Sherford’s first mural brings children’s artwork to life
A vibrant new mural celebrating nature, community and sustainability has been unveiled at Sherford Vale School & Nursery, marking the culmination of an inspiring legacy art project.
It has been created by professional artist, Ellie Johnson - better known as Mrs Murals – and inspired by pupils’ original designs.
The mural was commissioned by the Sherford Consortium – a partnership between award-winning national housebuilders, Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Group, which includes Linden Homes, Bovis Homes and Countryside Partnerships – as a gift to mark the completion of the school building and create a lasting memento for the school community.
The artistic journey began when pupils created a stunning naturethemed installation for the King’s Coronation, featuring a beautiful ‘tree of wildlife’ collage. This original artwork was inspired by the book ‘It’s Up to Us: A Children’s Terra Carta for Nature, People and Planet,’ introduced by King Charles, which explores themes of environmental stewardship and community responsibility.
Plympton-based artist Mrs Murals created the mural over the course of a week, transforming the children’s vision into a permanent masterpiece that now takes pride of place in the school’s library. The completed mural showcases a tree of wildlife, incorporating elements of the pupils’ original artwork and drawings of plants and animals, alongside the
artist’s own interpretations.
The timing of the mural’s completion is particularly poignant, coinciding with the retirement of Sherford Vale’s headteacher, Susie Evans, who has led the school since 2021. Known for her creativity and artistic flair, the mural stands as a fitting tribute to her leadership and passion for the arts in education.
Emma Smith, sales and marketing
director at Taylor Wimpey Exeter, part of the Sherford Consortium, said: “We are immensely proud of the completion of Sherford Vale School and delighted to gift this legacy mural to the school community –both present and future. This artwork celebrates the creativity of Sherford’s children and their connection to the natural world, values that are central to our vision for Sherford. We hope
it brings joy for many years to come and serves as a fitting centrepiece in this brilliant facility.”
Headteacher Susie Evans said: “It has been a joy to see the children’s original artwork transformed into this permanent mural in the heart of our school. It is beautiful and such a fitting gift to leave behind. Mrs Murals has absolutely captured the children’s artwork and entwined it with her own artistic talent. A massive thank you to Sherford Consortium, Mrs Murals, and of course the children, for enabling the fruition of this idea. May it inspire for many years.”
Mrs Murals, the artist behind the project, said: “I have designed a reproduction of the wonderful artwork created by the pupils of Sherford Vale to reflect the theme and message of the children’s creations. I’ve added some copies of the children’s drawings of plants and animals into the design, as well as including some of my own versions.
“As an eco-conscious artist who strives to work ethically and sustainably, this project aligns perfectly with my values, and it’s been a privilege to bring the children’s vision to life in such a beautiful space.”
The mural’s creation was documented through timelapse photography, capturing the vibrant artwork taking shape day by day. This visual record stands as a testament to the creative process and the transformation of the children’s ideas into a lasting legacy for the school.
Find out more about Sherford at www.sherford.uk
Midsummer Festival in June promises something for everyone
The popular Plympton St Maurice Midsummer Festival is here again with the three day event running from Friday June 20 through to Sunday June 22, writes Charmian Evans.
On Friday the Sir Joshua Reynolds choir open the weekend with their concert ‘Summer is a Comin In’ at 7.30pm in the ancient village Guildhall. Tickets are £7.50 on the door.
On Saturday the Plympton Painting Group exhibition show their artistic skills in the Guildhall. While some are enjoying the art, others will exploring the Castle Green where something for everyone awaits from noon onwards. They’ll enjoy the legendary Lamb Feast with sizzling lamb baps or sausages, veggie food and other yummies on sale.
Youngsters will enjoy the dog show, lots of games, face painting and more. They can join in children’s fun races and listen to the South Hams Singers. There are judo displays, dancing demonstrations and the chance to try archery skills with the Yelverton Bowmen. Visitors will get the chance to
inspect the vintage cars, indulge in plants or cakes, enjoy a cup of tea, or shop at the numerous stalls. The event is happening, come rain or shine, and it’s absolutely free!
On Sunday afternoon from 2pm
The Lamb Feast on Castle
people will arrive in their droves to see gardens hidden from view –every shape and size imaginable and each one very different in age, layout and artistry.
Tickets £5, children free,
available from the Guildhall George Lane and Dark Street Lane and the church hall will be open for refreshments and there will also be street entertainment from Drum Abundance.
I wonder what some of the earlier inhabitants would make of the it? Artist Sir Joshua Reynolds, architect Sir Christopher Wren are famous names associated with the village. Did you know the first man to describe the potato – John Sparke lived in St Maurice too? He sailed the Spanish Main with John Hawkins.
Dr John Mudge had 20 children, treated London’s Dr Samuel Johnson and still managed to make strides in treating smallpox.
All of them and many more famous names would have walked along the old pavements, looking up at the Norman Castle built many centuries before them, and as they approached the Castle Green they would have seen a big fayre with spit roast meats, sports, wrestling for a purse of guineas and grinning, bobbing and diving.
Today I think they’d find as much community fun.
Mrs Murals with Sherford Vale headteacher
Susie Evans and youngsters from the school
Green is one of the highlights of the Midsummer Festival
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.
Summer Fair
May 17
St Edward’s Church Hall, Eggebuckland from 2pm to 4pm. Stalls, jewellery, toiletries, puzzles, bric-a-brac, raffle and more. Free admission. All proceeds to church funds and charities.
Pipsqueak and The Bog Troll
May 17 to May 31
The lovable Pipsqueak the Dragon returns for another mischief-filled adventure – with a touch of magic poo! The Soapbox Children’s Theatre, Devonport Park. A fun-filled show for the whole family. For tickets and details visit www.stiltskin.org.uk
History of Central Park Talk
May 17
Andrew Young will give a talk on the history of Central Park at Ford Park Cemetery at 2pm. It will be held in the Chapel at the Cemetery and will cost £6 per person and there will be an optional lunch in the Visitor Centre at 1 pm. The price for both the lunch and talk is £15. Tickets available at the cemetery office on 01752 665442 from 10am to 4pm weekdays.
Spring Fayre
May 17
St Francis Church Honicknowle are holding their Spring Fayre in the church hall 11am to 2pm. Various stalls including gifts, cards, plants, nearly new, tombola and refreshments.
Pirates Weekend
May 17 and 18
Enjoy swashbuckling two days of fun inspired by the high seas as Pirates Weekend returns, with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy across Plymouth’s waterfront - including the Barbican, Sutton Harbour and Royal William Yard.
Flavour Fest
May 30 to Jun 1
The south west’s largest food and drink festival returns to Plymouth city centre. There will be over 80 stalls of fantastic local produce on the Piazza. Watch inspirational talks and demonstrations by top local chefs and plenty more entertainment throughout the weekend. For more information visit the Flavour Fest website at www.flavourfestsw.co.uk
Plymouth Model & Railway show
May 31
John Kitto YMCA Centre from 10am to 4pm. Numerous clubs from across the South West displaying models, railways, radio control boats, with traders selling kits, ancillaries and railway items. Tombola, cafe on site and disabled friendly. Adults £5, concessions £3, family ticket £10. Further details from ekcork@ btinternet.com
The Witches of Eastwick
June 4 to June 7
Sounds Musical Theatre Company mark their 124th year with the premiere performance of The Witches of Eastwick at Devonport Playhouse. With their show stopping musical score this talented cast will transport you to a world of fantasy and intrigue. Tickets are available from www.ticketsource.co.uk £19 adult. Concessions £17 or call : 07395159955. Age recommendation 12+ contains adult content.
Coast
Jun 6 to Jun 22
A contemporary pop-up gallery showcasing the work of local artists with a deep connection with the coast and oceans. Taking place in the Melville Building
Out and About
Your guide to events in the local community and beyond
at the Royal William Yard featuring a celebration of all things ‘coast’ with 2D and 3D artworks. For more details visit instagram@coast.artgallery
Plymstock Tribute Music Festival
Jun 6 and 7
Now in it’s fourth year, Plymstock Rugby Club presents a huge line up of the UK’s very best tribute acts across two days at their grounds in Wembury Road. As well as fantastic tribute acts including Oasis, Queen, The FOO Fighters, AC/DC and Fleetwood Mac there will be lots of street food, stalls and fairground rides. For tickets and details visit www.plymstockfestival.co.uk
University of Plymouth Orchestra
June 7
Summer Classics themed music concerts. Free entry at the Levinsky Hall on the University of Plymouth Campus. Children’s Concert from 3pm - all welcome! Evening Concert doors open at 7pm. Concert begins at 7.30pm. Music to include: a range of popular classical music for the summer. Admission is free but donations would be appreciated! Free tickets can be booked via the ‘What’s On’ page of the University of Plymouth website. At the evening concert there will be a raffle and please join us afterwards for free refreshments.
Coffee Morning
June 7
Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Supporting ‘Hope for the Homeless.’ All welcome.
Plymouth Summer Sessions
June 12 to June 15
With a spectacular waterfront setting and home to the landmark Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, Plymouth Hoe will come alive with music as it welcomes fans back to TK Maxx presents Plymouth Summer Sessions in 2025. Following the overwhelming success of last year’s inaugural event,which drew thousands of fans, this year’s lineup kicks off on Thursday with legendary British band James, supported by Razorlight, Jamie Webster and Tom A Smith. Followed by the electrifying Pendulum on Friday, The Corrs and Natalie Imbruglia on the Saturday, plus the beloved Snow Patrol closing the weekend on Sunday, with further names to still be announced. Tickets from www.smmrsessions.com/ locations/plymouth
Father’s Day at Pennywell Farm
June 14 and 15
For Father’s Day weekend only Pennywell is giving all Dads a free VIP upgrade worth £17 (with a full paying
adult ticket). The upgrade includes free coffee and cake, free ice cream, free animal feed and free piggy blanket. Visit www.pennywellfarm.co.uk/fathersday and enter the code VIPDAD3P at checkout online.
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 ad watch live safety demonstrations and more. Free parking.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
Send details of your event to info@cornerstonevision. com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.
The popular Plymouth Pirates Weekend returns on May 17 and 18. Photo: Scott Grenney One Plymouth
elburton dental
Voices of Unity night celebrates diversity
Students and staff at Hele’s School staged an impressive evening at the school on May 1 as the culmination of their Voice of Unity Project. In preparation for the event young people explored powerful themes of identity, belonging and community.
The event got underway with the Hele’s Rhythm and Soul Choir performing an indigenous Australian welcome song in front of a packed theatre of invited guests who included members of the Plymouth and Devon Racial Equality Council, the Stannator of Plympton and the Youth Ambassador, plus many others.
The evening went on to have a mix of overseas songs as well as poems and some thought provoking but well-known pop songs from the past.
The audience was treated to a Filipino song, a Persian dance, African drumming and also a piano solo of the Ukrainian National Anthem. Hele’s students acted as their own comperes for the night and there was also a video presentation in which some of the students bravely shared some of their personal experiences of being subjected to racism at points in their lives.
There were also renditions of John Lennon’s Imagine, Michael Jackson’s Man in The Mirror, illustrating how change starts with ourselves, Labi Siffre’s Something Inside So Strong and the redemption song Amazing Grace.
During the half time interval guests were treated to a selection of food themed on various different nationalities presented by the Hele’sn Diversity Group and the Year 10 Hospitality and Catering students and staff.
The event also saw the official unveiling of a mural at the school painted by Mrs Murals which promotes cultural diversity and equality.
Emily Hunt who teaches Creative and Performing Arts at Hele’s was the project lead for Voices of Unity. Commenting in the programme guide for the night she said: “By embracing and celebrating diverse cultures through the universal language of music and the Arts, our students show us the way toward a more connected, hopeful future.”
Plympton Councillor Terri Beer was among the audience watching the event. She said: “I feel like I’ve been around the world tonight. Incredibly thought provoking diversity performances. The young people did amazingly well.”
(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
The bells of Plympton St Mary’s Church will not be rung for the time being. This is because Jackdaws have managed to get into the bell tower and have taken roost.
CROWDFUNDER FOR RUGBY POSTS
Plym Vics RFC hace launched a £4,000 crowdfunding campaign for new Rugby posts for St Mary’s Park. To donate go to gofundme. com and search Plympton Victoria RFC. At the time of going to press the appeal was 15% of the way towards its target.
PLYMPTON LOSES ITS LAUNDERETTE
A launderette has been a staple part of the retail offering in Ridgeway for very many years. Sadly however the current owners have announced its closure from 1 May as they are unable to keep up with the overheads. NEW LEGO FAMILY BREAKFAST
A new Lego family Breakfast started at Woodford Methodist Church on Saturday April 12 and will run monthly on the second Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 11am. (news in brief is provided by the Plympton Podcast)
Good Ofsted report for Plymstock children’s home
A Plymstock children’s home has received a ‘Good’ rating from Ofsted. Downham House in Church Road is a registered children’s home which provides short breaks for children with severe learning disabilities and complex needs.
Owned and run by Plymouth City Council, the breaks provided by Downham House are vital and much valued by children and their families.
Thirteen children currently enjoy a regular short break at the home.
An Ofsted inspection in March 2025 found the home is ‘good’ in all areas, including the overall experiences and progress of children and young people, how well they are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers. The report builds on the last inspection in December 2023 when the home was also judged as good.
Inspectors found that children really enjoy their short breaks at Downham House and are excited for their visits. Children are nurtured and are supported to achieve, with activities designed to suit their individual interests and needs.
The inspectors received ‘overwhelmingly positive’ feedback throughout the inspection, with one parent commenting that the managers and staff are like ‘an extended part of their family.’
Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “We’re delighted to receive a second good Ofsted rating for Downham House. I must say a huge thank you to the staff for all their hard work but also to the parents and young people who benefit from short breaks at Downham House and who provided such fantastic feedback about their experiences.
“We’re committed to providing the best possible support to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
“Short breaks are absolutely vital to help families to remain living together by giving parents and carers a break, which they can enjoy knowing their children are safe, well cared for and having lots of fun.”
Inspectors noted that managers have ‘worked hard to embed reflection and learning across all aspects of children’s care to directly improve children’s experiences and progress. The home has positive links with partners in education, health and social care, which ensures that there is a coordinated approach to the care that children receive.’
The report also highlights that staff understand, monitor and respond to children’s specific health needs.
The full Ofsted report can be found https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/ file/50274600.
New Stannator and Youth Ambassador take office
Plympton Litter Picker Cathy Loft and Hele’s student Grace Nicholls have been formally invested into their roles as Stannator of Plympton and Plympton Youth Ambassador respectively, taking over from Dave Partridge and Christopher Turner who have both completed their year in office. They were installed into their new roles in a ceremony at Harewood House on Saturday April 26 attended by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth Councillor Tina Tuohy and her Lady Mayoress Freya Hitt. The event was attended by around 80 invited guests, family members, representatives from a multitude of Plympton’s voluntary and community organisations, Plympton councillors and the Member of Parliament for South West Devon.
Dave Partridge summarised his year in office, before receiving a Stannator’s scroll and a book about Plympton’s historic metal mines as keepsakes of his year in office. The Lord Mayor then transferred the official Stannator’s chain to Cathy Loft who subsequently took her oath of office.
In one last official function Mr Partridge presented cheques to his two chosen charities for the year, with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Derriford Hospital receiving a cheque for £1,816 and Post Pals receiving one for £380.
The night before Mr Partridge had presented the Marjorie Lynden Shield to the LS Drama Group. This is presented, usually on an annual basis, by the outgoing Stannator
to an individual young person or group of young people with a track record of doing things beneficial for the local community. LS Drama Group comprises young people aged between four and 18 who put on dynamic drama and musical theatre productions.
In her acceptance speech as the new Stannator Cathy Loft said she hoped to have a busy, exciting and fulfilling year which she was delighted to be sharing with Grace Nicholls, Plympton’s new Youth Ambassador. She added that she looked forward to learning more about individuals and groups in the year ahead.
Cathy then announced that her charity for the year will be the Mustard Tree which she had found to be an oasis of calm during the turmoil of a cancer journey. Fundraising activity during the investiture evening
kicked things off with just over £180 being raised for the cause.
Plympton’s outgoing Youth Ambassador Christopher Turner gave a highly impressive and well-crafted speech about his year in office. Reflecting on the past 12 months Christopher said he was immensely grateful for the experience which he will remember for the rest of his life.
He said it had opened doors which he never imagined possible for someone of his age and events such as the Lord Mayor’s choosing ceremony had given him an insight into events which he previously had no idea happened.
He continued that a stand out event for him was attending Plympton’s cenotaph at Castle Green on Remembrance Sunday and he found it ‘deeply humbling’ to remember the war dead.
Christopher singled out for particular praise Natalie Harrison. He said: “Her belief in me helped me to believe in myself.”
Plympton’s new Youth Ambassador Grace Nicholls was then introduced to the room. Grace’s interests include dancing and cheerleading. She already has a record of raising money
for charity and is aiming to run in this year’s Race for Life.
Grace is a young carer for her mother and is a member of Hele’s School where she is involved in the Combined Cadet Force. In adulthood Grace hopes to pursue a career in the RAF.
Grace had already had a taste of what lies ahead over the next 12 months as Youth Ambassador as on the Wednesday before her investiture she was called upon to officially open the new youth space at the Rees Centre. This space is available to young people in school years 7 to 9 and is open on Wednesdays from 5pm to 6.30pm.
The space has comfortable seating, various games including table tennis and snooker, as well as an opportunity for young people to talk about anything that might be concerning them.
After reading aloud her Youth Ambassador promise and receiving her badge of office from the Lord Mayor, Grace gave a short acceptance speech. She outlined her aim to bring the generations together and to celebrate our local Plympton heritage.
Reacting to Grace’s selection as Plympton’s 7th Youth Ambassador and the 4th to come from Hele’s School, Hele’s Principal Justine Mason said she was “genuinely thrilled” that Christopher Turner was passing on the baton to Grace. Ms Mason added: “We are immensely proud of Grace Nicholls on her appointment as Plympton’s Youth Ambassador for 2025/26, following in the footsteps of Molly Disney, Oliver Chard, and Christopher Turner — all outstanding representatives of Hele’s School and passionate ambassadors for issues affecting young people in our Plympton community.
“Grace’s success not only highlights her personal dedication and leadership but also reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that Hele’s students are ‘at the heart of the community and with the community at heart.’
“We also extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Christopher Turner for his outstanding service over the past year, as he passes on the baton to Grace. It is inspiring to see such strength and continuity in youth leadership from our Hele’s family, and we are excited to see Grace bring her fresh perspective and passion to this important role,” Ms Mason concluded.
(story courtesy of the Plympton Podcast)
Grace Nicholls opening the Youth Space at the Rees Centre
Left: Members of the LS Drama Group who were presented with the Marjorie Lynden Shield by outgoing Stannator Dave Partridge
South West Devon MP Rebecca Smith pictured with Plympton’s new Stannator Cathy Loft and Plympton Youth Ambassador Grace Nicholls
City’s super slimmers raise £75,000 for Cancer Research
Slimming World members in Plymouth have raised £75,000 for Cancer Research UK by donating the clothes they’ve slimmed out of to the charity’s shops.
The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw with Cancer Research UK is an annual event that takes place in Slimming World groups across the UK. It sees members donating good quality clothes, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit – and they’re confident they will never need again.
Slimming World groups across Plymouth, collected 2,508 bags to help support life-saving research.
Slimming World team developer Lauren Derbyshire, who runs the Ford Saturday morning group, said she’s proud of how the city’s members came together to support the charity, as well as to celebrate how far they’ve come on their own weight loss journeys.
Lauren said: “It’s always a pleasure to see the excitement in groups when The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw comes around! When you’re losing weight, it can be easy to focus on the number on the scales without realising how many non-scale victories are happening in the background, like our changing clothes sizes and body shapes.
“This event celebrates those victories as it is all about members donating their old wardrobe while raising money for an important cause. It makes me so happy to see my members’ confidence grow as they commit to donating their larger clothes knowing they will never need them again, because they’ve made healthy changes they can maintain for life!”
As well as raising funds for Cancer Research UK, the Big Slimming World Clothes Throw raises awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of 13 different types of cancer.
just some of the 2,500 bags of clothes collected for charity
Overweight and obesity is the second biggest preventable cause of cancer in the UK - causing more than one in 20 cancer cases.
Lauren added: “Being overweight doesn’t necessarily mean that a person will develop cancer, but we know that losing weight and maintaining a healthy
weight can help prevent a number of health conditions, including some types of cancer. I’m proud to host The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw at my Slimming World group to help Cancer Research UK continue its vital work.”
Over the years, Slimming World has raised more than £25 million for Cancer Research UK through a variety of campaigns including The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and supporting the charity’s Race for Life event series.
Last year, Slimming World members, consultants and head office staff raised £2.9m for Cancer Research UK through The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and are aiming to make this year even bigger and better.
Lauren’s Ford Slimming World group is held at Wolseley Trust Community Centre, every Saturday at 7.30am, 9am, and 10.30am. For more information or to join Lauren’s group or any other group in Plymouth, call Lauren on 07494 754493 or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk or call 0344 897 8000.
Young footballers spread Easter cheer
The generosity of two junior football clubs meant people receiving care in Livewell Southwest’s mental health inpatient units had a sweet surprise at Easter.
Eve Redmond, a referral coordinator at the Glenbourne Unit in Plymouth, put out an appeal online for Easter egg donations as she hoped to bring a little joy to patients who were not able to go home or see loved ones over the holiday. The response far exceeded her expectations.
Eve said: “Not all our patients got to spend Easter with their families, and sometimes a small gesture like receiving an Easter egg can make a big difference to their day.
“I had a wonderful response. We received more than 100 eggs, including an incredible donation of more than 70 from Mount Gould Under 6s and Under 11s Football Club.”
Adam Moody, coach for the two teams, shared the personal reason behind their heartfelt donation: “When I was younger, my mum spent time at Glenbourne as she lived with bipolar disorder. I was about
the same age as my eldest son is now, and not having my mum around was hard. My sons never got to meet their nanny, but being able to support others in the same place she once stayed brought a smile to my face and warmth to my heart.”
Adam explained how the teams quickly rallied around the cause. “I told the other parents why I wanted to support the appeal, and they all donated money. My partner Sue then went from supermarket to supermarket to find the best-priced eggs.”
Thanks to the overwhelming response, Eve was able to extend the Easter cheer far beyond Glenbourne, which is an acute mental health hospital for adults who are too unwell to be treated at home.
Patients at Syrena House, Greenfields, Lee Mill Hospital, Plym Bridge House, and the Edgcumbe Unit all received an Easter egg. Eve said: “All the wards and units were incredibly happy and grateful to receive the eggs. It’s heartwarming to see such kindness from people in Plymouth.”
Plymouth’s busy Manadon Interchange is set for a major overhaul thanks to new government funding.
The Department for Transport has given a green light to an outline plan for a variety of improvements and awarded just over £13.3 million in development funding to take this scheme onto detailed design.
The Manadon Interchange, which connects the A38 Devon Expressway with the A386 Tavistock Road, is one of Plymouth’s busiest and most critical junctions.
It plays a vital role in linking different parts of the city and providing access to key employment and healthcare sites, including Derriford Hospital, Plymouth Science Park, and the Dockyard.
Originally designed for far lower traffic volumes, the interchange now struggles to cope with demand.
With the planned growth of Plymouth, including over 29,000 new homes and the creation of more than 13,000 skilled jobs, the city’s road infrastructure must be improved to support this expansion.
Without these upgrades, congestion will continue to worsen, impacting local businesses, emergency services, and people’s daily lives. This investment is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve Plymouth’s road network for the future.
The outline plans for the scheme will be launched later this month when a six week period of public engagement will begin, allowing residents to attend information sessions and feedback on a number of areas in an initial design, which focuses on: Safer roads New junctions, crossings, and layouts to reduce accident risks and improve conditions for all road users.
Better walking and cycling routes Safer, segregated cycle lanes and improved pedestrian paths to encourage more people to walk and cycle where possible.
A new community space at Treveneague Gardens Transforming an underused area into a new park with footpaths, biodiversity enhancements and recreational space for local residents.
Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Improvements to Manadon are well overdue so I’m delighted that we have got to this crucial stage of the process.
“Our city needs to grow to respond to the rising population and be economically viable. We need more jobs and homes.
“That means that junctions like Manadon have to be able to cope, which is why it is so important to that we invest in the infrastructure of the future.”
The total cost of the scheme, from design right through to construction is £156 million, with £133 million from government funding and the remaining £23 million from other transport grant funding, developer contributions and the Council’s own investment.
It is estimated that construction on the scheme would not begin before 2028.
To keep up to date on the scheme visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/ a38manadoninterchange
Super Slimming World slimmers with
Right: Eve Redmond with Jake and Tommy Moody, sons of Mount Gould U6s and U11s football coach, Adam Moody. Copyright Adam Moody
New units for economic growth shaping up nicely!
The steel frames for the first purpose-built commercial units within the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport are now up and work is powering ahead on the site that is destined to be home to high growth industries.
Plymouth City Council is delivering four units on a plot in Beaumont Way, Langage – one of three Freeport tax sites as part of the region’s continuing success story in the marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering and clean energy sectors.
Devon Contractors, who have only been on site since December, are cracking on with the task to build the units which range in size from 750 square metres to just over 2,000 square metres
The picture above shows how far the work has come, with the roof cladding finished for three of the four units as well as creating the first internal floor within all units. External drainage work is almost complete and internal drainage progressing well.
The units will have workshop/production space inside with fully fitted offices at ground and first floor level (with lift access) and welfare facilities, including showers.
Each will have its own dedicated service yard, parking and EV charging pod and the units will be highly sustainable and incorporate technology to minimise carbon emissions and running costs, including solar photo-voltaic panels, increased levels of insulation, higher levels of natural daylight and ventilation and highly efficient heating systems. The units are being designed and built to BREEAM Excellent standards and Net Zero status.
Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “It’s great to see so much progress on this important site and it’s great to know that we are already getting a significant amount of enquiries from interested companies. They must be the right fit for the Freeport, but the signs are really encouraging!”
The development has been made possible thanks to a £4 million Freeport seed capital funding, match funded by Plymouth City Council. Once complete, it is expected to support around 138 full time jobs and associated long term spin off benefits, not to mention the construction and supply chain employment during the build period.
Devon Contractors are on target to finish the scheme in time for units to be ready to move into by Autumn 2025.
Nigel Whelan, managing director of Devon Contractors, said: “We’re making excellent progress on site at Langage and its a testament to the collaborative spirit across the board.
“Our supply chain, consultants, suppliers and the client team have all come together as one, working seamlessly to drive the project forward. This level of co-operation is what allows us to maintain momentum and deliver with confidence.
“We’re particularly excited to be launching our work placements schools projects next month – a great opportunity to engage the next generation and share in the future of construction.”
The Langage Tax Site is the largest of three tax sites for the Freeport and is on the edge of the existing Langage Business Park. It is strategically significant as it provides the space and opportunities to support sector growth plans and economic specialisation, underpinning the Freeport’s trade and investment objectives.
Eligible businesses that are part of the Freeport can take advantage of a range of tax and customs benefits and incentives to support growth, innovation and investment in the South West, including business rates relief, employer National Insurance contributions rate relief, stamp duty land tax relief, capital allowances, VAT and tariff benefits and simplified import procedures.
As this site is part of the Freeport designated tax site, eligible tenants must specialise in either marine, defence, space, advanced manufacturing, engineering or clean energy.
Interested parties should contact LAPT@Plymouth.gov. uk or information about the Freeport contact Eifion.Jones@ pasdfreeport.com
Surprise! Surprise! Mum Abi is millionth visitor at The Box
A mother received an especially warm welcome when she arrived at The Box on April 2 with her two daughters to discover she was the millionth visitor to come through the doors since the museum and gallery opened.
It was a major milestone for The Box, which has gone from strength to strength since opening during the pandemic in 2020.
Not only has it attracted visitors from Plymouth and much further afield, The Box has also won an array of awards and attracted national media attention with its world-class temporary art programme, working with partners such as the Tate, National Portrait Gallery, The Hepworth, The National Gallery and The Whitworth.
Councillor Jemima Laing, Deputy Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care, Culture and Communications, said: “I was so thrilled to welcome Abi and her daughters Rosa and Lilah to The Box this afternoon.
“We talk about The Box being nationally known and locally loved and the fact that Abi and her family are regular visitors because there’s always things for her children to do and new things to see seems really fitting.
“To anyone who hasn’t been to The Box yet can I extend an invitation to the best free cultural attraction in the Southwest. There really is something here for everyone – here’s to the next million!”
Changing Futures for another year
Plymouth City Council project that helps to improve the lives of some of the city’s most vulnerable residents has received funding for an extra year of lifechanging work.
Changing Futures Plymouth works in partnership with local organisations to improve the outcomes for people experiencing multiple disadvantage across the city.
Since its inception in 2021, the programme has worked with victims of domestic abuse, people living with mental health challenges, families and individuals who have experienced homelessness, those involved in substance use, and people who have had contact with the criminal justice system.
By co-producing activities with people who have experience using services in the city, the programme has supported culture change, trauma-informed practice, and approaches that put people at the heart of the work to support Plymouth working together as an alliance.
Now, a combined grant of around £772,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the National Lottery Community Fund will allow the project to continue for a final year.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Communities and Cooperative Development, said: “I’m so proud
of Changing Futures Plymouth which is a project which has already done exactly what it says on the tin.
“By working with people experiencing hardship, we have been able to tailor services and support that deals with complex need in a way that a blanket approach could not achieve.
“It is so pleasing to see this project continue to provide the type of support needed for people to re-build their lives.”
While being delivered primarily by the council, Changing Futures relies on expert partners including from the Zone, Trevi, Ahimsa, BTheChange, Trauma Informed Plymouth Network, Improving Lives Plymouth and Shekinah.
Mum Abi arrives with her daughters Rosa and Lilah... to be welcomed (below) by
Councillor Jemima Laing Photos: One Plymouth
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Pop-up contemporary gallery at Royal William Yard in June
A contemporary pop-up gallery showcasing the work of local artists with a deep passion for the coastline and oceans is taking place at the Royal William Yard in June. Organised by two local artists John Dixon and Erica Ankers, the pop-up gallery will be staged in the ground floor of the Melville Building from June 6 to June 22.
The work of John and Erica will be featured along with at least six other local artists with a connection to the coast.
The event will feature a range of artistic expressions both 2D and 3D alongside some exciting event days, including celebration of UN World Ocean Days on June 8.
John’s work is created from beach found marine litter, using mathematical and geometric patterns, while Erica produces semi abstract atmospheric paintings drawing inspiration from the light, colour and texture of the land and seascape.
For details visit their instagram page @coast.artgallery
Artist John Dixon with one of his works created from beach found marine litter
Artist Erica Ankers at work on one of her semi abstract atmospheric paintings
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 the end of season defeat bvy Leeds United is from lifelong Argyle fan and one of the founders of Argyle Life, Sam Down So, it’s finally happened. After a valiant effort in the last few months to starve off survival, Plymouth Argyle have been relegated to League One.
What happened - and what next?
USEFUL NUMBERS
At the moment, we’re still in the processing phase. It’s raw and it’s difficult to see the club appear so fallible after years of seemingly unstoppable progress.
The last time I wrote for Chronicle readers with reports of Argyle’s progress, it was the start of March. I spoke about how ‘Muslicball’ hung in the balance. It was capable of brilliant defensive masterclass performances but also staleness and did not show adaptability.
I thought long and hard about how to write this article. Do we look at the story as it’s developed or do we look at what Argyle need to do? Ultimately, the two topics are opposite sides of the same coin.
Despite the gutwrenching relegation, Miron Muslic has arguably proved himself to be Argyle’s greatest asset. We might not have stayed up but we gave it a great shot. The final chapter of our Championship story is the best possible blueprint going forward.
What Happened?
Things had to get worse before they could get better. Following the euphoria of the Man City game, came two back to back fixtures where Argyle reached what was perhaps their lowest ebb.
A crunch trip to relegation rivals Hull: Argyle never got going and it was such a dismal effort that we didn’t even register a single shot until the 75th minute mark. The Greens lost 2-0 as Hull registered only their third home win of the season. The following Saturday at home to Sheffield Wednesday certainly STARTED better but we still didn’t have a shot on target after the 34th minute. A tepid 0-3 loss was only slightly less embarrassing than the 4-0 battering by the same opponents on the opening day.
Something had to change and it had to change fast. The murmuring among critical fans was that Muslicball had had its day- was useful for nothing except smash and grab wins vs superior opponents.
We were back in the doldrums again. Back where we were after the Burnley thumping where all faith seemed lost. The same problems were apparent – the inability to open teams up or to so much as tweak our playing-style.
The win that followed against Pompey couldn’t have been more crucial. It wasn’t our best performance. But it was a brilliantly worked win with a fine team goal. It was our first away win in the league all season - to paraphrase the manager after Sunderland away – ‘signs of life’.
Argyle then lost 2-3 at home to Derby the game after the international break. However, even despite the implications of that loss for our season, the performance gave us hope. Muslic re-integrated Bali Mumba into his best position of wing back and we played the better football on the day.
“I believe that Simon Hallett has done a wonderful job in raising the ceiling of this club’s potential. But the board and the CEO have serious questions to answer about the last year and a half. Hiring Miron Muslic has been about the only good decision made on the football side of the club since the end of 2023” SAM DOWN
After the international break, we knew that hope of survival were slim. It was more like an audition ultimately - for the players and maybe even for the coaching team.
What followed was a run of form tantalisingly close to great escape. The only reason we didn’t quite get there was the fact of Derby, Hull and other sides finding enough form to (once again) raise the bar to an unusually high total for survival.
I won’t break down every game in detail. But, the describe Swansea aside, almost every game was a vast improvement. While Argyle’s style was still direct, we played the ball out to wide areas to find a better outlet (rather than the first time hoof).
Whilst there still wasn’t much possession, we managed to control matches and pin teams back before opening them up with rapier-like passing moves. Three very creditable home wins against Norwich, Sheffield Utd and Coventry demonstrated the new Argyle with a swagger in their step.
The game that deserves the most credit though is the away match at Preston. In heartbreaking fashion, Argyle just found out that they’d been relegated just minutes before kick off following a late Luton goal in the early kick off to win 1-0. Argyle came out and ruthlessly dispatched of a Preston side with everything on the line for them. To respond to adversity with such a clinical and professional performance is testament to Miron Muslic’s impact and the standards he has raised since his arrival.
A creditable performance in the loss at home to Leeds closed out the season and that was that. Or was it?
What Next?
Given the gushing tones of my recent paragraphs, you might be forgiven for thinking that we are going down in a good place. Players like Ryan Hardie, Bali Mumba, Adam Randell and (especially) Mustapha Bundu are ending the season in absolutely fine settle. Muslic’s points per game record would have been enough to secure a
lower mid table finish. His record since the Match international break is even better still.
You might sense a ‘but’ coming’ – and you’d be right to. It seems like Argyle fans can’t even have a bittersweet ending without a sting in the tail. Miron Muslic’s recent media interviews make for concerning listening.
He’s repeatedly failed to confirm he will be here next season. In a shocking press conference just before the Leeds game, he gave a punchy response. He bemoaned the fact that the club have still not filled the vacant roles of Sporting Director or indeed Head of Recruitment.
Most importantly, he expressed his concern that key players who are either out of contract or rumoured to have relegation release clauses haven’t yet been tied down to extended contracts. It was inarguably a shot across the bow at the board of directors for what he deems to be inadequate support.
At this point, and with all due respect to the ownership who’ve worked hard to get us to this level, you have to question the common denominator. If Muslic does go (and by the time of print, he may well have done so) then it will be the third Argyle manager to think that the grass is greener on the other side since the end of 2021. Ryan Lowe, Steven Schumacher, now Miron Muslic? To lose one talented young coach is unfortunate, to lose two could be coincidence. To lose three – well, as the quote goes, that looks like carelessness.
I believe that Simon Hallett has done a wonderful job in raising the ceiling of this club’s potential. But the board and the CEO have serious questions to answer about the last year and a half.
Hiring Miron Muslic has been about the only good decision made on the football side of the club since the end of 2023.
I’ll be honest – I’ve not always been his biggest fan. His critics say he’s trying to manoeuvre an exit and they may well be right. That being said, we will never know whether Muslic would be more amenable to staying if the club didn’t make decisions at such a glacial pace.
As a convert to the cult of Muslic rather than a believer from the offset, my message is this. Keep this man at all costs (within reason). He’s showed himself to be an excellent coach and has acutely diagnosed many of the problems that have plagued us since Schumacher’s departure.
If there’s any way of mediating the differences, we need to do so. Get that new contract on the table and if needed, give him the title of manager rather than head coach.
He’s not perfect: many disapprove of his use of the media and compare it to the old tricks of Jose Mourinho back in the day. It may be true that he’s a Mourinho in a world that caters to Guardiolas. But he’s our Mourinho - Argyle need to take every chip they have, put it on Miron Muslic and hope for the best. I can’t think of anyone better suited to get us back up.
Head coach Miron Muslic at a recent press conference
