebration throughout the week engaging with thousands of students aged from four to 18 years old.

This will culminate in a major ‘STEM fest’ at Tinside Lido, where hundreds of young people can learn about the latest sustainable

marine technology, including that used by the SailGP teams.

The event will showcase marine sector jobs of the future to Plymouth students, encouraging skills development and inspiring them to explore a career in STEM subjects.

Deputy Council Leader Pete Smith said: “SailGP is going to be absolutely fantastic for the city – bringing in visitors, boosting the local economy and putting on an unmissable show! But it also presents us with an opportunity to encourage our city’s young people to engage with the ocean and we’re grabbing that opportunity with both hands.

“This is especially important for those living in deprived areas and the north of the city that may not be as connected with all the natural assets that Britain’s Ocean City has to offer.

“Throughout the week, we’ll be working with our partners to give young people their first taste of sailing and open their eyes to the exciting range of jobs that will be available to them in the future.”

SailGP is also working with young people that are already on track to work within the marine industry, offering up to 12 work experience placements for local young

adults. Additionally, a world class programme will be run to identify the next generation of performance sailors. This will involve intensive training and racing during the week of SailGP. Applications for both of these programmes are open now, see SailGP.com/ inspire for more information.

Although the Great Britain Sail Grand Prix is taking place over just one weekend in Plymouth, its legacy is set to continue far beyond that.

The council will continue to work with partners including the Mount Batten Watersports Centre, Plymouth Youth Sailing, Horizons Sailing Charity, the Ocean Conservation Trust and the Royal Yachting Association to give young people the chance to try sailing and to connect with the ocean.

The opportunities range from trying out watersports and free membership to local sailing clubs, to gaining new qualifications, as well as a programme for young people with disabilities. This all ties into the city’s plans for the new Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and will help to develop the park’s future ambassadors and volunteers.

Find out more at investplymouth.co.uk/ sailgp or at SailGP.com.

New operators for The Dome announced A partnership with a strong track record of running successful pubs and restaurants in the Westcountry is to take over the Dome on Plymouth’s stunning waterfront.

Inns of Cornwall and Devon, run by John Milan and Steve Bellman, have entered into an agreement for the 125-year lease and intend to repurpose and refurbish the two storey building as a restaurant and bar.

They were selected by Plymouth City Council following a bidding process carried out by JLL, independent property consultants. The partnership has considerable experience in the hospitality industry running award-winning venues, including the nearby Waterfront Pub on West Hoe, which won Gold in the 2019 Devon Tourism Awards ‘Pub of the Year’ and Silver for this year’s award.

They also run the Three Crowns in Chagford

which has just won Gold in the same category. Council leader Tudor Evans said: “This is a successful Westcountry partnership which has strong links with the city of Plymouth.

They have been part of the Plymouth family of businesses for a number of years and I can’t wait to see what they do with the Dome. It has terrific views and is in amazing location.

“More and more people are enjoying the Waterfront in the evenings, with more bars, cafes and restaurants, which is exactly what we want to see.”

Contracts have now formally been exchanged and behind the scenes the company have been looking at some stunning deco ideas, based on the Art Deco/1930s Ocean Liner theme.

It is hoped that the main bar area could be open for business by July followed by the rest of the building as fast as the refurbishment allows.

John Milan said: “Plymouth’s waterfront is a special location and we want to create something really special in the Dome. “We wanted to make the most of some of the existing features as well as the view and think the ocean liner theme will be the perfect fit for Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City and of course, those who want a great night out on the waterfront.”

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14 May 2021

Police warning over bogus meter reader Police have issued a warning to householders in Plymouth about a bogus gas meter reader.

Police have become aware of a male pretending to be a British Gas meter reader, attempting to enter properties in the Hartley area of the city. He appeared to quickly show a British Gas ID card, but this cannot be verified.

They have urged householders to be vigilant, pointing out that all employees of these companies must identify themselves correctly.

If someone is unsure about the identity, they should contact the company to verify the name and credentials before allowing them into their home. Most companies will send a letter to confirm if they are attending with date a time.

Residents who believe it is a bogus caller, they should contact the provider to check and if not verified please call the police on 101.

Police appeal for information after spate of catalytic converter thefts

Police are appealing for information after a spate of recent catalytic converter thefts across Devon and Cornwall.

The thefts have been occurring across the two counties including Plymouth, Barnstaple and Exeter, and generally occur during the day.

Police are urging motorists to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who has been approached by someone selling a catalytic converter, and anyone with CCTV which may have captured the people selling them, to help officers identify those responsible.

Anyone who has any information is asked to contact police on 101 or via email at 101@dc.police.uk quoting crime reference, CR/031369/21.

Extended opening times for Weston Mill recycling site

Weston Mill Household Waste Recycling Centre is now open on Mondays and Fridays, as well as at weekends.

The North Prospect Road site, which opens from 8.30am until 5.30pm, partially reopened in September 2020 so that our COVID-hit resources could prioritise essential waste services.

The site is extending opening hours in the wake of the vaccination roll-out and the widespread availability of lateral flow tests. It will also allow for the anticipated increase in demand as lockdown restrictions ease.

Residents will now also be able to dispose of wood at Weston Mill.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment, said: “We always said that we’d continue to review the opening hours of Weston Mill and that’s exactly what we’ve done.

“With changes to national restrictions and guidance, we’re now in a position where we can open it up a bit more and make sure that the services people value the most, like brown and green bin collections, can continue alongside.”

Assuming all other government criteria are met in accordance with the Government Roadmap to Recovery and all other waste service are running smoothly, Weston Mill will reopen fully from May 17.

14 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Ice cream treat for care home residents Residents living with dementia at a Plymouth care home enjoyed the first taste of spring thanks to an ice cream operator doing the rounds at a group of care homes in Devon and Somerset.

Butterfly Lodge in St Budeaux on April 12 and was met with much excitement by residents.

Butterfly Lodge is part of the Camelot Care Group, an awardwinning care provider with more than 16 years’ experience in The ice cream van visited providing nursing and specialist dementia care for the elderly.

The ice cream van tour was the brainchild of Richard Dempslake, activities coordinator for Camelot’s care home in Wellington.

After ice cream man Darren Harley had finished serving everyone at the Wellington care home, Richard put to him the idea of visiting Camelot Care’s other homes, and sharing the same pleasure among all the people living with dementia who they support.

Resident Seeing how much pleasure Bob Fletcher his ice creams had brought and nursing to the residents, Darren was assistant happy to agree - and the Sarah Butterfly Lodge residents McCaffrey were delighted!

Activities coordinator Kelly Tennant with resident Carol Rowley

Animation students play their part in raising awareness of delirium Two students from Plymouth College of Art have made an animated video to help raise awareness of delirium for World Delirium Awareness Day 2021.

In a student competition hosted by the BBC, Bryan Wallen and Lottie Wishart - who are on the BA (Hons) Animation course - were able to tell the story of a Derriford patient who developed delirium after being admitted to intensive care following complications during a planned procedure.

Delirium is an acute confusional state which was experienced by Lou Gallie during her stay in Derriford three years ago. Lou experienced intense hallucinations which felt real and as if they lasted for weeks, which animation students Bryan and Lottie were able to recreate visually to raise awareness of the condition.

Lottie, who lives in Plymouth, said: “The brief was to create an image from a series of words, based on a dream sequence; a woman in a hospital bed surrounded by shadowy figures of nuns. The brief asked us to style it with the dreamlike content in mind, with bright and vivid colours for the dreams, while real life showing pastel shades and subdued tones.

“I was immediately inspired and started sketching, it felt like the perfect project for weird old me! They ended up choosing two images, mine and Bryan’s, with his style dark and edgy and mine focussing on pastels and watercolour, I think they complemented each other quite well.”

Bryan said: “Lou told us what she went through, and we worked through it as a team to figure out what we could create, but

Students Lottie and Bryan

A scene from the animated video

Lou was really on board with our ideas. We had quite a bit of freedom, but there were definitely scenes where we knew we wanted it to look a certain way. It was a learning experience from start to finish.”

Lou, on waking up from emergency surgery, found herself in a home run by nuns, trying to convert her to their religious sect. Another of her disorientating deliriums involved a series of riots outside the hospital, where she describes teenagers like hyenas, outside her hospital bedroom window, throwing rocks and starting fires.

She also recalls returning to her hospital room after a scan and finding it had been turned into an underground Olympic swimming pool. For Lou, these are memories she knows they could not have happened but

she remembers them as though they were part of her life.

Lou said: “I had an argument with my dad because I could see the local lifeboat in the water, and I was trying to tell him about it.

He had no idea what I was talking about and I found it so frustrating. I could see the lifeboat - it was right there. I couldn’t understand why no-one could see what I could see.”

Nick Crawley, employer engagement officer at Plymouth College of Art, said: “We always like to encourage students to take part in live projects. It’s a great opportunity to work on an external brief with a real employer.

“For Lottie and Bryan, it was the chance to put their skills into practice, create a working relationship with their client and each other, and present a fantastic final piece of work, all while raising awareness of an important issue in a creative and thought provoking way. By doing competitions and live briefs, students are able to gain the transferable skills to take them straight from graduating into industry.”

Denise Mills from the Glenholt Good Neighbours Scheme and Gwen Mace

As the days lengthen and summer beckons so the possibilities of a brighter future appear in sight.

During a time of extreme loss; pain and inconvenience, stories have emerged of great kindness; generosity and commitment.

Here at POP, we have witnessed an amazing drive from people determined to help others. We have seen community groups emerge overnight; grow in a mere matter of days and flourish weeks later. Through the Neighbourhood Care Networks, which has helped to link them together, we have seen ‘community organisers’ share their experience: pointing out short-cuts; directing them to necessary and relevant individuals and sharing valuable information.

By working together, community groups have acted, quickly and efficiently, and, in doing so,

provided the best support they can where it has been needed most.

Since March last year POP has been working alongside the following community groups as part of the Neighbourhood Care Network:

Whitleigh Help Hub, Stoke, Keyham, Devonport, Stonehouse, The Hoe, Efford & Lipson, Plympton, St Budeaux & Barne Barton, Hooe & Turnchapel and Glenholt with further NCN’s in development at Honicknowle, Ernesettle, Mannamead, Southway and Coxside.

If you or your organisations would like to volunteer, text 07411 949 742.

NCN’s Helpline Numbers:

Spotlight on Glenholt Sitting on the ‘edge’ of Plymouth, close to the moors, there has been a strong sense of community in Glenholt for many years. In 2019 it was strengthened when the Glenholt Community Hub rallied residents to save their Post Office.

Since then, the formation of craft groups; choirs and coach trips has helped to provide more ‘social’ opportunities and create both new and stronger relationships within the area. Early last year, as news of the severity of the coronavirus increased so the Community Hub evolved into the Glenholt Good Neighbour Scheme. As the chair of both organisations, Denise Mills says, it was clear what was needed even before the first lockdown was announced:

Efford Efford 07380 07380309 309586 586

The Glenholt Community Larder first opened its doors, within St Anne’s Church, on Saturday the 30th of January to about 21 people. Operating twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays for an hour and a half GCL is now feeding nearly a hundred people a week. Its mission is both to provide fresh fruit and vegetables to local people and to reduce the amount of food going to landfill or the incinerator. Karen Woods, runs the project along with five volunteers and says there’s no typical recipient; “There’s a Grandmum that comes in to get food for her daughter and grandchildren; there’s a mum who is looking after someone who has been in hospital and there are pensioners coming in to get a little bit extra.”

Community larders are just part of the fifty different food aid projects now operating across Plymouth: a figure that has doubled in the last year. Community larders are informal: there is no voucher required; no

identification needed, or personal details taken. People can turn up; fill up a bag with what they chose and leave. As Karen says there are no questions asked; “The idea is that people turn up and don’t feel embarrassed.”

In the first week in January the GCL helped to feed 133 people now they are supporting nearly 100 households, providing about three quarters of a tonne of food a week and feeding more than 230 individuals. But what has shocked Karen more than anything is the number of people already waiting at the church before they have even opened; “We don’t open until 11 and they’re already queueing at the door at ten o’clock. To be there an hour before we open, well, you need it don’t you?”

The GCL is open from 11.00 – 12.30 on Wednesdays and Saturdays at St Anne’s Church. And, as Karen says, “will carry on for as long as people need us”.

The wonderful Glenholt Community Larder volunteers

“We printed a thousand newsletters, put them through letter boxes and appealed for volunteers to sign up to help look after those most-vulnerable in Glenholt. It was amazing, about fifty people signed up.”

More than a year later and the small army of volunteers has racked up the delivery of nearly five hundred newspapers; collected hundreds of prescriptions; walked miles with dogs of all shapes and sizes and spent numerous hours chatting on the phone with those who are socially isolated or in need of some company. Gwen Mace, who will be 86 in July, has hardly seen anyone for a year.

The Good Neighbours Scheme, she says, and its lovely volunteers have been marvellous; “I haven’t had to do any shopping,” says Gwen.

“People have been picking up and delivering my prescriptions and it’s really been invaluable. It’s also helped my family because it’s meant they haven’t had to worry about me so much because they know someone is looking out for me.”

The Glenholt Good Neighbours Scheme has taken more than 1250 phone calls from individuals since the pandemic began. Recognising the need to continue the community support, Denise has helped to set up the “North Plymouth Compassionate Friends Hub” as part of the St Luke’s Hospice Compassionate Friends initiative.

About four or five of the existing volunteers have begun training with St Luke’s so that they might support people at ‘end-of-life stages’ or offer support to those who have been bereaved. Plans are underway to have, post-lockdown, a regular compassionate café taking turns to be in different areas of North Plymouth. For Denise, working with St Luke’s is an obvious fit;

Efford Efford Community Community Network Network

Community Larder Continues

Whitleigh Folk Get Back in the Saddle Dr Bike rode into Whitleigh recently as part of the Department of Transport’s Big Bike revival. Bikespace, a not-for-profit social enterprise, was invited by Whitleigh Big Local to hold three sessions fixing residents’ bikes and helping them to get people back in the saddle. Dr Bike, otherwise known as AJ from Bikespace, worked flat out

administering remedies for, such typical bicycle ailments as, dodgy brakes; rusty chains and flat tyres. And not one of the 39 bikes examined by the ‘doctor’ was beyond repair.

If your community group, or workplace would like a visit from Dr Bike contact plymotion@plymouth.gov.uk

“I think it will be a blessing really,” she says. “Here in Glenholt, we have an ageing population with many residents on their own for about 95% of their time. I think it’s just going to bring them that little bit of warmth and encouragement.”

In need of help in Glenholt? Call 07849 413125.

Barry Meek, Chair of Whitleigh Big Local and Dr Bike, AKA, AJ from Bikespace

SUPPOSE YOU HAD £1000 TO SPEND IMPROVING YOUR COMMUNITY

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

If you have an idea to improve your community using up to £1,000, we want to hear from you!

Contact us on 07842 043399 (WhatsApp) or email info@plymouthoctopus.org

16 May 2021

16 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Barbican Theatre’s summer event at Plymouth Speedway Andrew Brewerton to step down from Plymouth College of Art’s top post

Professor Andrew Brewerton has announced he is to retire as principal and chief executive of Plymouth College of Art in July.

He has held the post for 11 years in a 27 year career of in academic leadership. In his time as principal, Plymouth College of Art transferred from the Further Education (FE) sector to the Higher Education (HE) sector in 2014, doubled its student numbers, and gained degreeawarding powers at BA (Hons) and Masters level.

Under his leadership the college has transformed the landscape of creative learning in Plymouth: developing an extraordinarily rich and diverse learning environment with the construction of new craft, design and fabrication workshops and Fab Lab Plymouth; establishing Palace Court and Palace Studios as its dedicated pre-degree campus; and founding the Plymouth School of Creative Arts, (now Millbay Academy) at the Red House.

These ground-breaking developments have been the subject of independently commissioned films by Freelands Foundation and Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios respectively.

It has been a highly productive period in which Plymouth College of Art emerged with new visibility as a public arts venue, fostering its own distinctive gallery programme and participating in multi-site exhibitions across the city such as British Art Show 7 (and the forthcoming British Art Show 9) and became the home address for independent film in the city as host venue to Plymouth Arts Cinema.

Mutual partnership has been a hallmark of the work of Plymouth College of Art during Andrew’s leadership tenure. This partnership is exemplified in Plymouth College of Art’s role as a founding associate of Tate Exchange; with The British Council in fieldwork internationally; with the West Bund Art Centre on the FutureLab project in Shanghai; in leading Plymouth’s successful bid to become the UK’s first Fab City; and in establishing Makers HQ, a fashion manufacturing CIC on Union Street in partnership with Millfields Trust In 2018 Plymouth College of Art was ranked fifth out of Higher Education establishments in the UK for class equality and widening participation by Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), making the college the only specialist arts institution to rank within the top 10.

Professor Brewerton said: “It has been a privilege to serve this great Art School as principal these 11 years, a period in which Plymouth College of Art has found a distinctive voice in its advocacy of arts and cultural learning and practice, and social justice, in our city – a voice whose essential message, ethos and values now resonate far beyond this region, nationally and internationally.”

Plymouth College of Art’s Board of Governors will now begin putting in place arrangements to appoint a successor.

Barbican Theatre and Plymouth Gladiators Speedway are staging Petrol Headz, an August bank holiday weekend spectacular showcasing the modified car scene and the surrounding street culture.

Petrol Headz will feature roaring sound systems, drift cars, showcars, speedway bikers, skateboard tricks, parkour stunts, street dancers, DJs and MC battles and much more!

Laura Kriefman, Barbican Theatre’s chief executive said: “I’ve been obsessed with the artistry of the modified car scene and all the surrounding street culture for years. I love the precision movement displayed by drifters, and speedway riders.

“I can’t get enough of airkit and hydraulics cars and the technical skills behind it. I love the brilliance of the neon underlighting, epic vinyl wrapping and that’s before you add in the soundsystem culture that goes with it!

“I grew up going to Monster Truck shows and steam ups with my mum - it was inevitable that I was going to want to make a show about cars they’re much more nimble than dockyard cranes!

Who wouldn’t want to see immaculately designed cars, amongst sensational skateboard and parkour tricksters, speedway bikes and trick cars all accompanied by some absolute tunes?”

The Barbican Theatre team approached Plymouth Speedway back in the autumn to discuss the proposed Petrol Headz event. With a history of taking work to unusual spaces and creating sitespecific work the speedway arena at Marsh Mills was an exciting prospect for them. Not only is the arena able to offer a large capacity for spectators (1200+) the size of the grounds makes access for drift cars, show cars and all the other street culture groups a real possibility.

Photos by Dom Moore for Barbican Theatre

Ian Jordan, Plymouth Gladiators Speedway director said: “We’re thrilled to partner and collaborate with Barbican Theatre to optimise the potential of our PACE Plymouth Arena and Community Events Project; transforming the Coliseum Arena from a speedway stadium into a major community and entertainment hub for Plymouth and the whole of South West. The Barbican team share our vision of innovation to create new boundaries involving speedway racing and beyond, with a game-changing fusion of extreme sport, the wider arts, community and family entertainment.”

Barbican Theatre has a history of working with diverse communities, and have known for years how big the modified car scene is across Plymouth and the rest of the South West.

Barbican Theatre is passionate about building Plymouth’s own creative voice, and giving it a

platform. A show like PetrolHeadz is only possible thanks to the brilliant collective creativity from Plymouth Parkour, Prime Skate, Rhythm City, Dip Demons, ReBels Music, Driverse, George’s Car Media and many other amazing artists we are lucky to partner and work with.

Barbican Theatre has employed over 100 creatives throughout the lockdowns, and are excited that PetrolHeadz will offer employment and training opportunities for around 240 people all from Plymouth and the surrounding areas.

Petrol Headz will involve a cast of members of the car scene, Barbican ReBels, semi-pro and professional performers - and there will be opportunities to get involved- whether you’re a drift car driver, have built a car you’d like to show off on the exhibition field, are a dancer, skater, parkourist or want to learn how to produce events.

The first wave of tickets, for the grandstand seating areas, are now on sale (online only) priced at £17 with concessions £13 (including under 16s, students, registered disabled, BSL interpreter accessible seats, audio description accessible seats and over 60s).

Organisers are also introducing ‘Pay It Forward’ tickets for £13 where people can buy an extra ticket that can then be offered to a member of the community who would otherwise be restricted from attending due to financial barriers. Further seats and ticket types will be released at a later date. All ticket prices stated are inclusive of any booking charges or fees.

For updates on Barbican Theatre activity, events and opportunities please visit the website at barbicantheatre.co.uk or follow them on social mediaInstagram: @Barbican_Theatre Facebook: Barbican Theatre Plymouth Twitter: @ BarbicanTheatre Youtube: BarbicanTheatrePlym

Princess Yachts director in key role for CBI in South West Princess Yachts director Adrian Bratt has been named as the chair of the CBI’s South West Regional Council for the next two years.

A governance specialist and commercial lawyer by trade, Adrian joined Princess Yachts in 2017 after operating a national private practice specialising in the manufacturing, Adrian Bratt retail and energy sectors on behalf of national and multinational firms.

He is a former Royal Navy officer who has been part of the CBI South West Council since 2017, while also sitting on the Plymouth Growth Board and the Maritime Enterprise Working Group.

Adrian said: “The South West is a region of talent, ingenuity and enterprise which can wield great influence when it speaks with one voice. I look forward

to helping to amplify that voice to support a post-COVID recovery and evolve the levelling-up agenda.

“Throughout the COVID crisis, the CBI has led the way in terms of working with business, government and trade unions to support companies. We must continue to act as an agent of positive change as the focus shifts beyond the pandemic towards future investment in skills and sustainability to help the South West lead the way in the race to net zero.

Princess Yachts has been delighted to support my appointment. The company is proud to be a key business in the region, and looks forward to growing its role as a leader within the South West business community.”

@PlymChronicle

Local community radio station goes from strength to strength during the pandemic

A local community radio station has seen significant growth and success during the pandemic.

Ferndale Community Radio, based in North Prospect, is the brainchild of former Royal Marine bandsman, Steve Medlin and his son Ryan.

Part of the Ferndale Community Tenants’ Group, Ferndale Community Radio applied for and received a community grant of £5000 from Clarion Futures to pay for equipment and running costs, helping the station to spring to life, going live on July 2 2019.

Initially comprising a small number of volunteer staff, FCR has had to expand to meet the needs of the community during the COVID pandemic.

Now, with a volunteer staff of 25 and multiple studios, on air 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Ferndale Community Radio provide local traffic, weather and news, great entertainment and friendly chatter, easing some of the loneliness felt by those in seclusion, locally and world-wide.

At the start of the COVID pandemic, FCR had just the one studio in the community hub.

At present, with the financial help of the presenters themselves and a £1000 National Lottery Community Fund grant to buy equipment and the relevant licenses, FCR now has nine ‘micro-studios’ set up in presenters’ homes, allowing FCR to be broadcast continuously.

A mix of live shows and replays, Ferndale Community Radio has steadily expanded during lockdown, with the recent addition, following the departure of Radio Plymouth,

Steve Medlin co-founder of Ferndale Community Radio

of a live breakfast show, starting at 7am, to provide the local community with traffic, weather and news updates.

The Ferndale Community Radio team have also done some valuable work for charity, raising £2800 for Save The Children, helping to raise £800 for Livewire Saltash and working with Hugs From Henry, the children’s cancer charity, to provide sacks of toys for the children, adding a little magic to their Christmas.

Ferndale Community Radio has a significant social-media presence, including profiles on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and a website, managed by presenter Mark

ELECTIONS 2021 VOTING AT A POLLING STATION

On Thursday 6 May, have your say on who represents you in the local elections by voting at your nearest polling station.

Polling stations will be safe places to vote, as a number of measures will be put in place to help you stay safe.

You can expect to see many of the measures you’ve become familiar with in banks, shops and other indoor spaces over recent months, including using hand sanitiser when you enter and exit and wearing face coverings (unless you are exempt).

We recommend that you bring your own pen or pencil to mark ballot papers, but clean pencils will also be available.

Safe distancing measures will be in place at polling stations as there will be a limit to the number of voters allowed inside at any one time.

For more information please visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/votingandelections

Truman, full of information about the station, the shows, the presenters and how to listen.

The website also includes a page for FCR sponsors to display links to their own pages, advertising their business and providing access to their services.

Sponsorship provides funds, enabling Ferndale Community Radio to continue to support the community, with thousands of people listening already and new listeners tuning in every day.

Sponsorship packages, such as the Stirling Road Wellbeing Hub, are available now and information can be found on the website, www.ferndale-plymouth.org.

May 2021

17

The Box to receive further £211,000 funding boost The Box is to receive further funding from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.

It is among more than 2,700 recipients to benefit from the latest round of awards from the £1.57 billion fund.

The award of £211, 500 will help offset some of the income lost as a result of the national lockdown and the additional costs associated with the safety and social distancing measures needed when The Box re-opens on May 18.

Paul Brookes, chief executive at The Box said: “Everyone at The Box has coped brilliantly with the challenges presented to us by the pandemic and we were blown away by the visitor feedback we received last year.

“But the three lockdowns and social distancing measures we put in place have created a reduction in our visitor capacity and a loss of income. This extra boost from the Culture Recovery Fund will help our recovery and re-opening and we’re extremely grateful, yet again, to Arts Council England for their support.”

Culture Secretary, Oliver Dowden, said: “Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they’ve ever faced.

Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead.”

Details of The Box re-opening on May 18 see page 9

18 May 2021

PROMOTING HAPPY AND HEALTHY HOLIDAYS IN PLYMOUTH More Plymouth children are set to get ‘Fit and Fed’ during the school holidays thanks to £1,042,910 from the Department for Education’s Holiday Activity and Food Fund.

Plymouth City Council’s Sports Development Unit will be working in close partnership with various organisations, including Plymouth’s school meals provider CATERed, to provide holiday activity and food programmes to disadvantaged children during the Easter, summer and Christmas school holidays.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “We know that school holidays can be difficult for some families, with children at risk of missing out on healthy meals, activities and learning opportunities.

Programmes like Fit and Fed are a direct response to this issue and evidence suggests that they can have a positive impact on children and their families.”

The 2021 programme gets underway over the Easter holidays, with 40 holiday clubs across the city providing 1,445 places for children who receive benefit-related free school meals to enjoy a happy and healthy holiday.

All clubs will be delivered in a COVIDsafe environment and in line with current government guidance.In response to reduced inactivity levels caused by the COVID pandemic, 1,000 Fit and Fed holiday packs – with a food parcel and physical activity bag – will also be given away this Easter to children on benefit-related free school meals attending primary schools in the city’s most deprived areas.

The food parcels are being provided

by CATERed and will contain a range of nutritious food to make five healthy twocourse lunches with additional snacks.

The parcels will also contain a recipe booklet to help plan some exciting meals.

Louise Kelley, the council’s sports development manager, said: “These physical activity bags are specially designed to encourage children to keep physically active in a fun way.

Each bag contains a variety of items, including a large foam dice, bean bags, skipping rope, spot markers and bats and balls. Using the dice and the activity cards provided, children will be able to enjoy a number of fun activities that will help to keep them active every day.”

“The funding will also support the Fit and Fed programme taking place during the summer holidays, when it is hoped an even greater number of holiday clubs and park activities will be available.Councillor Smith added: “This will be a huge benefit to so many of our children and I’d like to thank everybody involved. We know that being active is a benefit to not only our physical health but also our mental wellbeing. Sport and physical activity are so important and these specially designed packs will help children have fun and stay active.”

Anyone interested in providing opportunities for disadvantaged children as part of this programme should contact the Sports Development Unit – email sportsdev@plymouth.gov.uk.

Super summer in the city!

18 May 2021

Plymouth will once again be home to an impressive programme of events this summer. The line-up includes everything from Mayflower commemorations and thrilling sailing races to live music events, as well as the return of the much-loved British Firework Championships.

Councillor Pete Smith, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “As we look forward to the easing of restrictions this summer, we’re delighted to be able to share the fantastic lineup of events and exhibitions taking place in Plymouth.

“There’s something for everyone to enjoy, and we’re looking forward to seeing locals and visitors alike enjoying the brilliant range of events.

We’ll be sharing more information about the programme over the coming weeks and months, so look out for further details.”

The 2021 event programme highlights include: Mayflower 400 Four Nations Ceremony (July 11) The Four Nations Ceremony is the UK’s flagship Mayflower 400 event, marking the closure of the international Mayflower 400 commemorations.

This impressive theatrical production with live music, song, drama and film will tell the Mayflower story from all angles, including direct from the Native American Wampanoag tribe. At the heart of the event will be a gigantic choir of 1,000 voices accompanied by the full concert orchestra of HM Royal Marines Band, Plymouth.

SailGP (July 17 and 18) One of the world’s most impressive sail racing events, SailGP, will stop in Plymouth in 2021, following the season opening events in Bermuda and Taranto, Italy. Plymouth has been selected to host the Great Britain Grand Prix, the third event of SailGP Season 2. SailGP features eight national teams made up of the sport’s top athletes including Britain’s own Sir Ben Ainslie, the world’s most successful Olympic sailor leading the Great Britain SailGP Team.The high-speed, adrenalinefilled racing will take place on Plymouth Sound each day, alongside onshore activity throughout the afternoon in the race village where you can watch the action ‘close- up’ on big screens whilst looking out over the racecourse from Plymouth’s famous Hoe. The Hatchling (August 14 and 15) This August, theatre-makers Trigger will stage The Hatchling, an extraordinary outdoor performance bringing a worldwide myth to life. A giant puppet

Freemasons make another donation to support work of Memory Matters

@PlymChronicle

The British Firework Championships return to Plymouth in August

in the form of a dragon will appear in Plymouth and roam through the city, exploring its new surroundings and interacting with the public.

The Hatchling, which stands at over 6.5m tall, is the largest ever puppet to be solely humanoperated. It is constructed from super lightweight carbon fibre weighing less than a piece of hand luggage, allowing it to be operated by a team of 36 puppeteers working in rotation in groups of 15. Upon hatching the dragon will explore her environment, stopping traffic as her curiosity takes her through the city and she meets members of the public. The dragon was designed by a palaeontologist and is based on the pterosaur, a prehistoric reptile that was one of the largest flying animals ever to have lived. At sunset on Sunday August 15, she will undertake a miraculous metamorphosis into a kite, unfolding her wings spanning over 20m. Flying from a clifftop, she will soar into the sky and across the sea in a once-ina-lifetime spectacle for a live audience. For more information visit www.thehatchling.co.uk British Firework Championships (August 18 and 19) The world-famous British Firework Championships is set to return to Plymouth’s waterfront in August, this popular annual event attracts approximately 100,000 people over two nights. Under the sparkling night sky, viewers will enjoy spectacular pyrotechnics that will illuminate Plymouth Sound, as six top firework companies battle it out over two nights, each putting on an

awe-inspiring ten-minute display in an attempt to be crowned the winner.

1 Big Summer (August 27 to 29) 1 Big Summer, a three-day music event will take place on Plymouth Hoe on the August bank holiday weekend. See story on page 14.

The Box Officially opened last September, amidst the pandemic, summer 2021 will be the first opportunity for many to experience one of the UK’s most impressive new cultural venues. It’s highly recommended that visitors try to catch a glimpse of the Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy exhibition, which sheds new light on a story which has endured for more than four centuries. From May 18 to July 11, the Box will also host its first touring exhibition - Wampum: Stories from the Shells of Native America. Like ‘Mayflower 400: Legend and Legacy’, the exhibition is an important part of Plymouth’s ongoing Mayflower 400 commemorations. Created in partnership with the Wampanoag people, who have lived in NorthEastern America for 12,000 years, this exhibition centres on a newly created wampum belt – a symbolic and sacred object for the Wampanoag.

Tickets for The Box will be available to book from mid-April. For ticket information visit www. theboxplymouth.com.

For more information about all the events taking place in Plymouth this year, please visit visitplymouth.co.uk.

Every spring and autumn Freemasons from all over Devon would normally meet to give support local charities and organisations throughout the county who are in need of assistance, nominated by their local lodge.

This year The Lodge of Felicity in Plymouth selected the Memory Matters Foundation to make the donation of £830, on top of the donation of £5000 given six months ago by the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF).

In 2010, two nurses – Laura Walker and Kate Smith – set up Memory Matters as an organisation to help change the face of dementia support in the community. Memory Matters started because both women were frustrated with the lack of support provided for people living with dementia, as well as their carers.

Kate and Laura’s intention has always been to provide meaningful services that respond to the needs expressed by people living with dementia. They believe that having access to

Memory Matters founders Laura Walker and Kate Smith pictured with (from left) Reuben Ayres, Peter Keaty and Clive Eden

compassionate support, therapies and peer led activities, enables people to live well with their dementia.

As one happy beneficiary said: “Dementia doesn’t have to mean ‘the end’, it’s just a different chapter.”

In March 2017, the duo opened Moments Café in Plymouth City Centre providing a trip

down memory lane for most, and a calming, friendly atmosphere for all. All profits from the café help to sustain Memory Matters together with donations from organisations like the Freemasons, enabling them to provide support for people living with dementia as well as offering free services in their Memory Matters Hub.

May 2021

@PlymChronicle

19

From grot to hot, Plymouth property saved from being left to rot The grotty property before the makeover

Plymouth City Council has stepped in to save a property in Stuart Road after its previous owner had left it to rot.

The house will soon become a family home once more after the council used its powers to compulsory purchase the seriously dilapidated house in 2019. This step was taken after it became evident that the previous owner wasn’t going to keep his promises to re-develop the property,

leaving it empty for several years.

Developer Louise Lewis Property Limited bought the property from the council at auction in summer 2020 and spent four months transforming it from an eyesore to a desirable modern family home, ready to enjoy a new lease of life as a family home.

There are an estimated 905 empty properties across Plymouth at a time when demand for

Stunning kitchen layout

homes to buy and rent is outstripping supply.

Empty homes can also have a negative impact on people living nearby as it can devalue neighbouring properties by up to 20 per-cent, while also attracting illegal or antisocial behaviour such as fly-tipping, arson, vermin and theft.

Neglected properties can also damage adjoining homes by causing water ingress from defective roofs and rainwater goods.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Co-operative Development said: “This is a real success story and it’s great to see a property that has been empty for years become a family home once more.

“There is a very high demand for properties of all types whether that is to buy on the open market, to rent privately or for people on waiting lists for affordable housing. According to Devon Homes Choice, there are currently 8,083 households needing to be housed. We cannot simply stand by and see properties being left to rot when so many families need a decent home to buy or rent.”

Sophie Morbey, director at Louise Lewis Property said: “We purchased the property via a sealed bid auction process last summer and started work in November 2020. Even with the pandemic we were delighted to have completed the project by February 2021 and have already

Wildflowers to bloom across Plymouth again More wildflowers are set to bloom across the city and this year and now local residents can find out where.

The council has put together an interactive map of the whole city which shows exactly where designated wildflower meadows have been created and the places where wildflowers will be left to grow naturally.

It follows last year’s successful trial of leaving a few verges and boundaries in certain areas of the city to grow wilder.

Some of the results were spectacular with wonderful patches of colour appearing where once there was just green.

A council spokesperson said: “Of course, just as last year, we won’t be letting everything grow wild. We will

continue to keep the parks and open spaces that are so vital to people’s wellbeing managed. This will make sure that they provide great places to visit and we’ll still need to cut some areas to ensure that roads are safe.

“Where we’ve got grassy areas that are of more use to wildlife than people, like steep banks and verges, we’ll be cutting around the edges and then leaving the rest to grow wild. We’ll then cut them later in the year to allow more types of plant a chance to grow.”

The map shows all of the grass that the council is responsible for maintaining around the city and also pinpoints the designated wildflower meadows. Teams have spent time seeding and maintaining these and we can’t wait to see them bloom!

Details can be found at www.plymouth.

gov.uk/parksnatureandgreenspaces/ wildflowermeadows “This strategy is just one of a number of ways that we are trying to do things a bit differently to help the environment and tackle the climate emergency”, said Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and Environment.

“In 2021, we’ll be building on last year’s success, where we began to tip the balance by increasing the grassland managed for nature from 15 per cent to 40 per cent. I can’t wait to see the blooming purples, yellows, blues and pinks; a city awash with colour that not only looks beautiful, but also creates homes for the wildlife vital to our fight against climate change.”

Further information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ NaturePlymouth/

exchanged with a family who will soon be moving in.

“This is the third property we have renovated after working with the council and we would welcome the opportunity to work with them again, as it is really rewarding to see properties restored to their former glory, ready for our new clients to collect the keys to their beautiful new home.”

Superb finish all round

Calls grow for a new deal for Amazon workers in Plymouth

Wildflowers on The Hoe

Action on Amazon campaigners were in Plymouth to spread the word that Amazon workers can blow the whistle on poor treatment, as calls grow for a new deal for the workers that have made it a multibillion pound company.

The Unite union has begun a digital Facebook advertising campaign to ensure Amazon workers know that they can confidentially raise issues of concern free from reprisals by calling 08000 141 461 or visiting the actiononamazon.org/hotline/ Amazon has a fulfilment centre in

Estover which is part of a huge network of warehouse space across the country, equivalent to a third of all warehouse space in the UK. Unite executive officer Sharon Graham said: “Calls are growing for a new deal for Amazon workers. Action on Amazon campaigners will be in Devon to spread the word that they can contact us confidentially by calling Unite’s hotline.

“This corporate giant has made billions off the backs of workers.

Amazon resists any attempts by workers to gain a collective voice of their own. It is now time that workers have a voice.”

20 May 2021

20 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Knocking on the door of our hearts THE

By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms Charity

Experience Like many of you reading this article, I am the kind of person who gets inspired through music. I used to embarrass my family when we went shopping because I would end up singing jingle bells (not loudly) as I walked down the aisles. The problem was that this was during the summer as well as Christmas.

Even sadder is that I still do this. Why? I haven’t a clue other than when I am feeling happy and optimistic about things it seems to be an expression or outlet for the way I’m feeling. Probably the same reason why folk whistle on occasions when they are happy.

Music has played a massive role in my life and I really cannot say why. What I would say is that I have always been slightly idealistic about life. I love history and I think as human beings we have such potential for good, not so good, or even bad.

This seems to be the reality of being human as we journey through life. I ended up DJ’ing in the late 60s (I was very young!) and like many people back then I understood how powerful music was in encouraging people exploring the deeper issues of life.

The civil rights movement in America was influenced by so many soul artists in spreading the message of ongoing emancipation for black Americans and musicians like the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Dylan, Marvin Gaye and James Brown were Chris Cole all part of the Western Sixties music revolution which would change a generation’s outlook on life. Black and white musicians collaborated on these social issues and did much to positively blur the racial divide.

Many of these musicians had a spiritual worldview and many subscribed to a Christian spirituality. Cross Rhythms station manager, Dave Simpson, recently did an excellent interview on Bob Dylan about his influence in the UK when he played in London in the 70s. You can listen to this interview on the Listen Again pages on crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth.

Dylan was almost prophetic and many of his songs captivated a generation with many

of the social issues of the time. One musician, Barry Maguire, had a massive hit with ‘Eve of Destruction,’ and became a follower of Jesus Christ. This was the time of the Jesus People Movement, which was a ‘spiritual revival in the western world’ and changed the way the Christian Church would be influenced through contemporary worship music and how Christian communities would relate with each other across denominational lines.

The message was that God is an accessible relationship and there for everybody who seriously seeks Him. It isn’t for the religiously perfect. In the gospel of Luke, a praying Pharisee (religious leader) boasted of his good works compared to a publican (the name for a senior tax collector in Roman times in Palestine, hated by many).

The publican, praying to God, simply asked for mercy because he knew he was sinful. God was affirming the publican

Council team up with Argyle Community Trust Central Park’s Community Sports Hub is set to be take centre stage in an exciting new social prescribing project.

The sports hub, which opened just prior to the pandemic in March 2020, is situated in the heart of the park on the site of the old bowling pavilion and complements the existing bowling greens.

Now, in partnership with Argyle Community Trust and Livewell Southwest, it will become a base for a green social prescribing scheme which will involve the Trust running activities for people of all ages based around sport, the outdoors and nature.

Social prescribing, also sometimes known as community referral, is a means of enabling health professionals to refer people to a range of local, non-clinical services.

The referrals generally, but not exclusively, come from professionals working in primary care settings, for example, GPs or practice nurses.

It has been made possible through funding from the National Academy for Social Prescribing (NASP), Arts Council England, Historic England, Natural England, NHS England and Improvement, Sport England, the Money and Pensions Service, and NHS Charities Together, as part of the Thriving Communities programme.

In addition, the Argyle Community Trust will take on the management of the sports hub, which was built by the Council as part of wider improvements to Central Park with contributions from the Football Foundation. It features changing rooms, accessible toilets and storage facilities as well as upgrades to the community hall and kitchen, all of which will be managed on a daily basis by a team of Argyle Community Trust staff.

Lewis Coombes, facilities manager for the Argyle Community Trust and Deputy Council Leader, Councillor Pete Smith, at the Central Park Community Sports Hub

By working with local partners, clubs and stakeholders, Argyle Community Trust will create a vibrant and welcoming environment that can be enjoyed by all visitors to the park, whilst establishing new services aimed at increasing physical activity, supporting health and wellbeing inequalities and empowering people to become socially engaged by adding to the park’s existing amenities.

The work of the Trust will support the development of annual events and initiatives such as Park Run, in order to bring people to the park and raise funds to ensure the facility becomes self-sustaining.

The fund will enable the Trust to lead on the delivery of various sports and physical activity sessions,

nature and wildlife activities with the Council’s Green Minds team and inclusive community arts with the Theatre Royal’s Funky Llama team.

Councillor Pete Smith, Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, pictured above with the Trust’s Facilities Manager Lewis Coombes, said: “For years now the Argyle Community Trust and its many programmes have been synonymous with making a difference to people of all ages across the city.

“I can’t think of any organisation better equipped to run the Community Sports Hub and I look forward to seeing people, young and old, enjoying the facilities in the years to come.”

Mark Lovell, chief executive of, Argyle Community Trust said: “We

are proud to be presented with this opportunity by the council and are looking forward to working in unison to develop the facilities. We will work to make this more than just a space where people play sport, it will be a place that the community can use at its centre for education and social events.

“The project has involved a great deal of planning and I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to Plymouth City Council and all the partners involved. We have already formed a strong relationship since the asset transfer of Manadon Sports and Community Hub to the Trust, which is already self-sustaining and well established within its community.”

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment, Plymouth City Council says: “We are very excited to use this programme as a platform to promote the park’s natural environment and high quality facilities as a safe and welcoming space to support everyone’s health and wellbeing.”

The outdoor sports facilities will be used by Devon Junior and Minor Football League, Plymouth and West Devon League, Plymouth University Football and Rugby teams, Friends of Central Park, tennis coaching services and the Central Park Bowling Association.

The hub will facilitate various programmes delivered by Argyle Community Trust including employability, education, and recreational activity as well as letting out rooms to local businesses, organisations and activity providers who serve the needs of the community.

To find out more, discuss business opportunities or enquire about hiring the facilities email community@pafc.co.uk

who was personally honest, over the religious leaders who were performance based. The publican was honest and truthful about his condition and God affirmed the attitude of truth.

This led to dispute over who Jesus actually was. He explained to the people that he was not of this world, and that he is only doing what the Father taught him. In John 8:31-32, Jesus said (to those who believed Him), ‘You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings.

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’

The genesis of Cross Rhythms is still rooted in this principle. Only God Himself can outwork the mysterious spiritual work of changing the broken heart and sinful soul. Our free choice and will are important in this process.

Sometimes music can truly make this process the most beautiful experience in life. It did for me. He is knocking on the door of our hearts in Perfect Love.

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

GRAND SUPPORT FOR JUNIOR FOOTBALLERS Junior footballers at a thriving club in Plymouth are celebrating after scoring £1,000 from a leading housebuilder to fund matchday kit for the squad.

Drake Under 8s FC have been gifted the funds

by Persimmon Homes Cornwall.

The donation comes as part of Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme, which sees the Launceston-based housebuilder donate up to £2,000 to charities and community groups in the region each and every month.

Lee Fry, who made the successful funding bid on behalf of Drake Under 8s, said: “Drake are a really young enthusiastic group of boys who have the potential to rival any local team.

“It is fantastic to have the support of Persimmon Homes Cornwall - the boys will be buzzing when we all get back together, which hopefully won’t be too long now. We will use the money towards match day tracksuits for the squad.”

Jane Cartwright, sales director for Persimmon Homes Cornwall, said: “We’re delighted to be able to hand this money to the football club in support of the Under 8s squad.

“The club does a fantastic job in getting young people up and active. We know that running sports clubs in today’s climate can be very tough. This £1,000 will be very helpful and I am sure the team will make a good impression when they turn up for matches in matching kit.”

Community Champions was launched in 2015 to support good causes in the areas in which Persimmon Homes builds. Each month the Launceston-based builder donates up to £2,000 to community groups across the region. This also happens across Persimmon’s other 31 operating areas, meaning up to £64,000 is dished out every single month – a total of £768,000 a year.

Jane urged more community groups and charities to apply for Community Champions funding by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com/ charity She added: “It is a simple process to apply for the Community Champions funding and I would urge anyone looking for financial support of up to £1,000 for a good cause to apply.”

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22 May 2021

22 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Pavers Foundation donates £1,000 to Marine Academy King’s team

Stephen Guy, team manager of Marine Academy King’s U9’s receives the £1000 cheque from Sarah Hawkins of Pavers

Shoe retailer Pavers have recently awarded £1,000 to Marine Academy King’s U9’s team through their charitable Foundation.

It followed a grant application from Sarah Hawkins, store manager of the Plymouth branch. The donation will go towards buying all-weather training kits for the under 9’s team.

Sarah, whose son has been playing with the junior football club since a young age, applied for the funding through the Foundation’s employee-led grant scheme, which encourages all employees to make a difference to charities benefitting health, education or community.

Sarah Hawkins said; “The reason I chose Marine Academy U9’s was my son has played with them since he was three, first at just a community session and then progressing into their actual team. It has been so good for him as it has helped to keep him fit and developed him as a person.

The coaches and managers put in a lot of their own free time and money to help deliver the training to these

boys and this was my way of giving something back” Stephen Guy, from the Marine Academy Kings said: “It’s great news! It is so appreciated by me, the boys, parents and family, and everyone involved in the team.

We are so grateful for the donation as the team require kits when we return to training safely after lockdown.”

The Pavers Foundation is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the communities around them.

Each year the family business, Pavers, gives 2% of net profit, alongside the total profits from the sale of carrier bags in stores, plus returns from the endowment to ensure the Pavers Foundation can continue to make effective and positive changes in local communities and beyond.

To date the Foundation has donated over £913,000 to good causes. These causes tend to be associated with the core three pillars of their philanthropic strategy relating to health, education and the community.

For more information vist www.paversfoundation.co.uk and www.pavers.co.uk

One-stop-shop skills service to open in city centre Plymouth is to get a one-stop skills shop in the heart of the city centre to offer face-to-face support for skills, training, education, careers and jobs for anyone whatever their age.

Skills Launchpad Plymouth is to offer free, face-to-face advice - when the time is right - at the Barclays Armada Way branch. Local people will be able to access independent information, advice and guidance to help them take their next steps.

The Skills Launchpad, which will open at the end of April when lockdown is lifted, is the latest measure by the council to provide help for people affected by the pandemic and guide them as they take their next steps.

The economic impact of the global pandemic has created huge uncertainty about exam grades, job security and employment prospects and as part of the city’s Resurgam programme, the council along with its partners, set up ‘Skills Launchpad Plymouth’ last summer.

The initiative aimed to help local people at risk of losing their income, facing redundancy, young people whose first career steps are now uncertain and students wondering what the future holds.

The Skills Launchpad virtual one-stop-shop for skills, training, education, careers and jobs is helping local people get the right advice and information, and has already supported over 10,000 people through its Youth Hub and Adult Hub. Jon Taylor, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Transformation said: “Skills Launchpad

Plymouth is an inclusive one-stop-shop for supporting all ages and backgrounds who are considering their next move.

“The support we have received from Barclays means we can now expand this service to offer face-to-face appointments when the COVID restrictions ease.

“The city has many sectors such as health and care, engineering and construction which are growing and expanding their workforces, creating opportunities and it’s been a fantastic partnership effort to bring everything together for the first time to transform support for school, college and university leavers, young people who are not in employment or training, local employers who are recruiting, and adults who we want to help gain the skills they will need.”

David Podd, Barclays Plymouth City leader, said: “The programme developed within the Skills Launchpad Plymouth project closely aligns with Barclays LifeSkills which aims to develop individual’s employability skills to succeed in the workplace and move forward with their careers.

“As such, we are delighted to play our part in accommodating this crucial initiative working alongside Plymouth City Council to help local people have access to free face to face independent, advice and guidance and employment opportunities.”

Cheryl Ward, integrated delivery operations manager at the Department for Work and Pensions said: “DWP are delighted to be working in conjunction with Plymouth City Council on this

Emma Hewitt, Skills Lead Plymouth City Council, David Podd of Barclays and Councillor Jon Taylor at the launch of Skills Launchpad Plymouth

exciting Skills Launchpad Plymouth opportunity.

“By working together, we will support the local community with their transition into tailored educational and vocational opportunities helping individuals to achieve their full potential.

Being located right in the heart of the city centre means that the Launchpad services will be fully accessible to all, and the DWP would like to express their gratitude to Barclays for making this a reality.

“Having this fantastic space made available to us means that the city’s resources can come together in a truly focused way - with the

aspirations of our citizens at the heart of all that we will do.”

Funding has been secured through DWP to support Plymouth’s Youth and Adult Hubs with Plymouth City Council contracted to lead the service delivery through working in city wide collaboration.

It is hoped Skills Launchpad Plymouth will open for face to face service at Barclays Armada Way for pre-booked appointments only by the end of April 2021. To find out more, to sign up for free one to one support and to access comprehensive digital resources visit www.skillslaunchpadplym.co.uk

National broadcasting award for Hospital Radio Plymouth Volunteers at Hospital Radio Plymouth (HRP) have once again been successful in this year’s Hospital Broadcasting Awards.

HRP were awarded Bronze for Best Station Promotion, for their programme Requestline with Steve Glanville and Jill Bright. Judges commented: “They loved the simple and clear message about the radio station, with a couple of jokes that were so bad – they were good.”

The station, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, was also shortlisted for Best Male Presenter (Andrew Hill), and Station of the Year, a category in which HRP has been shortlisted every year since 2008, and been awarded bronze, silver or gold eight times.

This year’s awards ceremony was held online, with hospital radio stations from across the UK coming together to celebrate the work done by volunteers to provide entertainment and interesting programmes for those in hospital.

Station manager Keith Jolley said: “This past year has shown the importance of hospital radio

Hospital Radio Plymouth volunteers pictured pre-lockdown

in lifting the spirits of those in hospital and the wider community, and our volunteers have done an incredible job – lots of our presenters have set up home studios so they can keep producing shows, and we’re finding alternative ways of gathering requests too.”

Presenter Steve Glanville said: “I take the judges comments about the jokes as a compliment!

Although Jill and I present the show, it’s a team effort, with others collecting requests and doing the technical bits. It’s a testament to all HRP members who have worked so hard for the past year – presenting

from home is very different and we’re looking forward to getting back in the studios and on the wards.”

Fellow presenter Jill Bright said: “We’re already planning our next entry, even though we’ve been in lockdown. Steve and I are both Tony Hancock fans, so we’ve got a shared sense of humour and we’re glad that comes across to listeners.

And Steve says he’s not in it for the awards, so the trophy can go in my cabinet, alongside the one we won in 2019!”

The multi-award winning station has a team of volunteers

who collect requests, put together programmes and make sure there is a friendly voice at the patient’s bedside 24/7.

Anyone wishing to make a request or dedication can contact Hospital Radio Plymouth through their website, www. hospitalradioplymouth. org.uk, by phone on 01752 784300 or through their social media pages.

Jill Bright and Steve Glanville, presenters of Requestline

USEFUL St Luke’s Hospice launches its Make a Will NUMBERS May 2021

@PlymChronicle

23

Month campaign with a timely reminder Launching its Make a Will Month campaign from May 1 to 31 in partnership with local solicitors, St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is highlighting the good sense of making sure wills keep pace with the significant changes in people’s lives, such as buying a home, getting married, starting a family, getting divorced or the death of a partner.

In support of the campaign, which raises vital funds to help the charity continue its compassionate care for terminally ill people across Plymouth and surrounding areas, 20 community-spirited solicitors are waiving the fee they would normally charge for making and updating wills in return for a donation to St Luke’s.

The charity gives its specialist care and support free of charge to the many local families who rely on its service, but with less than a third of its funding coming from the NHS it is reliant on the generosity of its supporters to continue its vital role.

Spearheading St Luke’s Make a Will Month campaign is the charity’s head of fundraising Penny Hannah, who knows first hand how life can change overnight and how keeping your will current can help bring peace of mind.

Penny said: “I think it was learning at an early age that nothing in life is certain that made me feel I always want to be as prepared as I can be for whatever lies ahead.

“I was just 14 when my father died suddenly, and I had to grow up fast. Losing dad was incredibly hard, and my older siblings and I became a rock for my mum.

“I started work as soon as I could so that there was enough money coming in, taking a cleaning job after school at 14 and going into the world of retail, where I quickly worked my way up.

“By the age of 23 I was a store manager

Penny Hannah with her daughters Amber and Ruby

CityFibre will be providing thousands of Plymouth businesses and residents with access to a state-of-the-art full fibre broadband network. It’s already started construction work in the north-east of the city, with the rest of the build set to follow over the next three to four years.

‘The Box on Screen’ will explore the city’s archive film collections via a programme of nine videos.

A new video will be released each month throughout the rest of 2021 and will be available to watch free of charge on The Box’s YouTube channel.

The programme was launched at the end of March with a film that put a spotlight on women. The next film features The Blitz and

for a national retail chain and had my own home, but it was marriage and the birth of my first daughter, Amber, that was the catalyst for me deciding to get organised and make a will.

“I remember, very clearly, wanting to know she would be provided for if history repeated itself and she lost me young in life the way I lost my dad. When my then husband and I made our wills, we included our choice of legal guardians for her, something we updated a few years later when our second daughter, Ruby, was born.

“Since then, life has taken many unexpected twists and turns, as it does for most people. Following the breakdown of my marriage and subsequent divorce, which led to a new chapter in my life, I knew it was important that I should rewrite my will.

“The next part of my story is a fairytale. I met my prince, Andrew, and when we married our two families became one bigger one of

seven. We have shifted careers and moved home, and as a couple we have agreed to keep our wills current so that our loved ones are provided for, no matter what happens.

“While I understand that it may not be uppermost in people’s minds at the moment with everything else that is going on, I can’t stress enough how having an up-to-date will can help free you to enjoy living in the moment.

“It is one of the kindest things you can do for the people who matter most to you, making what can be a traumatic time for them that bit easier.”

Details of the solicitors taking part in St Luke’s Make a Will Month are on the charity’s website at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/ makeawill, or call 01752 492626 for more information. Appointments can be made for May or for later in the year, and there is the option to meet with a solicitor online or in person.

will be screened on April 22 followed by fashion on May 6. Additional episodes later in the year will focus on Devon, Cornwall, the Barbican and waterfront, sport, nightlife and ‘star objects’ from The Box’s collections.

Deputy Leader, Councillor Peter Smith said: “One of the main aims of ‘The Box on Screen’ is to provide people who may be isolated or living in care settings with a way to connect, so we’re thrilled to embark on this partnership with CityFibre whose full fibre network will make connecting easier for all.

“The programme began as ‘The Box on The Box’ last year and provided a lifeline to thousands of people during the lockdowns.

Thanks to CityFibre, as well as the support of the Arts Council, National Lottery Heritage Fund and British Film Institute, we can now do even more to raise its profile and appeal, and hopefully give many more people a fascinating way to enjoy a ‘trip down memory lane’.”

Kathryn Askew Smith, CityFibre’s city

manager for Plymouth, said: “We see this project providing a much-needed service to the residents of Plymouth both in terms of raising the important topic of dementia alongside isolation, especially as we come out of lockdown.

“It’s great to partner with such an important local institution as The Box and be involved in a project that focuses on improving connections both physical and virtual. Our full fibre network will leave a lasting legacy in Plymouth; one that all residents can use and be proud of.”

To watch ‘The Box on Screen’ episodes as they’re released each month visit www. youtube.com/c/theboxplymouth.

For more information about The Box visit www.theboxplymouth.com and for CityFibre visit www.cityfibre.com/residential To become a Corporate Gallery Partner, sponsor a figurehead or find out about other sponsorship opportunities at The Box please email louise.walsh@plymouth.gov.uk.

Life Centre to open for swimming on May 17 Swimming facilities will return to Plymouth Life Centre on Monday May 17, coinciding with the Government’s roadmap that all indoor adult sports and activities can resume for groups of up to six individuals or two households.

Balfour Beatty have been working flat out to complete the remaining works in swimming and diving areas, despite a delay to the initial reopening date, due to the requirement to overhaul existing poolside lighting and COVID-19 restrictions.

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

The Box connects with CityFibre for new sponsorship deal The Box has secured an exclusive sponsorship deal for its digital reminiscence service, ‘The Box on Screen’ with CityFibre, one of Plymouth’s newest companies and the UK’s third largest digital infrastructure builder.

Emergency Numbers

Once complete, visitors will have access to upgraded changing facilities; including new lockers, cubicles, flooring, lighting and refinished walls.

Members of the centre have been back onsite since April 12, accessing the gym and other facilities, in line with the national reopening of indoor leisure. Additionally, indoor bowls will be available from April 23 and squash courts from April 24.

Courtesy of arrangements made by Balfour Beatty, members of Plymouth Life Centre will be provided free access to outdoor swimming

at Tinside Lido when it reopens on May 1.

The free access at Tinside will extend until swimming is returned to Plymouth Life Centre on May 17.

The diving pool is expected to be complete in the summer, following a complete rerender and re-tile of the pool walls.

Everyone Active is notifying its members directly to inform them of any impact to their memberships.

For more information on Plymouth Life Centre, please visit www.everyoneactive.com/ centre/plymouth-life-centre/

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

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

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

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

Leisure

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

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

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

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

24 May 2021

24 May 2021

@PlymChronicle

Rachael’s moving account of her battle Advertise to over with cancer receives five star ratings 24,000 A Plymstock mum who has published a book about her battle with cancer has been overwhelmed by the response from people who have read it.

Rachael Hallows, who is 42, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in September 2017 and then underwent an intensive course of treatment, including chemotherapy until February the following year.

She started to write the book a few weeks after the treatment ended and after being turned down by a number of agents, she decided to self publish the book herself. “I didn’t have a goal in mind,” said Rachael, “but I had an overwhelming need to write about my experience.”

‘You’ve Got This’ was published in March and has proved an instant success. It has received dozens of five star reviews on Amazon - which has delighted Rachael.

“The feedback I have received has been totally amazing,” said Rachael, who is a single mum with two teenage boys. “I have had so many encouraging messages of support and thanks from people. I have also been contacted by people who are battling lymphoma themselves and saying how much the book has helped them.”

All proceeds from the sale of the book are going to Hugs From Henry, the Plymouth-based charity which was founded by Elsbeth Hallam after her son Henry was diagnosed with neuroblastoma.

Within a few weeks of the book being published well over 200 copies had been sold and the number is rising every day.

She has dedicated the book to her late uncle Colin Chase, who passed away from cancer in October last year at the age of 59. Rachael said: “He took every role in life seriously. He was everyone’s friend and lived life to the full. He never failed to smile - even in his final days.”

Rachael’s cancer story started in August 2017 when she discovered a lump in her neck.

Blood tests came back clear and doctors were sure it was some

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Rachael Hallows... receiving five star reviews

sort of viral infection.

Rachael said: “I have always suffered from anxiety but I knew something wasn’t right. My gut instinct told me something was wrong.”

She had been diagnosed with lupus seven years before and was determined to get to the root of what was causing the lump to grow.

A family friend was a retired cardiologist and she asked him to check it out. “He said I needed to get a biopsy, so I went back to my GP the next day and she arranged for it to take place as quickly as possible.”

Her worst fears were confirmed when the biopsy revealed that she had Non-Hodkin’s Lymphoma. What followed was

What reviewers are saying on Amazon...

“On this journey, we share Rachael’s deepest fears, her pain, her love for her boys, the kindness of others, the dedication of the medical staff and in spite of everything, a sense of humour that is never far from the surface. Rachael’s story serves only to amplify my admiration for her strength, courage and determination.”

“Honest, straight-from-the-heart account of battling cancer” “Gripping, heart wrenching and heart warming” “Real, full of heart. Will make you laugh and cry” “An Inspirational Journey” “The most beautifully written down to earth biography” “Emotional roller coaster of a read” “A great book that you won’t want to put down”

a roller coaster of emotions and fear. She had to break the news to her two sons and the rest of her family and friends. There was worst to come.

While undergoing the early rounds of chemotherapy, Rachael was told that a further biopsy of her bone marrow had revealed the presence of low-grade lymphoma - which is incurable.

Between 2018 and 2020 Rachael remained under the care and treatment of the Lymphoma team at Derriford Hospital as she continued to battle with her anxiety. She was given therapy and counselling to help with her issues.

As the pandemic struck in March 2020 Rachael was forced to shield for several months - but in the end decided she needed to try to get back to normality by going for daily walks.

She pays tribute in her book to all her family and friends who rallied round to help and support her during her battle.

“The love and support I got was amazing,” said Rachael.

“There were so many gifts and little surprises for me and the boys. I have never known kindness like it.

“Through it all you have to keep faith and I do believe that good things happen to good people.

“My thanks go to so many people, especially my dear mum and brothers who I know were just as frightened as I was,” said Rachael.

She also lists her many friends who helped her during the darkest hours of treatment as well as the Plymouth Leander Swimming Club, who supported her two sons as they regularly competed for the club.

She also praised the NHS and the haematology team at Derriford, especially her consultant and nurse specialist.

“In the nicest possible way I truly hope I never have to see them again!”

Finally her love and thanks went to her boys Ashton and Leighton encouraging them to never give in and never give up.

You’ve Got This is available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback format.

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The June edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on May 21, with a copy deadline of May 10. The Waterside & West edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.

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

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Chronicle Plymouth

May 2021

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

A Plymstock mum is receiving five star reviews for her book which charts her battle against cancer See page 24

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

Young people in Plymouth are set to be inspired by a special programme as part of the big Sail GP event See page 13

ALSO INSIDE:

• Dial the Experts • Local news and views

• Cross Rhythms Experience • Useful numbers

High octane spectacle!

Barbican Theatre and Plymouth Gladiators Speedway have joined forces to present Petrrol Headz over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The high octane event will feature the best of the modified car scene along with the associated street culture and music • Story and more pictures on page 16

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