Plympton Community Magazine December 2020 by OM Plymouth Magazine

December 2020 | Area 1

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HALFORD & HOMES X PEIRSON HOUSE We get an insight into the five new apartments that Halford and Homes are launching at Peirson House

HOW TO SPREAD XMAS CHEER We have gathered together some ways to spread Christmas cheer if your loved ones are not near this year

WHAT TO DO DURING XMAS IN PLYMOUTH With the pandemic interfering with everyday life, we have found the very best things to do in Plymouth this year

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Myles Lockwood myles@oracle.uk.net

Area 1

INTERIM EDITOR Amy Fry editor@oracle.uk.net ACCOUNTS Emma-Jane Corry emma@oracle.uk.net

Editor’s Note... The countdown to Christmas is upon us! Mistletoe and fairy lights are getting hung up and the step ladder to the attic is in full use.

SALES MANAGERS Myles Lockwood Matt White sales@oracle.uk.net

As we approach Christmas, we are beginning to wonder what will happen regarding the current pandemic restrictions. We have an editorial about how to spread Christmas cheer when you’re not with your loved ones this festive season. From meaningful gifts to virtual games, there is always a way to feel connected at this unusual time.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Tom Coles tom@oracle.uk.net Amy Fry

We have an engaging business profile this month. We spoke with Halford and Homes about their new launch of apartments with Peirson House. Modern, contemporary city living with spacious outdoor communal areas – This is one to read if you are on the hunt for a new city lifestyle.

PHOTOGRAPHY Tom Coles Pixabay | Pexels | Freepik

We hear from Dr Ruth Harrell, director of public health for Plymouth as she explains the current state of the pandemic and how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

SISTER MAGAZINE OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk

E TO IF YOU WOULD LIK ADVERTISE FOR AS LITTLE AS £46.10 A MONTH IN THE ITY PLYMPTON COMMUN MAGAZINE please call sales on

Find out what events are happening in Plymouth over the Christmas period given the interference from the pandemic. From light trails to a virtual Father Christmas. We also have a mouth-watering reader response from Mr Wok’s Thai Noodle Bar and Burger and Bones.

Amy

We hope you enjoy this festive edition See you in the new year!

Amy Fry - Editor

01752 691007 e.co.uk

Contents December 2020

zin www.plymptonmaga

The Plympton Community Magazine, Oracle Publications, Unit 5, Bowker House, Lee Mill, Nr. Ivybridge, PL21 9EF

Plymouth Hearing Centre

Festive recipe ideas

Copyright © 2020 The Plympton Community Magazine. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publisher. We have done our utmost to ensure that all the content is correct and accurate at the time of print, but we emphasise that Oracle Publications accepts no responsibility for any mistakes or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in The Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.

Halford & Homes

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What’s on in Plymouth

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How to spread Xmas cheer

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A breath of fresh air has landed in the city centre as the new apartment complex, Peirson House opens its doors. With open plan living, modern finishes and tranquil outdoor space, this is one to look out for. Independent Estate Agent, Halford and Homes have grabbed 5 of these gems, ready to launch them on the market very soon.

rchitectural company Burke Rickards had the plans to create homely, modern and welcoming apartments, in the very heart of the ever-growing city. Plymouth’s city centre is adapting to modern times as we are gradually seeing fantastic architectural changes across the city such as; The Box museum, The Barcode, Beckley Point, attractive new plans for the shopping sector and now, Peirson House. The development is managed and run by the Burke family; James the Managing Director and his father, architect and developer. This close-knit, ‘in-house affair’ meant that every detail could be thoroughly assessed to provide the best outcome. We could certainly recognise the care and attention to detail as we were shown around. It is all too tempting for architects to focus on the striking exterior of their project but then they tend to lack the same aspects in the interior design. Opposing to this; the Burke family were adamant that they were going to build from the inside out and naturally, the exterior would then fit the interior. The primary aim of the build was to simply create a space that people would want to live in, so this meant it was important not to compromise on the quality of the living space. The completion date for Peirson House was originally April 2020, but as we all are aware – something got in the way of that. The show apartment was open for viewings in September 2019 therefore potential buyers could get a feel of what their apartment would be like as the construction could carry on around it. The

construction delays affected the plans considerably, however, speaking to James Burke, it seems the substantial indirect change in people’s confidence in the housing market and the economy affected them the most. A gradual opening of each floor at a time meant that in August 2020, it was fully completed. In the entire building, there are 76 apartments, ranging from 1-bed to 2-bed. On the north side of the building are the majority of 1-bed apartments with far-reaching views of Plymouth. The idea behind this is that the young professionals won’t require as much space and are looking for city views whereas, the 2-bed apartments are situated on the south side with the tranquil garden views. These slightly larger apartments are tailored more towards the downsizers or the recently retired as they have a more relaxed atmosphere facing the garden. The 2-bed apartments all have en-suites and also come with parking facilities. Leah had visited one of her friends who happened to be living in one of the apartments at Peirson House. It was the social aspect of the garden and the quality of the build that led her on to enquire about a few of the apartments on behalf of Halford and Homes. James Burke had previously thought they required a certain Estate Agent who had fantastic local knowledge. If you have read our previous business profile with Halford and Homes, you would be familiar with their incredible local expertise which helps tremendously to sell their properties.

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Halford and Homes are soon to be launching 5 apartments in Peirson House. These range from 1-2 beds, a variety of sizes and views out to the north and south side of Plymouth. They are listing their 5 properties from £169,950 for a 1-bed north-facing, up to the price of £300,000 for a large 2-bed Penthouse with south-facing views. All of Halford and Homes’ properties at Peirson House are for purchase purposes only, this is in the interest of the homely nature of the building and the communal feel they strive to achieve. Halford and Homes will usually take on a mixed array of properties that show potential or feel would sell fast. Because of the premium quality of the build, the outdoor space and the modern appeal, the team are very excited to get their apartments on the market. The communal feel is ever-present in the garden space. The Burke family have done well to achieve a tranquil oasis in the centre of Plymouth. We were lucky enough to be able to have our interview in the glorious sunshine in the middle of their beautiful ‘zen garden’. With a trickling water feature, plentiful outdoor seating and large BBQ area, this is a lovely space to enjoy and socialise with neighbours. We really felt the calm serenity of the green space, something that property buyers are keen to have especially during this unpredictable pandemic. When you fancy a private minute or two, each apartment comes with its own spacious balcony to soak up the evening sun with a large glass of bubbly. Premium is a word that springs to mind when walking around Peirson House. Since the developer was also the architect, this meant that they could take more care and attention to detail when it came to the overall structure as well as the fine finishing touches. These details are even present in the hallways as they do not

From left to right; Leah Flanagan, James Burke and James Halford feel enclosed or narrow due to the strip lighting which subtly highlights the door frames and in-turn naturally opens up the space. At the time of the interview, there were 12 vacant properties left out of the 76 in total, therefore, if you are interested, I would recommend you act promptly! Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, all apartments are to be viewed by appointment only. During lockdown, there were rules set in place where you had to prove you were in a position whereby you could make an offer instantly. Coming out of lockdown – those restrictions have relaxed slightly but are still recommended. Virtual viewings are optional however, Halford and Homes believe that purchasing a property of any size requires a lot of thought, a decision not to be made lightly. These apartments are ready to move straight in to, gleaming with a bright future for the city of Plymouth. For more information about the building, head to their website www.peirsonhouse.co.uk or if you would like to enquire about one of these modern apartments, speak to the lovely team at Halford & Homes. Details listed below.

t: 01752 418104 w: www.halfordandhomes.co.uk 1 Weston Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4NS @halfordandhomes

@halfordandhomes

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HOW TO SPREAD CHRISTMAS CHEER WHEN THEY’RE NOT HERE With the pandemic interfering with daily life, we begin to worry if we will be able to spend Christmas with our loved ones this year. Therefore, we have gathered together some ideas on how to feel connected during the Christmas period.

s we wait to hear the government guidelines for Christmas Day regarding coronavirus, it is natural to become anxious about whether we can spend Christmas with our loved ones or not. Whether they are on the other side of the world or sheltering from the virus, we are all wondering how this Christmas will turn out. We should all be experts by now at video call quizzes and virtual games following the previous two lockdowns but I think we are now wanting something a bit different. I have gathered together some fun and meaningful ways to stay connected and spread the same amount of Christmas cheer without spreading the virus. Firstly, let’s go old fashioned for a moment. Taking the time to write a letter and putting all of your thoughts and feelings on paper can be a sentimental way of spreading the love this Christmas. With a Christmas stamp and a bit of thought, this can really show the recipient that you are thinking of them at this distant time.

Get everybody online! The more vulnerable, elderly relatives will appreciate you going that extra mile to teach them how to use a social media platform or a video calling software. Social media can be a negative platform sometimes, however, if you like to share things occasionally on Instagram or Facebook, your relatives will feel more involved in what you are up to. Alternatively, it is always important to put time aside and pay attention to other people’s lives, so pick up the phone or laptop and have a video call. Making the extra effort to reach out to loved ones over the phone can help you both to feel connected. A photograph is sometimes all you need to remind yourself of a happy time with a loved one. Plympton Photoshop has a great selection of personalised photo gifts from mugs to canvas prints and everything in between. What better way to show your loved ones that you are thinking about them than a personalised photograph of a great memory. You can even get that special memory printed on a t-shirt which can make them feel even closer to you. Many people will have relatives all across the world on Christmas Day which might be difficult and costly to send them large presents. SnapFish have a sharing platform where you can all contribute to the same photo album. Buy two and you’ve got some great memories you can both share even on the other side of the world! Christmas Day is full of classic Christmas movies and specials both on streaming platforms and TV. I always find that a great way to feel connected is to watch

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a film/tv series at the same time, this way you can speak about it after and have lots to discuss or laugh about. Amazon Video has released a ‘Watch Party’ where two or more households can watch the same film at the same time. If they do not own an Amazon Prime membership, now is the perfect time to gift them with a subscription. Our editors guide on what to watch has a selection of our top picks that are set to be released this December! Starting up your own book club is also a great way to bring people together. Being entirely engrossed in the same stories and characters at the same time is really special and it also keeps yourself busy and engaged in something healthy whilst the world is uneasy.

with your loved ones will help to take your mind off the pandemic! It doesn’t have to cost the earth either, a winter stroll with a hot drink can be all that is needed for a lovely catch up! Thoughtful jewellery that they can wear every day, for example; a bracelet, necklace, watch or earrings will make them feel like the certain someone they are missing on Christmas Day is closer than they think by having that constant reminder.

If creating your own mixtape is a little too dated, you could gather together some songs that remind you of them and make a playlist on Spotify. You and your loved one can both listen to the playlist which can bring back fond memories. Showing that you are thinking of someone can make someone’s day. As an early Christmas present, purchase a ‘Light up the Room’ for yourself and your other half or child who you are unable to see during the Christmas period. These unique lamps are more than just a practical night light. When you are both in the room with the lights, you can send a light of their favourite colour to the receiver’s light to let them know you are thinking of them. For children who have struggled to sleep with the distance of their loved ones, this can be a lovely silent reminder of your love for them to send them off to sleep. Baubles are traditionally family heirlooms and have individual value. Sending somebody a bauble that will remain on their Christmas tree throughout the Christmas period is a great little reminder that can come out again each year. You can get personalised baubles from www.notonthehighstreet.com or perhaps you could make your own! We all need a little something to look forward to at the moment which means organising a fun plan

The Christmas dinner is the pinpoint of the big day which might feel lonely if you are missing people this year. This idea might be challenging but you could have a video call at the table whilst you all tuck into your Christmas dinner? Give it a go, it might be a laugh! Christmas time can be a difficult time for many for a lot of different reasons. Divorced parents, passed loved ones, financial worries and family conflict can all paint a negative and challenging picture of Christmas. With the pandemic on their shoulders as well, this year more than ever, we need to reach out to friends and relatives who may be struggling and to take time out of our fast-paced lives to make sure they are okay. If your Christmas plans have already been disrupted and you find yourself in the possible circumstance that you may be alone during Christmas - Don’t forget that if you are living alone, you can form a support bubble with one other household to spend Christmas Day with. The same applies to you if you are in an abusive relationship because nobody deserves to feel trapped and unsafe, especially during a pandemic. With the uncertainties of the pandemic, there is one thing certain – Christmas will still go ahead! It might just look a little different this year but this does not mean we can’t do all that we can to make it an enjoyable time for everyone! No matter where they are in the world!

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All being well, Santa will be joining Plympton Rotary and our helpers on his annual tour of the streets of Plympton in the lead up to Christmas. Sadly we are not able to knock on doors asking for donations which we in turn donate to good causes. But to help us help you, our local community as well as those further afield, we are asking that donations be made online this year. To donate, please go to:

https://www.givey.com/2020christmascollections However, we will also be offering children a chance to have a 5 minute 1-2-1 online chat with Santa. (Small family groups can be catered for). To book a slot please go to:

https://TinyURL.com/plymptonrotarysanta (This link can also be found on our Facebook page)

Should you make a booking to chat with Santa, we ask that you kindly consider making a donation via the above donation link. The suggested donation is ÂŁ5 per chat.

Merry Christmas from

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OUR FAVOURITE FESTIVE Recipe ideas Christmas is coming! It’s time to start thinking about what goodies can go on your table for the big day. We have gathered together our favourite Christmassy recipes from sweet to savoury for you to indulge in this season. We have also added in some vegan recipes too!

VEGAN CHRISTMAS PUDDING

(Serves 12-14)

125g dairy-free margarine, plus extra for greasing the bowl and paper, 375g dried figs, 75ml rum, 350g mixed sultanas and raisins, 1 large eating apple, peeled, cored and grated, 85g light brown soft sugar, 85g dark brown soft sugar, 100g breadcrumbs, 100g self-raising flour, ½ tbsp allspice ONE Grease a 2-litre pudding bowl with dairy-free margarine, then line the base with a circle of baking parchment. Grease a large sheet of baking parchment, then lay it on top of a large sheet of foil, margarine side up. Fold a pleat in the middle of each sheet. TWO Roughly chop 125g of the figs and set aside. Put the remaining figs, the dairy-free margarine and the rum into a large food processor and whizz until smooth-ish, then scrape into a large mixing bowl. Tip in the chopped figs, sultanas, raisins, grated apple, sugars, breadcrumbs, flour and allspice. Stir everything together, then spoon into your pudding basin. THREE Cover with the buttered paper-foil sheet, tie with string and trim. Lower into a large saucepan, with upturned saucers or scrunched-up bits of foil in the bottom (so the pud doesn’t touch the bottom), then fill the pan with enough boiling water from the kettle to come halfway up the sides of the bowl. Cover with a lid and simmer for 3 hrs, topping up the water as needed. Remove and leave to cool. Will keep in a cool, dry cupboard for up to a year.

Christmas Truffles

(Makes 35)

150g dark chocolate, chopped, 150g milk chocolate, chopped, 150ml double cream, 50g unsalted butter cocoa powder, sprinkles, lustre powder, icing sugar, chopped nuts, for coating, flavourless oil (such as sunflower), for shaping ONE Put the dark and milk chocolate in a bowl, then put the cream and butter in a pan and bring to a simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and stir until it melts. Leave to cool, then chill in the fridge for 7 hrs. TWO Put the coatings into separate bowls. To shape the truffles, lightly rub your hands with flavourless oil and roll teaspoons of the truffle mix between your palms – this can get messy! THREE Gently roll the truffles in the bowl until evenly coated, then put in a box and chill. Store in the fridge in an airtight container for three days, or freeze for up to a month. Defrost in the fridge overnight.

CHRISTMAS GIN (Makes 700ml) 700ml bottle of vodka, 2 tbsp juniper berries, strip of orange peel, 4 cloves, 1 cinnamon stick ONE Open the bottle of vodka and add the juniper berries, orange peel, cloves and cinnamon. (If you prefer a stronger flavour, bruise the juniper berries using a pestle and mortar first.) Put the lid back on the bottle and leave in a cool, dark place for 12-24 hrs, but no more, or the flavours may become imbalanced. TWO Strain the infused vodka into a jug through a fine sieve (or a coffee filter works well), then pour back into a clean bottle. Will keep for several months in a cool dark place. Mix with tonic or in a martini.

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slow cooker mulled wine

(Serves 10)

Gingerbread men

(Serves 15-20)

2 x 750ml bottles red wine, 100ml Cointreau, peeled zest and juice of 2 large oranges, pared zest of 1 lemon, 120g golden caster sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks, 3 star anise, 4 cloves, slices of orange

225g plain flour, plus extra for dusting, ½ tsp salt, 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda, 1 heaped tsp ground ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, 50g unsalted butter, 100g soft brown sugar, 100g golden syrup

ONE Put all the ingredients (except the slices of orange) in a slow cooker on low for 1 1/2 - 2hrs until hot. Ladle into heatproof glasses and serve with slices of orange. Using the ‘keep warm’ setting (if your cooker has one) will ensure the mulled wine stays hot during the party.

ONE Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5 and line a baking tray with baking parchment. Sieve the flour, salt, bicarb, ginger and cinnamon into a large bowl. Heat the butter, sugar and syrup until dissolved. Leave the sugar mixture to cool slightly, then mix into the dry ingredients to form a dough. Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 mins. TWO On a surface lightly dusted with flour, roll out the dough to a ¼-inch thickness. Stamp out the gingerbread men shapes with a cutter, then re-roll any off-cuts and repeat. Place your gingerbread shapes on the lined trays, allowing space for them to spread. Cook for 10-15 mins, then remove from the oven and leave to cool. Three Enjoy with a lovely glass of homemade mulled wine

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WHAT’S ON IN PLYMOUTH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON The restrictions of Covid-19 have meant a lot of events have been cancelled this year therefore we have compiled some ideas to keep everyone entertained this Christmas time!

he majority of events this Christmas have been cancelled, however; some have adapted their events to make them ‘covid-secure’. Santa’s grottos have been cancelled but some are doing socially distanced alternatives. Pennywell Farm, Buckfastleigh Starting off with a positive - a very popular Christmas event for kids; ‘The Perfect Christmas Experience’ at Pennywell Farm, Buckfastleigh is going ahead this year! This beloved experience promises 2.5 hours of festive animal fun with its own Nativity and Father Christmas. This is the perfect Christmas experience for the family – but make sure to book your tickets soon as it is very popular. To book head to www. pennywellfarm.co.uk Endsleigh Garden Centre Another place to see Father Christmas this year is at Endsleigh Garden Centre. Endsleigh is doing a virtual zoom call with Father Christmas himself. They are also planning ‘Breakfast with Santa’ this year where you can book a socially distanced table for breakfast with your family whilst Santa reads stories and talks to the children over a speaker system. Powderham Castle, Exeter A little bit further out towards Exeter, Powderham Castle is running their light trail this year, complete with its own grotto! They are also offering a pop-up restaurant with socially distanced tables. Booking is

essential for both events. What better way to spend a winters day than at a 600-year-old castle! Plymouth Christmas Market Our much-loved annual Christmas market will look a lot smaller this month with only the food stands able to trade. So, fear not, you can still grab your roast dinner wrap and Churros! Plymouth Boat Trips, Plymouth Plymouth Boat Trips are holding ‘Santa’s Christmas Party Cruise’ where you can share all of the festive cheer, socially distanced on a boat! This fun family cruise includes a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie for the adults, and a soft drink and small gift for each child. With Christmas music and face painting, there is a fantastic Christmas spirit aboard this boat. The House of Marbles, Newton Abbot The House of Marbles has their very own Christmas post box where you can write a letter to Santa and post it in the red post box. They will also give you a Christmas goody bag when you post the letter! Saltash Window Wanderland 2020 Unfortunately, the annual Saltash festival and lantern parade cannot go ahead this year however, they have reinvented it to bring you ‘Saltash Window Wanderland’. Windows from shops and houses will all be individually decorated with festive scenes and colourful lights. Put on your hat, scarf and gloves and take a stroll around Saltash, gazing at your neighbours’ beautiful window displays. Theatre Royal Plymouth There is nothing that quite spells out Christmas like a pantomime at your local theatre. Theatre Royal Plymouth has revealed that they will be showing the performance of Robinson Crusoe this December, with

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socially distanced seating of course. ‘OH YES IT IS!’. Stiltskin Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park, Plymouth A promenade production of ‘Quest For The Ice Dragon’ will be going ahead at the Stiltskin Soapbox Children’s Theatre. Join Stiltskin on an enchanted adventure in search of the Ice Dragon. Grab your wellies, hat, scarf and gloves and follow the magical journey! With mulled wine, hot chocolate and tradition mince pies and gingerbread, what’s not to love about this festive experience. Wonder Nights, Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park The much-loved light experience at Mount Edgcumbe has released their details for 2020. The world of Make Believe is the vision of Michael Weedon, who spent over 5 years crafting intricate homes for make-believe characters and Children’s author Michael Walter, who created a unique story for each of them. For the first time ever – Wonder Nights is bringing the entire collection together to be seen on a walking discovery in Mount Edgcumbe’s secret garden! Children’s Hospice South West, Santa fun run Join in with the Santa’s on the Run goes freestyle this year as it goes virtual! From the 11th – 13th December, the Children’s Hospice South West is organising a way to fundraise online. Pick your own route, distance and festive fancy dress and support your local children’s hospice. This event is free to register at chsw.org.uk/santas If you are wanting to get away from all of the (socially distanced) crowds, there are lots of other festive things to do in the great outdoors. A brisk winter walk when the grass is crisp and the air is fresh is exactly what the doctor ordered! There is nothing like blowing out the cobwebs with a walk in the countryside. We are so lucky to have

an abundance of walks from coast to woodland and moorland right on our doorstep. Beaches are not just for sunbathing on. Grab your wellies, wrap up warm, take your dog if you have one and enjoy the freedom of a quiet beach on a beautiful winter’s morning. Wembury is a lovely spot for a quiet moment, with coastal walks right and left of the beach and up the hill past the church. Doing something active, early in the morning can be just what is needed to start your day off right! Dartmoor is a must, with its burnt orange rolling hills, babbling brooks and waterfalls. Remember that the weather in Plymouth could be wonderful but as soon as you get to the moors, the weather may change very quickly so it is important to dress practical. Wellies are essential as I have learnt first-hand! Take the Plym Valley Trail and enjoy a leisurely stroll through Plymbridge Woods. This trail is perfect for cycling as well so don’t forget to take your bike that Santa may have gifted you! Christmas is a time for fun and festive activities and because of the current restrictions, a lot have been cancelled or adapted this year. However, there are still plenty of fun things to do, in and around Plymouth, to keep you busy and in the festive spirit. We hope that with this list and the abundance of walks around the South West, you can still manage to have a wonderful time in the run-up to Christmas.

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SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS Have a little think about who may need a little extra hand this Christmas. One of those is probably your local shop.

ndependent businesses have their place in our economy and play a very important role. Firstly, if we didn’t support them, our high street would be looking very bare, and secondly, they are actually better for the economy of your community. It has been proven that if you spend as little as £10 with your local independent shop, up to £50 goes back into the local community. This is primarily because a local shop owner will be putting the money they earned into other local businesses such as pubs & restaurants, which in turn circulates the money around the community.

footfall compared to larger companies which means doing your Christmas shopping is just that little bit less stressful. It is also a safer way to shop during the pandemic as they limit the amount of people in the shop at any one time.

With speculation as to how long our high street shops can be open for over Christmas this year, don’t forget to have a look at their online shop whilst they have had to shut.

The current pandemic has cut thousands of jobs in the UK already. Surprisingly, compared to large chain companies, small independent companies employ more people nationally. This means that more jobs are available if we can keep these independent companies running!

A friendly face and great customer service are what local businesses exceed at. I always find when shopping locally, you feel a sense of kindness because you can see first hand what buying their product does for them. Usually because they are serving you at the till with a big smile on their face! You become spoilt for choice when you start shopping locally, you also tend to find items that are rare or exclusive to that particular shop which can make the experience even more special.

The global pandemic has notably affected the economy but it isn’t too late. Now is as good a time as ever to help out your local businesses. Think outside of the box when it comes to small businesses because not all of them are on our high streets. Some are just a phone call away!

Having a healthy outlook on shopping locally can do more than just keep that particular business running. The local economy, appearance of high streets and the environment are all brilliant benefits from supporting independent businesses, so do your bit and keep them on our streets!

Have a browse at our very own Plymouth Market to find your independent goodies this year. The vibrant veg stalls and fresh fish produce along with all the choices of gift ideas, this is a perfect place to do some local Christmas shopping. Most people might be surprised to find out that competitive prices are still found in smaller businesses. Smaller, independent shops tend to have a reduced

In Plymouth, we have an abundance of small, independent shops to explore this Christmas. We hope you have a very merry¬ shopping experience this year and remember to stay safe and think local!

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DR RUTH HARRELL’S COVID-19 MESSAGE As you read this, we should be coming out of our second lockdown; many of you will have questions and be wondering about the future. Here, I hope to provide you with some reassurance and answer some of the key concerns that we encounter in our day to day work around Plymouth.

s Director of Public Health, my team and I have been at the forefront of the city’s efforts to combat COVID-19. Our first message is THANK YOU! Thank you to everyone who has been working hard to keep our health service going, our care homes and schools open, our vulnerable shielded, our shops open and our deliveries turning up. But thank you is also due those everyday heroes that wear a mask, keep their distance, wash their hands and do all they can to boost people’s spirits. If everyone continues to observe the ‘hands, face and space’ message, we can keep this virus under control. Unfortunately, in some cases, as the first lockdown ended, so did the idea that we need to keep on with our protective behaviours. Sadly, it’s not true – we absolutely need to keep our hands clean, washing thoroughly and regularly, keep our face coverings on and our social distancing in place. Be outside when you can – it’s safer than inside by far. It’s hard to comply when you see your grandchildren, your friends and family. But it’s not forever – it’s until we get the virus under control. Each casual encounter – a quick chat with neighbours, a coffee break with colleagues or a lift with your friends – it’s a prospect for the virus to spread. COVID-19 doesn’t care it’s only a brief moment without your mask, a quick hug or 5 minutes in the car. It just wants an opportunity to get in among your friends and family, and will take any chance it can do to infect someone. As we come out of this lockdown, remember the lessons from the first; we can’t let our guard down. Too many casual encounters, too many opportunities for the virus to spread gave COVID-19 a foothold in Plymouth, leading to a rise in cases and more needing hospital care. That starts to cut down the availability of the care for other, routine conditions. There are only so many NHS staff to go round and if they’re self isolating,

Dr Ruth Harrell Director of Public Health for Plymouth or off sick, then that reduces the capacity even further. Even a lockdown doesn’t eliminate COVID-19, so we still have to work hard to keep the number of cases down, helping to remove the strain on the NHS and staff who care for us when we’re ill. It’s not just the old that are suffering either. There are plenty of cases of COVID-19 where younger people have got it, and they are knocked for six. It’s an unpleasant, nasty virus that has the capacity to kill. No one should underestimate it, and even if you are fortunate enough to have a mild dose – you could be infecting your friends, your neighbours, their families, their loved ones – it soon spreads and everyone experiences it differently. Vaccines will certainly be part of the solution to get us back to normal life. But we can’t just vaccinate a few people or groups and be done with it; this will be a huge programme to vaccinate enough people across the world to prevent the virus gaining a foothold again. They will only be rolled out when they meet the very strict safety criteria that applies to all medicines. Because of these challenges, it will take time and it’s not likely to be in place in the next few weeks. That means Christmas may be a little different this year and we should be prepared to plan for a safe and healthy session, rather than assume we’ll be able to have big social get togethers. So perhaps start as you mean to go on. Take stock of the positive. Get outside when you can, meet for walks, pick up the phone to friends and family and take comfort – this is not forever. It’s finite and together we will get through it. You can find out more ways to keep your mind healthy on https:// www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/. Stay well.

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