Plymouth Chronicle July Central 2025

Students from Sir John Community College have been involved in a project to launch the Plymouth Fish Finger See Page 8

The regional electrical retailer which is Happy to be Helpful

Established in the 1970s, HBH Woolacotts’ journey began in Bude in July 1976, thanks to founder Ted Hemmerle's vision. Their commitment to quality products and customer service quickly led to growth, with expansions into Launceston and Holsworthy by 1979.

The 1990s saw further progress with the opening of the UK’s first Panasonic Technics Centre in Plymouth (recently rebranded to Panasonic Store) on New George Street in 1990, followed by a Wadebridge location in 1994, extending their reach within Cornwall. The early 2000s solidified their regional presence with new branches in Liskeard and Bodmin in March 2003.

A key development in their strategy was the move towards larger retail spaces. Their first superstore opened in St Austell in May 2012. Most recently, their flagship retail superstore opened in Coypool, Plympton, in September 2017, a testament to their continued success and growth since their early days. A new superstore is currently in development in Barnstaple, North Devon, and is scheduled to open Autumn 2025.

The Plymouth superstore highlights their strong brand partnerships with dedicated sections for Sony, Panasonic, LG, Samsung, Dyson and Smeg showcasing their specialised knowledge and relationships with some of the industry’s leading brands. What's particularly noteworthy is that HBH Woolacotts has remained a family-run business across three generations, from Ted Hemmerle to Martin and Chris Hemmerle, demonstrating their long-term commitment and values, centered around their motto: "Happy to Be Helpful."

Initially offering essential household items, HBH Woolacotts has evolved to provide a wide range of electrical goods from leading manufacturers at prices to suit all budgets and requirements. Their emphasis is on helping customers to make informed decisions through comprehensive staff training, ensuring knowledgeable and helpful advice is always available.

Approaching their 50th anniversary, HBH Woolacotts stands as a respected and significant retailer in the South West. Their enduring success is built on a strong focus on their customers, dedicated staff, and the local

community. Marketing Director Chris Hemmerle emphasizes their key strengths as "consistent delivery of excellent customer service, the friendly and long-standing nature of our team, and our ability to offer competitive pricing while maintaining a personal, local business feel." He also notes that their family ownership allows for quick and efficient decision-making, maintaining high standards within a positive work environment.

Their strategic approach includes active marketing and their own logistics, which include a network of delivery and installation teams to support free next day delivery and a field based service network to support both warranty and out of warranty repairs. HBH Woolacotts’ positive customer experience is driven by a helpful team with a positive attitude, a knowledgeable workforce, and a carefully selected range of products at competitive prices, plus a full range of support services.

ISLE OF WIGHT - ROYALS & RAILS

Departing Mon 25 Aug ‘25

On this fantastic break we enjoy the island’s natural beauty as well as a nostalgic journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and a visit to fascinating Osborne House. The Isle of Wight is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing few days away.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth, Saltash

 4 nights at the Shanklin Beach Hotel, Shanklin (JG2+ rating) with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar

 Entertainment some evenings

 Heritage train journey on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway

 Excursions to Osborne House, Cowes & Ryde

Optional Island Highlights Tour (£15pp)

GREAT LITTLE TRAINS OF NORTH WALES & PORTMEIRION

Departing Mon 18 Aug ‘25

Enjoy a visit to the unique, Italianate village of Portmeirion and discover the historic railways and meandering tramways of North Wales on this fantastic five-day break, based in Llandudno, the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash

 4 nights at the Chatsworth House Hotel, Llandudno (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Entertainment some evenings

 Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway

 Free time in Llandudno

 Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion

ABBA VOYAGE LIVE IN LONDON

Departing Sun 19 Oct ‘25

Have you always wanted to experience the magic of an ABBA concert? Well now is your chance to say Thank You for the Music!

Join us at the ABBA Arena for the incredible ABBA Voyage; where the global pop icons appear on stage as digital avatars brought to life.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash

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

 Ticket to ABBA Voyage at the ABBA Arena with coach transfers (dancefloor, standing)

 Free time in London for shopping & sightseeing

Upgrade to a seated ticket for £30pp

By Coach from Plymouth, Saltash

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

Plymouth Boat Fest

June 21

A festival of all things boating hosted by Plymouth Yacht Haven at Mount Batten. A free fun event for all the family starting at 10am. Step on board classic historic boats, explore second hand boats for sale and a boat jumble. Have a go at stand up paddle boarding and watch live safety demonstrations and more. Free parking.

Stoke Damerel Summer Fair

June 21

Popular annual event with beverages, lunches and a variety of stalls at Stoke Damerel Church from 11am to 3pm.

Summer Concert

June 21

Plymouth Philharmonic Choir an Opera Gala Evening at The Minster Church of St Andrew at 7.30pm.

Featuring some of the most popular and favourite choruses including the Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves, Verdi’s Anvil Chorus and Bizet’s Carmen. The choir will be joined by soloists Cheryl Brendish (Soprano) and John Hobbs (Baritone). Tickets £15 in advance, £17 on the door, £5 Students and U16s. For details visit www. plymouthphilchoir.org

Summer Fair

June 21

Ford Park Cemetery from 10.30am to 1.30pm. Admission free. Plenty of stalls with bargains and refreshments will be available.

Pirates of Penzance

June 27

Performed by Plymouth Gilbert & Sullivan at Stoke Damerel Church at 7.30pm. Tickets £12, children £10. Available on the door and via 07552 234583

Charity Coffee Morning

June 28

Sherwell United Church Hall in North Hill from 10am to 12 noon with proceeds to Christian Aid.

Choral Concert

June 28

St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. Phoenix Chorale present a fabulous mix of choral music from the Renaissance to Romantic periods, plus contemporary works by a number of composers including Arnesen, Gjeilo, Lauridsen, Rutter and Bach, all representing the joy that singing brings. Refreshments will be available. Tickets £12 in advance from www.ticketsource.co.uk, £14 on the door, children under 18 free.

Plymouth Armed Forces Day

June 28

Armed Forces Day is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to reservists, veterans, cadets and their families. This exciting family day is packed with displays, parades, military equipment to explore, a thrilling arena programme, live music and much more. Details at www. plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk

Barbican Arts and Crafts Market

Every Sunday in July and August

The Barbican Arts and Crafts Market is a vibrant celebration of creativity, hosted each summer at the picturesque Pier Masters House on Plymouth Barbican. Showcasing a handpicked selection of talented local artists and makers, the market offers a unique opportunity to discover beautiful handcrafted creations in a stunning waterfront location. From 11am to 4pm each Sunday.

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

Wimbledon on the Big Screen

June 30 to July 13

Wimbledon returns to Plymouth city centre’s Piazza this summer with an exciting twist – live tennis screenings and the chance to try one of the UK’s fastest growing sports, Padel, all in one vibrant city centre location. Every match of the Wimbledon Championships will be screened live on a state-ofthe-art mobile screen. To mark Wimbledon finals weekend, an international market will take place along New George Street, bringing together global street food, handmade goods, and cultural stalls.

Ruckus 25 Music Festival

July 4 to 6

Hosted by Plymouth Albion at Bricklfields Ruckus will feature a line up of top live performances with a focus on iconic UK acts. Headline performers include The Feeling, The Specials, Elvana and Tom Meighan. Alongside the music there will be a food and beer festival highlighting the best of local produce and craft beers. For details visit www.plymouthalbion. com/ready-for-a-ruckus

Charity Summer Concerts

July 4 and 5

The Down Thomas Singers are raising funds for Bowel Cancer West with their two Summer Concerts at the Silver Jubilee Hall, Down Thomas at 7.30pm on Friday and a matinee on Saturday at 2pm. To cheer everyone up in these troubled times the concert consists of light musical numbers, poems and clarinet piece. Tickets are £7 including light refreshments and free parking. There is always a good raffle. Contact 01752 299204 for tickets.

Ultimate 80s Party Cruise

July 5 and Aug 9

Plymouth Boat Trips present their popular music cruises with the best of 80s hits with their resident DJ. Complimentary drink included. Fully equipped luxury vessel, with toilets and a licensed bar on board. Very popular so book early to guarantee a ticket. Leaves Commercial Wharf at 7.30pm, returns 10.30pm. Details and tickets from www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk

Saturday Sessions at The Square

July 5, Aug 2 and Sept 6

Live music sessions at Old Town Square on the first weekend of the month in the city centre from 1pm to 3pm. Featuring the Hot House Combo in July, True Foxes in August and Firebird in September.

Coffee Morning

July 5

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

Summer Fair

July 5

St Boniface Church, St Budeaux from 10am to 12 noon. Various stalls including cakes, tombolas, plants, refreshments and grand draw.

Medieval Lunch

July 5

Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery at 1pm. Booking is essential. Tickets cost £15 and can be obtained from the office at Ford Park from 10am to 4pm.

St Levan Park Fun Day

July 5

The popular community event returns from 11am to 4pm with free entry for all. The Fun Day features live music and entertainment, craft, produce and food stalls as well as the Gables Dog Show. There will be a toddler soft play area as well as inflatables and Zigzag entertainer. For updates visit #StLevanFunDay

Good Food & Craft Market

July 6 and Aug 3

Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, Royal William Yard’s Good Food & Craft Markets offer everything from tasty treats to handcrafted gifts. The monthly markets have been a staple of Royal William Yard’s event calendar for years, and have won event awards along the way. From 10am to 3pm. For details visit www. royalwilliamyard.com

St Luke’s Midnight Walk

July 11

The popular family-friendly event, with a heart full of hope, kindly sponsored by Michael Spiers returns for 2025. For the first time, there will be a choice of four routes instead of three from 2.5 miles, 5 miles, 7.5 miles or 13.5 miles all beginning and ending at Plymouth Argyle’s Home Park stadium in the Fan Zone. For details and registration visit www.stlukes-hospice. org.uk/midnight-walk

Native Makers Market

July 12 and 13

Ocean Studios at Royal William Yard hosts the event from 10am to 4pm each day. The free event will feature over 40 makers, demonstrations, family friendly activities and delicious food. For details visit www.nativemakers.co.uk

Rum & Reggae Festival

July 12

The spirit of the Caribbean is celebrated at Home Park’s Fan Zone with live music, tropical cocktails and The Marley Experience live on stage from 2pm to 10pm. Tickets from £10.

In the Spotlight Concert

July 15

Music of the Night Choral Foundation perform their

latest concert at Mount Gould Methodist Church in Farringdon Road at 7.30pm. Adults £8, under 16s £4. Contact Paula Ingram on 07860 354290 or email her at paulaingram001@icloud.com

Levowan Chamber Choir

July 18

The choir continues its 10th anniversary celebrations at St Peter’s Church, Wyndham Square at 7.30pm. Featuring a selection of uplifting, contemporary choral music from around the globe. Free entry with a retiring collection. Reserve seats at www.levowan.com

A Talk on the Remarkable Pinwill Sisters

July 23

This talk at the Plymouth Proprietary Library at 2pm is by Dr Helen Wilson, author of The Remarkable Pinwill Sisters. The Pinwill sisters were famed for creating between them one of the most successful ecclesiastical woodcarving companies in the West Country, with work in over 180 churches across Devon and Cornwall and further afield. When first Mary and then Ethel left the company, Violet ran the business single-handedly, employing nearly 30 carvers and joiners at the height of its success. Talk: £4 for members, £8 for non-members.

Family Fun Day

July 26

Keyham Green Places in Renown Street, Keyham is hosting a fun day from 11am to 3pm with cake stall, craft fair, table top sale, raffle, plant sales and free children’s activities, plus the opening of the Keyham Scouts’ Storytelling Shed. Free entry

Charity Coffee Morning

July 26

Sherwell United Church Hall in North Hill from 10am to 12 noon with proceeds to PATH.

An Afternoon with Babs Horton

Aug 2

Author Babs Horton will read from a selection of her short stories and her debut novel ‘A Jarful of Angels’ at Plymouth Proprietary Library in St Barnabas Terrace from 2pm. Babs will also include excerpts from her Edinburgh Fringe sell out play ‘In the Lady Garden’ Babs will be happy to take questions on anything writing related. Refreshments provided. Free for members £4 non-members. For details visit www. theppl.org.uk

British Firework Championships

Aug 13 and 14

Tens of thousands of people will head for The Hoe and viewing points all along the waterfront for the spectacular annual competition. Six previous winners will battle it out to be crowned Champion of Champions. Three firework companies will be competing each day at 9.30pm, 9.50pm and 10.10pm. For more information go to www.visitplymouth.co.uk/ whats-on

West End Carnival

Aug 23

All day fun for the whole family, with plenty of carnival flair, music, entertainment and food from 11am onwards in Frankfort Gate and the surrounding streets.

Charity Coffee Morning

Aug 23

Sherwell United Church Hall in North Hill from 10am to 12 noon with proceeds to Jeremiah’s Journey.

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.

St Luke’s Midnight Walk returns to the city on July 11

DAY

“An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”

MahatmaGandhi

Plymouth City Council, working as part of Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP), has commissioned a major economic study to help the city prepare for the opportunities and challenges arising from an investment programme worth in excess of £4.4 billion at Devonport Naval Base and Babcock’s Devonport Royal Dockyard.

The research will provide critical insight into shaping Plymouth’s economic future and maximising the impact of Ministry of Defence investment over the next decade and beyond. Babcock’s pivotal role in delivering the next phase of the Royal Navy’s submarine programme and the Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD) with support extending through to at least 2070 represents one of the most sustained and significant long-term financial commitments ever made to the city and wider region.

To help ensure Plymouth best manages this opportunity, the council has appointed one of the UK’s leading economic and labour market research consultancies, Stantec, to deliver a detailed economic forecast and skills gap analysis from 2025 to 2035.

Working with major city employers including Babcock and Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP), the research will address two key questions: What will Plymouth’s economy look like as a result of this investment? And what skills and workforce capacity will be needed to support it?

The work builds on earlier research commissioned in partnership with Homes England, elevated by Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP) to support the development of the Plymouth City Centre Housing Vision. It forms a key part of the council’s evidence base for strategic planning, inward investment, and future funding bids.

It also directly supports the delivery of the Plymouth Plan, the city’s long-term strategy that sets out how Plymouth will grow in a sustainable way, covering areas such as housing, jobs, transport and the environment.

The research will also play a critical role in helping to attract further investment into Plymouth, supporting bids for additional Government funding and giving confidence to both public and private sector partners looking to invest in the city’s future.

The study is expected to conclude by Autumn and will inform both immediate planning priorities and longer-term strategy across skills, housing, infrastructure, and regeneration.

Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “This investment is unlike anything Plymouth has seen before— not just in scale, but in its long-term significance. It will shape the future of our economy and our communities, and we need to be ready. This research will give us the hard evidence we need to make good decisions now, so that the benefits are felt across the whole city for decades to come.”

Plymouth Albion raise over £4,000 for St Luke’s Hospice through ‘one of a kind kit’ initiative

Plymouth Albion is celebrating a remarkable moment of community spirit and creativity that raised over £4,000 for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.

In March, Brickfields was packed with community spirit as Albion took on Rosslyn Park in the dedicated St Luke’s Men’s Day Out fixture, in front of a crowd of over 2,500 supporters.

But it wasn’t just any match. Albion took to the field in a unique kit designed by a talented six-year-old pupil from Widey Court Primary School.

The winning design featured the iconic Smeaton’s Tower, a proud emblem of Plymouth’s maritime heritage and a beacon of the community. Chosen from dozens of imaginative entries, the finished shirts were not only a symbol of creativity but also a way to raise vital funds. Every penny of sponsorship and shirt sales went directly to support the incredible work of St Luke’s Hospice.

Recently, Albion managing director Max Venables visited Widey Court to personally present the young designer with a signed version of her winning kit. This special moment was shared with Georgina Dyke from St Luke’s

Hospice and Colin Aldworth, associate director at Nevada Construction, Albion’s main kit sponsor.

Max said: “It’s amazing what sport, community and business can achieve together. St Luke’s has always been close to the heart of Plymouth Albion, and Men’s Day Out was such a special day. Visiting Widey Court and showing the school, especially

the young winner, the real impact of her kit design was a brilliant experience.”

Nevada Construction played a crucial role in the success of this initiative, giving up their front of shirt space for the fixture.

That decision enabled 20 individual businesses to each sponsor a one-off match shirt, giving every shirt its own front of shirt sponsor and allowing this

College unveils memorial to honour all former students lost in conflict

A new war memorial dedicated to former pupils killed in combat has been unveiled at Plymouth College.

The memorial remembers the almost 200 former pupils who died in conflicts dating back to World War One.

A special unveiling ceremony took place on Friday June 6 which was attended by a number of dignitaries, including Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard MP.

The memorial was the brainchild of former Royal Marine Jason Cox, who is the college’s health and safety officer, who said one of the reasons he wanted to create the memorial was to honour his former classmate who was killed in Iraq in 2003.

Founded in 1887, the school lost over 100 pupils in the First World War and 68 in the Second World War.

Nine other names have been added, including former pupil Major Jason Ward, who was killed when the US helicopter he was travelling in crashed in the Iraqi desert in 2003.

Mr Ward was a pupil at the college at the same time as Mr Cox and they both joined the Royal Marines in 1980.

Jason said: “That’s one of the reasons why I’ve taken this to heart because of Jason.”

He added: “The wonderful thing is his mother travelled with his brother down from Barnstaple to attend the ceremony, so she was our very special guest of honour.”

Mr Cox said he had the idea for the memorial after seeing that the boards in the school, which showed former pupils who had been killed in combat, were looking ‘old and faded’.

“It was only going to be a small granite block with possibly a brass plaque on it with some appropriate wording,” he said.

”It grew into something a lot larger and bigger and the headmaster decided to include all of the names of all the pupils to put on the plaque.”

community powered kit to come to life in full. Colin Aldworth of Nevada Construction said: “We are so pleased for St Luke’s, Plymouth Albion, and the pupils at Widey Court Primary.

“It was a no-brainer for us to be involved in something so meaningful. Community has always been at the heart of what we do at Nevada, and this project was a perfect reflection of that.”

Georgina Dyke, events manager at St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Plymouth Albion, Nevada Construction and Widey Court Primary. Raising over £4,000 is a fantastic achievement, and the creativity and enthusiastic spirit behind it truly reflect what makes our community special. Thank you for helping St Luke’s continuing to care for those who need us most.”

Plymouth Albion will continue to support St Luke’s Hospice throughout the off-season with a series of events, including the Ruckus Music Festival in July and the Plymouth Albion Golf Day.

As the club proudly builds toward its 150th year, St Luke’s will remain Albion’s chosen charity throughout the 2025-26 season.

Students to take part in big Plymouth chess tournament

Primary and secondary school students will be taking part in the third major chess tournament in Julyand organisers are calling on schools across the city to encourage more youngsters to take part.

The tournament is being held at Plymouth College on July 5 with free entry and light refreshments provided.

The event is organised by Plymouth Chess Club, whose president Alan Crickmore said: “We know there are many more students, both boys and girls, playing chess in schools are our objective is to encourage them –and what better way than to hold a tournament.

“There are many advantages to playing chess as it appears to improve logical thinking, academic performance, confidence and patience.”

He said that certificates and prizes will be awarded to participants.

Plymouth Chess Club have a group of students who attend weekly tuition sessions and the club hopes to promote more chess in schools and establish an inter-school league online.

Schools or students wanting more information can visit the club website at www.plymouthchess.uk

Mrs Jacqueline Ward, whose son Jason died in a helicopter crash in Iraq in 2003, is presented with a bouquet by one of the college’s cadets. Jason was a pupil at Plymouth College

Speaking about the names of the fallen solders from the First World War, Mr Cox said all of the people were ‘local lads.’

“If you could imagine 112 lads being taken away from the local community and never seen again - it must have been quite devastating for the city,” he said.

A service was conducted by Rt Revd James Grier, the Anglican Bishop of Plymouth, and there was a moment’s silence and wreath-laying in tribute to the fallen.

The Last Post was sounded and there was also be a parade by the Combined Cadet Force featuring students from Plymouth College and Stoke Damerel Community College.

Jason Cox, the college’s health and safety officer who had the original idea for the memorial

Cheque presentation (from left) Colin Aldworth of Nevada Construction, Max Venables of Plymouth Albion, Georgina Dyke of St Luke’s Hospice and Shaun Nicholls Widey Court headteacher with the pupil who designed the kit

Saturday night buses back on the timetable until the end of the year

Night buses will continue to be available in Plymouth and other locations in Devon and Cornwall on Saturday nights until the end of the year.

Following the success in the summer and Christmas of 2024, Devon & Cornwall Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner’s office are working with partners to continue running night buses across the two counties, providing seven new routes in addition to the four existing routes from last year.

Night bus services, provided by Stagecoach in Plymouth, operate on Saturday evenings in a bid to reduce drink and drug-related incidents.

The services have been set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) with support from a number of organisations including Plymouth Waterfront Partnership.

Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: “I am delighted that my office will once again fund this fantastic service and help even more people get home safely

after a night out. I need people to use these services to show it is commercially viable to ensure it becomes a mainstay of having a night out.

“The extension of the night bus service to include seven new routes will be a fantastic boost

to our evening and night time economy, encouraging residents and visitors alike to relax and enjoy socialising in Exeter, Plymouth, Newquay, Torbay and North Devon without worrying about the expense of a taxi, or having a designated driver.

“Night buses in Devon and Cornwall have been proven to be a great success, reducing crime and antisocial behaviour and making people feel safer – with the added benefit of allowing them to get home for less than the cost of a pint or a glass of wine.”

Jon Walton, chief executive of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said: “We are delighted to be able to support this initiative that provides a safe, reliable and sustainable way of visiting Britain’s Ocean City and we have a huge range of accredited venues to provide the perfect night out!”

City College’s Skills Builder initiative is a major success

A community-focused initiative to tackle economic inactivity and build skills for a stronger Plymouth workforce has smashed its targets and is changing lives across the city.

Plymouth Skills Builder, a City College Plymouth programme supported by Plymouth City Council, is celebrating exceptional success one year on from its launch.

The project built essential foundations for future employment for those who took part, allowing participants to access basic skills training through City College Plymouth and Argyle Community Trust, demonstrating strong demand for fundamental skill-building among economically inactive individuals.

Others received job-search support, and reengaged with education through the initiative, a critical first step for those distanced from training and employment pathways.

In collaboration with key partners including Argyle Community Trust, Plymouth Active Leisure, Livewell Southwest and Achievement Training, the project has engaged 283 individuals, exceeding its target by 60 per cent. The majority of those reached were deemed ‘socially excluded,’ demonstrating the project’s success in reaching those furthest from employment, education and traditional support.

As the project moves into its second year, Skills Builder will deepen its reach within the city’s most deprived communities, expand social prescribing training and evolve its sector taster offers to align even more closely with employer needs and community aspirations. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and supported by Plymouth City Council, the initiative saw 43 people securing employment or self-employment, with a further 58 moving into education or training.

The project has also supported individuals in achieving meaningful milestones towards employment. Nearly 90 participants gained vocational licences, CSCS cards and social prescribing qualifications, opening up direct routes to key industries such as construction, health and social care.

Wellbeing has been a vital component of the Skills Builder approach, recognising that barriers to employment are not solely skillsrelated. Over 40 individuals accessed mental and physical health support, creating a crucial foundation for personal resilience, confidence and sustained engagement with employment opportunities.

As part of its innovative delivery model, Plymouth Skills Builder also introduced sectorspecific taster sessions in construction, digital, healthcare and business, enabling participants to build real-world skills and gain practical insight into potential career pathways.

A major highlight was the partnership with Sherford Skills Training Centre, where individuals experienced live construction environments and gained their CSCS cards, a vital qualification in the sector.

Recognising the broader barriers to employment, the project also invested in innovative solutions such as a new employability clothes bank and confidencebuilding workshops for women re-entering the workforce. These interventions, alongside digital skills training delivered in community hubs such as The Plot in Stonehouse, have helped to address often-hidden barriers such as digital exclusion and self-confidence.

WANT TO EARN SOME EXTRA CASH

EACH MONTH WHILE KEEPING FIT?

Award-winning Chelsea Flower Show garden will have new home at Shekinah

An award-winning garden display featured at the Chelsea Flower Show is to be relocated in Plymouth.

It has been donated to Shekinah, the city charity based in Stonehouse Creek. The garden plan is fully sponsored by Project Giving Back, a unique grant-making initiative supporting charitable causes through gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show.

After the show, the garden will be relocated to a permanent community space at Shekinah ensuring its legacy continues to inspire and support.

Shekinah is working with Modular, the garden designers, Pathway UK, the leading homeless and inclusion health charity and philanthropic organisation Project Giving Back.

John Hamblin, chief executive of Shekinah, said: “We are incredibly proud to be part of this inspirational project. The Chelsea Flower Show offers a national platform to raise awareness of homelessness and health and inequalities and celebrate the journeys of those rebuilding their lives and health with dignity and purpose. This partnership truly reflects what Shekinah is all about.”

“It's

great exercise, I think of it as I'm getting paid to do my steady state cardio. Good for the waistline and the wallet!”

of homelessness to better health and on to a safe place that can be called home.

Adults, young people and active seniors make up our brilliant team of delivery people across Plymouth. Get in touch to be part of the team. Own transport helpful but not essential. Scan to apply.

The exceptional garden exhibit shines a light on journeys made out of homelessness to recovery and safety, and Pathway’s work on improving healthcare for people experiencing homelessness, ensuring they’re supported out

Using sustainable design and powerful storytelling to represent transformation, resilience, and regeneration, the garden was created by Modular, a team of innovative garden designers, with people with lived experience of homelessness involved in the project from the start.

As a Plymouth based charity committed to supporting people experiencing

homelessness and social exclusion, Shekinah’s involvement highlights the power of community, compassion, and creative collaboration in addressing complex social issues.

Pathway has an expert homelessness team in Plymouth who work very closely with the Shekinah Centre to help people access the expert medical care and support need.

For more information visit www.shekinah. co.uk

City schools could soon be serving the unique Plymouth Fish Finger

A pilot community project to create a new locally sourced fish finger for school lunches is making waves across Plymouth and beyond.

Known as the Plymouth Fish Finger, the project is making use of ‘by-catch’ fish (that which would otherwise go to waste) from local fishers, taste testing them with school children, and co-designing fish fingers, with a plan to serve them in school meals locally.

Fish species involved include whiting, pouting and dogfish, and the project ensures small scale coastal fishers – in vessels under 10 metres – receive a fair price for something that is normally low-value and underutilised, while getting healthy and sustainable food into local schools.

The project is co-led by the University of Plymouth, Sole of Discretion CIC, Plymouth Fishing & Seafood Association and CATERed and is part of the national FoodSEqual programme to explore how to improve access to healthier foods for people all over the UK.

Dr Clare Pettinger is an active food system justice researcher at the University of Plymouth, with a keen interest in understanding – and overcoming – the barriers to healthy sustainable food consumption in the

local community.

As part of FoodSEqual, she held several workshops with the local community in Whitleigh, Plymouth to see what they knew about fish, and what might encourage them to eat more of it.

Themes emerged such as finding opportunities to try new fish and improving access to fish, so the focus on a local, sustainable fish finger was born.

Clare worked with Caroline Bennett from Sole of Discretion CIC and Ed Baker from Plymouth Fishing & Seafood Association to explore how to bring fishers into the conversation,

Pupils from Sir John Hunt Community College have been involved in co-design sessions

and when the by-catch species were identified, pupils at Sir John Hunt Community College held a series of taste sessions for the fish and breadcrumbs to design and make the new product.

CATERed, which provides the majority of Plymouth’s school meals, was also brought on board and is fully supportive of bringing the fish finger into circulation.

Dr Pettinger said: “What’s amazing about this project is the collaboration that has formed

around it. We have championed a community co-design model which has led to the project’s success. Our amazing local partners have a shared vision for the Plymouth Fish finger because it belongs to the community, promotes Plymouth Seafood brand and provides true pride and identity in the product.

“Our next challenge is to upscale the process and ensure it’s truly sustainable.”

The next challenge is to mechanise the manufacturing process in order to produce the 36,000 fish fingers needed for school meal cycle in Plymouth schools. In order to do this, the team now needs philanthropic investment. Work is also ongoing to ensure the fish fingers adhere to necessary industry standards to be classified as fully ‘sustainable’.

Dr Pettinger added: “We know this project is a positive thing for the city and we’ve got a proof of concept, it’s just a case of upscaling and finding the necessary support to bring it to more people. At the very least, we’ve shown that a community of practice can achieve fantastic things, so we hope other areas of the UK feel inspired. We don’t just have to accept that things won’t change when it comes to accessing healthy food at a reasonable cost – together we can achieve so much.”

The impressive garden display coming to Plymouth

Tothill Park transformation

A group of hard working volunteers are transforming one of Plymouth’s best-known parks.

Last year Tothill Park in St Judes regained its Green Flag status, having lost it the previous year. Determined to build on this, volunteers from the New Friends of Tothill Park formed a gardening group.

They have been busy weeding, planting, cutting back shrubs and clearing paths, to create a colourful welcoming space for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Previously neglected and overgrown areas such as the central roundabout in the main thoroughfare have been rejuvenated and they even unearthed a long forgotten rockery.

Regularly posting their progress on the Friends Facebook page they have received plenty of positive feedback on how beautiful, clean and welcoming the park has become.

Local Councillor Sue Dann has been an active supporter of the New Friends of Tothill Park, since formation in August 2023, attending many of their meetings and recently taking time out of her busy schedule to visit the volunteer gardeners to personally thank them for their achievements.

Commenting on her visit she said: “Really enjoyed catching up with The Blooming Gardening Group at Tothill Park and Michael Lester the chair and official photographer of the New Friends of Tothill Park.

“They are all volunteers who as a group work closely with the Plymouth City Council gardeners to enhance the work in the park. Big thanks to all the volunteers.

“What was so lovely, was the way the group described their blossoming friendship and the benefit to the health and well being in the group, the positive reception from users of the park plus the joy of being in the park.”

The volunteers have more plans going forward and with the help of the council’s gardeners, with whom the have developed a positive mutually supportive relationship, are currently constructing a community garden with raised beds for the use of local residents.

Many residents do not have gardens of their own, so will be able to use the beds to grow flowers, vegetables and herbs.

Also blooming is the Little Café in the Park. What was once was the local library has been transformed by Lucy, who runs it, into an attractive, friendly and popular focal point for people to meet.

There is a range of fresh food and drink to choose from with both indoor and outdoor tables. Many residents have become regulars and visitors are made to feel welcome by the friendly vibe.

The New Friends of Tothill Park are always pleased to receive requests to join from potential new members on their Facebook page or can be contacted by email at friendsoftothillpark@outlook.com.

Volunteer gardeners uncovered a hidden rockery during their work

Members of the group pictured with Councillor Sue Dann (back centre)

The former library in Tothill Park is now the popular Little Café in the Park

Plymouth to spend more on special school places

More than £900,000 is being invested to create more capacity at special schools in Plymouth.

It is part of Plymouth City Council’s £13 million SEND sufficiency plan, which aims to improve support for children and young people with special needs and/or disabilities (SEND) by increasing the availability of special school places.

The council will spend nearly £730,000 to carry out reconfiguration works at Woodlands Special School, transforming an unused space to facilitate a 10-place assessment nursery provision and creating extra school places.

The nursery provision will provide year-long placements for pre-school aged children who are waiting to be assessed for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). It will be staffed by a teacher and education, health and care assistants, who will monitor children to see whether they need a specialist or mainstream school place. Children will then be supported to transition directly from the nursery into their new school placement.

A further £192,000 will also be used to increase capacity at Longcause Special School, by converting four offices into additional classroom spaces to better meet the needs of pupils at the school.

Woodlands Special School supports pupils aged between two and 19-years-old who have complex physical and sensory difficulties, with many also having medical needs.

Longcause Special School provides places to children aged four to 16-years-old who are on the autism spectrum and have other learning difficulties.

Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “One of the biggest challenges we face when it comes to improving our SEND services is the lack of special school places available for children who really need extra support to learn and thrive.

“We are committed to maximising the limited resources available to us to create more specialist provision. I’m delighted that we’re able to work with Longcause and Woodlands to reconfigure their respective school buildings to turn underutilised space into useful learning environments for children and young people with SEND.”

All of the new places for the next school year have already been allocated to children who have been waiting for a specialist place.

The majority of the building work is due to take place during the summer holidays to avoid disrupting pupils and staff.

While most children’s needs can be met in a mainstream setting, for some a specialist setting is more appropriate. To be eligible for a special school place, children must have an EHCP or be undergoing a statutory assessment of their special educational needs and have needs that cannot be met in a mainstream school.

The council and local schools have recently launched a new website outlining the Plymouth Graduated Approach to Inclusion. This helps schools and parents and carers by setting out the support available for children and young people with SEND to ensure that their needs are meet. Find out more at www.plymouthgati.co.uk.

Police day of action in city centre and on waterfront

Charles Cross Neighbourhood Police Team, along with other colleagues across Plymouth, have been responding to the issues and concerns that matter to the local community.

Officers took part in a day of action in the city centre, at retail parks and other areas of Plymouth such as The Barbican, Drake Circus shopping centre and The Hoe. The day involved a focus on hotspot areas linked to anti-social behaviour, as well as tackling drugs issues, retail crime and unsafe driving.

Police were responding to reports of offences and engaged with retailers and shoppers, as well as school holiday visitors as part of their high visibility patrols.

There was also a roads policing operation in the Barbican area to give advice to motorists and remind them of good driving behaviour such as sticking to the speed limit and not using your mobile phone at the wheel. One person was arrested for drug driving and various traffic offences.

Sergeant Steve Dykes, Neighbourhood team leader, said: “This day of action was to show the public that we are working hard and reassure them that we do listen to their concerns and are committed to making a difference with our partner agencies such as Plymouth City Council.

“We had extra uniformed officers on foot patrol to carry out community engagement and chat to the public as well as giving crime prevention advice and explaining what we are doing to take action in their local area. Uniformed officers were also supported by plain clothes officers in the city.

“Police colleagues work with their counterparts including Plymouth City Council, NHS, business owners and Heart of the South West Trading Standards, amongst others, to give a good service to the public and signpost those in need to where they can receive help.

“A number of shops were visited where the teams gave advice on how to protect businesses and property from thieves. Officers also visited retail areas like Drake Circus Mall and local market stalls to speak to business owners and customers.

“We made several arrests during the day including one man arrested for assault and another man who was wanted on warrant for burglary. Another man was arrested in relation to possession of drugs and an offensive weapon. Police also identified at

least one vulnerable person, potentially linked to drug supply, who will be helped.

A mobile CCTV van was out in the main shopping area and the Neighbourhood Support Team were deployed to the New George Street area where anti-social behaviour has previously taken place in the early evening outside the food takeaway shops. Food delivery drivers were also spoken to and given advice regarding the safety and rules around E-bikes.

Sergeant Dykes added: “We’re looking forward to meeting more of the businesses and partners in Plymouth over the coming weeks to listen to their concerns and understand how the police teams can help improve the quality of life in the area.

“This is a busy area and one where the public, including our own friends and family come to for shopping, socialising, to eat and drink. Once we add into this the extra holidaymakers and tourists who visit our city centre that is why we are striving to make it a better experience for all.”

Plymouth police cadets played their part in the day of action by taking part in a test purchase operation, alongside colleagues from Trading Standards. They visited 16 shops

PC Rich Steer-Frost distributing stickers to youngsters

to see if the cadets could buy vaping items; it is illegal for shops to sell vaping products to under 18s and staff should ask for ID to verify someone’s age.

PC Michelle Evans, youth intervention officer, said: “This was a successful operation as only one shop out of the 16 agreed to sell vaping items to the 15-year-old cadets. Trading Standards officers are always keen to assist Devon & Cornwall Police and we plan to carry out a similar operation in the coming months.”

Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “Partnership working is key in making Plymouth a safe place to visit, live and go out.

“This day of action event was held for agencies to get out in the community and show residents what we are all working on to tackle anti-social behaviour in our city and educating members of the public on how to report issues should they be experiencing them.

“Anti-social behaviour takes many forms and impacts on our communities significantly, and we are working together as a partnership to make people feel safer.”

Mutley Post Office saved from closure to delight of campaigners

Mutley Post Office has been saved from closure after a campaign by politicians and residents.

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard and local councillors Angela Penrose and Matt Smith spearheaded the campaign after the Post Office announced in November last year that the Mutley branch would be closed as part of radical changes to the Post Office business.

In a letter to Luke, the Post Office confirmed that Mutley Post Office will continue to operate, with customers able to access the same services and the same opening hours. It is anticipated that the branch will be operating under a new independent franchise from September this year.

Luke Pollard wrote to the chair of the Post Office, Nigel Railton, in December to urge him to keep Mutley Post Office open.

Luke said the branch is ‘a vital part of the community’ particularly for older adults, wheelchair users and people without easy access to digital services.

Local councillors Angela Penrose and Matt Smith have campaigned for Mutley Post Office to be saved, calling it a ‘major asset contributing to the popularity’ of the area.

Plymouth City Council Leader, Cllr Tudor Evans, also wrote to the Post Office in December to urge it to rethink its plans to close the branch.

Luke Pollard said: “I’m delighted that residents in Mutley will keep their Post Office. Alongside local councillors I’m proud of the campaign we fought to keep Mutley Post Office open. Local people need access to a Post Office with the full range of services.

“There’s been huge public support for the Post

Office to stay open - now let’s use it so we can keep it open.”

Matt Smith, Compton Ward councillor, said: “I am delighted at the news that Mutley Post Office has been saved, following pressure from myself, my ward colleague Angela, and Luke Pollard.

“We were shocked when we heard the news that it was earmarked for closure last year, and our residents were too. We have fought really hard to get this result.”

Angela Penrose, also a Compton Ward councillor, said: “Mutley Post Office is so important to people living in and around Mutley Plain and I am so pleased that we have successfully fought to keep it open.

“The idea that Mutley Plain wouldn’t have a Post Office was absurd, and it is clear that residents agreed - I’m glad the Post Office saw sense.”

Drake Circus was visited by local police officers during the day of action

Top design team appointed for big Civic Centre scheme

Leading design consultancy, BDP, has been appointed to lead the project to transform the Civic Centre into a new campus for City College as well as creating more than 140 homes in the tower above.

While City College Plymouth has its own architects to oversee the transformation of the lower floors, BDP will be responsible for ensuring the design successfully separates the education establishment from living quarters.

It will also act as the Building Regulations Principal Designer ensuring the entire project complies with the Building Safety Act.

The landmark building’s basement, ground floor and first floor will accommodate City College’s Blue Green Skills hub.

Cabinet member for finance and city centre champion Mark Lowry said: “We were really impressed with BDP’s record of tackling difficult buildings and making sure that developments comply with all the latest regulations which are designed to keep people safe.

“This landmark towers above the city – it is so important to our regeneration story, but it is not an easy building, so we are delighted to have such a high calibre team help us to achieve this vision.”

BDP has worked on a number of landmark Plymouth projects in the past, including Plymouth University’s stunning Roland Levinsky building and the Theatre Royal regeneration project completed in 2013 which saw new facilities created in the basement as well as its public realm improvements.

Matthew Mayes, architect

director at BDP, said: “The Civic Centre’s transformation is a pivotal step in re-energising

historically significant building, reconnecting it with Royal Parade and Armada Way, and creating a vibrant, inclusive destination for learning, enterprise and community use.

“We believe cities should be good for us and we have a long history of unlocking the potential of complex buildings to bring them back into use, and this is exactly the kind of challenge that drives us. Our goal is to create thriving, future-ready places, and we know this redevelopment will play a defining role in Plymouth’s next chapter.”

The complexity of the redevelopment means other professionals have already been employed by the council to look at how best to turn the building – which used to be offices –into homes and an education establishment.

Issues such as power supplies, separate access, lifts, power, ventilation, insulation all have to be addressed as part of the project.

A new planning application will also have to be submitted later this year as detail from the original application has changed.

Gwella Contracting Services continue the strip out works on site. This has been particularly challenging in the Civic Centre because of the building’s age and the fact there are currently no lifts in the 12-storey tower, which means that all waste material must be carried down the stairs.

The Civic Centre redevelopment is being made possible thanks to the Government’s Future High Streets Fund, Levelling Up Fund and Homes England.

Arts University Plymouth tops in South Westas voted

by its students

Arts University Plymouth has been crowned University of the Year for South West England at the Whatuni Student Choice Awards (WUSCAs) 2025.

Arts Univertsity Plymouth was also crowned as the best in the South West for Lecturers & Teaching Quality; Facilities and Student Support.

Voted for by students and based entirely on over 35,000 verified reviews, the WUSCAs are the UK’s only higher education awards driven solely by student opinion. These honours reflect both national and regional recognition for excellence in areas that matter most to students.

Being named University of the Year for South West England reflects Arts University Plymouth’s continued leadership in creative education, combining a nurturing and inclusive student experience with a distinctive industry-informed curriculum.

Arts University Plymouth was ranked second best in the UK for student satisfaction by Times Higher Education’s analysis of the National Student Survey 2024, and continues to build on its national reputation for student-centred learning.

Topping the Facilities category for the South West, Arts University Plymouth is home to over 13,000 square metres of studios and workshops across six buildings, all located in the heart of Britain’s Ocean City.

Students have access to a wide range of open-access resources including Fab Lab South West, the Materials Lab, the Multimedia Studio, Imprint Lab, and Adobe Creative Campus resources. These spaces support a culture of experimentation, interdisciplinary collaboration and professional-standard creative production.

Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks, Vicechancellor of Arts University Plymouth, said: “To be named the South West winner in four separate categories is an exceptional honour, and a clear reflection of the dedication and values shared across our university community. This recognition from our students reinforces not only the quality of our teaching, facilities and support, but the care we take in creating a place where every student feels empowered to thrive.”

Arts University Plymouth placed fourth in the UK overall for University of the Year at the 2024 WUSCAs and remains the top-scoring arts university in the UK for student experience in the National Student Survey 2024, 2023 and 2022.

the city centre. This project presents an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into a

Pictured here: Coun Mark Lowry (left) pictured with members of the BDP team

Arts University Plymouth Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Fieldsend-Danks

Young people benefit from King’s Trust Get Started with Boxing

A group of young people from Plymouth have transformed their confidence and aspirations through The King’s Trust Get Started with Boxing programme.

Held over one week recently at Mythic Martial Arts, the initiative was designed for those not in work, education, or training. It combined kickboxing, fitness training, and self-defence classes with workshops on money management, nutrition, and mental health, equipping participants with skills to pursue employment and training opportunities.

Hosted at Mythic Martial Arts, the Plymouth-based martial arts school offering Taekwondo, Kickboxing, and Karate, the programme provided a welcoming environment for young people to develop physically, mentally, and emotionally. Participants formed new friendships, re-engaged with fitness, and gained practical life skills, inspiring them to take bold steps toward their future.

Corey, a participant, shared: “After not working for a few months my confidence was a bit low. The course has helped me grow in confidence and I have a bit more belief in myself that I can do certain things. I’m looking forward to working on my future goals –like finding a job.”

The programme aligns with findings from The King’s Trust TK Maxx Youth Index 2025, which revealed that 50 per cent of young people in the South West feel anxious about their future daily, and 52 per cent are concerned about lacking the skills or experience for their desired careers. Get Started programmes offer practical support to address these challenges, helping young people build confidence and access opportunities.

Karl Culleton, head of delivery for The King’s Trust in the South West, said: “Programmes like Get Started with Boxing are vital for equipping young people with the skills and confidence to live, learn, and earn. Without urgent action, we risk a generation feeling locked out of their potential. We’re proud to work with Mythic Martial Arts to support Plymouth’s young people.”

To learn more or support future programmes in Plymouth, visit www.kingstrust.org.uk.

CONCERT FUND-RAISER BOOST FOR HOPE FOR HOMELESS CHARITY

Creative talents of local children and young people showcased at The Box

Works of art by over 250 children and young people from the South West are now on display at The Box following a competition that took place earlier this year inspired by surrealism and landscape – including two winning entries from young people from Plymouth.

‘Surreal Estates’ has been delivered in partnership between The Box and Arts University Plymouth. It connects with the ‘Forbidden Territories: 100 Years of Surreal Landscapes’ exhibition which is currently at The Box (until September 7) and which features a wide range of work by some of the most influential artistic and literary figures of the 1900s.

‘Surreal Estates’ encouraged children and young people from across the region to submit work in any medium as long as it used a surrealist technique such as collage or photomontage. Entries were open in four different categories: Early Years, Primary, Secondary and 18-25.

Three-year-old Leo Simo from Plymstock was the winner in the Early Years category. A keen drawer, he created a colourful painting of his garden by mixing the paints with his hands.

Salwa Kamali, who lives in Plymouth, triumphed in the 18-25 year category with her dreamlike photograph titled ‘For Sale: Self-Worth’. The image was taken under a tyre swing in a local park and features one her friends with their face covered in stickers. In a similar approach to a number of surrealist artists from the past and present, the image takes something familiar linked to childhood and gives it an uncanny twist.

The winners were selected by a judging panel consisting of Rebecca Bridgman, head of Collections and Programme at The Box, Tony Davey, engagement officer at The Box and Paul Fieldsend-Danks, Vice Chancellor of Arts University Plymouth. Their winning work is now taking centre stage in one of the first floor galleries at The Box until the end of September 7, alongside the other entries to the competition and a selection of highly commended works.

For details about The Box visit www.theboxplymouth.com

Internationally renowned artist commissioned for groundbreaking Sea for Yourself cultural programme in Plymouth

An internationally renowned artist and filmmaker will create a major new commission for Plymouth as part of Sea for Yourself - the city’s ambitious cultural programme that will use art and digital innovation to connect people with the UK’s first National Marine Park.

David Cotterrell, recognised for his visionary public realm and digital work, will develop an exciting new work in Plymouth that will unfold across multiple sites and digital platforms throughout the city. His past projects include a mysterious ‘geyser’ in a city suburb, films exploring trauma and memory and a data-driven public sculpture connected to legal recognition of the rights of bodies of water as ‘living entities’.

The four-year Sea for Yourself programme will use art, storytelling and digital innovation to reconnect people with the ocean. It is linked to Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, which was created to forge a new relationship between the city, its communities and the sea.

David said: “Sea for Yourself is a chance to build a completely new type of relationship between people and the sea. I want to create something open and accessible - something that uses animation, gameplay and narrative to help people experience the ocean with awe and urgency.

“Plymouth is the perfect city to do that.”

David was selected following a process of nominations from arts professionals based locally, across the UK and internationally, after review by members of a commissioning advisory group set up to support Sea for Yourself with a diverse set of skills and expertise spanning digital art, public realm commissioning, engagement, placemaking and the environment.

This is the first in a series of commissions for artists and creatives, with the imminent launch of two further open calls.

The first invites artists and creative teams from across the UK to work with Plymouth communities and cultural partners over a sustained period to explore themes of cultural identity, belonging and marine citizenship. The commission will offer access to The Box’s archives and heritage collections

to support creative development and community engagement.

The second open call is aimed at creatives based in Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall and will offer up to three Artist in Residence commissions. Open to all artforms, the residencies are designed to uncover and share personal and community stories that reflect Plymouth’s deep connection to the sea.

Sea for Yourself is a catalyst for a new kind of creative ecosystem in Plymouth where arts, technology and environment intersect. It aims to further develop the networks, skills and visibility that will establish Plymouth as a leader for coastal creativity with national significance, offering research, training, development and partnership opportunities.

It has been supported by funding from Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Hannah Harris, chief executive of Plymouth Culture, said: “Sea for Yourself places world-class creativity in direct conversation with Plymouth’s people and its ocean landscape. These commissions are a catalyst for the wider programme, which seeks to create opportunities for interdisciplinary work and explore the use of creative and digital interventions to support people’s connection to the sea for mutual benefit.”

Find out more at plymouthculture. co.uk/sea-for-yourself

The community choir and band at St Andrew’s Church in Royal Parade have donated £650 to the Hope for the Homeless Charity, which operates in the Garage Cafe on Union Street, serving meals for the homeless. The money was raised at a Hope for Life Concert at St Andrew’s in May.

Local winners Salwa Kamali and three-year-old Leo Simo

Public views sought on Manadon Interchange improvement scheme

Residents, businesses, schools and community groups are being asked for their views on the future of Manadon Roundabout.

The scheme, which is being funded in the most part by the Department of Transport, was given the green light earlier this year.

Plans revealed show a new initial design, with extra capacity on the entrances to the roundabout, as well as new bus priority and improvements for pedestrians and cyclists.

Information events will take place on: Wednesday June 4, 5.30pm to 7pm, Manadon Sports Hub; Friday June 20, 4.30pm to 6pm, Manadon Sports Hub and Saturday June 21, 10.30am to 12.30pm, Central Library.

The transformation of under-used green space off Treveneague Gardens into a new park with footpaths, biodiversity enhancements and recreational space for local residents is also in the plans.

A six-week engagement exercise called ‘Keep Manadon Moving’ will allow residents to have their say on the plans through a number of channels and help shape the final design of the scheme.

Manadon Roundabout is at the heart of Plymouth’s transport network. It connects people to their jobs, families, schools and the hospital. It’s also a key gateway to the A38, Tavistock Road and the city centre, linking our community with Devon, Cornwall and the wider UK.

Motorists frequently experience long queues at peak times, unpredictable delays, safety risks and unreliable travel.

If nothing is done, congestion will worsen as the city continues to grow, queues will extend dangerously onto the A38, and access to key places like Derriford Hospital, Plymouth Argyle

matches and the dockyard will be harder than ever. Here’s what’s being proposed to fix it:

• A38 eastbound off-slip widening

– expanding to four lanes, increasing capacity and easing traffic entering Manadon Roundabout

• A38 westbound off-slip widening –creating an extra lane to increase capacity and improve safety

• A386 Tavistock Road northbound improvements – a new traffic lane heading north, removing the existing merge to improve flow

• A386 Tavistock Road southbound improvements – a new lane to reduce bottlenecks onto the roundabout

• New signalised junction at Southwell Road to improve access

• A386 Outland Road improvements –an additional lane on the approach to the roundabout to increase capacity

• Mannamead Road – new bus priority lane northbound

‘Doing nothing is not an option’

The graphic published here has been developed from queue length data and published by Plymouth City Council to show how traffic queues will look in years to come in scenarios where the council continues with the scheme and if it does nothing.

“The data is clear,” said Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Transport. “Doing nothing, sitting on our hands, is simply not a viable option. Manadon needs investment so that we can provide the infrastructure we need for the expected growth of this city.”

Manadon Key Facts...

• 60,000+ journeys pass through the interchange every day.

• Journeys through Manadon junction regularly take significantly longer than necessary due to congestion.

• The existing layout was designed for much lower traffic volumes and cannot cope with future demand.

• By 2040, queues are expected to back onto the A38 daily, creating major safety risks

UNDER-USED GREEN SPACE COULD BECOME COMMUNITY PARK

As part of the Manadon Interchange plans, local residents are being asked for their views on the future of a patch of green space just off Manadon Roundabout.

Originally a rugby training pitch, the land accessible through Treveneague Gardens, is currently boggy, unsightly and under-used. That could all change as part of the plans to revamp Manadon Roundabout with residents being asked about plans to develop the space into a community park, along with their ideas for its future.

• New cycle bridge across the A38 at Manadon – connecting north and south

• Replacement of the existing pedestrian bridge over the A386 Tavistock Road making it fully accessible for all users

• Improved footbridge over the A38 to the west of Manadon

• New pedestrian crossing at Southwell Road with safer access for residents

• New woodland pathways – linking green spaces with the road network.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “We must improve Manadon, not just for reliability and efficiency today, but also for the future and we’re determined to get it right.

“At the basis of this will be robust and meaningful engagement across a number of channels, not just with residents, but across a broad demographic of business and organisations.”

Have your say on the bid to Keep Manadon Moving at: www.keepmanadonmoving.commonplace.is

“This is a really good chance for residents to work with us to shape this new-look green space,” said Councillor Tom Briars-Delve, Cabinet Member for the Environment and Climate Change.

“Enhancing this piece of green space, making it accessible when once it was not, is key to providing the biodiversity needed to make this project a success.

“There’s no getting away from the fact that the Manadon project is a road scheme and although we don’t know how many yet, there will be significant tree removal. It’s unavoidable.

“As with all transport schemes, the guiding principle is to present a design whereby we avoid as many trees as possible and where tree loss is necessary, we will plant more and ensure that we will achieve a ten per cent biodiversity net gain in any finished scheme.

“I want to be really up front about the tree loss,” said Councillor BriarsDelve.

“Although we won’t know how many we’ll lose until we’ve done the detailed design work, we are committing to planting more trees than we remove.

“Not only that, once we have the numbers and a final plan, which will have taken the suggestions about Treveangue Gardens on-board, I am committed to consulting with residents again.”

Any new planting schemes or new green spaces such as parks that are included as part of a transport scheme are in addition to the work that goes into delivering a more environmentally friendly Plymouth through a range of natural infrastructure and biodiversity-focused projects. Plans for improvements at Manadon and an online survey can be visited at www.keepmanadonmoving.commonplace.is

How Plymouth City Council enhanced the environment during the Forder Valley Link Road scheme

• Increasing biodiversity, trees, hedgerows and shrubs, with around 14,500 trees planted (more than 30 times the number lost)

• Starting the mitigation before spades went in the ground on the transport scheme, including planting and the installation of 50 bird boxes and 43 bat boxes

• Making sure an environmental team was on hand to monitor and advise on all aspects during the build, advising on issues from water quality and noise to the protection of sensitive habitats and species

• Providing a wildlife pond, a new habitat for birds, invertebrates, reptiles and common toads, as well as foraging bats and otters

• Protecting bats with special hedgerows

• Helping otters by building special culverts to allow them and other species to move through.

The patch of green space off Manadon Roundabout

New Lord Mayor and Deputy announced for year ahead

Councillor Kathy Watkin has been elected as Lord Mayor of Plymouth, with Councillor Chip Tofan as the new Deputy Lord Mayor for the coming year.

They were both elected at the annual meeting in May.

Councillor Watkin trained and worked as a speech and language therapist before training as a solicitor.

The Lord Mayor and Consort Councillor Kathy

Kathy worked in the legal sector in two well known firms in Plymouth and as a registered sole practitioner in her own practice for 13 years prior to retirement.

She has served on various committees including Licensing, Corporate Parenting, Mount Edgcumbe, Planning and has been the vice chair for the Health Scrutiny Committee and Health and Wellbeing board. In 2023 she was elected as Deputy Lord Mayor.

She said: “What a privilege it is to be elected as Lord Mayor, I am really looking forward to the coming year, meeting all the different communities in Plymouth and engaging with them.

“I want to thank my fellow councillors for choosing me as their next Lord Mayor for the year.”

Councillor Chip Tofan was born in Romania, graduating from Iasi Gheorghe Ashachi University, with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and now runs his own business providing consultancy services.

Chip was first elected to Plymouth City Council in May 2022, representing Eggbuckland Ward. During his time as a councillor, Chip has been a member of different committees including Scrutiny, Licensing, Natural Infrastructure and the Growth Scrutiny Panel.

Chip said: “I am so pleased to be elected as Deputy Lord Mayor and look forward to supporting Kathy over the next year in office and working together.‚“

...popular free Yard Sessions return Magical new venue revealed as...

Royal William Yard’s popular Yard Sessions are returning for summer 2025 with a stunning new venue.

The free live music events are moving to the enchanting ‘Secret Garden’ which is located behind Residence 1 and found through an archway into a landscaped walled garden just metres from the sea.

The Friday evening sessions run from 5.30pm to 8pm throughout the summer, offering the perfect way to end the week and usher in the weekend.  During this summer’s Yard Sessions, visitors can sink into deckchairs and relax on picnic blankets - or bring their own and get cosy.

There will be a licensed bar within the Secret Garden, run by the Yard’s very own independent wine bar, Le Vignoble, ensuring a range of refreshments to complement the musical line-up.

This year’s programme is as follows: June 20 - Simon and John; July 25 Sundowner Session (act to be announced); August 29 - Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford and September 12 - Alex Hart

Featuring handpicked international artists alongside the brightest talent on the South West scene, it ranges from laid-back folk to thumping foot stompers. Simon and John offer a blend of acoustic rock classics and sing-along songs.

duo Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford serve up energetic jump blues, and Devon-born singersongwriter Alex Hart rounds out the line-up as an important addition to the UK’s current crop of classy country and roots artists.

With its unique walled garden setting, incredible sound and that unbeatable seaside atmosphere, Yard Sessions 2025 promises to be a sought-after musical experience.

Make an evening of it and explore Royal William Yard’s bars and eateries, or simply sit back, relax, and let the music play as the sun sets in this scenic setting.

Find out more about all summer events at Royal William Yard by visiting www. royalwilliamyard.com/whats-on

Devon Mind settles into new base at Plymouth Science Park

Devon Mind, one of the region’s leading mental health charities, has moved to new premises at Plymouth Science Park.

For over 40 years, Devon Mind has been empowering individuals across the county who are experiencing mental health difficulties. As an independent charity affiliated with the national Mind association, the organisation provides a wide range of support services, including counselling, one to one emotional support, courses and workshops, monthly support groups, and wellbeing activities.

Devon Mind also offers accredited and bespoke mental health training for local businesses and actively campaigns to improve mental health understanding and support in Devon.

The move to Plymouth Science Park marks a significant milestone for Devon Mind, creating new opportunities to collaborate with like-minded organisations and enhance their service delivery across the region.

Dave Hockton, chief executive of Plymouth Science Park, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Devon Mind to the Park. Their

work is vital to the health and wellbeing of our region, and their presence adds a hugely important dimension to our community of businesses. We look forward to supporting their continued mission and impact from their new base in North Plymouth.”

Devon Mind’s chief executive, Olivia Craig, said: “We are really excited for this next chapter in Devon Mind’s evolution. The mission is to ensure that Devon is a place where people can enjoy good mental health and have the opportunity to reach their potential. We want to deliver this support in a trauma-informed way, by adopting an approach where we endeavour to meet people in their communities, where people feel comfortable and have greater opportunities to develop connections that are sustained.”

To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Week in May, Devon Mind visited locations around the Park to raise awareness and encourage community connection, which is the theme for this year’s campaign.

To find out more about Devon Mind, visit their website at www.devonmind.com

Watkin and Alderman Dr John Mahony

Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Chip Tofan

Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Chip Tofan

The Devon Mind team

Brother and sister

Brother and sister duo Thomas Ford and Becca Langsford are appearing on Friday August 29. Photo courtesy of Greenbeanz Photography

Photo: Urban Splash

Lifelines

How a devastating stroke proved to be a positive turning point in Sandy’s life

Sandy Kear was living the best of lives in Plymouth with a loving partner, good job and comfortable home. But that all changed dramatically in 2008 when she had a massive, life-threatening stroke.

Remarkably, far from taking her life, the stroke led to a profound spiritual experience which she now describes as her rebirth.

Sandy grew up in a Christian family in Oxford and attended Sunday school as a child, but in her teens drifted away from church. She married at the age of 22 and went into the pub trade with her then husband. “It was an extremely busy life and after 10 years I realised that I could not go on like that,” said Sandy. “Our marriage fell apart and we went our separate ways.”

She then met her new partner Chris – who was a Christian – and they spent the next 20 years together, before he sadly died from cancer in 2011.

Sandy had moved to Plymouth around 25 years ago to be with Chris who was renovating a house in the city at the time.

As well as her full time job in telemarketing, Sandy hosted foreign students and the couple also looked after a number of rental properties. She and Chris were also renovating a house in France as a future retirement home.

Actively involved

Sandy had missed church and Christianity during her years in the pub trade and when Chris recommended that she should attend St Andrew’s Church in Royal Parade she didn’t hesitate. She became actively involved in the life of the church, including being on the rotas for reading and welcoming visitors. Then in 2008 her life changed completely and unexpectedly.

Sandy was 51 at the time and at her home in Keyham when she suddenly collapsed to the floor, totally unable to move. She cried out for help and a Spanish student who was staying with the family at the time called for an ambulance.

Sandy was rushed to Derriford Hospital where she believes she had another seizure which led to a bleed on the brain.

It was during this traumatic experience that Sandy had a vision of herself at her house in France - which was being renovated at the time.

“I was laying in hospital in a serious condition when I found myself sitting at a long table with people I knew, including my

then vicar and his wife.

“He was sharing about Easter, the Cross and forgiveness and I knew deep in my soul that God had everything under control,” said Sandy. “God saved me in that moment and gave me a new life.”

But Sandy faced a long battle ahead. She had to undergo emergency surgery to remove part of her skull and relieve the pressure on her brain. The stroke caused Sandy to lose her voice, she couldn’t walk and she lost the use of her left arm.

Six months in hospital

She spent six months in hospital before being moved to a specialist rehab care home in Devonport. “I had to learn to talk again, walk again and to eat and drink again,” she said. “Recovery was hard but I learned to lean into God. He closed the door on my past and put me back on my feet again.”

As part of her renewed commitment to Jesus she was later baptised at Plympton Swimming Pool. “It was something I really wanted to do,” said Sandy. Her recovery progressed and Chris helped her secure a powered wheelchair so that she was able to continue to attend church and get around the city.

Sadly, her partner Chris passed away with cancer in 2011, but her faith in God carried her through. “He never told me he had cancer

because he said he didn’t want it to affect my recovery and rehab.”

Sandy now lives in Cattedown and is supported by carers who visit her every day. She still attends St Andrew’s Church and also the nearby Plymouth Christian Centre.

“I have a wonderful family of Christian friends,” she said. “My life is richer and more fulfilled than ever before, thanks to God’s everlasting love. I am so thankful for everything He has done for me.

“Looking back over my 68 years I can now see that God’s hand was on my life all the way through. I don’t believe in coincidences - I firmly believe in Godincidences!” she added.

Thanks to her powered wheelchair Sandy can get out and about regularly which enables her to share her story with people she meets on the streets, in shops or wherever an opportunity presents itself.

“It is my great joy to be doing God’s work and to share a little of my testimony with people I meet. I have a real place in my heart for the homeless and needy. Everyone has a backstory and the love of God has the power to give them new hope,” she added.

Sandy recently shared her story on Cross Rhythms. Click on the QR code here for a link

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People aged over 55 in Plymouth see amazing

When Beverley Teasdale from Plymstock suffered a bad fall into a glass cabinet, she knew she had to get help with her fitness. The 70-year-old has a detached retina and a cyst on her skull which interferes with her balance.

The former full-time carer admitted: “I have been shocked about reaching this age and suddenly having various things wrong. I lost a lot of confidence when out and about walking.”

She now attends the Falls Management Exercise (FaME) classes which are led by specialist exercise professionals from Livewell Southwest. Livewell’s Falls Prevention Team guide small groups in Plymouth through a 24-week programme looking at reducing the risk of falls.

Beverley said: “I am glad to say that my balance is coming back well. I am walking further than I used to and I have even persuaded my husband to get some walking boots. You have got to keep up with keeping fit otherwise you just waste away.”

According to NHS England, falls are the number one reason why people over 65 years old are taken to emergency departments in the UK. Approximately one in 20 older people living in the community experience a fracture or need hospitalisation after a fall.

This accounts for more than four million bed days every year in England alone, at an estimated cost of £2 billion.

If a person who is frail goes on to fracture

likelihood and potential injury of a fall and importantly helps make everyday activities easier, so participants can keep on doing the things they enjoy.

Dean Blagdon is one of the health improvement practitioners who leads the classes. He said: “We don’t just work on strength and balance. It is all elements of fitness such as increasing range of motion and improving flexibility.

“One of the key things is that we work towards backwards chaining. This is a technique which shows people how to get back up safely, should they end up on the floor. This really reduces the risk of lying on the ground for a long time, needing medical help to get up and a visit to hospital for treatment.”

Health improvement manager Paula Swift said: “The biggest thing people are reporting is they are more confident. We are seeing people who were too worried to catch a bus to get to the classes to start with and had to ask family members to bring them. Now they get here independently which is amazing to see. Some have even ditched their walking aids. The classes are making a massive difference to people’s lives, independence and wellbeing.”

Benefits after completing the 24-week programme include:

• Reducing falls - 88% reduction in the rate of falls (only 5% of attendees who completed the programme experienced a fall,

a wrist, hip or vertebra, there is a real risk that they may never recover the same level

of independence again. The FaME programme acts as a preventative measure to reduce the

The Livewell Southwest falls prevention team

to Plymouth trades & services

Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis-ball@hotmail.co.uk

results after joining falls prevention classes

in comparison to 70% in the 12 months before FaME).

• Reducing time in hospital – in the 12 months before attending the classes, 10% of people had broken at least one bone, 17% attended the Emergency Department and 5% had to stay in hospital as a result of a fall. There have currently been no broken bones, trips to A&E or admissions to hospital throughout the programme.

• Most participants improved their balance and muscle strength.

• Getting fitter – more than 80% of participants said they were actively planning on continuing with strength and balance exercise after finishing FaME.

Eileen Cole, who is 86, prides herself on

living independently and says her strength has improved in just ten weeks. Eileen, who attends the class at Plymstock United Church said: “Doing my housework is a lot easier, I’m digging with a spade in the garden and when I had to get down on the floor to read my meter, I managed to get up easier than I would have previously. So, I know the classes are helping me.”

Lorna Mckenzie joined the classes after having a knee replacement. The 73-year-old former GP receptionist said: “The exercises have strengthened my legs and my arms which really helps for getting up out of chairs. I have noticed it is much easier to get in and out of the car too. The classes keep you motivated. When you are in a group, you are

Beverley Teasdale

Eileen Cole

Work under way on new home for city athletes

A new home for Plymouth’s athletes is getting on track with work starting on the concrete foundation for their new pavilion.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure started the big dig to mark the start of work which will see foundations laid and services run into the site.

The preparation work is being carried out as part of a massive city investment in sports and wellbeing at the former Brickfields Sports Centre and wider site.

Now called Foulston Park, the ambitious project has been delivered through a partnership involving Plymouth Argyle, Argyle Community Trust, Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Albion RFC and Devonport Community Leisure Limited.

City of Plymouth Athletics Club is also a key stakeholder and as part of the extensive negotiations that enabled the redevelopment to go ahead, surrendered the lease on their old club house in return for support for a new pavilion to be built.

The old pavilions was a wooden clubhouse on land on the other side of the car park, but their new home will be track side, with the Foulston project contractors preparing the land for foundations and utilities to run into the new building.

The new pavilion is a steel fabricated unit and will be installed over the summer. Costing in the region of £50,000, it has been funded through grants from Plymouth City Council, the Armada Athletics Network and the club.

Chair of the club, Paul Crutchley said: “This is a very exciting time for the club and is something we have wanted to see happen for a long time. Having the pavilions and a modernised weight and

gym facility closer to the track will enable athletes and coaches to train more effectively as well as providing a focal point for the athletic community and support athlete rehabilitation.”

Getting the pavilion installed is just part of the job. Work needs to be carried out to transform the interior, with plans for a small kitchen, a separate meeting room and small storage room – work he is hoping to persuade club volunteers to help with.

Councillor Sue Dann said: “There are around 330 club members with aspiring athletes and a host of volunteers who give up their time to support,

coach and encourage people of all ages and ability on their athletic journey.

“They do an incredible job and are truly unsung heroes! It’ s good to be able to make their life a little bit easier with the new pavilion. As a city we have committed to being a great place to grow up and grow old and access to great facilities is part of this commitment.

“We want Foulston Park is be a place where everyone can enjoy keeping fit and well –

whatever their chosen activity!”

Mark Lovell, chief executive of Argyle Community Trust added: “We are proud to have already supported the health and wellbeing of hundreds of people across the city since opening The Hub at Foulston Park just a couple of months ago.

“The gym is providing best in class equipment in an inclusive environment to support fitness journeys and the range of fitness classes means there’s something for everyone.

“The athletics track is an extremely important and popular part of this as we continue to support local athletes and position Foulston Park as a destination for creating opportunities and inspiring people of all ages and abilities through sport.”

It is another step in the wider Foulston Park development due to finish late summer 2026. The Hub opened its doors at the end of March and offers a range of health and wellbeing opportunities, including a state-of-the-art gym, physical activity programmes, mental health support, youth and veterans’ programmes and life skills training.

Much more than just a fitness centre, it has been designed as a friendly and welcoming space for all, whether people are looking to get fitter and healthier, connect with others or simply enjoy a safe and supportive environment. Once complete the park will also see:

• A new permanent home for Plymouth Argyle’ s Academy and Plymouth Argyle Women

• Extensive community and sport facilities which will include new grass and all-weather 3G pitches

• Play zone exclusively for public use

• Better public access, landscaped public areas and parking

Awards ceremony celebrates Plymouth’s best care workers

Deputy of the Year (Domiciliary Care): Tendai Madume, Indiana Healthcare Services; Highly Commended: Kimberly Tucker, Your Choice Care and support Manager of the Year (Domiciliary Care): Rebecca Pannell, @PlymouthCare; Highly Commended: Emma Bonney, Prestige Healthcare Nurse of the Year (Domiciliary Care): Vanessa Schaben, Prestige Nursing and Care Team of the Year (Domiciliary Care): Tamar Care; Highly Commended: @PlymouthCare Care Worker of the Year (Domiciliary Care): Rafie Sodiq, Indiana Healthcare Services; Highly Commended: Arron Marley, @PlymouthCare Care Worker of the Year (Day Services): Fiona James, Tamar Homecare; Highly Commended: Holly Ewings, Alpha Care Care Worker of the Year (Supported Living): Katie Bartlett, Achieve Together; Care Worker of the Year (Care Home): Deepak Barnes, Greenacres Care Centre; Highly Commended: Aleisha Smith, Chatsworth Home Deputy of the Year (Care Home): Sarah McCaffrey, Butterfly Lodge Dementia Home; Highly Commended: Hayley Cook, Astor Hall Care Home Manager of the Year (Care Home): Jamie Graham, Abbeyfield Tamar House; Highly Commended: Marie Claire, Seymour Court Nursing Home Nurse of the Year (Care Home): Ursula Sheriff, Darbyshire Care – Hamilton House; Highly Commended: Jennifer Curtis, Meadowside and St Francis Care Centre Team of the Year (Care Home): Greenacres Care Home, Mannamead Care; Highly Commended: Alpha Care SW Care Home Activity Coordinator: James Gooding, Devonshire House and Lodge; Highly Commended: Catherine Britton, Merafield View Nursing Home Culinary Care Team: Phil Jane, Brunel House; Highly Commended: Lottie Fisher, Merafield View Nursing Home Ancillary Worker of the Year: Kim Crook, Merafield View Nursing Home; Highly Commended: Kristen Bradbury, Butterfly Lodge Commitment to Workforce Development: Gemma Parnell and Katie Spring, Alpha Care SW; Highly Commended: Merafield View Nursing Home Contribution to Care: Kelly Hawkins, Prestige Nursing and Care; Highly Commended: Lisa Willis, Merafield View Nursing Home Excellence in Dementia Care: Butterfly Lodge Dementia Home; Excellence in Learning Disability Care: Allison Nicholls, Jan Ltd; Highly Commended: Mark Peard, IOTA Care Excellence in End-of-life Care: Seymour Court Nursing Home; Innovation in Technology Leon Bulbin, Support’ed Innovative Partnership Working: Gillian Fordham, Seymour Court; Promoting Independence Champion: Maggie Overill, Astor Hall Rising Star: Theresa Benjamin, Achieve Together; Highly Commended: Lexie Witcher, Tamar House Abbeyfield Service User Involvement: Prestige Nursing & Care Service User Story: Ian Bullen, Prestige Nursing & Care

Congratulations to all the deserving winners pictured and listed here

More than 40 of Plymouth’s best and most dedicated care workers and teams have been honoured at a special awards ceremony.

The Celebrating Excellence in Care Awards is run by Plymouth City Council’s Commissioning Team and aims to shine a light on the incredible work taking place every day within the adult social care sector. A range of award categories recognise people working in all areas of the sector, including those based in care homes, supported living provision, day centres and domiciliary care (supporting people to remain living in their own homes).

Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “I’d like to congratulate every single one of our winners and say a big well done to everyone who was nominated. The work you do is so important and often underappreciated.

“These awards are a fantastic opportunity for us to shine a light on all the hard work that takes place every single day across the city to make sure adults with care needs are supported, looked after and helped to live fulfilling, healthy lives.”

Nominations for the awards opened earlier this year and more than 400 were received from employers, colleagues, adult social care clients and their families. The nominations were then reviewed by an independent panel of judges who chose the winners.

The awards support the work of Caring Plymouth, a city-wide health and social care partnership, which works to address recruitment and retention challenges in adult social care. The partnership not only wants to encourage more people to work in the sector, but support and celebrate those already doing so.

Anyone interested in working in adult social care, find out more at www.plymouth.gov.uk/ workincare

Coun Sue Dann makes a symbolic start on the new athletes’ pavilion

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, written after Miron Muslic’s controversial decision to leave Argyle for Schalke 04 in Germany is from lifelong Argyle fan and one of the founders of Argyle Life, Sam Down

Let’s get back to basics!

There is an old adage that there are decades where nothing happens and weeks where decades happen. For Plymouth Argyle, there seems to be a total lack of the former and far too much of the latter for comfort. We just don’t like to be boring, do we?

I was out having an evening walk on the Wednesday of the Europa Conference League final when the news broke that Miron Muslic was set to leave with immediate effect to join German fallen giants Schalke 04.

Within moments this was followed by a pretty irate sounding Argyle statement confirming that we had ‘reluctantly’ given permission for this despite bending over backwards for him to build the club how he wanted it. Or, well, words to that effect anyway.

Muslic’s departure cannot be said to have fallen out of a clear blue sky. Indeed, my last editorial for this very paper was to state the importance of keeping the Austrian at the club – at all costs, if necessary. In three consecutive interviews in the final week of the season, he refused to confirm he’d be at the club next season. It did look as though he’d committed, but it took just a few short weeks for events to overtake optimism.

Inauthentic

For months, I will admit to having been sceptical about Muslic. Despite some brief early highlights like the famous win over Liverpool and the 5-1 rout of Millwall, I was far from sold that his ultra-direct style of football was right for us. Bluntly, I also wasn’t sure about him as a person: he was charismatic but seemed inauthentic. I was far from convinced he’d do anything other than leave at the first opportunity when it came about. Clearly, I was wrong about him being a bad fit as a coach. All the evidence shows as much. The upturn in form after the final international break was remarkable. But, maybe after all, I was right about him as a person.

Nobody can deny him the chance to manage in front of 61,000 sell-out crowds but the manner of his departure was to say the least sour. He gave false assurances to the board that he was committed and pretended to have plans to be here when his agent was touting his name to all manner of German clubs.

In my last piece, I intimated that the club would need to ask questions of themselves if they couldn’t tie him down. Frankly, I retract that. I was wrong about Muslic the coach, right about Muslic the bloke. We can do just fine without him.

So now the question inevitably goes to: what next? I think the first and most important thing is to gain promotion back to the Championship at the first attempt. After Muslic compensation and player sales, we will surely have one of the biggest budgets in the

Photo: PAFC

“We have been very explicit about this. We want an Argyle way of playing football. There will be little bits of differences between managers but essentially we are going to be playing on the ground vertical football with an emphasis on attack.”

SIMON HALLETT

SPEAKING IN 2024

league. However, many of Argyle’s problems have come from thinking too far in the shortterm.

Yes, promotion is important, of course it is. You’d be a fool to say otherwise. But it would be a critical error for the Greens to rot in the cycle of short-termism. Argyle have changed their style from a controlled yet attacking 4-3-3 under Schumacher, to a high press ‘FA House style’ 3-4-3 under Foster, to an ultra-possession-based symmetrically fluid 4-3-3 under Rooney (that was the intention anyway!) to an anti-possession system under Muslic.

Most successful clubs in this day and age have a semblance of strategic direction. They don’t change their philosophy and approach this often. Look at Norwich and Swanseatheir best success came in an era where you pretty much always associated them with playing good football. I’d absolutely argue for a consistently defined approach over a ‘wing it case by case’ style of managerial hire.

The other side of the argument is that this is overtly inflexible. And yes, obviously it’s true that you need to be able to adapt a game plan if it isn’t working. But to have a consistent style does not mean that you can’t make tweaks. Some managers will be more or less possession based than others, more

or less controlled than others, and prefer a 3-4-3 to a 4-3-3. That’s all fine. Here’s what shouldn’t change:

“We have been very explicit about this. We want an Argyle way of playing football. There will be little bits of differences between managers but essentially we are going to be playing on the ground vertical football with an emphasis on attack.”

Not my words, the words of Simon Hallett himself to our fellow members of the Argyle podcast fraternity Pilgrims Podcast in 2024. There is room for variation but that cannot be infinite. ‘Vertical’ indicates we don’t want ultra-slow, Spain 2010 style death by possession. Equally, the rest of the paragraph indicates we don’t want ultra-direct mangers or defensive ones either.

Somewhere, over the last few years, we went away from that a little bit. Foster was a big deviation, Muslic was an even bigger one. If Muslic wasn’t poached, I’d have been happy to keep him because (despite being stylistically discordant) he was clearly extremely capable.

Silver lining

But with every cloud, comes a silver lining. I think this represents the perfect opportunity to return to the ‘Club Argyle’ style of football that saw us climb the leagues and is so suited to a league where we hope to be dominant. Argyle’s business model depends largely on player trading. An attacking and expansive style is far more likely to get the best out of attacking players.

A defence first style, whilst it may get team success, is less likely to allow individuals to shine and consequently less likely to drum up player sales.

Equally, we are putting so much focus into youth development, especially with the progress around Foulston Park. Again, talented young players with coaching on fine tuned technical skills are far more likely to be integrated into such a system as opposed to one where beef/brawn is king.

Finally, fans are more likely to stick with the team through bad results when the football is good even if results are taking a hit. Season ticket renewals and matchday sales remained mostly very high - knowing that entertainment is paramount has to be a part of that. If you’re not going to see a win, at least lose in style.

There are many reasons that a progressive style of football is the way to go for a club like ours, and many case studies of supporting evidence. I don’t have the page space to go into names right now but the most important thing isn’t actually WHO we appoint. It’s what type of manager and what type of person we appoint. If we get that right, fans will have a lot more patience even if the success isn’t immediate.

Argyle need to use this appointment to go back to basics and to ride or die on ‘vertical, on-the-ground attacking football’.

USEFUL NUMBERS

St Luke’s launches major art trail for 2026

A spectacular lighthouse art trail is set to brighten the streets of Plymouth in 2026, uniting the community through creativity while raising muchneeded funds and awareness for the compassionate end of life services St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth provides for patients and their loved ones.

St Luke’s Guiding Lights promises to be one of Devon’s most ambitious, must-see, family-friendly events for next summer. It will run for 10 weeks, culminating in a grand auction of the striking exhibited sculptures to the highest bidders.

Following in the footsteps of the highly successful Elmer’s Big Parade back in 2019, St Luke’s is teaming up once again with expert producers Wild in Art, this time to create a trail of up to 40 distinctive eight feet tall lighthouses, each one uniquely designed and decorated by a professional or emerging artist and generously sponsored by a local business, organisation or individual.

The eye-catching artworks will be put on display in prime locations across Plymouth, creating a free, easily accessible promenade experience for adults and children of all ages, whether they already love art or are yet to discover its magical appeal, with the added bonus of prompting people to get up and get moving outdoors.

St Luke’s Guiding Lights launched

in May with a reception at the Royal William Yard’s Ocean Studios where the first lighthouses were revealed.

Renowned artist and St Luke’s patron Brian Pollard unveiled the striking Plymouth-inspired design he has painted on one of the large sculptures that will take pride of place on the trail.

Meanwhile Mrs Murals (aka Plymouth artist Ellie Johnson) offered a sneak preview of the smaller-scale lighthouse she painted in seascape style that will be on the move promoting St Luke’s Guiding Lights over the coming months.

She said: “I am so pleased and

Across: Across: 6 Alpha, 8 Litter, 9

proud to be a part of this amazing project that involves the community and celebrates art, and the most fantastic thing is being able to support such a vital local charity.”

A call has now gone out to professional and emerging artists from near and far to submit their lighthouse designs for the trail. A judging panel will select the winning entries and sponsors of each sculpture will select the design they want from the shortlist.

Chosen artists will then be commissioned to turn their visions into reality, and paid a fee, acknowledging the high quality of

designs anticipated and the work involved.

The Little Lights learner programme will engage children and young people in the project, connecting with schools and community groups across Plymouth and beyond. There will be opportunities to design and decorate one of 40 smaller scale lighthouses to be included on the trail and get involved in fundraising initiatives, as well as resources to help open appropriate conversations around death and dying.

While the main focus will be in Plymouth itself, there will also be a collection of travelling sculptures visiting the surrounding towns of Devon and Cornwall that St Luke’s services cover, such as Tavistock, Kingsbridge and Launceston.

When the trail comes to an end, the lighthouses will be gathered together for a major viewing event, followed by a high-profile, edgeof-your-seat auction night, with proceeds from the sale of the original artworks, after costs, going directly to fund St Luke’s care.

• To find out more about becoming a lighthouse sculpture sponsor, applying to submit an artist design, or to follow the progress of the event, please check out the St Luke’s Guiding Lights website www.stlukesguidinglights. com or social media channels @ stlukesguidinglights on Tik Tok, Facebook and Instagram

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Finn, 10 Soulless, 11 Unfair, 13 Atoms, 15 Bah, 17 Glory, 18 Exodus, 20 Lengthen, 22 Rite, 23 Uranus, 24 Alibi. Down: 1 Rational, 2 Upon, 3 Aloud, 4 Stiletto, 5 Eels, 7 Absorb, 12 Arrogant, 14 Mountain, 16 Hernia, 19 Those, 21 Ears, 22 Rein.

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Artists Brian Pollard and Mrs Murals talk to Project Lead Jessica Wooller