Plymouth Chronicle January East 2026

Nature City Plymouth!

Photo courtesy of Plymouth Natural Grid

Bold new chapter for post war icon

It was once the beating heart of a city rebuilding itself. Now, after years of silence, the Civic Centre is set to spearhead the biggest regeneration of the city centre since the post war rebuilding.

A symbol of Plymouth's post-war ambition, the Civic Centre has stood tall over the city's skyline for more than 60 years. Whether getting a bus pass or parking permit, discussing planning applications, applying for housing or claiming benefits, or enjoying the views from the top floor restaurant, thousands of Plymothians have passed through its doors.

Now the building is preparing for its most exciting transformation yet. The Grade II listed building is being reimagined as a mixed-use space that will once again serve the people of Plymouth as a place to live and learn, as well as a place to connect, remember and shape the future.

Backed by Homes England and led by Plymouth City Council in partnership with City College Plymouth, the regeneration will deliver:

• 144 new homes in the iconic tower, designed for modern city-centre living.

• A Blue-Green Skills Hub on the lower floors, training thousands of students each year in sustainable technologies and marine innovation.

• Public spaces and ground-floor activity that reconnect the Civic Centre with the city around it, including Civic Square, the Theatre Royal and Royal Parade.

The Civic Centre already has planning consent for residential development, and significant public engagement was carried out for a previous proposal which the previous developers Urban Splash were unable to proceed with.

The council is now building on that strong

foundation to make the new vision for the Civic Centre a reality, bringing new life to a building that has long been part of Plymouth's story.

As part of its autumn engagement programme, the council wants to hear residents' views on the proposals and their memories of the Civic Centre. For more information and to post views, stories and pictures visit www.plymouthciviccentre. commonplace.is/

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and City Centre Regeneration, said: "For over 60 years this building has stood at the heart of Plymouth, shaping our city's story. Whether you love it or loath the sixties architecture, the building was a symbol of post-war rebirth and now it's set to be at the forefront of the biggest regeneration of the city centre since then.

"Plymouth needs more homes in the city centre. Cities like ours typically have around 8,000 central residents – people who live, shop, and socialise locally, driving the economy forward. By creating

new homes here, we're tackling the housing shortage and boosting local business.

"The new Blue-Green skills hub is another exciting step. With City College leading the way, we'll equip our young people and adult learners with the skills needed for Plymouth's growing defence and marine sectors, especially as £4.4 billion is invested in Devonport dockyard.

"This is about building from within – creating opportunity, nurturing talent, and ensuring Plymouth remains a city of innovation, resilience and pride. This is your Civic Centre. Help shape its future."

Pauline Schaffer, director - Infrastructure Funding from Homes England said: "Homes England is providing funding to support this iconic project, which will deliver high-quality homes as part of a wider regeneration initiative.

"This is a prime example of how we are helping local authority partners like Plymouth City Council to create thriving places people can be proud of. "

Jackie Grubb, chief executive of City College Plymouth, added: "The Civic Centre project represents an incredible opportunity for Plymouth's residents to gain the skills needed to thrive in the city's growing blue and green industries. The new Blue-Green Skills Hub will provide training in areas such as marine engineering, sustainable construction and renewable energy, helping our students to play an active role in shaping a cleaner, more resilient future for our city.

"The courses delivered through the Hub will relate directly to the blue and green economy, ensuring that Plymouth continues to lead the way in innovation and sustainability."

Pre-planning consultation

The council has commissioned ECF to help with a pre-planning consultation which is now underway. As well as comments on the proposals, they want the stories and colour that make this building part of the Plymouth story. They will be at the following:

• Thursday November 13 5pm to 7pm –Christmas Lights Switch-on

• Wednesday November 19 10.30am to 4pm –surveys in the city centre

• Wednesday November 26 5.30pm to 7pm –Evening drop-in session, Commonwealth Room, Crowne Plaza

• Thursday November 27 10.30am to 12.30pm –Pop-up at Christmas Market

To complete the survey and share stories and photographs regarding the Civic Centre, please visit www.plymouthciviccentre.commonplace.is/

£18.4 million funding package approved – see story on page 12

Reader travel

WARNER ISLE OF WIGHT ENTERTAINMENT BREAK

Departing Thu 15 Jan ‘26

Join us at Warner Norton Grange Coastal Village for a few days away with entertainment and a range of activities on offer. There’s also the opportunity to enjoy a lovely trip to two of the island’s most recognisable locations, Newport and the Needles.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth, Saltash

 2 nights at the Warner Norton Grange Coastal Village, Isle of Wight (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Daytime activities in the resort

 Use of leisure facilities

 Entertainment every evening

Optional excursion to Newport & the Needles (£12pp)

DOWNTON ABBEY BEHIND THE SCENES EXCLUSIVE

Departing Wed 29 Apr ‘26

Revisit the familiar halls and family drama of Downton Abbey with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle. On this sensational two-day break we peek behind the scenes at where all the unforgettable moments from the beloved TV programme happened.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash

 Overnight stay at a selected hotel (JG3 or JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Exclusive visit to Highclere Castle

 Copy of A Year at Highclere book (one per person)

 En-route visit to a place of interest

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Departing Fri 22 May ‘26

Dubbed ‘the garden equivalent of Paris Fashion Week,’ the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show is a highlight event of the gardening season. The best of the botanical world gather for this prestigious flower show to display the latest in horticultural innovation.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash

 Overnight stay at a selected hotel outside London (JG3 or JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Admission to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with coach transfer

By Coach from Plymouth, Saltash

AGE UK PLYMOUTH LAUNCH THEIR BIG FESTIVE FUNDRAISER CAMPAIGN

Age UK Plymouth has launched its annual Christmas Campaign, the charity's biggest fundraiser of the year, bringing the community together to support older people across the city during the festive season.

Each Christmas, the campaign helps provide hot festive meals, companionship and celebrations for people who might otherwise spend the holiday on their own. With rising living costs and Plymouth remaining one of the most deprived areas in the country, winter continues to be a difficult time for many older residents.

The kindness shown by local people over the years has already had such an impact. Donations have helped deliver hot Christmas meals and food parcels across the city and provided parties at their Mount Gould centre – moments that have genuinely lifted spirits for those who may be feeling alone.

"It reminded me that I'm still a member of the community" - Alan, 82.

With the help of donations from the Plymouth community – here’s how the support will help this Christmas:

£10 - will pay for a meal and food parcel delivered to someone's home

£20 - will pay for a client to enjoy a festive party and a hot Christmas lunch

All donations stay within Plymouth, supporting the people who need it most. At a time when many are having to make tough choices day to day a contribution to Age UK Plymouth's Christmas Campaign can bring a sense of belonging back into someone's festive season.

To make a donation visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/christmas-campaign-2025

Help spread the festive joy by gifting toys this Christmas

Tesco customers in Plymouth have the opportunity to give new toys to local children who need it most this Christmas.

Until December 15 Tesco's Transit Way Superstore is holding a collection for new and unwrapped toys for Children's Wishes Plymouth, which will then distribute the toys to local children.

Children's Wishes Plymouth is dedicated to helping families affected by life-changing events such as poverty and illness. They assist schools and charities with various needs, from respite weekends to essential items such as beds and furniture. Their focus is on families with children, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Abby Wills, community champion at Tesco’s Transit Way store, said: "We are really pleased to be helping to support this great new charity to make

a difference to local children at this special time of year."

Jacqui Castle, the store's other community champion, added: "We take pride in supporting our community during the year, and this year's toy donation campaign is a fantastic way for customers to help local families in need."

For the campaign, the Transit Way Superstore will have a dedicated toy donation point where customers can donate new, unwrapped toys purchased in store.

Claire De Silva, head of communities at Tesco, said:

"Our stores are committed to supporting local children and their communities year-round, and thanks to the generosity of our customers and colleagues, the annual toy donation campaign is a wonderful way to make a difference at Christmas.

"It’s great to see the Transit Way Superstore partnering with Children's Wishes Plymouth this year to ensure that every child experiences the magic of Christmas."

Last Christmas Tesco customers donated a total of 125,000 toys, with the retailer looking to beat that number this year.

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

The Gruffalo’s Child Garden Trail

Daily until February 1

Experience the magic of the beloved Gruffalo’s Child story brought to life within the garden at Saltram between 10am and 4pm. Step into the world of the Gruffalo’s Child and follow along on the journey through the deep dark wood with games, challenges and plenty of festive photo moments along the way. Free event. Normal admission applies.

Plymouth Winter Wonderland

Until Jan 1

Following the resounding success of last year's event, the magical winter festival is set to return to Central Park. This year's Winter Wonderland promises to be even more enchanting, with a host of festive delights for all ages. Step into a Winter Wonderland of twinkling lights, festive music, and Christmas cheer. Details at www.plymouthwinterwonderland.co.uk

Barbican Christmas Trail

Until Jan 4

The Grinch Adds a Pinch is a festive, family-friendly adventure taking place until January 4. The creative trail invites visitors of all ages to explore the Barbican area while searching for clues and Christmas puddings –with a mischievous twist from the Grinch himself. Trail maps are free and can be picked up from the Tourist Information Centre (closed on Sundays)

Plymouth Christmas Market

Until Dec 21

Experience the all-new Plymouth Christmas Market, operated by the award-winning event operators, Market Place. With over 100 international and local traders housed in charming, traditional chalets, the Plymouth Christmas Market will be offering an authentic feast of quality Christmas fayre alongside a carefully curated mix of handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products.

Scrooge the Musical

Dec 3 to Dec 6

Plymouth Theatre Company present a timeless musical adaptation of Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol at the Devonport Playhouse. Details and tickets from www. plymouththeatrecompany.com

Christmas Market at the Aquarium

Dec 3

National Marine Aquarium is hosting an Ocean Friendly Christmas Market from 5.30pm to 9.30pm. Be greeted with a mulled wine and festive snack on entry, explore sustainable stalls from local businesses, and find special Christmas gifts for loved ones. Get involved with a hands-on workshop and Ranger shows about how to have a sustainable Christmas. Adults only tickets £12. Free for annual passholders.

The Christmas Orchestra Concert

Dec 4

For the first time Plymouth locals can enjoy the Christmas Orchestra at The Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus with performances at 6pm and 8.30pm. The audience will enjoy a 16-piece chamber orchestra, arranged by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conductor, Patrick Bailey. Performing festive favourites and timeless film soundtracks from Christmas classics, the evening will also feature a dazzling light show for an unforgettable festive experience. Tickets at www. thechristmasorchestra.co.uk

RBL Annual Meeting

Dec 5

Royal British Legion Plympton & District Club at 41 Market Road, Plympton will hold its AGM starting at 7pm. Members to please bring their membership card.

Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir

Dec 5

The choir’s annual Christmas fundraiser at Harewood House, Plympton at 7pm. Tickets £10 on the door to include mince pies and mulled wine. The choir will also perform at Elburton Methodist Church on December 14 at 7.30pm. Tickets £7 on the door.

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

Christmas Coffee Morning

Dec 6

St Gabriel’s Church, Peverell Terrace from 10am to 12 noon. Christmas items, bric-a-brac, sweets, home prepared pickled onions will be on sale and a Christmas raffle at 11.45am. This promises to be a very enjoyable and friendly event. All welcome.

Family Festive Fun Walk

Dec 6

Join a family-friendly walk in aid of Devon Air Ambulance at Cann Woods, with Santa’s Grotto at the end and a free hot chocolate and sweet treat! The 2.5 mile walk starting at 11am is a marshalled, way-marked route around Cann Woods. Friendly dogs are welcome on-lead so it is fun for all the family! Tickets and details at donate.givetap.co.uk/f/devon-air-ambulance/ festivewalk

Christmas Concert Dec 6

Plymouth choir Phoenix Chorale presents an evening of festive choral music with carols old and new at St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. Tickets £12 from www.ticketsource.co.uk or £14 on the door, under 18s free.

Christmas Fair and Santa's Grotto Dec 6

Keyham Green Places from 11am to 3pm with craft stalls, cafe, cake stall, children's craft activities and stories plus Father Christmas grotto. Free entry and all welcome.

Christmas Concert Dec 6

South West Chamber Choir will present a concert of songs and readings for Advent and Christmas at Stoke Damerel Church at 3pm. The concert will include carols by local composers and a wide variety of music which should appeal to all.

Coffee Morning Dec 6

Crownhill Methodist Church from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Supporting Little Bridge House. All welcome.

Christmas Fayre

Dec 6

Salisbury Road Baptist Church Large Hall from 10am to 2pm. Hot and cold food available.

Christmas Fayre

Dec 6

Pennycross Methodist Church in Pridham Lane, Peverell from 1pm to 4pm. Go along for an afternoon of fun, raffle, stalls, cakes, warm drinks and much more. All welcome. To hire a table or stall contact Maria Seddon on 07791 996326 or seddonm@sky.com

Festive Good Food & Craft Markets

Dec 7, 10, 14, 17 and 21

Taking place on Wednesdays and Sundays inside the

Royal William Yard’s Grade I listed Melville building, its courtyard, and Arcade in Brewhouse building, the much-loved markets will feature over 60 stalls showcasing the South West's finest artisans, traders and makers. From festive foods and artisan produce to handmade gifts, ceramics, candles, homewares and crafts, there is something for everyone. Full details and times at www.royalwilliamyard.com/christmas

Celebrating Romania Through Art and Music

Dec 7

Romanian Grand Union Day will be celebrated at Stoke Damerel Church at 3pm. Organised by EduArt CIC, the event will be led children and young people from Plymouth’s Romanian School Arici Pogonici and from the community. The programme will feature traditional Romanian music, dance, and creative arts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Romania. Opportunity to enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine, engage in craft and art workshops, and view an exhibition of artworks by the children.

Seasonal Celebration

Dec 11

Hosted by Onward Community Wellbeing Group at Cherwell United Church, North Hill from 6pm. Live music and buffet. In aid of Food Aid community drop in project. Entry £3.

Candlelit Christmas Concerts

Dec 12 and Dec 13

The Down Thomas Singers are supporting Children’s Hospice, South West with two concerts at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas where parking is free. The light and amusing Christmas themed concerts are on Friday, December 12 at 7.30pm and on Saturday, December 13 at 2pm. There is always a good raffle and closing collection. Tickets at £7 include a warm drink and mince pie and are available from any choir member or the Secretary (Telephone 01752 299204). Seating is at tables so people can bring their own drinks and nibbles as well as the refreshments at the interval.

Southway's Christmas Table Top Sale

Dec 13

Church of The Holy Spirit, Southway from 1pm to 3pm. Lots of goodies, children's crafts, raffle and chocolate tombola. Refreshments available. To book a table call Veronica on 07855 256383.

Christmas Concert

Dec 13

Tamar Concert Choir perform a selection of Christmas songs and traditional carols with the opportunity for audience participation. Woolwell Community Centre, Darklake Lane, Plymouth from 6pm to 8pm.

Jingle All The Way

Dec 13

Festive evening featuring The Tamar Valley male voice choir and The Wrangler’s Theatre Company at Methodist Central Hall at 7pm. Craft stalls, photo opportunities and refreshments. Suitable for all ages. £10 per person, £8 children/concessions, under 5s free.

All proceeds to Children’s Hospice South West. Tickets from eventerly.com/11073/plymouth-pals-of-chsw/ events/717.html

Baroque Christmas Concert by Candlelight

Dec 13

University of Plymouth Choral Society present a concert including Vivaldi's Gloria, highlights from Handel’s Messiah, and Carols in St Andrew's Minster Church at 7.30pm. Details at www.uopcs.org.uk

St Luke’s Light Up a Life Concert

Dec 16

Featuring the Sir Joshua Reynolds Choir at St Andrew’s Church, Royal Parade at 3.30pm. Admission free, donations for St Luke’s Hospice.

Christmas Concert

Dec 18

Tamar Concert Choir perform a Christmas concert at Stoke Damerel Church at 7.30pm. In aid of the Chestnut Appeal with a variety of Christmas themed songs and traditional carols.

Chestnut Appeal Concert

Dec 18

Presented by Tamar Concert Choir at Stoke Damerel Church at 7pm. Details at www.stokedamerel.church

Candlelight Christmas Classics

Dec 18

The globally acclaimed series of live concerts presented by Fever, will transform National Marine Aquarium with thousands of flickering candles to host an unforgettable performance featuring classic Christmas carols and festive holiday melodies, performed by a talented local string quartet. Concerts at 6.30pm and 8.30pm. Tickets from www.feverup. com/m/487997

Children’s Christmas Party

Dec 19

A festive,action-packed Children’s Party featuring bouncy castles and loads of fun at the Woolwell Centre from 3pm to 6pm. Tickets £5 per child from www.thewoolwellcentre/1910981 or call 01752 695888.

Great Sea Choir Concert

Dec 19

Plymouth’s contemporary a cappella folk choir perform at Stoke Damerel Church at 7pm.

Plymouth Jazz Club

Dec 21

Featuring The Bourbon Street Paraders with their New Orleans Dixie Jazz at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Non-members welcome. Details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.com

Coffee Morning

Jan 3

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls supporting Blood Bikes. All welcome.

It’s A Wonderful Life

Jan 14 to 17

Western College Players present Frank Capra’s beloved classic at The Drum, Theatre Royal. Tickets and information at www.theatreroyal.com/whats-on/ wonderful-life/

Burns Night Celebration

Jan 24

Hosted by Plympton Rotary Club to raise funds for a Prostate Screening Day at Plymouth Argyle in collaboration with the Chestnut Appeal, a local charity providing vital support for men facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. The event to celebrate Rabbie Burns is at Boringdon Park Golf Course from 6.30pm to midnight. Tickets £47.50. Details and tickets at www.boringdonpark.com/events

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

The popular Good Food and Craft Markets will take place at the Royal William Yard on Wednesdays and Sundays in December

Photo: Dom Moore

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Council leader briefs rail minister on city’s growth ambitions and metro plans

Plymouth City Council leader Tudor Evans has met the Government's rail minister in London to press the case for investment in Plymouth's local rail network to meet the needs of the city's ambitious growth plans.

Councillor Evans and council chief executive Tracey Lee briefed Minister for Rail Lord Hendy CBE on the need for investment in a Plymouth Metro System Network so it can meet the city's future transport needs as it readies for unprecedented growth in employment and housing as £4.4 billion is invested in Devonport dockyard.

A Plymouth Metro System Network would increase the capacity of existing rail services, add a new station in Plympton, deliver the long-planned new line to Tavistock and provide a new local train fleet that improves reliability, increases passenger comfort and reduces emissions.

They also briefed the minister on the ambitious plans to regenerate the area around Plymouth railway station and create a welcoming gateway to the city called Brunel Plaza.

Councillor Evans said: "We had a very positive meeting with Lord Hendy and he was interested in our plans. We are confident that we have a very compelling case for support given the expansion of our defence industries and the strategic importance of Plymouth in delivering the continuous at sea deterrent.

"We were able to demonstrate that with the recent launch of the Team Plymouth partnership we are united in our ambition to capitalise on the defence investment and position Plymouth as a national lead in defence, marine autonomy and advanced manufacturing and be at the forefront of national resilience and regional renewal.

"We not only want to foster innovation and create high-quality jobs but also ensure the growth in employment means all Plymouth residents benefit through gaining the skills for the future and that the city has sufficient housing to support the additional jobs that are being created.

"An expanded and more efficient transport network is vital element of ensuring Plymouth's grabs this once in a generation opportunity and ensuring everyone in the city and beyond benefits.

"The plans for a metro network are ambitious, but they are far from pie in the sky – they are the result of a lot of work with our partners. There's a firm timetable for business cases to be submitted to Government for each element of the Metro plans and we will continue to knock on doors in Whitehall to ensure the plans become a reality."

Councillor Evans and Tracey Lee also met Baroness Sharon Taylor, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to discuss Local Government Reorganisation, funding for local government and the formation of Team Plymouth to ensure everyone in the city benefits from defence investment and Plymouth’s allocation as a Defence Growth Area.

Posthumous award celebrates life and legacy of university lecturer Claire Chick

Plymouth University has celebrated the life and legacy of Claire Chick, through the award of a posthumous PhD.

Claire was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy – the university's highest accolade – in recognition of a programme of work titled 'Testing an intervention to develop resilience in student nurses and embed a strategy in undergraduate curricula'.

Many members of Claire's family and her friends attended the Graduation ceremony at the Theatre Royal Plymouth on October 21.

Claire died in January after being attacked outside her home in West Hoe Road. Her former husband was jailed for life for her murder.

As a photo of Claire – edited to include an updated cap and gown – was shown on screen, her doctorate was collected by one of her daughters, Lydia Peers, and her brother, David Chick.

To further her legacy, Claire's friends in the university's School of Nursing and Midwifery have created the Claire Chick Nursing Fund which is raising funds in her memory.

As a dedicated nurse and a passionate advocate for student nurses, Claire championed opportunities and supported the next generation of the profession. With the support of her family, friends, and colleagues, her legacy of supporting student nurses continues through the Nursing Fund.

It will provide travel bursaries, support for those facing financial or personal hardship, and other vital assistance to ensure that all nursing students –regardless of background or circumstance – can make the most of their education and go on to make a difference in the community.

Claire believed deeply in the difference nurses make in the world, and she would be proud to see this work continue in her name.

The university said Ms Chick was a dedicated nurse and a passionate advocate for student nurses and championed opportunities and supported the next generation of the profession.

"Claire believed deeply in the difference nurses make in the world, and she would be proud to see this work continue in her name," it added.

City College alumni return for 50th anniversary celebration

City College Plymouth has welcomed back over a dozen of its alumni for a very special anniversary dinner celebrating 50 years since the hospitality students first started their courses in 1975.

The anniversary dinner, attended by 14 of the class of 1975-1977, took place in the college’s student-run PL1 restaurant and featured a nostalgic menu full of specially selected classic dishes from the 70s – all of which were carefully recreated by the college’s current hospitality and catering students.

The event represented a significant ‘full-circle’ moment for many of the guests, some of whom have not returned to the college site since they

completed their course in 1977.

Jos Wellman – a semi-retired chef whose five-decade career has seen him cook for royalty, heads of state, and multiple US presidents – said: “It’s nice to come back to the college environment where I feel comfortable. I’ve only been able to have the career I’ve had from the grounding I got from the college.”

He added: “My advice to current students is simple: learn the classics. Get them down and then progress from there. Get to know the science behind the food.”

Current level 3 student Lily Boultwood, who was serving at the event, said: "It’s really special to see the alumni back here, and to see how they’ve

gone from completing a course similar to mine to achieving so much in their careers over the years.”

Jamie McMurrich, City College’s chef lecturer who helped coordinate the event, said: “It’s a privilege to work at an event such as this. For our guests to be returning students of 50 years ago is extra special.

"I started my own catering career here at City College back in 1996, and I think an event like this represents the strong connection we have with our alumni as a department.

“This type of event is also so important for our current students, as it can help inspire and motivate them in relation to their own aspirations.”

SOUTH WEST AWARDS

Plymouth-based Altilium Clean Technology has won three prestigious awards at the Tech South West Awards 2025. The company, which is based in Estover, took home the CleanTech Award, Tech for Good Award, and the coveted THE Tech South West Award. The company was recognised for its world-leading work in sustainable battery recycling, helping decarbonise the EV supply chain and drive the UK’s clean energy transition.

In Sustainability, sponsored by Michelmores, MVV Environment Devonport was recognised for its measurable environmental impact and large-scale

renewable energy generation. MVV Environment Devonport were also one of the winners in the Cluster Awards category.

City College Plymouth won Best Place to Work, praised for fostering an empowering, supportive and inclusive workplace. The college was also a finalist in the EDTech Award and Supporting the Sector categories

The ceremony, held at Sandy Park in Exeter, brought together hundreds of innovators, founders, investors and business leaders to recognise the people and companies transforming the South West into one of the UK’s most exciting tech ecosystems.

Tech South West founder Dan Pritchard said: “The quality, ambition and impact of this year’s winners show how far the South West has come as a tech powerhouse. The region’s innovators are solving global challenges, creating jobs, and making a real difference through technology. The collaboration, creativity and community on display at this year’s awards sum up the collective strength we have across an array of specialisms, from cleantech and marine, to aviation and deeptech.”

For a full list of winners visit www. techsouthwest.co.uk/awards-2025

City College Plymouth class of 1977-79 pose with current staff and students in the PL1 restaurant

Award winners celebrating

Louise nails it to become Home

Chef of the Year

Louise Needham from Plympton has been crowned Home Chef of the Year after triumphing in her category of the South West Chef of the Year Awards staged in Exeter.

The competition was founded by acclaimed chef Michael Caines MBE DL and is now in its 21st year. This year’s winners were crowned at a glittering awards dinner held at Exeter Golf and Country Club, following a fiercely contested series of finals at Exeter College.

Competitors were judged by a panel of top chefs from across the region, including Nathan Outlaw, Scott Paton, Peter Gorton, Matt Mason and Chris Cleghorn, who were impressed by the standard of cooking and innovation on display.

Louise’s winning dishes (pictured below) were pan seared cod with mussels,

crushed Devon potatoes and local cider saffron cream, followed by poached pear with spiced plums, Devon whipped ginger custard cream and caramelised hazelnuts.

Widely recognised as one of the UK’s most respected chef competitions, South West Chef of the Year provides a vital platform for emerging culinary talent. The contest celebrates excellence across all levels of the industryfrom junior chefs to seasoned professionals - while championing outstanding local produce.

Michael Caines said: “Huge congratulations to all our winners and finalists. The standard this year has been phenomenal, with chefs showcasing their skill, passion and flair using the incredible ingredients our region has to offer. The competition shines a light on the creativity and resilience of our industry and the remarkable talent we have here in the South West.”

(Story from the Plympton Podcast, photos Steve Haywood Photography)

NEWS in Brief

SANTA COMES TO PLYMPTON - Plympton Rotary will once again be doing their visits with Santa to residential streets to bring cheer to local children and raise money for charity at the same time. They will be out and about over twelve nights starting in the Underwood area on Thursday December 4 and finishing in Compass Heights on Thursday December 18. They will also have static stalls with Santa at Ridgeway Coop on Saturday December 6 and Chaddlewood Coop on Saturday December 13, both from 9.30am to 1.30pm. More details available at www.facebook.com/plymptonrotary

STANNATORS MEET FOR LUNCH - A dozen past Stannators of Plympton, plus some of their partners, met for the annual Stannators’ lunch on Tuesday 4 November. The event is traditionally arranged by the immediate past Stannator who chooses the venue.This year it fell to Dave Partridge to select the location of the meal and he chose the Brook Inn in St Maurice where the group tucked in to a selection of tasty dishes. The most senior past Stannator in attendance was Winnie Smith who undertook the role in 1988/9.

CHARITIES BENEFIT FROM FRUITS OF FARMERS’ FUNDRAISING - Ivybridge Young Farmers have raised an impressive £8,500 for their two adopted charities for 2024/5 with cheque presentations of £4,250 each being made to Devon Air Ambulance Trust and Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) at the Young Farmers meeting on November 4.

PLYMPTON LOSES ANOTHER PUBLIC

PHONE BOX - The public phone box in Linketty Lane has finally been removed after a number of previous stays of execution. The box first came under threat of removal in 2020 and again in 2024, but now BT has finally gone ahead and removed it in the latest cull of public phone boxes in Plymouth.

WARM SPACES THIS WINTER - A new warm space, funded by a Government grant, has launched at Plympton St Maurice Church Hall. The sessions, known as ‘Knit and Natter’ will take place every Thursday from 1pm to 3pm. There will be various crafting activities available as well as warm drinks, biscuits and friendship. Similarly every Friday in the lounge at Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre people can drop in between 10am and 3pm for good conversation, fun, hot drinks and warm food.

PLYMOUTH CAR DEALER TO OPEN NEW

PLYMPTON BRANCH - Platinum Car Centre, a business long established at Cherry Tree in Ham, is to expand and open a second site in Plympton. The firm has acquired the former Circuit Motors site in Market Road. In a statement the firm said: “This expansion gives us the extra space we need and helps us reach even more customers across the city. All of this will roll out over the next two months, so please bear with us.”

WELCOME CUT BACKS - For once there have been cut backs of a welcome type. The out of control flora on Cot Hill has been cut back as has the hedgerow by the thatched cottage, revealing parts of the road which have not been visible for some time. The wild growth in the centre of the bridge over the railway has been chopped back to ground level and the growth protruding out onto the very slim pavement on the exit section approaching Plymouth Road has also been cleared back.

Louise pictured with her award alongside Michael Caines and fellow judge Seth Ward

How Plymouth is helping cut red tape to unlock Government funds in future

Plymouth is getting seen and heard in Whitehall with the city one of only four locations selected by Government to trial a new type of place-based business case.

The new form of business case is designed to make sure the end result – what difference projects makes to residents – is a key part to future funding allocations across Government departments.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: "Funding is an incredibly complex field and there is now recognition that the Government's own processes could and should be simplified so that the end result of how to make life better for all residents in an area, is right at the heart of future funding decisions.

"This builds on and complements the work of Team Plymouth as it will help Government assess how the combined impact of many projects can deliver greater value than the sum of their individual parts. We are leading the way and will help shape national guidance."

Plymouth City Council is the designated local government lead for the place-based business case development and will take an active role in developing it alongside the relevant government department.

Spending decisions, including any future funding allocations, will continue to be determined through the usual process at spending reviews but place-based business cases could help to inform those decisions.

The MoD have made a £4.4 billon investment into Devonport Naval Base and alongside this, Plymouth has been selected for a Defence Growth Deal, where MoD funding will support particular defence-led growth interventions. The Growth Deal provides a catalyst to seek and mobilise cross-government.

Team Plymouth, launched in September, is a partnership to ensure the vital defence outputs are delivered into the future while supporting the region"s growth. Through working partnership, Team Plymouth aims to maximise the opportunities that the MOD investment can drive into local communities.

The place-based business case will be a strategic document that will be developed with the intention of publishing in summer 2026. It will include:

• a set of shared objectives for Plymouth

• a description of the different combinations of projects that achieve those objectives

• an appraisal of the costs and benefits of the combination of projects, potentially using innovative approaches, with careful consideration of their feasibility.

Team Plymouth scores big win at Westminster

Team Plymouth has taken centre stage at an event in Westminster's Terrace Pavilion showcasing the city's pivotal role in shaping the UK's defence future and driving inclusive growth across the South West.

Sponsored by Babcock and hosted by Plymouth Moor View MP Fred Thomas, the event brought together senior politicians, industry leaders and civic stakeholders.

The event formally introduced Team Plymouth – a strategic partnership between Plymouth City Council, the Ministry of Defence, Babcock, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, academia and regional stakeholders. The collaboration aims to leverage defence investment to unlock innovation, infrastructure, skills and opportunity, positioning defence as a catalyst for regional and national prosperity.

Attendees at the Westminster event explored the transformational potential for Plymouth and the importance of cross-sector partnerships, with MPs also endorsing the city and wider region's ambitions for growth and regeneration.

Fred Thomas MP said: "Team Plymouth represents a huge opportunity for our city – a chance to harness defence investment in a way that truly transforms lives. It will spread skills, create high-quality jobs and attract new investment across Plymouth and the wider South West.

“It was fantastic to launch Team Plymouth in Parliament alongside the brilliant partners making this happen. Together, we're committed to delivering lasting benefits for our city, our communities, and our national security.”

Sir Chris Gardner KBE, CEO of the Submarine Delivery Agency and Senior Responsible Owner for Team Plymouth said: "Through Team Plymouth, we are driving transformational outcomes to create jobs, develop skills, build new homes, modernise

infrastructure and address longstanding inequalities.

“We are learning from successful models elsewhere and applying those lessons to maximise impact locally, regionally and nationally. By bringing together government, industry, education and local partners, we are drawing on Plymouth's talent to create a city where everyone has the opportunity to contribute and benefit.”

David Lockwood, Babcock chief executive officer said: "Team Plymouth is demonstrating how defence investment delivers real value across communities and drives sustainable economic growth. As a proud strategic partner, we're delivering skilled jobs and long-term change to the region, while underpinning the defence of the nation."

Earlier this year, Plymouth was designated as one of five initial areas for defence-based place

growth and will receive a share of £250 million announced from the Defence Industrial Strategy and named the National Centre for Marine Autonomy.

Through four priorities – building strong foundations, driving economic growth, enabling regeneration and attraction and breaking down barriers to opportunity – Team Plymouth is committed to ensuring communities benefit, tackling inequalities and promoting civic pride. The event at Westminster fostered dialogue, built momentum and reinforced Plymouth's strategic importance, as Team Plymouth continues engaging national stakeholders to turn the city's ambitions into reality.

More information on Team Plymouth can be found at www.investplymouth.co.uk/teamplymouth and on the official LinkedIn page www.linkedin.com/company/team-plymouth

Busy Bees for Children in Need

More than 100 children from the Busy Bees nursery in Plymouth joined a nationwide ‘Great Kindness Swarm’ for BBC Children in Need.

From handmade hug stations and kindness cards to seed-planting and smile challenges, children at Busy Bees nursery in Seaton Court, Plymouth buzzed with excitement as they took part in their very own Great Kindness Swarm – a joyful nationwide campaign created by Busy Bees to inspire 250,000 acts of kindness and raise vital funds for BBC Children in Need.

Across more than 350 nurseries, the UK’s largest early years provider encouraged its 47,000 children, educators and colleagues to complete six thoughtful acts each – from sharing toys and helping friends to giving back to their local communities.

The campaign is part of Busy Bees’ ongoing partnership with BBC Children in Need, supporting the charity’s Challenge Yourself to 25 initiatives. The partnership encourages children, families, and staff to make a positive difference, one act at a time.

To date, Busy Bees has raised over £110,000 for BBC Children in Need, bringing comfort, opportunity and laughter to children and young people across the UK.

This year, the Great Kindness Swarm aims to

raise even more to support those who need it most.

Lynsey Carroll, centre director at Busy Bees Plymouth nursery, said: “Our children have loved finding creative ways to be kind, from baking

treats for neighbours to planting kindness flowers. Together, these small gestures will create a powerful wave of hope, joy, and generosity. It’s wonderful to see how proud they are to help other children through BBC Children in Need.”

Council leader Tudor Evans

Plymouth Moor View MP Fred Thomas hosted the Westminster event for Team Plymouth

Fairytale ending for panto couple

Helen Noble (now Tudor) and Graham Tudor, a couple who met performing in Theatre Royal Plymouth's 2005 pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, returned to the city recently to mark their 20th anniversary.

Their chance meeting in the festive production which featured the legendary Chuckle Brothers, became the beginning of a lifelong love story.

In 2005, both Helen and Graham were cast at the last minute in Jack and the Beanstalk, playing the roles of Jack and Princess Apricot, after unexpected changes in the production. Neither had been originally scheduled for the show, but both stepped in and found themselves performing alongside a talented cast that included the beloved comedic duo, Paul and Barry Chuckle.

While the show was filled with laughter and festive cheer, it was behind the scenes where Helen and Graham truly connected. Their shared experience on stage led to a deep bond that soon blossomed into romance. A year later, the couple returned to Plymouth when Graham proposed to Helen on Plymouth Hoe, marking the start of their life together.

Now married with children, the couple's visit to Theatre Royal Plymouth recently marked two decades since that serendipitous meeting. They enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes tour of the theatre, revisiting the stage where their relationship began, and reflecting on the lasting impact the theatre had on their lives.

Their visit also took them to Plymouth Hoe, where Graham proposed – the place holds special significance, as it's where their story truly began to unfold.

On their return to Plymouth, Helen said: "It

really was a full circle moment walking back into TRP, once we were stood in the theatre it didn't feel like 20 years had passed at all. We experienced the same warm welcome to Plymouth that we remember from all those years ago.

"The theatre became a home to us over that panto season; we spent more time in the theatre than we did in our theatre digs! Both of us were away from family for Christmas and New Year and that is yet another reason why the theatre became such a special place for us. Little did we know that when we left Plymouth in January 2006 that we were beginning our future journey together and it meant the world to us to introduce our children to the place it all began.”

Theatre Royal Plymouth staff were delighted to welcome the couple back, recognising their journey as a wonderful example of the magic theatre can create, bringing people together in ways that last a lifetime. For Helen and Graham, their love story began with a last-minute casting call and an unforgettable pantomime performance, and it's clear that the memories from those early days will stay with them forever.

And that pantomime magic continues this Christmas, as TRP presents Dick Whittington – the pantomime paved with gold! Packed with all the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences know to expect from TRP, don't miss the action-packed pantomime that promises to be full of laugh-outloud comedy, plenty of boos and hisses and lavish sets and costumes from The London Palladium.

The show runs from Friday December 12 to Saturday January 10 promising entertainment for the whole family. For tickets and information, visit www.theatreroyal.com/whats-on/dick-whittington/

Back where it all began...Graham and Helen pictured at the Theatre Royal and (inset) the couple 20 years ago when they appeared in panto at TRP

PLYMOUTH AND EXETER UNITE BEHIND BOLD FOUR-COUNCIL DEVON FUTURE

Plymouth and Exeter Council leaders have announced their united support for a bold new vision for local government in Devon – backing a four-unitary model that reflects how communities live, work and will grow. This follows the announcement earlier from Torbay Council supporting the proposal.

Following months of collaboration, public engagement and strategic analysis, councils will now consider proposals for four unitary authorities, one for Plymouth, Exeter, Torbay, and Devon coast and countryside. Together they agree that this model is the best way to deliver sustainable services, unlock economic growth and empower communities across Devon.

The proposals respond directly to the Government's call for reform and reflect the shared ambition of Devon's urban centres to lead the region into a more resilient, responsive and sustainable future.

Large urban areas like Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay are the engines of growth for both urban and rural communities. They drive investment, create jobs, and deliver services that reach far beyond their boundaries into surrounding towns and villages.

The fourth unitary council will be one based on coast and countryside and focussed on dealing with rural issues. This will centre on a town-hub model, with market towns acting as vital centres, serving their local communities and surrounding areas.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: "The two-tier system has failed Devonians. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape how local government works – not just for Plymouth, but for every corner of Devon. Our proposal puts people first, with a model that reflects how communities live, connect, and thrive across the region.

"This isn't just about redrawing boundaries, it's about building a smarter, fairer future. It brings together the

ambition of our cities, the strength of our towns, and the character of our rural and coastal communities.

"With four focused councils working together, we can deliver better public services, unlock investment, and give every part of Devon a stronger voice. We're asking the government to back a vision that works for everyone –from Barnstaple to Brixham, Exeter to Ivybridge.

"Smaller unitary councils like Plymouth and Torbay have shown they can deliver, and Exeter continues to punch above its weight. But size isn't everything – economies of scale can hide serious structural issues and weaknesses, as we've seen in Devon. This model gives us the best of both worlds: councils that are big enough to be sustainable, but close enough to stay accountable."

Councillor Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, said: “A lot of work has gone into developing these proposals for local government reorganisation, and during that work it has become obvious that the interests of Exeter and the rest of Devon will be best served by four councils.

“Devon’s urban areas are the engines of growth for the whole of the county, and this model recognises the unique characteristics of Devon’s urban and rural landscape and communities.

“In Exeter we have cross-party support for our proposals, and we will continue to work closely with town and parish councils and local communities in the surrounding areas to ensure that they are fully empowered by reorganisation.

“I very much welcome the support of our colleagues in Plymouth and Torbay in developing proposals that will ensure that the whole of Devon can thrive in the future.”

Plymouth' s final proposal will be published in early November and discussed at Scrutiny Committee on November 12 followed by Full Council on November 24 and Cabinet on the same day. Subject to approval, the proposal will be submitted to Government at the end of November for consideration.

Festive travel deals for city shoppers this Christmas

People visiting Plymouth city centre this Christmas are being offered two festive travel deals.

Shoppers will be able to catch the bus between the Coypool park and ride and Plymouth city centre for free every Thursday evening and Sunday in the runup to the big day.

There will be free travel on the Service 200 every Thursday evening and Sunday from the Christmas lights switch-on on Thursday November 13 until Sunday December 21.

• On Thursday evenings the offer will apply from the 3.55pm departure from Coypool until the 8.35pm departure from the city centre (Union Street 1)

• On Sundays there will be free travel all day between the 9am departure from Coypool and the 5pm departure from the city centre (Union Street 1)

The Service 200 is operated on behalf of the council by Stagecoach South West and the free Christmas travel is being funded by the Department for Transport's Bus Grant for 2025/2026.

Alternatively, late-night shoppers can park at the Western Approach car park for just £1 from 3pm every Thursday from November 13 to December 18. Normal charges will apply at all other times.

It's hoped that both offers will encourage more people into the city centre, where they can stock up on Christmas goodies and join in the fun and entertainment.

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "We are delighted to be able to provide free travel on the Coypool route in the run-up to Christmas and we hope it encourages more people to give park and ride a go when heading in to buy gifts, pick up some tasty treats or enjoy the festive entertainment.

"This is currently the only tendered park and ride bus service in Plymouth and it relies on financial support from the council. It doesn't normally run on a Sunday and finishes at around 7pm during the week.

"By providing these free Thursday evening and Sunday services for Christmas we hope to show people what a convenient option park and ride can be and perhaps increase passenger numbers in the longer term, especially as the Coypool site has capacity for more people to travel this way.

"This will help us in assessing what potential demand there might be and in considering future improvements, in line with the city's Bus Service Improvement Plan. It could also help us reduce the number of cars heading in and out of the city centre over this very busy period.

"For those who do choose to travel into the centre by car, we hope the discounted rate at Western Approach car park offers another affordable option on late night shopping Thursdays and helps to boost Christmas trade for city centre businesses."

To view the full timetable for the free Christmas park and ride services visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/coypool-park-andride

Plympton couple celebrate company's listing in top 100 small businesses in the UK

A Plympton-based business has been named in this year's SmallBiz100 – a prestigious list celebrating 100 of the UK's most inspiring small businesses, as part of the Small Business Saturday UK campaign supported by American Express.

Karen and Dave Meadows, co-founders of PUSHED – along with Ashley Leeds of Full cup Coaching in Sidmouth – were chosen for their passion, innovation, and positive impact in their communities. They are two of just 100 businesses recognised nationwide – and remarkably, the only two winners in Devon.

Ashley, also known as The 15-Minute Guy, first met Karen and Dave through an online support group called The Empowerment Group during the early days of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Every morning a group of small business owners gathered on Zoom for community, encouragement, and creative support.

Ashley became a key figure in the group, hosting ‘Friday Fun’ sessions with everything from laughter yoga to drumming. Karen and Dave, based in Plymouth and running their animation business Pushed Ltd, were regular attendees.

When Ashley launched his very first LinkedIn course – a free experiment to help people get confident with content – Karen was one of the first to sign up. After completing the course, she sent Ashley a surprise gift: a cream tea by post. It was the first time Ashley had ever been ‘paid’ for his new business.

Karen's husband Dave then joined the next cohort as a paying client. That support and encouragement set Ashley on the path

HUGS CHARITY SHOP WINS TOP AWARD

The Hugs Children’s Cancer charity shop at Billacombe Road has been named the South West regional winner in the UK’s Favourite Charity Shop Awards run by the Charity Retail Association.

The Hugs shop was among 12 charity shops nationwide to be recognised. The winning shops, based in each of the nine English regions, plus Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, were chosen by the public after being shortlisted from more than 5,000 nominations.

More than 40,000 votes were cast in the Awards this year – twice as many as in 2024. The volume of support not only shows the public’s passion for their favourite stores, but also really shows the impact they have within their local communities and the difference they make to people’s lives.

Some of the comments made by those supporting the Hugs shop were: “This charity shop stands out due to the charismatic and joyful nature this charity brings. The retail assistants who help support transactions, rotate stock and much more bring such a vibrant and cheerful atmosphere

business.

Ashley Leeds said: "To think that the first people who ever paid me for LinkedIn training are now being celebrated alongside me on a national stage – it's emotional. This isn't just business – it's friendship, it's community, it's real support. And we built all of that from Devon."

Karen and Dave Meadows added: "We joined that Empowerment Group during uncertain times, and what we found was a lifelong network of encouragement and

collaboration. To be on the SBS100 alongside Ashley, someone we've championed from the beginning, is incredibly special."

The couple co-founded PUSHED in 2005 after being made redundant along with around 200 of their colleagues from the local ITV Studio. PUSHED produce animations, promos, explainers, interpretations, e-learning and ads, injecting energy and engagement into their client's communications.

For more information visit www.pushed. co.uk

to the charity enabling no customer to leave unhappy” and “The staff are amazing, friendly and welcoming. The range of stock is fantastic and the prices are perfect for any item needed for the home, and especially anyone starting out in their first home.”

Congratulating the twelve regional winners, Robin Osterley, chief executive of the Charity Retail Association, said: “From shortlisted charities passionately promoting their nomination to thousands of people casting their vote, we have been overwhelmed by the support for the Awards this year.

“I want to share my personal congratulations to

all the area winners – this award is a testament to their hard work and dedication in providing their communities with much more than just a place to shop. The team and I look forward to visiting the winning shops over the coming weeks to present the awards and meet the fantastic staff and volunteers.”

A spokesperson for Hugs said: “Well done to our amazing team for this award and the amazing contribution they make to not only our fundraising but to our local community!”

An overall UK winner from the 12 regional winners will be announced later this month. (story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

to building a thriving LinkedIn coaching

Karen and Dave Meadows, co-founders of PUSHED

Photo: Poppy Jakes Photography

Staff and volunteers at the Hugs shop in Billacombe Road

Local heroes receive special King's Award

BASICS Devon volunteers are celebrating after receiving the King's Award for Voluntary Service – the highest award a local voluntary group can receive in the UK and equivalent to an MBE.

BASICS Devon was one of more than 200 local charities, social enterprises and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year.

The King's Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by local volunteer groups to support their communities.

It was created in 2002 to celebrate Her Late Majesty The Queen's Golden Jubilee and was continued following the accession of His Majesty the King. 2025 marks the third year of The King's Award for Voluntary Service. Recipients are announced annually on November 14, the King's Birthday.

BASICS Devon is a network of 17 emergency volunteer medics providing immediate access to specialist medical care at the scene of an accident or illness and giving vital life-saving education. They make themselves available around the clock throughout the year, responding to incidents at the request of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust. The charity relies solely on donations.

Representatives of BASICS Devon will receive the

award crystal and certificate from David Fursdon, Lord Lieutenant of Devon in the coming months. In addition, two volunteers from BASICS Devon will attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in May and June 2026, along with other recipients of this year's award.

BASICS Devon has received the award as they show exceptional standards of volunteering, innovation and impact, giving their time to save lives, now and over the last 33 years since BASICS Devon was established.

Robert Horton, chair of BASICS Devon said:

"This recognition is a tremendous tribute to our dedicated team of volunteers who give their time and expertise to support patients and emergency services across Devon, often in the most challenging circumstances.

"Every call-out represents a moment when someone in our community is facing their worst day, and our volunteers step forward, day and night to bring emergency care to the scene.

“This award reflects not only their professionalism and selflessness, but also the invaluable support we receive from our families, partners in the emergency services, and our supporters and donors across Devon. Every penny raised goes towards our delivery of this voluntary service."

Primary school admissions now open

Primary school admissions for September 2026 are now open in Plymouth.

Plymouth City Council is taking applications from families whose children are due to start at primary school for the first time or who are due to transfer to junior school having completed Year 2 in an infant school.

The deadline for primary and junior school applications is January 15 2026. Each school has its own admission criteria, so it is important to look at the information relating to specific schools in the admission guidance booklet on the council website.

Last year the council was able to match 96.65 per cent of young people and parents with their first preference of primary school and one hundred per cent with their first preference of junior school. Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said:

"Applying for your child's primary school place early is the best way to secure a spot at one of your preferred schools. Every year, late applications risk missing out because places fill quickly.

“We strongly encourage parents to submit their applications before the January deadline to avoid disappointment and give their child the best start to school life. I am also urging parents and carers to visit schools where appropriate, as this will help them decide which are your preferred schools."

Parents are warned if they apply late there is a risk that all the places at their preferred schools will be filled by applicants who applied on time. To maximise the chances of being allocated a place at a preferred school, parents are advised to list three schools in their application.

For more information visit the website www. plymouth.gov.uk/schooladmissions or email schooladmissions@plymouth.gov.uk

Global recognition for Plymouth University pollution researchers

Two researchers from Plymouth University – who have collaborated on pioneering studies into the sources and effects of global microplastic pollution – have been named on a global list of the world's most influential researchers.

Professor Richard Thompson OBE and Dr Imogen Napper are among almost 7,000 scientists included within the 2025 Highly Cited Researchers List.

The list is designed to spotlight researchers who exemplify excellence in their research and integrity in their publication and citation practices.

To feature in the list, researchers need to demonstrate significant and broad influence in their fields of research and are required to have authored a number of papers which rank in the top 1% by citations for their fields over the past 11 years.

Professor Thompson and Dr Napper, part of the university's International Marine Litter Research Unit, have worked together for more than a decade.

Their work included the first ever study highlighting microbeads in cosmetics as a source of microplastic publication, and they produced the first research into the generation of microfibres through the laundry cycle.

Guinness World Record

They helped to establish the abundance of microplastics in regions from the deep sea to the top of Mount Everest, with the latter being recognised by Guinness World Records as the highest known incidence of microplastics anywhere on the planet.

They have also worked on pioneering studies into the environmental threats posed by biodegradable products, as well as a global project exploring effective ways to prevent the continued accumulation of debris in space.

Their collaboration was instrumental in the university winning a Queen's Anniversary Prize in 2019, as well as numerous other accolades including the 2022 Volvo Environment Prize, the 2023 Blue Planet Prize and a 2024 Green Gown Award.

Professor Thompson, who was in 2025 named by TIME magazine as one of its 100 Most Influential People in the world, has been included in the Highly Cited Researchers List since 2017.

He said: "This is amazing recognition for the groundbreaking research on plastic pollution at the university. It is research that has helped define the issues, and identify potential solutions. Ensuring such evidence is available to decision makers in industry and policy is key to addressing the challenge of plastic pollution and is a key priority for my team via our participation in the UN Global Plastic Treaty negotiations."

This is the first time Dr Napper, currently a Visiting Research Fellow at the university, has been included within the list. She said: "It honestly feels surreal, and I'm completely over the moon. It's one of those things you never imagine achieving. Through my work with Plymouth University, I've been so lucky to explore so many different areas, from our oceans to Earth's orbit, discovering how pollution connects everything around us.

“None of this would have been possible without the incredible scientists, storytellers, and conservationists I've had the pleasure of collaborating with along the way. Here's to more research, discovery, and collaboration in the future."

Civic Centre plan takes major step forward with £18.4 million funding

The biggest piece of the funding jigsaw needed to regenerate the Civic Centre is now in place with the signing of a significant funding agreement.

Homes England – the government's housing and regeneration agency – have now signed the grant funding agreement with the City Council for £18.4 million.

The deal heralds the start of an intense period of activity ahead of a refreshed planning application being submitted and people can comment, get involved and share stories about this city landmark.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and City Centre champion said: "Complicated is an understatement when it comes to this project, but the goals are pretty simple and incredibly exciting for the city.

"It's about City College Plymouth creating a campus for up to 2,000 students, from school leavers to adult learners, to learn new skills.

"It's about creating 144 new homes within the tower as part our city vision to create thousands of new homes in the city centre. We want this landmark building to come to life once more.

"The Civic Centre has always been a landmark of ambition. Once a beacon of post-war renewal, it has stood too long as a reminder of decline. Now, we have the chance to breathe new life into it. This project is not simply about restoring a building, it is about securing the Civic Centre's place at the heart of Plymouth's future."

The Civic Centre redevelopment forms part of a wider regeneration strategy to unlock thousands of new homes, improve public spaces and create a thriving and resilient city

centre economy. The investment is not only a commitment to restoring a heritage building, but a vote of confidence in Plymouth's potential as a growing, modern city.

A decision has been published to enter into the Brownfield Land and Infrastructure Agreement with Homes England. This funding for the purpose of delivering housing-led brownfield infrastructure and land projects in England and in Plymouth will help pay for a programme of remediation works to bring the building to a point where residential units can be fitted out and delivered by a private developer.

The funding will cover concrete frame repairs and fire protection, upper floors strengthening, roof works, new facades and demolition and renovation work to the existing buildings. The first phase of work on the Civic has been underway for some time. It has involved identifying and removing asbestoscontaining materials, vegetation removal, installation of safety measures to improve security on site including replacement hoardings. This is phase is due to complete shortly.

The works will be carried out in phases, with Phase 3 being the conversion of the block into residential apartments and educational centre for City College Plymouth.

The council will engage a principal contractor before the end of the year to complete the remediation works.

The council has assembled a funding package for the works from a number of public sector sources including the Government's Levelling Up Fund and Future High Streets Fund, District Heating Grant and the Council's own borrowing.

Huge amounts of work have been going on behind the scenes for months with complex legal and funding agreements being finalised.

Celebrations at Dartmoor Zoo as rare Amur Leopard cub is born

Dartmoor Zoo have announced that Amur Leopard pair Freddo and Lena have become parents!

Zoo staff are celebrating as Freddo and Lena, a breeding pair of the rarest big cats in the world, have produced a Critically Endangered Amur Leopard cub.

Travelling from Colchester Zoo, Lena, Freddo's highly anticipated mate, arrived at Dartmoor Zoo in August 2024 and after successful introduction earlier this year, the pair became inseparable.

Their first cub was born on on September 29 and staff were able to witness the birth via CCTV footage of the cub and mother in their cubbing den. Less than six weeks later the cub has begun to explore its surroundings. According to the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), Dartmoor Zoo’s cub is one of only 15 Amur Leopards born globally in 2025. This is a huge milestone not only for Dartmoor Zoo, but for global conservation efforts of the Critically Endangered, Amur Leopard species.

Chief executive David Gibson said: "The birth of our first Amur Leopard cub here at Dartmoor Zoo is the culmination of several years of planning and hard work. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we are making a significant contribution to the survival of the most endangered big cat in the world.

“With less than 400 individuals left around the world, between the wild and zoo populations, the arrival of this cub is globally important. It will be sometime yet before the cub is visible to our visitors, but they can rest assured that both mum and cub are getting the very best of care and attention in the meantime."

Amur Leopards are regarded as the world's rarest Big Cat with only an estimated 120 left in the wild. This number has been slowly increasing in recent years due mainly to improved legal protection and enforcement in their countries.

A large part of the funding for this conservation work comes from zoos and in 2024 the international zoo community contributed over $160,000 to help protect the amazing species.

Animal Manager Madeleine Millin added: "We are absolutely delighted that our Amur Leopards have bred successfully, and a cub has been born to mother Lena and father Freddo. It has been a rewarding journey for Lena to settle and be comfortable with her keepers and new home here at Dartmoor and for her to be happy to be introduced to Freddo our ever-steady male.

“They have been happily living together, enjoying each other's

Proud mum Lena

company, so much so that successful mating was seen and has subsequently produced a healthy cub.

“We have been following mother and cub's progress via cameras in the cubbing den. Lena is a first-time mother and has been doing a fantastic job of caring for her little one. She is very attentive and protective, reassuringly licking it and going to retrieve it when it wonders off too far!

“The cub is moving around well, playing with mum and exploring the surroundings of the den. The entire keeper team are excited and I'm very proud and can't wait to watch the cub develop and thrive."

Dartmoor Zoo Trustee, Simon Almond, commented: "As a founder trustee with 12 years involvement in the charity, with all the ups and downs of which there have been many, to finally reach such an exciting milestone successfully breeding one of the most endangered big cats on the planet is truly amazing.

“My family and I are thrilled to have had a small part in this success, but the credit is to all our amazing team and the breeding programme that believed in us.

“If you are able and willing, please donate towards more conservation projects like this, to help Dartmoor Zoo keep up the good fight!”

To find out more about Dartmoor Zoo visit www.dartmoorzoo. org.uk.

Professor Richard Thompson and Dr Imogen Napper

Defence Secretary opens new Helsing factory at Langage Business Park

Europe's largest defence technology company, Helsing, has officially opened its first UK Resilience Factory in Plymouth to build autonomous gliders to help allied navies hunt down enemy submarines.

The facility at Langage Business Park was opened by the Secretary of State for Defence John Healey, alongside Helsing leadership and staff, civic representatives, academic leaders, MPs and industry partners.

Helsing moved into the 18,000 square feet factory several weeks ago and has already begun production of its maritime products and testing of them at sea from Turnchapel Wharf, as well as the British Underwater Test and Evaluation Centre (BUTEC) in Scotland.

To develop Helsing's maritime offering, a new high-tech R&D Hub is being created, including advanced manufacturing machines and software tools. The Plymouth site will be Helsing's Maritime Centre of Excellence.

The factory will immediately create high skilled and manufacturing jobs in the South West, scaling to hundreds to meet future demand. It will initially focus on maritime capabilities, building Helsing's SG-1 Fathom – an autonomous underwater glider designed and manufactured in Britain to strengthen European and allied defence.

The SG-1 Fathom is combined in Plymouth with Helsing's Maritime AI platform, Lura, to enable advanced technologies and engineering to be deployed at sea. Constellations of gliders deliver persistent underwater surveillance, detecting enemy activity to protect our sea lanes and undersea critical national infrastructure.

The factory supports Helsing's commitment to sovereign manufacturing in the UK, and follows successful trials of the SG-1 at sea in the Western Approaches, Scotland and Western Australia in recent months.

The plan to build a factory was announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in July as part of the company's £350 million commitment to the UK under the 2024 Trinity House agreement.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP, said: "For too long our proud industrial heartlands like Plymouth saw jobs go away and not come back. We are changing that. In this new era of threat, the defence dividend from our record investment is measured in good jobs, thriving businesses, new skills for the British people.

"That is exactly what we’re seeing in Plymouth with Helsing’s cutting edge new factory showing the benefits of our defence growth deals which are backed by £250 million investment, and the city's leading maritime autonomous industry.

"We are making defence an engine for growth to deliver national and economic security."

Ned Baker, managing director of Helsing UK, said: "From Plymouth we'll be manufacturing the autonomous systems that keep our sailors, ships and infrastructure safe. The SG-1 Fathom shows how world-class engineering and AI can combine to deliver capability at scale - enhancing national resilience, building skills, and supporting our allies."

The opening also strengthens Helsing's collaboration with the UK government, the local community, Plymouth University and Plymouth City Council as part of 'Team Plymouth', a partnership driving growth and innovation in one of the UK's designated Defence Growth Zones. Helsing's investment will generate local jobs, expand domestic supply chains and reinforce the UK's maritime autonomy cluster.

Amelia Gould, general manager of Maritime Helsing, added: "There's no better place than Plymouth to lead in maritime autonomy. With deep water, strong local supply chains and exceptional talent, we're proud to call this city home."

The Box unveils details of major exhibition of Beryl Cook's work in 2026

The Box Plymouth has unveiled its 2026 exhibition programme, featuring a timely presentation of Beryl Cook’s artistic legacy, significant loans including Joshua Reynolds' Portrait of Mai, and a diverse range of contemporary responses to themes including identity, emotion, and social justice.

The 2026 programme opens in January with Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy which will run from January 24 to May 31 and marks 100 years since Beryl’s birth. The exhibition will feature more than 80 works including iconic paintings and rarely seen treasures from The Box's art collection, private lenders and the Cook family archives.

2026 also marks 50 years since the 1976 Sunday Times feature that launched Beryl’s career following her first exhibition at Plymouth Arts Centre in 1975.

Other highlights:

Journeys with Mai February 14 to June 14

A journey of discovery across four gallery spaces, this ambitious exhibition will reexamine what is widely considered to be Plympton-born Sir Joshua Reynolds' finest painting, exploring ideas of power and perception and building a picture of early encounters between Europeans and South Pacific Island peoples from a range of perspectives.

Touring for the first time since it was saved by the nation, Portrait of Mai will take centre stage alongside historic paintings, prints, objects and archival material from The Box's collections plus an amazing array of loans. The work was jointly acquired by The Getty and National Portrait Gallery in 2023, and this exhibition will be the last chance for people to view it before it travels to America.

Works from the Government Art Collection

June 20 to September 20

This exhibition will take a bold, heartfelt journey into the emotional lives of young people from in and around Plymouth.

Shaped through a series of conversations and workshops that have taken place over the last 12 months with a diverse group of teenagers and young adults from across the city, the show will feature powerful artworks from the Government Art Collection, including by contemporary British artists such as Alvaro Barrington, Alberta Whittle and Barbara Hepworth.

These will be paired with raw, honest reflections from those aged from 13 to 25. To coincide with the exhibition, a Children and Young People’s Summer Show will also be on display reflecting the themes of art and emotion. Annual displays of the region's young talent have taken place at The Box for the last three years and have showcased hundreds of submissions from children, teenagers and young adults from Devon and Cornwall.

Gillian Ayres July 4 to September 20

This exhibition will consider the extraordinary practice of British artist Gillian Ayres (19302018), one of the leading abstract painters and printmakers of her generation.

As Plymouth embarks upon a major housing renewal programme, The Box's autumn season will reflect on issues around housing, healthcare, education, and inequality.

Steve McQueen: Grenfell October 24 to January 24 2027

Grenfell by award-winning artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen will travel to Plymouth in autumn 2026 as part of its national tour. This unflinching ‘critical exercise in remembrance’ was filmed in December 2017 in response to the fire that took place in June 2017 at Grenfell Tower in which 72 people lost their lives.

The Way We Live October 24 to January 24 2027 This exhibition will consider the implications of planner Patrick Abercrombie and Plymouth City Engineer and Surveyor James Paton Watson's A Plan for Plymouth (1943) which outlined ideas for the rebuilding of the city after The Blitz, and Jill Cragie’s film The Way We Live (1946) which shows family life in post-war Plymouth.

Victoria Pomery, chief executive at The Box said: "Next year's programme is rich but rooted in place. From a reassessment of Beryl Cook’s practice to Mai’s extraordinary journey, and young people’s emotional lives to the legacy of Grenfell, our 2026 programme is our most ambitious yet and demonstrates what museums can achieve when we work in partnership with national institutions, artists and local communities."

For details visit www.theboxplymouth.com

Plymouth Pannier Market by Beryl Cook Courtesy of www.ourberylcook.com © John Cook 2025

The Lockyer Tavern by Beryl Cook Courtesy of www.ourberylcook.com © John Cook 2025

Secretary of State for Defence John Healey at the official opening of the Helsing factory at Langage

The Helsing factory at Langage has been operational for several weeks

Plymstock Post

Update

from Cllr Daniel Steel for Plymstock

Radford

While this is technically the January edition of the Chronicle, in fact I wrote this article on a wet and rainy late November day. Plymothians braved the wet weather to mark Remembrance services across the city, including at Burrow Hill in Plymstock. There were excellent and moving poetry readings delivered by students from Goosewell Primacy School, Plymstock School and Coombe Dean School.

Listening to their words was a powerful reminder that Remembrance belongs to us all. It’s how we honour previous generations who sacrificed so much defending our freedoms and continue to inspire the next generation to carry forward their legacy. Well done to everyone involved in organising the service.

I also attended the Remembrance Sunday service on the Hoe which was equally moving. I was proud the role my ward colleague, Cllr Kathy Watkin, played in representing our city so well across many different services and events as Lord Mayor.

As the darkness of winter eventually gives way to spring, I wanted to use some community grant for to bring a sense of renewal and colour to our ward by planting daffodils on Oreston Road by the Morrisons roundabout. But it was important to me to hear from residents what they thought because

ultimately that community grant is your money as council taxpayers.

I do love a good poll, so I put one out on my Facebook page. At the time of writing, 252 people voted with 169 (67%) in favour of the proposal, 17 (6%) proposing an alternative location, and 66 (26%) recommending the community grant is used for something else. It just shows, voting isn’t just for elections and ‘I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here’!

Given the general level of support, I have asked the council to proceed so keep an eye out for them come spring. There were some brilliant alternative ideas proposed by residents, so I plan on running an open call for proposals shortly to give local groups the chance to apply for further funding.

I don’t believe in doing things ‘to’ or ‘for’ residents, I believe in doing things ‘with’ you. For me, politics works best when everyone has a seat at the table and a say in the decisions that affect their lives. To paraphrase a brilliant and eccentric French diplomat I worked with when at the Foreign Office – 'if you’re not sat at the table, you’re on the menu!'.

While this might seem like a small gesture, it reflects the way I approach politics as your ward councillor to try and give you a voice, and I hope you’ll enjoy the daffodils as they bloom each year.

Update from Cllr Maria Lawson for Plymstock Dunstone

As we approach a New Year it is always good to look back and reflect on the events of the past year. It has truly been an honour to serve the residents of Plymstock.

The most memorable and moving event of the year for me was presenting the end of season achievement awards, alongside my colleague John Stephens and volunteer Chris Marsh, at the PEM Disability Children’s Club’s annual barbecue.

It was a pleasure to see the children taking part in all the sporting activities on offer with beaming smiles alongside their families. The club continues to grow from strength to strength. The cofounders Lee Ellis and Luke Monnington are truly inspirational and really make such an enormous difference to the lives of the children who attend. The club has created a community of fun and inclusion and provides a supportive environment for the siblings and families of the children who attend.

PEM sits in the heart of our Plymstock community and has been supported locally by Elburton Villa Football Club who offer up their

Councillor Contact Details

By Councillors John Stephens, Daniel Steel Stefan Krizanac and Maria Lawson

Update from Cllr John Stephens for Plymstock Dunstone

Linking up Plymstock Dunstone within the area, to the South Hams and on the westeast railway!

Happy New Year to all readers. The new year brings a chance to start afresh in some ways and carry on business as usual in others. Whatever you do, I hope 2026 brings you happiness and good health.

The new year will definitely bring along some long awaited highway improvements for Elburton and Sherford residents. Work will get under way to finish off the cycle and walking path adjoining Gemini Road and Sherford Road, as well as the Sherford Road traffic calming. Though it is new year, I feel more confident than ever April Fool has not been brought forward to January!

I recently took a walk along Dawes Lane which links Elburton and Brixton. The state of this walking route is a matter I have received many emails from and chats with residents over the past two years. I am pleased that Plymouth City Council has announced funding from an Active Travel Grant to begin planning and development work to making it a safer walking route in all weathers. The lane is not suitable to be developed as a cycling path, but the council will continue to explore this to a solution.

It has been good to engage with members of Brixton Parish Council to discuss improvements to Dawes Lane. I look forward to the day when walking along this lane without slipping or trudging through mud will be the norm. This work will take some time, but I am glad the commitment has been finalised.

facilities and Michael Hosking from Allisons Butcher has provided the club with sausages and burgers for their BBQ’s.

As I write, we are looking forward to the Elburton Village Christmas events which have been organised by the local traders, Elburton Methodist Church and by the Elburton and District Residents Association. There is a full programme for the day. Santa will be making an appearance! Proceeds from the raffle will go directly to PEM.

We are proud to have sponsored Plymstock School’s Outstanding Citizen Awards and nominations are now open and will close on December 29. Plymstock School is seeking to recognise individuals for exceptional contributions to our community.

Nominations can be made by anyone from the school or the local community. Nominations can be submitted for children or adults that attend or work at the school. Details can be found on the school’s social media page and nominations can be made using the following link: https://forms.office. com/e/Sb1cByn1ni. We look forward to hearing about the nominations and winners.

Plymstock Radford: daniel.steel@plymouth.gov.uk on 07483 300703

Plymstock Dunstone: Maria.Lawson@plymouth.gov.uk 07483 301 286

Stefan.Krizanac@plymouth.gov.uk 07813 395 873

John.Stephens@plymouth.gov.uk 07952 414069

We will continue to serve the residents of our ward to the best of our ability and look forward again to working with all who make Plymstock such a fabulous community.

Happy New Year to all!

station and onto Ivybridge to the east, to boost an alternative way of traveling to work and into the city. The significant investment over the decades to come in HMNB Devonport, as well as the new town in the city, will mean we need to have other options than travelling by car.

The Metro will include opening a train station in Plympton. When meeting with Plympton local councillors in November, there was a mutual excitement about the benefits this will bring to the area, and indeed for those such as Plymstock, Sherford and the South Hams. Again, these major projects take a long time to work out as there as many years spent finalising a business case, securing funding, planning, consulting, and developing to bring it to completion.

From roads and lanes and onto railways. I attend regular briefings and meetings in the city and regionally with the Peninsula Strategic Transport Board about the ambition Plymouth has for a Plymouth Metro. You may have heard about the intention to link up stations in the west of the city around Devonport Dockyard, through the city’s main

The government’s rail minister has had many productive meetings with Cllr Tudor Evans, Leader of the Council, to support this ambition. And with rail passenger numbers being well above pre-Covid numbers in the region, there is not better way to keep our city’s ambitions on track. Some residents in Dunstone ward may have been inconvenienced by a less than satisfactory bus service from Stagecoach recently which affects much of Plymstock. It is a matter the council has shown equal concern with the company. On a plus note, as a result of representations to us from local residents, Stagecoach and the council have worked together to provide an earlier service from Sherford Rd. and Knapps Close to the city centre. I hope this service will also appeal to new passengers who wish to access a bus journey into the city centre earlier in the day.

Finally, I look forward to seeing many residents in Dunstone at our regular surgeries, street walks and community events in the coming months. And I am also very much looking forward to lighter and longer days, as we step through and out of winter.

Update from Cllr Stefan Krizanac for Plymstock Dunstone

As the season of Christmas and New Year celebrations will soon over, we now enter one of the longest – and darkest – months of the year. Thinking about and planning for the new year is in full swing.

Some of us are looking to lose weight, considering our financial situation, getting back to our old routines at home and work, or are looking forward to exciting things ahead.

As one of the Plymstock Dunstone’s local councillors, apart from a few days off over Christmas, my work does not stop. During my visits and chats to many homes in Plymstock Dunstone recently, I heard the issues that are dear to you, and your suggestions about our community.

I have been able, with my fellow councillors Maria Lawson and John Stephens, to help address a number of your requests for help.

Some of my work has been involved with individual circumstances which can be solved by our excellent Citizens’ Advice centre. Other requests have been concerns about traffic levels and worries about the inconsiderate actions by some drivers. I have recently met with some residents who do not have access to the internet at home but have pointed them to the Plymstock Library where staff will be happy to assist with their community computer access.

As a member of the scrutiny committee for Children, Young People and Families, I raised with council officers the importance of ensuring that online information is easily understood by any person.

I truly hope you enjoyed your festive celebrations and hope you and we, as your local councillors, will continue to mutually support our community.

Councillors Daniel Steel , Maria Lawson and John Stephens pictured at the Remembrance Service

Sherford Road cycle way and footpath

Dawes Lane – new plan

Cllr Stefan Krizanac

Lifelines

How John found the answer to the big questions of life

With the world in a growing state of turmoil and uncertainty, more and more people of all ages are questioning what life is all about.

As a young man in his twenties working behind a desk at a Plymouth factory John Tozer frequently told himself ‘there must be more to life than this!’

“My life was just centred on work, going to the pub every night and then going to bed,” said John. “I knew there must be more, but I didn’t know where to find it.”

He decided that a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to the USA might help him find the answers. He took on a second job, saved hard for six months and then flew to America with a friend.

“We visited all the tourist hot spots - New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and more. But when we got back to Plymouth I ended up behind the same desk, still so bored with life.”

Little did he realise it at the time, but a chance visit to the cinema was about to provide some answers.

Trip to the cinema

It was New Year’s Day in 1974 and with nothing better to do he decided to go to the cinema to watch the film version of Jesus Christ Superstar. “I absolutely loved the music,” said John, “and so I decided to get the album. All the lyrics were on the album cover and I started to wonder what it all meant.”

He decided to show the lyrics on the cover to a colleague at work – who happened to be a Christian.

“He said to me ‘let’s see what it says in the Bible’ and I told him I didn’t have a Bible – so he bought me one!” said John.

“I started to read the Bible from the very beginning, but after six months of reading I got really bogged down. I found it all pretty heavy going and then spoke to another colleague who I knew was a Christian as well.

“He invited me to his church – Carmel in St Levan Road – the following Sunday and I decided to go along. I sat at the back ready to make a quick exit,” added John. “But there was such a feeling of warmth and love in the church that I realised I wanted what they had.”

He returned to the church three weeks later –this time sitting nearer the front. “The pastor gave a fantastic sermon which answered every question in my mind. At the end he asked if anyone would like to give their life to Jesus and I knew it was my moment. My hand just shot up straight away.

“I felt an incredible presence at that moment. I couldn’t explain it at the time, but I now know that Jesus had come into my life.”

John added: “Looking back I know I was in a place of seeking answers – and that is the key for anyone who is looking for a relationship with God: you start seeking. If you don’t seek you won’t find.

There’s no point sitting on the sidelines asking ‘where’s God, why doesn’t He come to me.’ Take that first step and He will take nine steps towards you.”

He went straight home from church and his dad asked why he was home so early. “He thought the pub must have run out of beer, but I told him and my mum that I had given my life to Jesus. My mum, being a Catholic wasn’t all that happy about it. I used to go to a Catholic church when I was younger – mainly to please my mum. But it didn’t really mean much to me and I thought it was really just ritual.”

Drifted away

Meanwhile back at work, news spread about John’s conversion. “The day after it happened I was confronted by several colleagues who wanted to know why I had been at church rather than the pub that night and firing other questions at me. I told them that I had asked Jesus into my life and that it was the best thing I had ever done. One by one they just drifted away.”

John became a regular at Carmel and his faith journey developed from that first personal encounter with God into him becoming a very active member. He has worshipped at the same church - it’s now called Restore – for more than 50 years.

He has been involved in many aspects of the church’s life, including helping the youth group, running Bible studies and also playing guitar and leading worship in the church’s music group.

He also met his wife Lesley there and they have now been together for more than 35 years.

Strong arm

John, who is now 78, can look back on more than half a century as a Christian and is certain that God had His hands on all of his life – even before he was born!

“My parents were living in Liverpool – dad was in the Navy – and mum was heavily pregnant with me at the time. She was walking down steps after leaving a church service when she stumbled and started to topple forwards. Apparently she cried out ‘The baby! The baby!’ As she fell forward she suddenly felt a strong arm on her shoulder pulling her back and holding her steady.

“She looked round to say ‘thank you’ but there was no-one there. That was my introduction to the ministry of angels, but I obviously don’t know it.”

He quotes a similar and much more recent experience when he returned for a reunion at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School in 2017. After the event he was leaving the

school via a sprung and heavy security gate when it swung back into him.

“I was walking with a stick because I have suffered from arthritis for many years and as the gate swung heavily back onto me I started to fall backwards. In a split second I thought my head was going to hit the concrete and I could end up dead or seriously injured.

“Then just inches from the ground I felt a hand under my head gently lowering it as I crashing down. It was another angel which stopped me from cracking my head open,” said John.

During his working life John also experienced God’s leading – even though he wasn’t a Christian at the time. When he left school at the age of 17 he joined a big local company as a clerk, but after just a few months working there he was fed up with the job and felt compelled to go to the careers office in town to look for another position.

Medical grounds

leave the job – and when I went back and accepted the offer the manager confirmed that I would indeed receive a year’s salary!”

“They said that there a vacancy for a clerk had come up just that day because someone had failed to turn up.”

John got the job – which was at Fine Tubes – and he went on to spend 30 years working for the company.

He saw God at work in his life during his time with Fine Tubes as he kept his job during a number of rounds of redundancies over the years – and ultimately was promoted to a supervisory role. And when he was offered the chance to retire early on medical grounds because of his arthritis he told his manager he needed to consider it before making a decision.

John said:“I went and sat in my car and prayed about the offer and I felt God tell me to accept it and that I would be offered a full year’s salary to

Reflecting on his experiences as a Christian John added: “With Jesus in your life you can be on a permanent high as long as you lock into Him. It doesn’t mean everything is happy and easy all the time - after all life is life and there will always be difficulties and trials but Jesus will carry you through them.”

John’s testimony was broadcast last year on Cross Rhythms in Plymouth. Click on the QR Code here for a link.

Produced By:

John Tozer with his wife Lesley

Guest Column: Rebecca Smith MP

Remembrance, resilience and regional renewal

“As we move towards the festive season, November hashighlighted the innovation and ambition that continue to grow across South West Devon. Visiting Helsing’s new Resilience Factory here in Plymouth was a powerful reminder of how our region is shaping the future of maritime defence. It is encouraging to see our long maritime heritage translating into modern opportunity and investment.

This month was also a time of deep reflection. Remembrance services across South West Devon brought communities together to honour those who served and sacrificed. Laying wreaths, both personally and through local representatives, was a moving reminder of the courage that has protected our freedoms.

Closer to home, November reinforced the importance of standing up for residents and supporting the services that anchor our communities.

From pressing FirstPort on local property management concerns, to cutting the ribbon on the new Plymstock Post Office, to seeing Sam’s Place reopen after severe flood damage, it was clear how vital

Marking Remembrance

Day with communities across Plymouth and South West Devon

November served as a period of Remembrance, when we paused to honour the many men and women and the sacrifices they made.

This year, I had privilege of attending the annual service of Remembrance at the Naval Memorial on Plymouth Hoe. Afterwards, I had the honour of laying a wreath on behalf of Plymouth’s Members of Parliament at the civilian memorial on Lockyer Street, paying tribute to the men and women who lost their lives whilst living in Plymouth during the Second World War.

With the many Remembrance events that took place across South West Devon this month, I want to acknowledge the many churches, volunteers and organisers who make them possible. It was also a privilege to invite Natalie Harrison, Dr John Mahony and Emily Handley, Treasurer of the Ivybridge branch of the Royal British Legion, to lay wreaths on my behalf at services in Plympton, Plymstock, and

Ivybridge respectively.

As we paused to remember all those who served and those who continue to serve, we must continue to honour their courage, their dedication, and the freedoms they won for future generations.

Cutting the ribbon on the new Plymstock Post Office

After over two and a half years of hard campaigning, it was a real privilege to officially open the new Post Office on The Broadway in Plymstock earlier this month. This new branch is already becoming a vital part of our community, especially ahead of Lloyds Bank closing its Plymstock branch. Remember that alongside your usual postal services, you can access cash, pay in money and use many of your regular banking services too.

Another huge thank you to the brilliant staff and a special thank you to Steven, our new postmaster, for all his hard work in getting the shop up and running. I’m so excited to see this new Post Office

Reopening Plympton railway station?

As part of my work on the Transport Committee, I recently met with the Rail Minister to discuss wider rail connectivity, and I raised the possibility of a new station in Plympton as part of the 'Plymouth Metro' concept.

thriving and serving the heart of our Plymstock community.

I want everyone to know that I’m fully supportive of these plans. From knocking on doors and speaking with residents, it’s clear how much benefit this could bring to our community. It has the potential to improve connectivity, provide more sustainable travel options and will give a much needed boost to our local businesses. But I want to hear your views. What do you think about Plympton getting its station back? Do email me at rebecca.smith.mp@ parliament.uk and let me know.

Rebecca’s Review

Rebecca Smith MP for South West Devon and Ward Councillor for Plymstock Radford with updates on supporting constituents

reliable local services and businesses, truly are.

Meeting the team at Role 1 Medical and Rescue further underscored that sense of dedication, with their work supporting emergency responses across Plymouth.

And looking ahead, discussions with the Rail Minister on the potential reopening of Plympton Station showed how improved transport links could unlock new opportunities for residents and local businesses alike.

As we enter the busy winter period, these moments of innovation, remembrance and community spirit have been a reminder of what makes South West Devon such a special place to serve.

As always, if you’d like to share your concerns with me over email, please do get in touch at rebecca. smith.mp@parliament.uk

Celebrating Plymouth's growing role in UK maritime defence

I was thrilled to attend the opening day of Helsing’s first UK Resilience Factory right here in Plymouth this month, a development that will bring cutting-edge maritime technology and high-skilled jobs to our region.

This new facility will manufacture AI-enabled SG-1 Fathom gliders, helping to strengthen the UK’s and allied navies’ ability to protect our seas, undersea infrastructure, and critical supply routes. It’s a major step forward for innovation, skills development, and sovereign defence capability right here in South West Devon.

Plymouth has a proud maritime heritage, and this investment demonstrates real confidence in our people, talent, and local supply chains. It’s fantastic to see our communities playing such an important role in driving economic growth alongside national security, and I am excited to see the opportunities this will create for our region.

Popping into Sam’s Place on Plymstock Broadway

Absolutely fantastic to pop into Sam's Place Plymouth Shop on Plymstock Broadway this month, a wonderful local charity shop run by the Samaritans and their amazing volunteers.

After suffering a devastating flood just ten weeks ago, it’s brilliant to see the shop back on its feet!

A huge thank you to Norman, Louise and the whole team for the warm welcome and for all you do to support people across Plymouth who need someone to listen.

Please do pop in to donate, or pick up a bargain. I even found some Christmas goodies for my office and some presents for my family. Every purchase helps keep this vital service running.

As a reminder, if you ever need someone to talk to, you can call the Samaritans for free on 116 123 - they're there 24/7 to listen.

HOLDING FIRSTPORT TO ACCOUNT

This month I also joined the meeting with Martin King, managing director of FirstPort, alongside fellow Conservative MPs, to discuss ongoing concerns from residents in my constituency about property management services.

While FirstPort has committed to improvements, including new board-level appointments, better communication systems, and compulsory staff training, many constituents are still experiencing delays and issues. MPs across the country are hearing the same complaints: residents are paying increasing service charges for a service that is often worse than what councils should be providing. I raised these concerns directly and made it clear that residents deserve reliable, responsive service.

I am arranging a private meeting with FirstPort to review specific cases affecting my constituents, ensuring their voices are heard and acted upon. Please be assured that I remain committed to holding service providers to account and will continue pushing for improvements.

As always, if you’re a constituent of mine and would like to get in touch with me about this, please do email me at: rebecca.smith.mp@parliament.uk.

Meeting the Role 1 Medical and Rescue team

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Role 1 Medical & Rescue CIC and meeting some of the dedicated team who provide vital emergency medical services across Plymouth and beyond. Role 1 specialise in industrial emergency response, paramedic cover, and ambulance support, stepping in to provide care in challenging environments. After a very difficult year, the team have shown remarkable resilience and have recently secured a new partnership with Babcock International Group.

It was brilliant to hear their story, see their vehicles, and speak with the staff who are so passionate about helping others. A huge thank you to Marc, Andy, Peter, Josh and Ellie for welcoming me and for everything you continue to do for our community.

Rebecca pictured at the opening of the new Helsing factory in Langage

Rebecca visiting Sam's Place

New road crossing gets mixed reception

After four months of work, a new crossing point and better provision for cyclists is now in use at Cot Hill.

The project is, however, the subject of much discussion and controversy with locals divided over its need and suitability. There are those who feel it will be underused, that the narrowing of the traffic lanes is a backward step and that the location of the crossing - on a bend - is unsuitable.

Conversely there are those who feel it has already slowed down traffic speeds and that it will be much easier to cross the road, both on foot and by bike - and that they intend to use it.

The two things which do seem to unite most people though is concern over how long the work took to complete and its cost.

Many feel four months was far too long, but it is perhaps worth considering a bit more closely exactly what was involved. Shortly after the start of the work in mid July, preparation work revealed that there were a number of damaged drains beneath where the work was to be carried out.

Four of these drains were in Marshall Road and the fifth was in Cot Hill. To avoid subsequent excavations degrading a newly laid road surface the opportunity was taken to repair these defective drains as part of the crossing project.

Three weeks into the project work the drains had been repaired and work moved on to widening the path on the eastern side of Cot Hill to accommodate dual provision for pedestrians and cyclists. This involved completely ripping up the existing pavement.

Dropped kerbs and laying of tactile paving to assist the blind also formed part of the work as well as the laying of new kerbstones. The old wooden fence was also removed and replaced with a new one. As the pavement at this section was being widened the roadside gulley and drains also needed to be realigned.

By seven weeks into the work, the path on the eastern side of Cot Hill had been given its new surface, with tactile paving and posts for Belisha Beacons installed to mark the new crossing. The old fencing had also been replaced.

Traffic management

Work then moved uphill towards Dudley Road where the existing pavement surface had to be dug out. Several parts of the carriageway showed signs of disintegration and it was discovered this was due to another broken drain, so repairing this too was added into the scope of the works.

Traffic management arrangements were altered to provide for two way rather than three way control, improving traffic flow.

By the end of October workmen had excavated and installed new kerbs on Cot Hill and Dudley Road and installed new tactiles for the new raised table crossing on Dudley Road. The remainder of the path on Cot Hill was imminently about to be resurfaced, ahead of resurfacing of the carriageway itself scheduled for week beginning Monday November 10.

Poor weather caused a slight delay in completing the resurfacing, lining and also the installation of a raised crossing table at the mouth of Dudley Road.

The cost of the work at £430,000 has raised some eyebrows and local ward councillor Terri Beer has lodged a written question with the responsible cabinet member asking for a breakdown of the costs.

Speaking before receiving Cllr Beer’s written enquiry, Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "This scheme makes a really big difference for people walking between Saltram and other parts of Plympton. It also further enhances city links of the popular National Cycle Network.

Plympton boys in shoebox mission

Young members of 2nd Plympton Boys’ Brigade have been thinking about those less fortunate than themselves in the lead up to Christmas by putting together shoeboxes as part of the national shoebox appeal.

The youngsters managed to fill four boxes in total, two for boy recipients and two for girls.

The Boys' Brigade nationally partners with the Operation Christmas Child initiative for the shoebox appeal, providing a way for its members to give shoebox gifts to children in need around the world

The Christmas Shoebox Appeal is an annual campaign that delivers gifts straight into the hands of children affected by poverty.

Often these shoebox gifts are the only gift that a child will receive at Christmas and the joy that they bring is incredible.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

"Road safety measures like this help residents walk and cycle more, which in turn improves health and wellbeing, while also reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions. It's great to see the new crossing being used by those living in and travelling through the area and we'd like to thank everyone for their patience during the construction."

The £430,000 project has been entirely grant-funded by National Highways through Walk Wheel Cycle Trust (formerly Sustrans), who are custodians of the National Cycle Network. It's part of a wider £4.92 million initiative bringing improvements to the National Cycle Network across the country.

Tom Macdonald, network development manager from Walk Wheel Cycle Trust said: "The new crossing is a great example of how making changes to communities helps more people get around how they choose – be that walking, wheeling or cycling.

"Working with Plymouth City Council and National Highways the scheme has made the National Cycle Network more accessible providing the space for people to experience the joys of travelling actively every day."

Ed Halford, National Highways Route manager, said: "We're committed to significantly improving safety across our road network, and the new and improved crossing will make it much easier and safer for a variety of users, including cyclists, travelling around Plympton.

"At National Highways, our work goes beyond operating, maintaining and improving roads and through our designated funding, we're investing in the environment and communities surrounding our network, as well as the people travelling and working on it, adding real value to society.

"We've worked closely with Plymouth City Council and Walk Wheel Cycle Trust to realise this project – a glowing example of how this funding can make life better for communities living and working near our roads.”

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Council set to purchase private Plympton green space for public use

Plympton residents have welcomed the news that Plymouth City Council is on the verge of purchasing a parcel of private land in Merafield to use for tree planting and to make available as a public green space.

The land, which is not being formally identified until the purchase is complete, is not formally accessible to the public but many nonetheless currently use it to exercise and walk their dogs.

Now, thanks to funding from DEFRA’s Trees for Climate programme, the space will be purchased by the Council and transformed into a green space that residents can formally enjoy.

The trees that will be planted will be used by Ocean City Nature, the Council’s award-winning, innovative habitat bank, to ensure that the city benefits from new trees funded by developers.

Although firm landscaping plans have not yet been devised, initial ideas for the site include formal, maintained access pathways that cross through a mix of meadow grassland and woodland with benches and picnic areas.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “I’m really pleased to be able to make this purchase and provide a new green space.

“We’ve worked hard over the past few years on urban tree planting, but this will give us an opportunity to do something a little bit different.

“I look forward to completing the purchase and being able to formalise plans for the site.” (story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Santa will be coming earlier this year

Plymouth Citybus will once again be running its fundraising Santa bus this year, bringing good cheer to local residents – but the bus will be visiting earlier than usual this time.

The bus runs over different routes each night in Plymouth and Cornwall and this year it is visiting Plymouth first and the Cornwall routes will be done nearer to Christmas.

As a result it will be visiting Ivybridge, Sherford and Plymstock on Friday December 5 and it will be in Plympton on the evening of Saturday December 6. Full details of timings and routes can be seen at www.plymouthbus. co.uk/santa-bus-2025

Plymouth Citybus and Go Cornwall are raising money in Plymouth for the Hugs Charity and in Cornwall for LARF Cornwall - they hope to raise as much money as possible for both very worthy charities while at the same time spreading some good cheer among residents along the routes being visited.

Plymouth Citybus and Go Cornwall Bus kindly donate some monies and the vehicle to make the Santa Bus activities happen. All Santa Bus evenings are run by volunteers.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Councillor John Stephens, Ed Halford and Nick Hartley from National Highways and Tom Macdonald from Walk Wheel Cycle Trust pictured at the new crossing with local ward councillors, cycling campaigners and representatives from the Council's project team, South West Highways and Taylor Woodrow

Santa bus in action in 2024

Photo credit Charlotte Willis

Community casino night raises £5000 children's hospice

A community casino night in Plymouth has raised more than £5000 for Children's Hospice South West (CHSW).

The event brought together 150 guests at the Future Inn for an evening of fun and fundraising. It was organised by local mums Bex Hele, Ruth Cadoux and Kerry Higginson, who all use the services of CHSW's Little Harbour hospice in St Austell.

The night featured classic casino games including blackjack, poker and roulette, all played with chips, not cash, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere.

The games were generously provided free of charge by Bex's father, whose business 'Celebration Balloons and Events' sponsored the evening. His support helped transform the venue into a vibrant casino experience.

In addition to the gaming tables, guests enjoyed a raffle and a lively auction, which brought the grand total raised to £5,175.37 for CHSW.

The charity runs three children's hospices including Little Harbour which supports more than 130 families from across Cornwall and Plymouth. It provides hospice days, hospice stays as well as home visits and virtual support. It costs around £4 million a year to run Little Harbour which relies almost entirely on voluntary donations.

The organisers expressed their gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed, making the night a memorable success.

Bex Hele, one of the organisers, said: "We all had an amazing night. We're so grateful, overwhelmed, pleased and proud that so many people, including Little Harbour families, came out to support us. It was lovely to have members of the Care Team present and Phil Morris, chief executive of the charity.

"We're already planning our next event for next year! We couldn't have pulled this night off without our incredible sponsor, Celebration Balloons and Events."

Annabel Roberts, area fundraiser for CHSW, said: "It is so wonderful to see three of our Little Harbour mums come together and pull off such a polished and amazing event, they really thought of everything. On the night, they all spoke about what the hospice means to them, which was so lovely to hear, and reminds us why we do what we do."

Praise for Derriford's Liver Service team

Derriford Hospital’s Liver Service has maintained accreditation by the Improving Quality in Liver Services (IQILS) programme, a national initiative run by the Royal College of Physicians.

The accreditation recognises the team's commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care, and puts Derriford among a group of hospitals in the UK to meet these rigorous national standards. The IQILS team particularly wanted to 'congratulate the team for the high standard of achievement, and for their hard work during the accreditation process.'

Hepatology advanced clinical practitioner, Amanda Clements said: "This is a tremendous achievement for our team. The IQILS process has been an opportunity to reflect on the quality of care we provide, celebrate our strengths, and identify ways to keep improving. It's rewarding to see that our commitment to patients and service excellence has been recognised at a national level."

The Royal College of Physicians' accreditation unit launched the IQILS programme in 2017. Supported by the

British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL) and the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG), IQILS aims to steer improvements in liver services across the UK. Accreditation is voluntary and clinical teams are evaluated against a series of evidence-based standards, developed in collaboration alongside clinicians and patient representatives.

The Derriford Liver Service began its full IQILS accreditation journey in 2022, achieving level 1 and level 2 status. This included gathering evidence of best practice, refining pathways, and strengthening the governance structures that underpin service delivery accreditation, which continues to be reviewed annually. After discussions with staff and patients, Derriford was able to demonstrate its compliance with all the required standards. Five years after full accreditation, another review is required. Accreditation was an extremely intensive process, involving an external team and including a patient assessor, reviewing all aspects of the service against a comprehensive set of standards.

Plymouth MPs supporting angry residents in conflict with FirstPort

Plymouth MPs Fred Thomas and Luke Pollard are continuing to support dozens of residents across the city who are suffering due to the mismanagement of their properties by FirstPort, the UK’s largest property management company.

A recent Inquiry Session in Parliament laid bare the scale of frustration and concern felt by leaseholders across the country about the conduct of FirstPort.

Luke Pollard said: “The inquiry heard from twelve constituents who remain unhappy with the quality of service from FirstPort. Despite previous assurances from FirstPort's managing director, Martin King, it is clear that the promised improvements have not materialised.”

Leaseholders shared their personal experiences with FirstPort

POLICE APPEAL AFTER HIGH VALUE BURGLARY AT MANADON

Detectives investigating the theft of nearly £100,000 of cabling from the disused EDF site close to Manadon Roundabout are appealing for witnesses and any relevant footage.

The high value burglary took place between 6pm on Tuesday November 4 and 2am the following morning when entry was forced to the disused EDF site on Manadon Roundabout and around £90,000 of cabling stolen. Then, between 7pm and 8pm on Monday November 10 entry was again gained to the same site, however an attempted theft was disrupted by a fire alarm.

Detectives believe the two incidents are linked and are appealing to the public for information.

Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone with dash-cam footage between November 3 and November 11 showing a vehicle parked on, or accessing a cycle/pedestrian path that runs between the Esso garage on Mannamead Road and Manadon Roundabout.

It would have likely been evening time and the suspects may have appeared to be highway workers carrying out path works. Anybody with any information is asked to contact 101 or visit the force website at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk quoting 50250290011

and MPs questioned witnesses on key themes including service quality, repair timeliness, customer communication and the justification for escalating service charges.

“The evidence presented was deeply troubling and reflected the issues raised by residents in FirstPort properties in Plymouth,” said Luke.

The session came as Fred Thomas MP heads up work to support FirstPort leaseholders in Plymouth. At a meeting with MPs in January, FirstPort's managing director pledged to make substantive improvements to their operations.

Since then, Mr Thomas has continued to hear from dozens of residents in FirstPort properties who are living in damp and mouldy homes and getting little or no support from the leasehold managing agent, despite paying extortionate service charges.

This prompted Mr Thomas to arrange a public meeting for residents in Palmerston Heights to question FirstPort representatives and ensure their views were heard. Despite agreeing to such a meeting, FirstPort declined to attend, claiming nobody in the company was available despite plenty of notice.

Commenting on the inquiry Fred Thomas MP said: "This inquiry was all about showing just how deeply local people's trust in FirstPort has been eroded – my trust in them has been eroded too.

"The evidence heard this week was all but identical to the stories I have heard from folks in Plymouth ever since being elected. Yet all I ever hear from FirstPort is excuse after excuse after excuse. It is time for them to show some accountability and provide the service that their customers are paying for – that means transparency, timely repairs and communication that treats them with respect."

Event organisers: (from left) Ruth Cadoux, Kerry Higginson and Bex Hale

Derriford Liver Services team at their recent team away day with Amanda Clements, hepatology advanced clinical practitioner, pictured bottom row, far right

Plympton remembers

Local residents and community groups came together in true Plympton style to embrace this year’s Remembrance commemorations.

In the lead up to Remembrance Sunday members of the Sir Joshua Reynolds WI decorated Ridgeway with knitted poppies they had made and local businessman Tom MacKenzie displayed a poem about WW1 in the window of his key cutting kiosk.

Pupils from Chaddlewood Primary School were among three Plymouth schools to make bright red poppies from recycled plastic bottles and these were used for a Remembrance themed display in the grounds of the new Park Crematorium at Saltram.

Thanks also to the creativity of local residents, along with members of Plympton Litter Pickers Knit and Natter Group and staff at the crematorium, more than 1,000 hand-knitted poppies formed a ‘Bridge of Poppies’ at The Park.

The worst of the day’s rain held off sufficiently to enable this year’s Remembrance Sunday march and service to take place in Plympton unhindered, organised by Plympton St Maurice Civic Association and the Plympton Branch of The Royal British Legion. Many wreaths and poppy crosses were laid at the war memorial below Plympton Castle.

Rev’d Lizzi Green who conducted the open air service found the provision of newly introduced laminated service sheets for the clergy greatly beneficial.

Members of the fire service from Plympton Fire Station were among those involved in the Remembrance Sunday march this year.

There were also suitable events on Tuesday November 11. Plympton St Mary’s Church opened to the public between 10am

from the

to

and 12 noon where people were able to visit to see the selection of handmade poppies which were on display there and the two minutes’ silence was duly observed at 11am. A similar poppy display was at St Maurice Church.

Plympton RBL Branch Standard Bearer Mick Hanks proudly represented the branch at Heles School joining their full Combined Cadet Force parade and service. This very special and moving event was live-streamed to every classroom, helping ensure that Remembrance and its meaning continue to live on with the younger generation. As the bells rang out to mark the two minutes' silence, the whole school came together in a moment of reflection and respect.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

LORD MAYOR RE-OPENS SAM’S PLACE

Plymouth Samaritans have reopened their shop – Sam’s Place on Plymstock Broadway.

The shop was badly damaged by floods at the end of August and has had a re-fit as a result.

It was re-opened by Plymouth’s Lord Mayor, Kathy Watkin, who cut the ribbon. Alderman Consort, Dr John Mahoney and Deputy Town Crier, David Green were also in attendance.

Sam’s Place staff and volunteers were on hand to share mince pies and mulled wine with customers to celebrate the event.

Louise Orchard, manager of Sam’s Place,said: “We are delighted to be able to open our shop to customers again. My thanks go to everyone who have worked together to make it happen. It will bring in much needed funds to support the amazing work being done by Plymouth

Samaritans. We are also open again to donations from our generous supporters. Please come along and support us.”

Meanwhile, Plympton Ridgeway has

a new shop. The Dame Hannah Rogers Trust has opened a new charity shop in the premises of the former Attic. It is open Monday - Saturday from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Councillor Sally Haydon (Bereavement Services) joins Councillor John Stephens and duty manager Ciaran Olford of Stagecoach at the new bus stop outside The Park

CREMATORIUM BUS STOPS AND CROSSING FINISHED

Fifteen months after the site first opened, two new bus stops serving The Park Crematorium are now fully operational but not everyone is happy.

While it is generally considered a move in the right direction a number of issues have been raised by local residents.

The new stops are on the main road outside the entrance to the crematorium site and many feel that the site should have been designed to accommodate buses entering it thus allowing passengers to alight closer to the ceremony rooms which are otherwise quite a walk from the roadside bus stops.

Another criticism is that the new stops - located in an exposed position which sits above the A38 - have been built without any shelters to protect travellers from the elements while they await the arrival of buses.

A further important issue to emerge is that the current timetable for the number 19 bus (the sole service using the new stops) does not dovetail well with ceremony times at the crematorium.

Services in Ceremony Room 1 start on the hour and in rooms 2 and 3 on the half hour. Several of the arrival times of buses at the new stops however are right on or just after the scheduled start time of ceremonies.

The bus service may prove more popular with visitors to the on site cafe or those who wish to visit plots at Drake Memorial Park.

The service 19 operates seven days a week and the recent installation works also include a puffin crossing to assist pedestrians who need to cross the road to and from the new stops.

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "It’s great to see this scheme finished and the bus able to serve The Park.

"The council were really pleased to be able to introduce the Service 19, as part of our tendered network, in March this year and provide an important link between Plympton and Plymstock.

"With the installation of the bus stops and crossing at The Park I'm sure the 19 will now also become a much-valued service by residents across the city as well.”

The improvements were funded in the main by the Department for Transport's 2025-26 Bus Grant.

(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

Appeal after Elburton burglary

Police are appealing for information following a high value burglary in Elburton.

The incident occurred between 11am and 2pm on Tuesday November 4 in the area of Sherford Road and Portway Close in Elburton.

Entry had been forced to a property and multiple sentimental and valuable items taken including service medals and football medals. Officers are working to obtain some images of items and we will issue those if possible.

A partial list of items taken is below:

• Gold Omega watch - with black strap in red box

• Pearl necklace in box - Mikey Moto never worn red box

• Football medals and long service medal-naval

• Gold cufflinks with Initial RT and Rolex bracelet/strap

• Gemstone LAPIS ALIZU with gold chain

• Numerous other jewellery items of sentimental value.

Officers are appealing for anyone who was in the area and saw any suspicious activity, as well as anyone with relevant dash-cam, CCTV or doorbell footage, which may assist the investigation.

They would also like to hear from anyone who may have seen any of these items for sale or been approached regarding the sale of such items.

Anyone information should call the police on 101 or report via the Devon & Cornwall Police website quoting 50250284506.

Remembrance crowds at Plympton War Memorial

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service

the Royal British Legion HQ

Rev Lizzie Green leading the procession along with the Plympton Stannator and Youth Ambassador

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NEW CHIEF EXECUTIVE APPOINTED AT HEARTS TOGETHER CHARITY

Plymouth-based charity Hearts Together has announced the appointment of Angela Gatcum as its new chief executive officer.

Angela joins the organisation following more than 25 years’ experience in leadership and operational management within the health and social care sector. Most recently she served as head of support and deputy chief executive at Havencare Homes and Support.

Angela has dedicated her career to improving the lives of others through compassionate, person-led services. Over more than two decades, she has progressed through multiple senior roles and in her most recent position, Angela oversaw operations with an £8.5 million annual support contract budget, driving growth across the South West, ensuring regulatory compliance, and consistently exceeding performance targets. She is also a champion of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and trauma-informed practice, helping to create high-quality, inclusive environments for people accessing care and support. Angela’s leadership has been characterised by a deep commitment to collaboration, community engagement, and continuous improvement.

Alongside her professional achievements, she brings a wealth of experience in business development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement — skills that will be invaluable as Hearts Together continues to grow and evolve. Speaking about her appointment, Nigel Roy,

chair of trustees at Hearts Together, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Angela to Hearts Together. Her extensive experience in leading complex services, combined with her empathy, professionalism, and vision for inclusive care, make her an exceptional fit for our organisation.

"Angela joins us at a very exciting time, as we prepare to celebrate our 25th anniversary next year and build on the strong foundations laid by our dedicated team.”

He also extended heartfelt thanks to Michelle Clark, who stepped up into the Interim CEO role, guiding the charity through 2025.

He said: “Michelle has been instrumental in ensuring the continued stability and success of Hearts Together during this period of transition. Her dedication and leadership have helped position us strongly for the next chapter of our journey. She has also worked tirelessly to create a clear and inspiring roadmap for our 25th anniversary year, setting out a vision that will guide and energise our celebrations and future growth.”

Commenting on her new role, Angela said: “I’m honoured to be joining Hearts Together, an organisation whose values and mission align so closely with my own. I look forward to working with the Board, the team, and our many partners and supporters to continue providing vital support for patients, families, and carers and to help shape an even brighter future for the charity as it enters its next milestone year.”

Angela Gatcum pictured outside the Hearts Together Hospital Hotel entrance

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NEW VINTAGE ROLLING STOCK FOR PLYM VALLEY RAILWAY

Plym Valley Railway at Coypool has recently taken custody of three new items of vintage rolling stock. The items are an RES van, of the type once used to carry mail and parcels, a ‘Shark’ brake van and an MTA wagon typically used in the past to carry ballast and spoil.

The items have been donated to the heritage railway by their former owners. Previously the stock had been decommissioned and had been lying idle for some time in the nearby Tavistock Junction Yard - in the case of the RES van for a period of some 21 years.

A spokesperson for PVR said: “The wagons,

NBA No. 94540 and ZUA No.DB993840, have been transported the short route to Marsh Mills. The Plym Valley Railway would like to thank Morgan Sindall, Railway Support Services, Network Rail and DB Cargo for their combined efforts which have allowed the recovery and preservation of these vehicles. We will share our plans for these wagons in due course but are pleased to have them on site after many years in the yard.” The MTA wagon arrived the following day.

The Plym Valley Railway is now gearing up for its various Christmas events and train rides details of which can be found at www.plymrail.co.uk (story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)

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SEVEN NEW SCHEMES TO BOOST ACTIVE TRAVEL IN PLYMOUTH

Seven new schemes to make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle in Plymouth have been added to the city council’s capital programme, thanks to funding from the Department for Transport (DfT).

The DfT awarded the council almost £747,000 from its Consolidated Active Travel Fund earlier this year to help in the development and construction of new walking, wheeling and cycling facilities.

The aim is to enable more active travel, improving people's physical and mental wellbeing, quality of life and access, while also helping to reduce carbon emissions.

Improvements will include:

• Reconstruction of the path between Pike Road in Efford and Willow Close in Crabtree, near Marsh Mills, providing a much-improved link. The path will be named Brian Vincent Way after the former councillor for Efford and Lipson who sadly passed away in 2023. Councillor Vincent, who also represented the city as Lord Mayor from 2008 to 2009, was well-known for his love of Plymouth's green spaces.

• A new signal-controlled crossing on Budshead Road to help residents travel to and from the shops and other facilities in Whitleigh Green. This scheme was developed and consulted on in summer 2024.

• Physical measures to support the Safer School Streets schemes, including the tightening of the 'bell mouth' at the junction of Pearn Road/Higher Compton Road junction (for Compton CE Primary) and narrowing of the

entrance to Barne Lane with bollards (for St Paul's RC Primary).

• Essential improvements on Dawes Lane, a key link between Brixton and Plymouth where surface conditions have deteriorated and access is almost impossible in bad weather.

• Pedestrian controlled signals on the existing crossing at the southern end of Mutley Plain (near Alexandra Road) to make it easier and safer for people, particularly the elderly and disabled, to cross.

• Pedestrian controlled signals on the existing crossings at the Ham Drive/Honicknowle Lane junction to make it easier and safer for people to cross this busy school route.

•A new fence to replace the one between Lucas Terrace in Prince Rock and the 'Seagull Bridge' over Embankment Road, which acts as a barrier to a steep slope and is deteriorating in condition.

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "We are really pleased to be delivering these walking, wheeling and cycling improvements across the city, thanks to funding from Active Travel England.

"I hope they'll be welcomed by residents –particularly the signalised crossing on Mutley Plain and the upgrades to the paths connecting Brixton and Plymouth and Efford and Marsh Mills, where improvements are long overdue."

Further details on each scheme, including timeframes, will be announced when they are confirmed. They will all be completed by the end of March 2028.

The RES van being transported to Plym Valley Railway from Tavistock Junction

It's Nature City Plymouth!

Plymouth has been awarded Nature City status in recognition of its pioneering work and ambitious plans for urban nature.

The Nature City award recognises local partnerships that put nature and green infrastructure at the heart of their city or town plans, to transform life for urban communities through providing more and better nature and green space, especially in areas facing greatest inequality.

The new accreditation scheme is run by a partnership between Natural England, National Trust and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. An independent panel judges the awards, with Plymouth becoming the third place in the UK to receive the designation.

It follows on from the recent launch of the Plymouth Plan for Nature and People, a blueprint for how the city manages its natural spaces and aims to ensure every resident can benefit from connecting with the outdoors.

In assessing Plymouth’s application, judges were impressed with the scale of ambition and the strong partnership working which takes place between the council, communities and local and national organisations, all for the benefit of local people, places and nature.

They also noted elements of the Plan for Nature and People, acknowledging a cross-sector approach, a good breadth of priorities and evidence of broad public engagement and focus groups.

The award will help the council and its partners better access future investment opportunities at national level, ensuring the city’s blue and green spaces remain well used and well maintained for years to come.

Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change, said: “This designation is an honour for our city and reflects a real journey for the council.

“In the last few years, we’ve worked tirelessly with our communities and partners to build momentum among our nature projects. Whether it’s Green Communities, the Community Forest or the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, we have made sure that communities have been at forefront of our decision making.

“The Plan for Nature and People has been the final piece of the jigsaw and I'm delighted with this official recognition of Plymouth's ambition and potential.”

Victoria Bradford-Keegan, programme director for Nature Towns and Cities, said: "Nature helps us to improve our health and wellbeing, mitigates the impacts of climate change in urban neighbourhoods and drives green growth, making better places for people to live, work and invest.

“We're delighted to award Plymouth official Nature City status. Our independent panel were impressed with how the council are involving communities in this work, particularly young people, as well as their innovative funding strategy.

"We look forward to continuing to work with Plymouth City Council and their partners, as they deliver their Plan for People and Nature, transforming

Support for Food Bank

The team at Stagecoach South West’s Plymouth depot continues to make a meaningful impact in their local community, donating over 300 kilograms of food and essential items to the Plympton Food Bank since launching their depotwide initiative less than a year ago.

The initiative, which began as a small idea from a former health and wellbeing officer and an area operations manager, has since grown into a major team effort, driven by compassion, teamwork, and a shared commitment to supporting local families in need.

When Emma Potter, bus driver and current health and wellbeing officer, took over the role, she was determined to continue the initiative due to its overwhelming success.

“Giving back to the community is something we

all believe in here,” said Emma. “The work Plympton Food Bank does is absolutely outstanding, and being just around the corner from our depot, it felt right to support them.”

Since its inception nearly 11 months ago, donations have been collected and delivered to the food bank on the last Tuesday or Thursday of each month, ensuring a steady stream of support for local families. The most recent delivery, weighing over 60 kilograms, marked the team’s largest single contribution to date.

Emma added: “We have such a great team spirit here at Plymouth Depot. I can’t thank everyone who donates enough, it’s truly heartwarming to see how committed our colleagues are to helping others.

"We’ve just delivered another impressive collection, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together.”

DATES FOR SANTA VISITS

the city for residents, businesses and visitors." Find out for about the Plan for Nature and People at www.plymouth.gov.uk/

plymouth-plan-nature-and-people For information about Nature Towns and Cities visit www.naturetownsandcities. org.uk

Partners and stakeholders at the launch of the Plymouth Plan for Nature and People Photo courtesy of Plymouth City Council

Photos courtesy of Plymouth City Council

Plympton

The Plymouth Chronicle is excited to announce a collaboration with Argyle Life to provide regular Plymouth Argyle content from the perspective of the fans. We’ll be publishing regular pieces from Argyle Life contributors in print and via our website at www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk. Our latest article by Sam Down, one of Argyle Life's founders, reflects on the appointment of Derek Adams - the former Argyle manager – as the club's new Director of Football

An unlikely homecoming

What. On. Earth....has just happened. Not my most conventional opening, but one that pretty aptly sums up my feelings about the return of enigmatic manager Derek Adams to Home Park as Director of Football, six and a half years after the abruptest of abrupt departures.

Chairman Simon Hallett has finally listened to supporters who wanted him to appoint a promotion-winning former manager, but possibly not the one they were expecting back in January! Nor, indeed, in the role of manager. It's not that I don't get it. Argyle's problems on the field are well known to us all and clearly with the recent departures of Andrew Parkinson, Tom Randle and Stuart Webber, it was inevitable that someone would come in, in an executive role, to assist the clearly overworked David Fox.

But Adams? The man who left in such acrimony in 2019? Maybe it isn't as crazy as it sounds... The first thing we can probably all agree on is that this role needs to be filled. I joked in May that only Argyle could conduct a five-month-long search for a Sporting Director only to decide not to fill the role.

Over the summer, the aforementioned quartet of Fox/Parkinson/Randle/Webber all filled the role to some extent although none of them officially had the job title. Now that four have been whittled down to one inexperienced Head of Football Operations, it's clear somebody is needed to run the football side of the club at a back office level.

Structure and leadership

Neil Dewsnip wasn't perfect, but nobody could accuse the club of lacking structure. He was in charge, and everyone knew it. It's encouraging that some sort of structure and leadership is back. Adams is very clearly no wallflower and will want to similarly set his own agenda.

It is however, impossible to look past the shock and sheer symbolism of Adams' return. What does it mean for us as a club? Seven years ago, when the club changed ownership, we were at the bottom of League One with Adams at the helm. Now, we are in a very similar place with probably at least triple the budget.

What also can't be ignored is the nature of his personality. We went down to League One in a blaze of acrimony and bad feeling. Those of us who were at Accrington that fateful day of his final game can hardly forget the vitriolic reception as he left the field.

He had already banned local media from press conferences and refused to speak to the press outright after that final disastrous game. Players had been frozen out and in one case actually mocked the manager on social media. It was the sign of a man who'd totally lost the fans, press and squad.

His intensity clearly created a range of interpersonal issues that were tough for the club to navigate. It's difficult to know how the new job title could either mitigate these issues or even

Derek Adams pictured during his interview with Gab Sutton on Freebets.com prior to his appointment as Director of Football at Home Park

exacerbate them. There is a chance that given a back office role more removed from the field of play, Adams will be able to take a detached role with less external interaction.

However, even then, there are no guarantees it won't go sour. A role with more seniority and power gives him more of an opportunity to mould the club in his image.

It's no secret that Tom Cleverley is under huge pressure and may even be out of his post by the time you read this if results don't pick up fast. If, like Dewsnip, Adams picks someone who's essentially his own satellite as new head coach, that could end just as badly. Would it surprise anyone if he essentially appointed himself?

Adams was famous for feuding with his fellow managers during his first tenure at Home Park (and later at Morecambe). Who, really, is going to be keen to take any potential job with an old rival as your boss?

Quite aside from his dominant personality, there is also the question of how smart the appointment actually is. Yes, he's had successes in management, but in this role Adams is functionally another rookie in the post.

And really, since leaving Argyle, his CV is nothing to write home about. Disastrous spells at Bradford and Ross County have been sandwiched by two Morecambe relegations which, to be fair, had far more to do with the state of their club. It still remains the case that he's not done well outside of Morecambe since early 2018.

His mode of football too, is often pretty dull and long ball oriented. I don't say we should necessarily be above that, but it doesn't fit the previously stated 'Argyle Way' mission statement.

All of that being said, I can absolutely see a way it could work. Despite the many drawbacks of his

style, most Argyle fans reacted to the hire with overwhelming positivity.

He was given the nickname 'King Derek' for a reason. When times were good, they were very, very, good indeed. The run from 24th to 7th with the attacking genius of Carey/Lameiras, for example, demonstrates how multifaceted his football can be.

This is critical, precisely because he's going to need to take the fanbase with him to succeed. One thing you can't doubt about Derek Adams is his commitment. Rightly or wrongly, fans feel that too many players in the current squad don't care enough about losing and aren't playing to the required standard.

Long term leadership

The Scotsman will need the support of the fans if he decides to move on those who aren't pulling their weight – and the evidence suggests he has exactly that support.

Finally, it's worth noting that Adams built a club last time not just a team. He implemented analysis, nutrition and modern recruitment techniques to great effect whereas the previous manager John Sheridan was much more old school. These kinds of 'club-building' techniques lend him well to the role. He laid the groundwork on which Lowe/ Schumacher built.

Really, there are two questions to be asked. Will he provide a significant short-term boost as either Director of Football or caretaker manager to lift the club out of the drop zone?

And then, will he be able to provide the right long term leadership that allows a thriving culture of success such as that which we had in the early 2020s?

It certainly won't be boring to witness!

SHE Plymouth secures two more years of funding

The team at Iridescent Ideas CIC is celebrating after its highly-successful Supporting Her Enterprise (SHE) Plymouth project has secured funding for another two years.

The renewed support, awarded by the Rank Foundation and the Livewell Foundation, will enable Iridescent to continue empowering women across Plymouth to start, run, and grow successful businesses.

Since launching in 2023, SHE Plymouth has supported 250 women through tailored training, coaching, advice and networking opportunities. The programme has seen 102 women start earning income from their businesses, and 43 new businesses launched, including 12 Community Interest Companies.

Participants have reported transformative outcomes — 91% say they feel more confident, and have improved their knowledge and skills, and 88% feel more connected with other women in business.

“SHE Plymouth has been amazing — I was able to take my tentative business idea from nothing to a profitable business in just four

months,” said project participant Hannah Ames of Nurse Tutor – Tutoring with Hannah.

With this new funding, Iridescent is able to start taking new registrations, inviting more women to join this supportive and dynamic community.

“We’re so proud of the impact SHE Plymouth has already achieved,” said Mel Tucker, director of Iridescent Ideas CIC.

“Thanks to this new funding, we can continue creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and helping even more women to turn their ideas into reality.”

Women interested in signing up for the next phase of SHE Plymouth can register via the website at www.iridescentideas.com/ she-plymouth or to find out more about SHE Plymouth contact she@iridescentideas.com.

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