Great Scott! Top award for city headteacher
A Plymouth headteacher has won a prestigious national award for his commitment to teaching practical life skills to his students.
Scott Simpson-Horne, headteacher at All Saints Academy Plymouth won the Head of Fish competition, part of the Fish in School Hero programme.
The competition saw school leaders from across the country taking part and and Scott’s creativity and passion for healthy eating stood out.
Scott, who is deeply committed to promoting health and wellbeing among students, eagerly took up the challenge to teach a hands-on lesson about cooking a healthier version of fish and chips.
The demonstration, which took place with a group of Year 7, 8 and 9 students showcased a variety of fish types – salmon, cod, and basa – alongside oven-baked sweet potato wedges, homemade tartare sauce, and a freshly made salad. The lesson was designed to teach students not only cooking techniques but also key topics such as sustainability, shopping locally, and budgeting for healthy meals.
As part of the competition, his session included an interactive approach, allowing all students to participate in each element of the cooking process. Many students were introduced to new foods they had never tried before, and the session culminated in everyone enjoying the food that had been prepared. In the end the judges decided that All Saints was the ultimate winner but also picked two runners up. Each of the schools will now receive £100s worth of fresh fish from Wing of St Mawes, the Cornish fishmonger, which will be used in food and nutrition lessons.
The Fish in Schools Hero programme aims to give students the chance to prepare, cook, and enjoy fish before they leave school, helping them develop a lifelong appreciation for seafood.
The initiative is funded by the Fishmongers’ Company’s Fisheries Charitable Trust and managed by the Food Teachers Centre and ensures that food teachers across the UK have the confidence and training to introduce fish-based dishes into the curriculum.
Launched in 2020, the programme now extends throughout the UK.
Head Of Fish is a yearly initiative open to all schools nationally to encourage headteachers to teach a lesson with fish to a class of Years 7, 8 and 9s. With the headteacher acting as
CLASSIC CAMBRIDGE & OXFORD’S DREAMING SPIRES
Departing Thu 29 May ‘25
We visit the city of Oxford, perched on the Thames and known for its world-famous Royal Regatta and Cambridge, with its combination of tranquil botanical gardens and striking buildings. There’s also the chance to discover the fine charms of Ely and Stamford.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Holiday Inn, Northampton (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Excursions to Cambridge & Oxford (includes guided city tours)
Optional excursion to Ely & Stamford (£14pp)
£5M BOOST FOR FLOOD SCHEMES IN PLYMOUTH
Plymouth will benefit from four new flood schemes totalling nearly £5 million, protecting homes and businesses, boosting the local economy, and creating construction and infrastructure jobs, the Environment Agency has announced. Following the Government commitment to invest a record £2.65 billion over two years towards the construction of new flood schemes and the repair and maintenance of existing ones, the Environment Agency has published a list of the communities across the nation to benefit from projects this year.
a role model, they hope that it will encourage more students to prepare cook and taste fish and seafood.
Scott Simpson-Horne said: “I’m passionate about helping students develop essential life skills that they can carry with them beyond school. It was also an opportunity to have a bit of fun and cook together – who wouldn’t jump at the chance of doing that?! As you know, our children are just brilliant and having the opportunity to share a ‘home-cooked’ meal with them was a real highlight.”
THE WORLD OF JAMES HERRIOT, YORK & HARROGATE
Departing Mon 2 Jun ‘25
Step inside 23 Kirkgate in Thirsk and into the 1940s residence of James Herriot, author of the beloved All Creatures Great and Small books. We also visit the cathedral city of Ripon and the elegant spa town of Harrogate as well as historic York.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Corn Mill Lodge Hotel, near Leeds with dinner & breakfast
Excursions to the World of James Herriot Museum, Thirsk, Ripon, York & Harrogate
Optional excursion to Skipton & Haworth (£12pp)
With this investment, the construction of schemes can now be kickstarted or progress closer to completion in Plymouth. Schemes to receive funding include Arnold’s Point to be given £1.5 million in funding to construct a flood wall, over £3.1 million for projects in Lipson Vale and £250,000 for St Levan Road to protect against surface water flooding. Sutton Harbour gate will also receive £28,000 to protect against tidal flooding.
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “I’m delighted the Government has announced nearly £5 million of funding for four schemes to protect against tidal, surface and river flooding.
“Flooding poses a serious risk to our daily lives. One storm can wreak havoc on a person’s life and livelihood. As extreme weather events become more frequent it is essential that we not only take steps to mitigate the risks of climate change, for the sake of our homes and businesses, we must take decisive action to adapt to it as well.”
Reader travel
RAILWAY 200 : THE GREATEST GATHERING OF LOCOMOTIVES
Departing Fri 1 Aug ‘25
Come and celebrate the 200th anniversary of the modern railway at The Greatest Gathering! Hosted by Alstom’s historic Derby
Litchurch Lane Works, this promises to be the UK’s biggest gathering of trains, showcasing the past, present and future of our railways.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
2 nights at a selected hotel (JG3 or JG4 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Admission to The Greatest Gathering
By Coach from Plymouth, Saltash
Students putting their culinary skills to the test
Headteacher Scott Simpson-Horne pictured during one of his cooking lessons
Thousands of homes planned for city centre over the next decade
Plymouth’s city centre could see up to 10,000 new homes built over the next decade as part of a new working relationship with Homes England.
The City Council and Homes England have produced a new ‘Plymouth City Centre Vision’ which sets out a shared ambition to provide 10,000 new homes in the city centre and surrounding area.
The vision recognises that there will be around £4.4 billion of Government investment in Devonport Dockyard over the next 10 years and that this will stimulate the demand for new homes, with Babcock requiring 5,500 new employees and a further 2,000 construction jobs being created in the Dockyard.
It also recognises that Plymouth’s city centre currently has a very low level of housing with only 1,000 homes, compared to 8,000 homes for typical cities of Plymouth’s size.
Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “This is huge and very, very exciting. We have talked about creating more homes in the city centre for a few years now, but this will help catapult words and plans into bricks, mortar and homes.
The partnership will bring together the land, funding and expertise of both organisations, as well as seeking private sector partners to deliver residential and commercial projects that build on the many successful projects that the council has completed, such as The Box, the Barcode and the ongoing investment in Armada Way.
Homes England and Plymouth City Council are also collaborating on the Civic Centre. The project will see the creation of the new City College Plymouth’s Blue Green Skills Hub within the basement, ground and first floor of the Civic Centre. This will deliver 60 new courses to 2,000 students.
Part of Homes England’s role is to introduce potential development partners who have a track record of delivering high quality residential projects. The council has already had discussions with a number of these partners about the role that they might play in the delivery of new homes across Plymouth city centre.
“The regeneration of the city centre has a major role to play in supporting the Growth Alliance Plymouth programme to deliver new housing, new skills provision and, through regeneration, to transform perceptions of the city centre.
“We have been working with Homes England to establish Plymouth as a priority place for investment and to bring forward plans to deliver 10,000 new homes as part of a ‘new town in the city’. We have a memorandum of understanding that describes the strategic objectives of our partnership, including the exploration of a potential joint venture.”
The aim is to establish a new residential core in the city centre to stimulate market activity and maximise public and private investment to deliver transformational change, which will address the current housing shortage as well as deliver new homes for new workers.
Steve Hughes, chief executive of the Plymouth City Centre Company, said: “This is great news and yet another sign of growing confidence in our city centre which is definitely on the up.”
The announcement has also been welcomed by members of the Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP), the partnership established last year between Babcock, the Royal Navy and City Council to work across the city with Government to put in place the infrastructure, workforce and support for the wider business ecosystem to drive inclusive growth and address housing shortages and entice relocation of skilled workforces to the area.
The City Council has a successful track record of working with Homes England on projects including major estate regeneration schemes such as North Prospect and Barne Barton, as well as forward funding of land assembly for projects like Bath Street and the West End.
In March last year, the City Council Cabinet agreed to enter into an agreement to lease with City College Plymouth, allocate £8.5m Levelling Up Fund grant and the purchase of the building from Urban Splash for £1.
The project to refurbish the Civic Centre has also benefitted from grant funding from the Future High Streets Fund. Now, subject to approvals, additional grant funding is under consideration by Homes England to help complete the transformation.
The council and college are progressing design proposals, including workshop space in the basement, teaching space on the ground and first floors of the north and south block and publicfacing spaces.
The Civic Centre has planning consent for 144 apartments in the tower and a range of commercial space in the podium, with parking and plant in the basement. The consent includes demolishing some of the 1970s extensions on the west side of the building. City College is looking to take all of the commercial space and the changes to the existing consent means a new planning application will need to be submitted.
The Civic Centre will be transformed into a campus for City College Plymouth
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.
Easter Celebrations
April 20
There will be a range of Easter activities for youngsters at Keyham Green Places in Renown Street, Keyham. There will be Egg Hunts for children up to the age of 11 from 2pm to 4pm along with games and fun activities. Cafe with hot drinks, hot cross buns, cakes and snacks. Book a spot by emailing info@cropskgp. org.uk
Plymouth Jazz Club
April 20
Plymouth Jazz Club has been bringing live jazz to the city of Plymouth since 1984 with gigs at The Royal British Legion Tailyour Road, Crownhill starting at 7.30 pm. on the third Sunday of every month. Featuring Trad, Swing, Big Band, Jazz Funk, Latin, Gypsy and Mod all providing great opportunities to dance to jazz from the 1920s to modern day. The next gig on April 20 features the ’Fine Wines’ duo with an evening of Swing and Dance. Tickets at the door.
Art Exhibition
Until Apr 22
An exhibition of local artists at Boston Tea Party Jamaica House, 82-84 Vauxhall Street PL4 0EX. Open from 9am to 4pm each day. The exhibition will raise funds for Plymouth Samaritans and Boston Foundation.
Lou Sanders
Apr 24
Acclaimed stand-up comedian Lou Sanders brings her show ‘No Kissing in the Bingo Hall’to Plymouth’s Quad Theatre on the Marjon campus at 8pm. Tickets and information from www.comicalentertainment.com
South West Philharmonic and Chorus
Apr 26
The South West Philharmonic is performing some of its favourite pieces including Dan Forrest’s beautiful Sanctus and the ever popular Send in the Clowns, at 7.30 in the Minster Church of Saint Andrew on Royal Parade in Plymouth. South West Phil are delighted to return here to celebrate their 10th anniversary playing many of their audience favourites from the classics, ballet and stage and screen. Tickets are £15.50 and £10 for under 16s. Tickets and information are available from www.swpac.co.uk
Open Day
Apr 27
Oreston & District Bowling Club are holding an open day from 11am when ladies and gentlemen of any age or ability are welcome. If attending, please wear flat shoes. The club is situated behind the children’s playing area in Dean Cross Road. The club is also holding an open evening on April 16 from 4pm when visitors can learn more about this small, friendly club. For more information contact Sue on 07812 584767.
Lawn Bowls Open Day
Apr 27
Devonport Park from 10.30am to 4pm. All are welcome to try out this sport and potentially join a club. Just wear some flat shoes and give it a go: bowls is social, good exercise and fun! For further information contact Gail on 07754 296861
St George’s Day Cream Tea
Apr 29
Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery from 2pm. Tickets £15 can be obtained from the office from 10am to 4pm on weekdays. Or call 01752 665442.
Super
Out and About
Your guide to events in the local community and beyond
around its exhibition programme. Super Saturdays are for everyone to enjoy, with free family activities and special talks and events to help visitors to explore The Box exhibitions further. Open from 10am to 5pm.
Coffee Morning
May 3
Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon supporting Guide Dogs for the Blind. Various stalls. All welcome.
Good Food & Craft Market
May 4
The popular Good Food & Craft Market will be taking place in Royal William Yard on the first Sunday of every month! Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, the 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.
Sing Devon
May 8
Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to meet new people? Then come along to our Welcoming New Voices free session at Plymstock School PL9 7.15pm to 9pm. The emphasis is on fun, supporting the local community and supporting each other. Lots of laughing mixed in with beautiful sounds. No audition, just come along and give it a go. Details at www. singdevon.com - or call Pete Scott on 07896 276577.
VE Day 80
May 8
Plymouth celebrates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE) Day with a spectacular celebration on Plymouth Hoe. Starts at 10.30am with a flag-raising ceremony, coinciding with ships in Plymouth Sound, followed by a Full Parade of Standards and a Royal Navy Guard. Entertainment starts from 11am and runs until 5pm, with picnic benches, stalls, entertainment, and Commonwealth Wargraves Tours and vintage vehicles. An exciting concert will begin from 5.30pm, and the day culminates with a Sunset Guard ceremony and the lighting of the Beacon at 8.40pm, a poignant moment to reflect on the significance of VE Day.
Tamerton Foliot May Carnival
May 10
The Carnival starts with judging of the floats at the top of the village by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. The procession sets off at 11.50am with the May Queen, May Prince and Flower Girls with the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. It travels through the village to Wadlands Meadow next to the church. The Meadow will have a wide range of attractions and various stalls. Refreshments are available in the Church Hall and also at various locations in the Meadow. This year’s theme is the Prehistoric Era with dinosaurs etc. Admission is free.
Britain’s Ocean City Running Festival
May 11
Thousands of runners will be taking part in the popular annual event with a choice of Half Marathon,
10k and 5k distances. Registration and further information can be found at www.runplymouth.co.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.
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
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
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
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 Ocean City Running Festival will attract thousands on May 11
Photo: One Plymouth
SEEKING PART TIME CARER
Seeking someone with nursing experience to act as a part-time carer for an elderly lady with mild dementia. Help with: housework, meals, and other needs such as washing and dressing as they arise. To provide company and assist with shopping and social visits.
21 Hours/week. Daily (including weekends).
3 Hours/day
£273-£294 per week
Contact: Sarah s.kember@gold.ac.uk
MEDITATION GROUP
Local MPs and councillors have welcomed the news that Plymouth is receiving an additional £4million to extend the city’s Household Support Fund for another year.
The Household Support Fund was set up to support people across the country struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. The money is allocated by government to local authorities, who then decide how to spend it in their local communities.
In Plymouth, the funding has been used to support eligible households with vouchers for food, fuel and clothes as well as the purchase and delivery of essential household items like white goods and furniture.
The funding had been due to run out, however at the budget last year, Rachel Reeves revealed that Labour are extending the Household Support Fund with £742 million divided between local authorities across the country.
Fred Thomas, MP for Plymouth Moor View, said: “The extension of the Household Support Fund is going to provide a vital lifeline to many people in Plymouth, and it shows Labour’s commitment to supporting families through the cost-of-living crisis that we inherited from the Conservatives.
“The government is right to allow local authorities to choose how to spend this money. PCC made really good use of previous rounds of funding, and I’m looking forward to supporting them to get this money to the people who really need it.”
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “As a government, we inherited a deep cost of living crisis from the Conservatives.
“This boost to the Household Support Fund is one of the steps we are taking to help people who are struggling to make ends meet.
“Alongside this, the government is focused on bringing down bills by insulating more homes and replacing expensive fossil fuels with cheaper renewables.”
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said:
“We’re really pleased that the Government extended the Household Support Fund for another year, as there is still a clear need for further support in Plymouth and many of our residents continue to struggle with the cost of living.
“We are taking a more targeted approach this year, utilising the information available to us and our partners to ensure that we’ re helping residents who are most in need of support. While providing crisis support is important, we want to also take a longer-term approach to help prevent households from falling into financial crisis in the future.”
and access will be available from Devil’s Point car park (above).
Much needed extra parking spaces for Royal William Yard
A new area is being developed at Plymouth’s historic Royal William Yard, with work commencing on an extension to the parking facilities to create over 100 additional spaces.
The project represents the next stage in its regeneration and is one of several initiatives underway this year, as the Yard continues to evolve during its 200th anniversary year.
Work began at the end of March to convert the former reservoir at Devil’s Point into muchneeded additional parking for the bustling waterfront destination. The work is expected to take six months to complete.
When finished, Royal William Yard will have significantly expanded parking capacity, in addition to having several sustainable travel options on offer.
The project is an extension to the existing Nursery car park, and it has always been part of the long-term plan for Royal William Yard.
The Grade I listed site has been re-imagined by Urban Splash over the last two decades, transforming it from a derelict site into a vibrant destination.
Tom Lowry, development manager at Urban Splash, said: “By delivering more places to park, we are enabling the Yard to better serve everyone that uses and enjoys this unique destination. This project is one of several underway as we continue the regeneration of Royal William Yard – writing the next chapter in a story that’s been two centuries in the making. We want to add value and have a lasting impact on visitors, residents and businesses alike.”
Creating a valuable new space The reservoir – which has been tucked away on the Western King headland – will maintain its historic perimeter wall as the new car park is developed within. In addition to the new spaces being created, the car park will have solar-powered lighting, clear road markings, pedestrian footpaths, and a new pedestrian crossing point.
An access point to the new car park will be created through the wall of Royal William Yard’s existing Nursery car park, with a ramp connecting the two areas and steps for pedestrians. Motorists will also be able to access it via Admiralty Road, through Plymouth City Council’s Devil’s Point car park, which will remain in situ as a public car park but it will be temporarily closed for a short period to enable it to be resurfaced and improved.
For more information, visit www. royalwilliamyard.com and to learn more about Urban Splash and its projects at www. urbansplash.co.uk
Freight company celebrates 50th anniversary with golden trucks
A Plymouth company specialising in refrigerated transport, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the purchase of three new gold coloured trucks, assisted by vehicle and asset finance provider, Ignition.
Armoric Freight currently has a fleet of 13 high-spec, temperature controlled trucks, which are replaced every four years to ensure they remain in prime condition for transporting chilled goods across Europe.
This year, three needed replacing, so directors Kath Lewis and Kevin Willcock decided to mark the company’s special birthday with eyecatching golden livery for each of the three new Volvo, MAN and DAF refrigerated vehicles.
Ignition, based in Truro, has worked with Armoric Freight for many years, providing finance for new trucks on a rolling basis and supporting the company as it has grown.
Kath and Kevin completed a successful management buy out three years ago, and maintained the relationship with Ignition to help ensure a smooth transition. Today, the transport company continues to thrive with a well-established customer base and 28 full-time employees.
Kath Lewis said: “We’re really proud to be celebrating 50 successful years, and our new golden trucks make it even more special! We’re grateful to Paul and the team at Ignition for supporting us over the years, and in particular for helping us to source these brilliant new trucks to mark our big birthday.
“Ignition are very efficient and well-organised, making the financing process simple and hassle-free. We meet at the start of every year to decide which vehicles we’ll need, and everything is put into place. Having regular face-to-face meetings with people who really understand your business is reassuring and makes everything so much easier.”
Paul Caunter, managing director at Ignition added: “Huge congratulations to Kath, Kevin and the team. 50 years on and Armoric Freight is still going from strength-to-strength, providing a great transportation and ambient warehousing service to companies not only in the South West but across Europe. The golden trucks are a great addition to the fleet and look fantastic!”
National award for Plymouth project
A Plymouth project supported by Devon & Cornwall Police has received a national award, recognising the work carried out to engage with young people to reduce alcohol related crime and antisocial behaviour (ASB).
Plymouth Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) is a project that seeks to reduce harm associated with underage alcohol use. Their work has reached over 700 young people.
Involved in the project are a group of local organisations, including Plymouth Community Homes, Youth Outreach teams, and the local neighbourhood police team.Plymouth CAP have received a Spotlight award, recognising the innovative youth engagement work that has been carried out and the positive difference this has had on the community.
The group has been commended for their highly community-centered approach that delivers early intervention and education, fostering sustainable cultural change around alcohol in young communities.
Plymouth CAP were responsible for organising a number of events in Plymouth, including cooking sessions, community events, and
school programmes. All activities had a clear focus on encouraging young people to shift away from harmful behaviours like early alcohol use.
Police Sergeant Mark Williams, who has been involved in the project, said: “We’re so grateful to receive this award – it’s fantastic to see our work being recognised for the positive impact we’ve had on the community together as partners.
“We know alcohol can impact a person’s behaviour and their ability to accurately judge a situation, all of which can contribute to issues such as antisocial behaviour (ASB). Our aim is to keep young people safe and encourage safe decisions by highlighting the issues alcohol can cause.
“This has been an excellent example of how local organisations
can work together to drive real positive change within communities, replacing disruptive and unhealthy behaviours with positive, constructive and enjoyable activities.”
The group also introduced a panel of young people to advise on the events they organise. Sgt Williams continued: “It’s important that we give young people a voice, so they can share what would be beneficial for their wellbeing and their development.
“Our work isn’t about us telling them what they should be doing, but it’s about working with young people to encourage them to make positive choices for themselves.”
CAP is a national organisation that sets up and supports local partnerships that aim to reduce alcohol harm in children and young people, improve their health and well-being and enhance their communities.
“Plymouth CAP’s innovative and community-centered approach has made a significant difference in the lives of young people,” said Kate Winstanley, director of CAP. “Their dedication to early intervention and sustainable cultural change is truly commendable.”
Armoric directors Kath Lewis and Kevin Willcock with one of the new trucks
The new car parking space will be in the former reservoir (below)
Photos: Hannah Hawke
CAP director Kate Winstanley presents the award to Sgt Mark Williams at the ceremony held at the Houses of Parliament
KFC team’s new takeaway special – bags of litter!
Staff from KFC took to the streets of the local area to mark the Great British Spring Clean - the annual nationwide campaign to clean up local communities.
The 11-strong litter picking team from the Marsh Mills eatery were joined on the day by Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Pauline Murphy and her Consort Councillor Mark Coker, collecting more than eight bags of litter.
New research by KFC has revealed that more than 10 per cent of the city’s population have littered in the last year.
However, the research revealed an overwhelming desire among people in Plymouth to have clean and litter free communities. 84% of adults in Plymouth say they hate seeing rubbish in their communities, with a large majority saying that it makes them feel sad and angry.
Joining forces with Keep Britain Tidy’s Greater British Spring Clean for the fifth year running, KFC has a number of measures in place to combat litter in Plymouth.
These include daily litter picks to clean up the streets around their restaurants, training initiatives and anti-littering marketing messages to encourage responsible behaviour.
Plymouth Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Pauline Murphy, said: “Litter is unfortunately a growing problem, which is why initiatives like the Great British Spring Clean are important. I was pleased to spend the morning with KFC collecting litter and hearing what they’re doing to tackle this issue. Littering affects all parts of our community, and I look forward to working with businesses like KFC in the local area to find solutions that keep our streets tidy.”
Jenny Packwood, KFC chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer added:
“Littering has no place on the streets of our towns and cities, nor in the communities we serve. We may be famous for our fried chicken, but with great chicken comes great responsibility. That means being a good neighbour and taking responsibility to help keep our streets clean and tidy.
“We’re pleased to continue our support for Keep Britain Tidy’s Great British Spring Clean for the fifth year running, as we take action alongside the people in our communities to do our part and keep our streets clean.”
Satellite Family Hub opens in Honicknowle
Plymouth’s first Family Hub satellite site has opened at the YMCA in Honicknowle.
Family Hubs support families from pregnancy through until children are 19-years-old, or up to 25-years-old for young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities.
As a satellite site, YMCA Plymouth will serve as an extension to the nearby Four Woods Family Hub on Crownhill Road which is operated by Barnardo’s. This new initiative will bring essential Family Hub services closer to families in the local area, making the support on offer more accessible and convenient, reducing barriers such as distance and transportation challenges.
Services offered at the YMCA satellite site will include parenting support, early years activities and workshops, which will all be coordinated by the Four Woods Family Hub team.
Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Children’s Social Care, said: “This is a really exciting development. Only last week we launched our eleventh and final dedicated Family Hub in Plymouth, and now we’re opening our first satellite location.
“The satellites are all about making the services provided by Family Hubs as inclusive and accessible as possible. They will really help us to target communities where support is most needed.
“The YMCA already provide so many valuable services to local residents of all ages, so we’re delighted to be working with them to deliver the first satellite Family Hub.”
Tom Lavis, chief executive of YMCA Plymouth, said: “Being selected as Plymouth City Council’s first Family Hub satellite site is truly one of the highlights of our recent growth strategy. It is an incredible honour and testament to the dedication of the YMCA Plymouth team, who already serve¬†over 25,000 people in our community annually.”
Other locations across the city that may be suitable for satellite Family Hubs are now being considered.
For more information about Family Hubs in Plymouth visit www. plymouth.gov.uk/family-hubs.
FRIDAY 11 JULY
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New Plymouth College War Memorial will honour all pupils lost in service
Plymouth College is holding a commemoration service to honour the pupils lost in service for their country since the founding of the school in 1887.
The service will take place at Plymouth College on the June 6 at 2pm and will be conducted by the Rt Revd James Grier Bishop of Plymouth.
Luke Pollard MP who is currently the Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for the Armed forces will be unveiling the Memorial which comprises of a large granite stone sourced locally from Caradon Quarry. The Bronze plaque has also been sourced locally using The Sign Maker at Yelland Farm, Umberleigh.
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Members of the school’s Combined Cadet Force will be parading at the service and pupils from the school will be playing the Last Post and performing in the choir. Former pupils of the school (OPMs) will also be in attendance.
Plymouth College, which has a proud affiliation with the armed forces and even
now has a very active Combined Cadet Force representing all three services, has prepared many pupils for a long and successful career in the armed forces.
At various stages in history the school grounds were used as a mobilisation centre for various Army Regiments and Royal Marines in particular during the First World War. Tragically, during the two world wars Plymouth College lost 171 pupils, 103 in the First World War and 68 in the Second World war.
Although wooden honours boards were made depicting the names of those fallen, over the years they have become worn and faded. The new memorial, which also includes the names of those fallen in subsequent conflicts including Major Jason Ward RM who lost his life in 2003 in Iraq. will be a permanent fitting memorial potentially lasting hundreds of years.
With approximately 560 pupils currently at Plymouth College the new Memorial will be a fitting reminder of the sacrifices that former
pupils have made in service to their country.
As the memorial will be situated outside the Main Reception any visitors to the school will be able to view and pay their respects to those former pupils.
Anyone who has a connection with the school or is an OPM and would like to attend the service, then please contact: Jcox@ plymouthcollege.com
Contractor appointed for £13 million adult centre
A new facility for adults with complex needs and learning disabilities in Plymouth is one step closer to becoming a reality, following the appointment of the building contractors.
Devon Contractors has been awarded a £9 million contract by Plymouth City Council to build the facility, which will be based on the site of a former council depot on Outland Road.
It will offer both a day service and respite care, with seven en-suite bedrooms, seven self-contained flats and accommodation for support staff.
A wide range of communal spaces will be available to customers, including activity rooms, dining facilities, a quiet room, a TV lounge and a sensory room.
The facility will also offer a Changing Places toilet which will be open for public use, with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adultsized changing benches and space for carers to meet the needs of people with disabilities. When it opens, the facility will replace the services currently offered at The Vine in Whitleigh and Colwill Lodge in Estover.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member
for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “This is going to be fantastic for adults with learning disabilities and their families, providing a modern, purpose-built environment where they can receive the help and support they need.
“Our priority is to make Plymouth a great place to live for all of our residents and I’m
really pleased that we’ve now appointed Devon Contractors and can move forward with building this vitally important facility.” The council has invested a total of £12.8 million into the project. Devon Contractors will start work on site later this year, with the new building due to open during summer 2026.
Artist’s impression of the new adult centre in Outland Road
Planners give green light for new country park at Saltram
Ambitious plans to create a huge new country park on the Saltram Estate have been approved by planners at Plymouth City Council.
Saltram attracted over 930,000 visits in 2023 and the plans submitted by the National Trust are designed to provide greater access to nature, walking, cycling and other outdoor activities with. An area of 79 acres at Wixenford – equivalent to 60 football pitches – currently used as farmland will become ‘Saltram East’ and is currently within the countryside park boundary, south east of Saltram.
The plans include provision of new and improved access to, and enjoyment of the Saltram Estate and for local residents; improved active travel links in the vicinity; improved biodiversity; and, facilitate a diversion of some visitor facilities and recreational infrastructure away from the historic part of the estate. This will in turn allow for improved protection and conservation of the Saltram Mansion, gardens and existing historic Parkland.
The location of Saltram East sits at a key intersection of the proposed network of active travel, commuting and recreational routes envisaged for the country park, which help to encourage more sustainable modes of transport. Integral to this is the major new east-to-west route, which would be delivered in partnership between Plymouth City Council, the National Trust and private developers, and would serve as a crosscommunity connection, helping to connect the new
The planning approval includes the delivery of approximately 2.5km of new accessible multi-user trails and improvement to 1.5km of existing trails, which connects to the wider estate network of trails.
The new and upgraded trails will connect to the existing riverside walk and also provide a new public access at Colesdown Hill, supporting Plymouth City Council’s ambition for the Eastern Corridor walking and cycling network.
A long-term ‘Future Saltram’ programme also aims to shape the next chapter in the estate’s rich history, fostering a sense of pride among Plymothians. It will provide more ways to connect the city and its communities with heritage, nature, and green space. It has been prepared by the National Trust to manage sustainable development and conservation of the Saltram Estate.
The programme offers a major opportunity to deliver a transformational change to the estate through the overarching strategic objectives of Everyone Welcome and Climate Action, the National Trust has set, and in doing so enhance visitor experience of one of Plymouth’s most loved sites.
Over the next decade, the planned changes to the Saltram Estate will:
• Open up more of the estate to the public with the free-to-use Saltram East Country Park
• Restore parts of the historic landscape and associated views
• Create and enhance habitats for wildlife
• Support well-being through connections with heritage and nature
• Improve visitor facilities and infrastructure across the estate
• Offer better access and connections to Saltram for local communities
In turn, the opportunity presented by the programme supports the management and operations at the site across all of the National Trust’s strategic priorities. The programme will widen access to nature and heritage, allowing for a broadening of the audience for Saltram and increasing the number of people in the local community who think of it as a place ‘for them.’
settlements of Saltram Meadow and Sherford.
© National Trust Images/Paul Harris
© National Trust Images/James Dobson
Funding go-ahead for new schoolbased nursery at Laira Green Primary School
Laira Green Primary School’s plans to create a school-based nursery within their school have received a huge boost thanks to new Government funding.
The school set out its plans in November last year and carried out a consultation. It has now been awarded capital funding from the Department for Education to develop its new nursery, Laira Green Preschool, which will provide teacher-led, play-based care.
In December, the school agreed with the local authority that it would lower its age range to start from two-years-old, so the nursery will support two, three and four-year-olds.
The funding will be used to reconfigure areas of the school building to offer a purpose-built environment for younger children to enjoy.
An old conservatory on the school site will be demolished and replaced with a huge canopy to provide indoor-outdoor play spaces, whatever the weather.
Claire Jones, headteacher at Laira Green Primary School, said: “We are thrilled to receive this grant for our school-based nursery at Laira Green Primary School. This funding will be instrumental in enhancing our early years provision and ensuring that our youngest learners have access to the best possible start in their educational journey.
“The grant will allow us to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that supports the development and growth of all our pupils and is a pivotal step in realising our vision for early childhood education, providing enriched learning experiences and high-quality resources that will benefit both our children and dedicated staff.
“I’m also delighted to say that all families that have already applied for a space will receive the hours they’ve requested and be able to benefit from their full entitlement of funded hours. We do still have some spaces available and welcome any further applications.”
Laira Green Primary School is a local authority-maintained school and the funding application was supported by Plymouth City Council.
Laira Green Primary School is one of three Plymouth schools to benefit from the schoolbased nursery funding, with Boringdon Primary School and Plympton St Mary C of E Infant School also successful in their applications.
Luke Pollard MP, Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “I am thrilled that we have secured government funding for a new school-based nursery at Laira Green Primary School.
“I want to praise the Head and the school team for their hard work. This funding will give more kids the best start in life.
“Laira Green is now a trailblazer for improving childcare. The children and parents deserve nothing less and I’ve been pleased to back this successful bid for extra funding.”
Anyone who wishes to apply for a place for their child at the new Laira Green Preschool can visit the school office for more information or apply online at www.lairagreen.greenhousecms.co.uk/EYFS/ Laira-Green-Preschool/
Residents in Plymouth will decide if the city should have an elected mayor when a Referendum campaign group now called ‘Mayor for Plymouth’ which was spearheaded by Angus Forbes, former the city and in this special Chronicle feature the views of those in favour of and those against but it is likely to take place in July or August this year.
‘Lack of leadership has hampered city’s growth’
The ‘Mayor For Plymouth’ campaign explains why having a Mayor is best for our city in this Q&A. The campaign successfully gained 10,800 valid signatures, triggering a Referendum. We thank every single citizen who went out of their way to give Plymouth this important opportunity for a better future.
WHAT IS IT ALL ABOUT?
On Referendum day, the citizens of Plymouth can choose how the leader of Plymouth City Council is selected. At present, the leader can only be a councillor, who is then chosen by other councillors (indirect democracy).
The alternative is the leader can be any citizen, chosen directly by the people (direct democracy).
This is known as a Mayor who is elected by voters, although this wording might change on the ballot paper.
Having a leader who can be any citizen, creates the space for Plymouth’s best leaders from all fields to come forward to lead their city. A councillor can resign and then stand for leader. Secondly, we the people choose our leader directly. Not having these two elements of direct democracy, has held Plymouth back for 26 years.
WHY IS DIRECT DOMOCRACY AND HAVING A MAYOR, A BETTER MODEL OF GOVERNANCE?
A. You get to choose a leader who you actually want, someone who inspires you with a vision of your city. You get to choose someone who is a leader of place, not political party.
B. More talent with more real world experience. Plymouth has so many great leaders across the city: in the armed forces, manufacturing, health, business, the arts and other areas, who will be able to come forward as a candidate for leader, bypassing the narrow party political process. Our best leaders are more ambitious, they come with real world experience and they can unite us with their vision for the city.
C. Accountability. Any candidate has to say exactly what they are going to achieve for us in their four year term. If they do not deliver, then we vote them out. At present there is no such accountability.
D. Economic growth. Business people respond really well to a leader who has been chosen by tens of thousands of citizens. It gives them a credibility that investors understand.
WHY DOES PLYMOUTH NEED A MAYOR?
In a word…failure.
For the last 26 years since we became a Unitary Authority, the councillor-only model has failed and failed again. Our economy has gone nowhere (real GDP per capita was unchanged between 2001 and 2023 Source
ONS), our city centre is ugly and 78,000 citizens live in poverty (ONS census 2019). And now we have £1bn of debt. We asked leaders in Plymouth - everyone from shop owners to community builders, school teachers to senior people in the Navy, manufacturing and the arts - why are we not achieving our potential as a city and they all said: the lack of leadership derived from the over-politicised councillor system.
HOW WILL HAVING A MAYOR BENEFIT THE PEOPLE OF PLYMOUTH?
Being a leader of place not political party, Mayor’s forge the immeasurable asset of collective belief and attract private capital and private citizens to grow the economy. Simply put, a councillor can’t. A Mayor is likely to open the airport within two years, double the size of the economy in just 10 years and push average wages up towards the English average, which are £7,972 higher. In driving economic growth, council service provision improves with greater tax receipts. Greater tax receipts also allow us to pay down some of the crippling £1bn of debt that the Councillor system has accumulated. A Mayor can refurbish the train station, attract an IKEA, make Plymouth the digital and creative hub of the South West and help attract funding for a 35,000 seat Home Park stadium. A Mayor can realise the potential of our city and make all our lives better.
HOW MUCH WILL HAVING A MAYOR COST?
It will SAVE Plymouth £250k a year.
Assuming we pay the new leader £80k vs the current £50k (£80k is the average wage of a Unitary Authority Mayor) and given that the Mayor can have cabinet consisting of 2-9 councillors, if they move to four from the current nine, this saves £130k. Immediately changing to a four electoral cycle for councillors, as was the will of Plymothians in the September 2024 review, will save a further £150k per annum (Firsk report 2024). The current leader ignored this and stayed with one thirds model to retain his power. These numbers add up to saving of £250k. in 2001 the current leader ran the ‘million pound mayor’ campaign to scare people in the previous referendum, and now he has made up the £1.5m figure. Plymouth City Council has been asked to justify the £1.5m number via a Freedom of Information request and their answer was: ‘The council does not hold this information.’ Of course they don’t, because it is a fiction.
IF WE GET A MAYOR, WILL THE GOVERNMENT JUST REMOVE IT AFTER A FEW YEARS?
No. The new white paper indicates that the new government is not stopping local authorities having leaders chosen by direct democracy (Mayors), but they will ‘discontinue the individual Local Authority devolution model in its mayoral form.’ That is, stop
local authorities having Mayors in order to access devolution powers at the small Unitary Authority level. That is not what Plymouth would be doing in any way. Sir Peter Soulsby (Leicester Mayor) has not once referred to the possibility of his office being removed. IS IT TRUE THERE WILL BE NO MORE POWER AND NO MORE MONEY?
Yes, this is true. The Mayor, by simply holding the leader’s job, will have no more power within the structure of the council. And there will be no more money from Central Government. This will come via the regional Mayor’s office in the future. But right now, this is not what we need most! We need to create the space for our best leaders to come forward so we can directly choose a highcalibre leader with real-world experience, capable of doubling the size of our economy, halving VAWG and improving the lives of all. WHY ARE THE COUNCILLORS SO AGAINST THE IDEA?
In many ways this referendum is about power. Should the Councillors have it (indirect democracy), or should the people have it (direct democracy)? The proposition of having a Mayor is a threat to Councillors holding all the power and operating in their highly politicised and tribal system. If a non-political leader is chosen by the people, they could easily create a smaller cross party cabinet and rearrange those leading committees, thereby altering the remuneration and the absolute hold on power that councillors have currently. WHAT ABOUT THE LORD MAYOR?
Our Lord Mayor is a cherished ceremonial position without leadership power, and will remain.
For more information visit www. mayorforplymouth.com
Angus Forbes
Referendum is held later this year. The petition which secured the Referendum was organised by a former banker and husband of Dame Darcy Bussell. The Referendum has divided opinion in against an elected mayor are presented. The date for the Referendum has yet to be announced,
‘No to a City Mayor’- voices from across Plymouth
El Clarke, Clean Our Patch: Spend money on our streets, not another politician
Look, I’m not saying the council is perfect. But at least we know who they are, and we can vote them out if they don’t do their job. Now I hear a small group want to shove another politician on top, paying them a fat £80k salary while we’re still dealing with the same old problems? No chance.
A Directly Elected Mayor won’t fix Plymouth’s problems. They won’t be out there picking up the rubbish, sorting the potholes, or making sure services actually work. They’ll be sat in an office, making big promises while the rest of us crack on.
They say a DEM will ‘get things done’ - but how? With what money? We’re not getting more funding, and they won’t have any new powers. The referendum alone costs £410,000! That’s us taxpayers picking up the tab for another layer of politicians. If there’s spare cash, it should go into sorting out our communities, not another bloke in a suit telling us they know best.
Keith Tupman, 27 years in the Royal Marines: For every complex problem, there’s a solution that is simple, neat, and wrong
Plymouth has its problems and Plymothians quite rightly want better for themselves, their families and their neighbours but handing all the executive power to one politician won’t fix that complex dynamic. That’s exactly what this costly DEM will be: a one person ‘my way or the highway’.
Leadership by permission matters, as does accountability. When one person makes all the decisions, without proper checks and balances, bad calls get made and once applied, they can’t be undone. That can lead to mistakes that Plymothians would be coping with for four long years.
Multi-millionaire Angus Forbes tells us we need his DEM to ‘stand up’ for Plymouth. Will that indebted individual be just another low-grade politician looking after their mates? Councillors are answerable to all of us. A DEM wouldn’t be and that should worry anyone who wants real, fully considered change, not just ‘Simple Solutions’.
This isn’t politics left or right. If the system isn’t perfect, don’t throw the baby out with the bath water: hold our city’s politicians to account but don’t hand one person all the power, hoping they’ll use it wisely.
Luke Pollard MP and Fred Thomas MP: Winning for Plymouth is a team sport
Plymouth thrives when we all work together. Leadership should be about teamwork, not concentrating power in one person’s hands. That’s why we oppose the idea of a directly elected mayor for Plymouth. We understand why people want change. After years of Tory mismanagement, Plymouth has deserved better for a long time. But the solution isn’t ripping up Plymouth’s current governance model for one with no new money and no new powers that has failed elsewhere.
Directly elected mayors - which are completely different from combined authority mayors like Andy Burnham - often create division, not unity. They sideline your community representatives, reduce accountability, and centralise decision-making in ways that don’t work for people.
By the way, this mayor with no new money and no new powers will cost you, the taxpayer, £1.5 million a year.
Plymouth doesn’t need a directly elected mayor; it needs a team of dedicated local people working together to get things done.
We won’t stand by when people try to talk Plymouth down. We are a city on the up and change is coming - but it must be the right kind of change. Let’s build a better Plymouth together, not gamble on a failed experiment that has been abandoned by towns and cities across the country.
Plymouth set to celebrate VE Day 80
Plymouth will celebrate VE Day 80 with a special day of activities on The Hoe. The event on Thursday May 8 on The Hoe will be packed with excitement, entertainment, and heartfelt remembrance. Funded by Plymouth City Council, with support from Babcock, VE Day 80 will start at 10.30am with a flag-raising ceremony and a full parade of Standards at the Belvedere, featuring the Royal Navy Guard and ships in Plymouth Sound.
The festivities will then continue throughout the day with live music on The Hoe, an evening concert, vibrant street party, stalls, and vintage vehicles, with the evening concluding with a Sunset Guard lighting the Plymouth beacon at 8.40pm.
Across the country, millions will be dancing, singing, and partying in the streets to celebrate the end of the war. Plymouth City Council is making it easier for local people to join in by suspending road closure fees for street parties between Thursday May 8 and Sunday May 11. This will hopefully encourage local people to come together with their neighbours to have their own community celebrations. The deadline to apply for a road closure is April 11.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for eents, said: “This will be a fantastic community event to celebrate VE Day 80. It’s a chance for us all to give thanks and remember those who lost their lives during the war, and to reflect on the past.
Plymouth City Council is proud to be organising a day of celebration on The Hoe. And, whilst residents and communities will need to buy their own Victoria sponges, we are happy to wave the cost of road closures, to enable communities to come together to organise their own celebrations.”
For more information about VE Day 80 in Plymouth, go to the www.visitplymouth.co.uk
Tina Scott, healthcare worker: I went to a Yes to Mayor meeting, and it shocked me
I started out with an open mind. I wanted to hear both sides, and went to a public meeting about this city mayor idea. Honestly? I was shocked.
I expected straight answers to basic questions - how will this bring more money to Plymouth? How will it actually improve services? What happens if the mayor makes bad decisions? But the people pushing it couldn’t answer. They just kept saying ‘trust us, it’ll be better.’ That’s not good enough. It’s not just throwing the baby out with the bath water, it’s throwing out the bath and kitchen sink too.
Then there’s the talk about bringing in big developments to Plymouth. We’ve got a beautiful waterfront - one of the best in the country. I don’t want to see that ruined by deals pushed through with no proper debate or scrutiny. Once we lose what makes Plymouth special, we don’t ever get it back.
A city mayor isn’t about giving us more say - it’s so bad they binned the idea in other places that tried it, like Torbay and Bristol. If the people pushing for it can’t even answer simple questions, how can we trust them?
Michael Fletcher, former Lord Mayor: Plymouth is making remarkable progress even in tough times
As someone who has proudly served as Lord Mayor and continues to keep a keen and watchful eye on city politics with interest, I know how important our city’s traditions are - not just as symbols, but as part of what makes Plymouth strong. We don’t need to throw away our institutions to see progress. Look at what we’ve achieved recently, even in difficult times. Indeed, Plymouth is now the highest performing city in the annual PWC Good Growth for Cities Index.
We’ve got a lot going for us as a city. The Civic Centre’s transformation, over 5,000 new homes planned for the city centre, Armada Way back on track, investment in youth centres, The Box gaining global recognition, and a private sector investment pipeline of a remarkable £5.5bn. Plymouth is moving forward because of the current approach that respects our past while building for the future.
I don’t like people talking down Plymouth when we’ve achieved so much. A city mayor isn’t the answer - we need to keep working with what has delivered results in the tough times, not risk chaos for the sake of change.
Fred Thomas MP and Luke Pollard MP
Tina Scott
Michael Fletcher
El Clarke
Keith Tupman
Popular Freedom Community Festival
celebrates 25th anniversary in May
Freedom Community Festival is back for two days to celebrate its 25th anniversary on May 24 and 25 at Freedom Fields Park in Lipson.
The festival volunteer team are working hard to make this year one of the best yet. There will be a great variety of local live music, stalls, catering, licensed bar, inflatables, community group services information plus a dedicated family area offering various activities.
The Freedom Community Festival is an annual free event that brings people together to celebrate the diverse community of the city.
The Festival is organised and run by a team of dedicated, generous volunteers who work tirelessly to make it all happen. With support from local organisations performing artists, local people, sponsors, and grants.
Event details:
Saturday and Sunday May 24 and 25 11am – 7pm (6pm Sun)
Freedom Fields Park, Plymouth, PL4 8RJ
For more information please visit: www.freedomcommunityfestival.org or the Facebook page: Freedom Community Festival.
All-action launch to reveal plans for Plymouth Armed Forces Day
A high-speed commando race across the sound marked the official launch of Plymouth Armed Forces Day - 100 days before the event on Plymouth Hoe on June 28.
The adrenalin fuelled launch saw an all-action military exercise, as part of a Royal Marines recruitment drive to inspire the next generation of Commandos. The event included a high-speed on-water display, bringing eight Royal Marines from the recruiting team of the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, across Plymouth Sound National Marine Park in their new Commando Raiding Craft, flying the Armed Forces and sponsor’s flag.
After landing on the Hoe foreshore, the Royal Marines climbed the 70ft walls of The Royal Citadel to the battlements, before the Armed Forces flag was presented to the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Tina Tuohy. The flag was proudly flown from the battlements of the Citadel. The Marines departed by abseiling the Citadel walls and returning to their craft.
The launch revealed detailcs of the programme of displays, parades, demonstrations and entertainment planned for Armed Forces Day, in association with defence company Babcock International Group (Babcock), which owns and operates the Devonport Royal Dockyard.
Plymouth Armed Forces Day is a celebration and a chance for the public to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community. It is expected that over 45,000 people will flock to Plymouth Hoe, to enjoy the free family-fun event.
There will be plenty of action-packed activities and displays to experience throughout the day, including the Royal Navy Dive Tank. Visitors can chat to service personnel, with representatives from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Air Force and British Army in attendance. Members of the Fire Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, RNLI and
Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team Plymouth will also be there on the day, all with lots of hands-on equipment to try.
The Veteran’s Village will be full of charities and organisations that offer support and advice for both serving personnel and veterans.
The entertainment continues into the evening
Plymouth’s young heroes are once again set to be recognised as the nominations for this year’s Plymouth Youth Awards go live.
The opening of this year’s nominations was officially launched by the organisers, YMCA Plymouth, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in March, along with headline sponsors Plymouth City Council and host of other businesses and organisations from across the city.
The awards acknowledge the outstanding contributions and achievements that young people in Plymouth make, whether it’s through simple day-to-day acts of kindness or entrepreneurial endeavours which change lives.
Any young person aged 21 or under who is living in Plymouth can be nominated and the nominations
with a free outdoor music concert from 5.30pm to 10.30pm, sponsored by C&G Catering, featuring the jive jump band Company B, Not the Cowboys and Oasis tribute Be Here Now. For all the latest information about Plymouth Armed Forces Day, visit: www. plymoutharmedforcesday.co.uk.
Youth Awards
are open until April 30. Tom Lavis, chief executive of YMCA Plymouth said: “At YMCA Plymouth we believe passionately about supporting and empowering our city’s young people and our wider community. These awards are a fantastic way for us to shine a spotlight on the many incredible young people we have in our city. Young people who have overcome adversity, raised awareness and funds for vital causes, made an impact by volunteering, or gone above and beyond to spread kindness and brighten other’s days - they all deserve to be celebrated.
“Young people don’t always get this recognition in our society, so we think these awards are vitally important and we’re proud to be organising these awards for the second year with 16 inspiring categories to honour our youth.”
The award categories and their sponsors: Unsung Hero Award - Plymouth Marjon University Sportsperson of the Year - Doorcare SW Ltd Inspirational Person of the Year - The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner Arts and Culture Award - Azets
Young Employee Award - Babcock International Group Young Carer Award - University Hospitals
“A huge thank you to our headline sponsor Plymouth City Council for supporting this incredible event as well as the many award category sponsors. These awards are only made possible thanks to their support joining us and our Discovery College to enable us all to Come together and celebrate the youth of our city.”
The grand final will be held on June 14 at Crowne Plaza Plymouth, hosted by David FitzGerald.
Dance legend Toby Gorniak chatting to a young winner in 2024
Lifelines
As a young child growing up in a close-knit family in Cardiff, Tina Cross had her whole life to look forward to.
Sadly, that all changed when she was just eight years old after her mother and father divorced - something which was rare and frowned upon in the early 1960s.
“I didn’t realise anything was wrong with their relationship,” said Tina. “It was my eighth birthday and my dad gave me a new bike and he then told me they weren’t getting on and were selling the house and getting divorced.
“It was devastating and I really thought it was all my fault. In my head I figured that if I trashed the house they wouldn’t be able to sell it and wouldn’t be able to get divorced.”
She did trash the house, but unfortunately the plan didn’t work as the divorce went through. Tina was not allowed to stay with her mum or dad and was sent to live with her elderly grandmother and aunt and uncle.
“I tried to be as good as I could so that people would love me,” she added. “But I always felt like I was alone and nobody loved me or wanted me.”
Tina worked hard at school, passed her 11 plus and went to one of the top grammar schools in Cardiff. When her grandmother died her auntie and uncle didn’t want her so she moved in with her dad and his new wife, but her life was disrupted again when they relocated to another part of the city and she had to move to a new school - losing her best friend in the process.
Nuisance
The power of God’s love freed Tina from decades of drug addiction
my life. After about a year I was back into crime again.”
By then Tina was seriously addicted to heroin and had also become involved in drug dealing.
“I was in a seriously dark, horrible place and was so badly affected by years of injecting drugs that I couldn’t walk without sticks,” said Tina.
It was 1991 and Tina was at the infamous White Goddess Free Festival near Camelford selling drugs when she met her future husband and fellow drug addict Dave Cross, who was known as ‘busker Dave.’ He moved in with Tina - but not for long.
“He was a bit of a waster and I kicked him out - but he ended up stealing my car and my drugs,” she said.
Despite her anger, she took him back in a few months later - only to discover that in the meantime Dave had experienced a dramatic encounter with God and had became a bornagain Christian.
“He was suddenly all religious and that really annoyed me. I had always believed in God but I saw him as a man with a long grey beard with a stick ready to beat us ,” she said.
A friend then gave Dave tickets to the Cross Rhythms Festival in 1993 - but Tina didn’t realise it was a Christian music festival.
“I cried out to Jesus: ‘If you are who you say you are, you need to do what you say you can do’ as my faith was in syringes.
“From that moment I was freed from my addiction. I never injected again and apart from spending a couple of days in bed I had no withdrawal symptoms. God just changed me in that moment.”
It was a dramatic start of a new life for Tina and Dave. They married later in 1993 and Tina’s daughter Emma was one of the bridesmaids. It was a very emotional moment for Tina.
“Emma and I are now very close and I am proud to have two wonderful grandchildren,” she said.
Over the last 30 years Tina and Dave’s deep Christian faith has enabled them to work with and support drug users, the homeless, young offenders and victims of domestic violence. They also became foster carers.
Both now retired, they attend the Redeemer Church at Brickfields and are actively involved in the work of the church.
Tina said: “God has been so good - His love never fails and we now have a hope and a future.
“I felt like I was a nuisance to everybody. I didn’t get on with my step mum and really started rebelling. I couldn’t understand what was happening and I remember at the age of 12 I made a conscious decision to be bad as nobody liked me when I was good.”
She was barely a teenager when she was introduced to smoking cannabis by some older friends and within no time Tina was off the rails doing all types of drugs. Her life then deteriorated into chaos as she started injecting heroin. Her relationship with her dad and step mum went rapidly downhill and she turned to petty thieving to fund her habit. Her step mum reported to the authorities that Tina was out of parental control and she was moved to an approved school based on a farm in Wiltshire.
She spent two years in Wiltshire and at the age of 15 was sent back home to Wales to live with her dad and step mum again.
Tina attended secretarial college for a year and life seemed to be getting back on track. But within a year she was injecting heroin again and involved with heavy drugs. Her criminal activity increased and she was sent to Borstal and spent many months behind bars.
After being released she became pregnant at the age of 22 and gave birth to her daughter Emma.
“I was still a junkie, but I only smoked dope, I didn’t inject during my pregnancy,” said Tina. “I tried to be a good mum but my habit ruled
Emma was in and out of care in the following years and after Tina had served another lengthy sentence for a host of offences her daughter was taken into foster care at the age of eight.
“I didn’t see her again until she was 11 when she told me she didn’t want anything to do with me,” said Tina.
They didn’t have contact for several years after that, during which time Tina had moved to Cornwall.
During the event Tina decided to go into one of the marquees filled with hundreds of festival goers where a preacher was giving a talk about Godly ‘blood covenants’.
“I suddenly felt that everybody could see what was going on in my life. I felt dirty and ashamed and then I heard an audible voice say ‘I love you, I love you just as you are.’
“I just started to sob, I was sobbing and sobbing and was then taken to another meeting where healing was taking place and as people prayed for me I fell on the floor in bits.
God has been so good to us.”
Tina recently shared her story on Cross Rhythms. Click on the QR code for a link
Produced By:
Tina Cross
Big investment in city’s bus network with £4.5m grant
Plymouth’ s bus network is to receive a £4.5 million investment from April, in partnership with local operators.
A programme of improvements for the coming year, developed in line with the city’s Bus Service Improvement Plan and funded by the Department for Transport’ s 2025/26 Bus Grant, was approved today.
The improvements will help achieve the Plymouth Enhanced Bus Partnership’s vision to ‘create a thriving bus network where everyone can be connected to important people and places, by services that are frequent, reliable, fast, affordable, safe and clean, which will also help Plymouth to achieve its net zero goals by 2030.’
They include:
• extra investment in subsidised services, with more frequent services, more days of operation and new services providing connections between communities
• a new real time passenger information system, replacing the ageing digital bus shelter displays
• improved passenger information, including new facilities for passengers with visual impairments
• the recently announced new Service 19 bus to and from The Park crematorium, along with new bus stops and a pedestrian crossing
• improvements at the park and ride sites, such as height barriers at the George Junction park and ride
• support for the Royal Parade improvements scheme
• continued staffing of the George Junction park and ride travel centre
• continued personalised travel planning, providing residents with oneto-one advice on Plymouth’ s bus services
• a review of the multi-operator ‘Skipper’ ticket to make it better
The programme supports seven of the nine identified passenger priorities within the Bus Service Improvement Plan.
Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure said: “This is the first time the council has received both capital and revenue funding for our Bus Service Improvement Plan. It’s therefore a great opportunity to provide the bus services people need and the infrastructure to support them, in terms of better passenger information system and new bus stops.”
...but
parking charges are set to rise by 20p an hour
Parking charges are set to increase in Plymouth.
Over the past 12 months the City Council has a made a number of improvements to support motorists, including the creation of over 400 extra wide spaces, expanding payment options, increasing the maximum stay on street in the city centre, and introducing business permits in some loading areas.
However, increases need to made to parking charges to cover rising costs and the rate of inflation. The plans offer motorists a greater choice of parking and payment options, make tariffs and permit schemes more consistent and brings Plymouth’s parking charges more in line with other parts of the country.
One of the most significant changes is the move from separate daytime and evening tariffs to a single charging period. This will make parking tariffs simpler and ensure that motorists receive their full parking time, instead of losing time if parking is booked within an hour of the changeover between rates. Other changes include:
• Increasing On Street parking by 20p per hour.
• Adjusting permit costs for inflation, calculated back to April 2024.
• Raising some short stay car park tariffs, while longer stays remain unchanged.
• Applying inflationary increases to the cost of applying for and installing a disabled driver parking space (DDPS), removing the current subsidy. This will help protect the future of these services, supporting people with disabilities.
• Reintroducing the 20p RingGo convenience fee, previously covered by the Council since the pandemic.
• Launching a campaign to remind people that they can use their remaining parking time in other locations.
The changes are due to come into effect on April 14.
Councillor Mark Coker, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Over the past year we have heavily invested in parking arrangements across the city.
“But like most local authorities, our financial challenges, due to rising costs and demand mean that we do need to make some alterations to our charging policy.
“These changes are essential for ensuring the sustainability of our services and making our parking system more user-friendly. By moving to a single charging period and adjusting fees, we are addressing long-standing issues and aligning our charges with other cities.
“We are committed to supporting motorists and visitors, and these changes will help us continue to provide high-quality services.”
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
Plymouth champions coastal community growth as report is launched at Parliament
A new, major study aimed at revitalising Britain’s coastal communities has been launched at Parliament, with representatives from Plymouth playing a pivotal role in its development.
On the Waterfront is groundbreaking research and was unveiled at an All-Party Parliamentary Group meeting by Key Cities. The report underscores the immense potential of coastal communities to drive national growth and calls for urgent investment and strategic focus.
Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council and the portfolio lead for Coastal Communities and Ports for Key Cities, opened the launch event. He said: “This report is a game-changer and Plymouth, with its rich maritime heritage, is ready to lead the charge.
“Our coastal communities can be engines of creativity and growth, and it’s time we harness that potential. The strategies outlined in this report – focused on empowerment, protection, connection, and investment – are foundational to our success. I hope this serves as a clarion call for our new Government to act swiftly and decisively.
“As Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth is at the forefront of this movement, ready to create a vibrant and sustainable future for all coastal communities.”
The report was produced by the Key Cities Innovation Network, in collaboration with the Centre for Coastal Communities at the University of Plymouth and other universities across the country. It reveals the stark socio-economic disparities faced by traditional coastal communities across the country.
However, despite half a century of decline, these areas hold the key to economic resilience, social equity, and environmental stewardship. The message is in the report is clear; those living in coastal communities may have a different type of identity to that of the big-city dwellers, yet their livelihood remains just as important.
The event was attended by city leaders, Parliamentarians, university leaders and stakeholders from across the Key Cities network, highlighting the growing ambition for the UK’s coastal communities.
This includes a host of Plymouth representatives, including Councillor Evans, along with Professor Sheena Asthana and Professor Sheela Agarwal from the University of Plymouth, along with Councillor Jemima Laing, Councillor Rebecca Smith MP and Richard Allan, Harbour Master.
The report sets out 28 recommendations to empower,
protect, connect, and invest in coastal communities. These include engaging with coastal communities to innovate hyperlocal public services, coordinating policy through a Cross-Departmental Task Force, and establishing long-term funding streams for strategic development
Other recommendations focus on adopting inclusive definitions of coastal communities in official statistics, and reviewing funding allocation criteria to better reflect deprivation and opportunity.
Key Cities is a dynamic network of 27 urban centres across England and Wales, including Plymouth. The Key Cities Innovation Network brings together universities to develop innovative solutions for urban and coastal challenges. This collaboration aims to promote economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability by advocating for policies tailored to the unique needs of these communities.
Content creator Flynn represents Plymouth on the global stage
Film & TV Club.
The annual SXSW festival, known for celebrating film, music, and digital innovation, provided Flynn with the opportunity to engage with major industry players and explore the evolving landscape of entertainment.
During the event, Flynn attended the world premiere of Another Simple Favor, featuring Anna Kendrick and Blake Lively and participated in discussions with industry professionals, including writer and producer Issa Rae.
Flynn also collaborated with Paramount+ and explored digital storytelling initiatives with Spotify and Amazon Prime Video.
Speaking about the experience, Flynn described it as an eye-opening opportunity to see how digital content is shaping the entertainment industry.
“SXSW 2025 was an experience I’ll never forget. From walking the red carpet with Hollywood stars to engaging in conversations with industry legends like Issa Rae and collaborating with major platforms like TikTok, Spotify, and Paramount+, this opportunity was truly surreal.
“To think my journey started right here in Plymouth and has now taken me to events like the BAFTAs and SXSW‚ is incredible!”
Flynn, who studied at Plymouth University, has more than 115,000 followers on TikTok and 42,000 on Instagram.
Now back in Plymouth, Flynn plans to apply what he has learned to his own creative projects and hopes to encourage other local content creators to explore new digital opportunities. His journey highlights the growing role of digital media in entertainment and the potential for Plymouth’s creative talent to reach international audiences.
Busketeers celebrate 10th anniversary with special tour
The Busketeers, a four-piece band from Plymouth, are set to mark their 10th anniversary with a special tour in 2025.
Known for their dynamic performances and ability to seamlessly interchange instruments, the Busketeers haver built a strong following since their early days busking on the streets of Plymouth.
The group consists of Kendall Williams, Luke Engel (also a member of Wild Fenn), Matthew Gordon Price and Olly Parker. Over the past decade, they have developed a distinctive sound that blends elements of folk, rock, and pop, earning them recognition from platforms such as BBC Introducing in 2018. Their live performances, characterised by tight harmonies and high energy, have taken them from local venues to some of the UK’s major festivals, including Boardmasters, Bearded Theory, and Tunes in the Park.
The 10th anniversary tour will see The Busketeers performing a series of mini tours and festival appearances throughout 2025, celebrating their
musical journey. Fans can also expect exclusive new merchandise, including vinyl records and branded apparel, available at tour venues and online.
In March 2025, the band will officially launch their debut album on vinyl, giving long-time supporters a new way to enjoy their music. The band has also hinted at new material being in the works, with potential releases planned in conjunction with the tour.
The Busketeers recently recorded live sessions at Sawmill Studios in Fowey, working with producer John Cornfield, known for his collaborations with Muse, Oasis, and Robert Plant. Reflecting on the experience, the band described it as a significant milestone in their career, praising Cornfield’s expertise and approach in the studio.
With plans to expand their reach to international audiences, the band aims to bring their music to new listeners while staying true to their grassroots origins and commitment to live performance.
For more information visit www. thebusketeers.com
City Council leader Tudor Evans speaking at the launch event
Plymouth digital content creator Flynn West recently returned from Austin, Texas, where he was one of just six digital creators worldwide invited to join TikTok’s exclusive
The Busketeers have been entertaining audiences for a decade Photo: Sargetsonphoto
Flynn West pictured at the SXSW 2025 event
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National recognition for Livewell District Nurses
Two nurses from Livewell Southwest have been given the prestigious title of Queen’s Nurse for providing the highest standards of patient care in the community.
Megan-Louise Bonner and Lisa-Marie Veale work in Plymouth as District Nurse Specialist Practitioners and have been recognised for their ongoing commitment to supporting the treatment of people with complex medical needs in the comfort of their own surroundings.
The title of Queen’s Nurse has its roots in the late Victorian era, to indicate an enhanced level of training undertaken by a hospital-trained nurse to prepare them to work as a District Nurse.
The title amalgamated into other nursing titles over the years and fell out of use. It was revived in 2007 as a special recognition for the most experienced District Nurses, who champion the importance of strong district nursing care in the community.
District Nurses support individuals living with complex long-term health conditions that often prevent them from leaving their homes by administering treatment, providing wound care, supporting rehabilitation and promoting health education, ensuring all patients receive a personalised care approach even when not in hospital.
Megan and Lisa are the latest to be acknowledged with a Queen’s Nurse title, joining 19 other Livewell nurses to be recognised in recent years for their contribution to the profession in Plymouth, South Hams and West Devon.
Megan-Louise Bonner attended a presentation
honour and it allows me to share my commitment with the Queen’s Nurse community, by working collaboratively to promote high-quality and compassionate care to our community in the South West.”
The Queen’s Nursing Institute (QNI) also recognise those who are involved in the development of future nursing talent. Livewell’s Nursing Professional Lead, Shona Cornish has been awarded for her Executive Nursing Leadership.
Shona was recognised for the crucial role she plays in ensuring Livewell continues to improve its community nursing service to better suit the needs of patients, and for her enthusiasm and commitment to advancing the skills within the profession.
Shona was one of the first two nurses to hold a Queen’s Nurse title at Livewell Southwest in 2016, for her work in supporting complex health conditions as part of the out-of-hour district nursing service.
Now working in a role overseeing the training and development of nursing roles in Livewell, Shona has been selected as one of the 12 nurses nationally to receive an award for their contribution as a leader.
The news was described as a real ‘pinch-me’ moment for Shona, who said: “To be recognised by the QNI as a successful candidate in my application and interview process gave me personal recognition of my leadership journey.
“It has been a privilege to be supported by Livewell to apply for the programme and I owe thanks to so many people who have supported
ceremony to commemorate her achievement. She said: “To be awarded the Queen’s Nurse title is an
Megan-Louise Bonner Photo: Queen’s Nursing Institute
Shona Cornish Photo: Queen’s Nursing Institute
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Surprise party for ‘inspirational’ centenarian
A Plymouth centenarian has put her long life down to growing up on a Devon farm and the routine which it instilled.
Dorothy ‘Dolly’ Moore was given a surprise party by the team at the Short Term Care Centre in Mount Gould organised to celebrate her 100th birthday. They also asked colleagues from Livewell Southwest to send cards, and she received a total of 117 to open!
When Dorothy was born on the family farm in Coryton,
near Lifton in 1925, her older sister said she looked like a dolly and the name stuck.
She said the routine of ‘farming life’ instilled many good habits in her for a successful life. She was home schooled and, as a teenager helped her father, mother and sister with the milk round.
In her spare time, she loved going to the village dances and continued to enjoy dancing well into her nineties.
After World War Two, Dolly worked as a nanny with several families in Devon and London. She then became a school cook up until her retirement.
She then had time for her many hobbies which included woodworking, sewing, cooking, gardening, dancing and art. She was also a volunteer at the National Trust property Saltram House for many years.
She is fiercely independent and loves her own home and garden. She has continued to cook for herself. She is looking forward to pottering around in the garden in the sunshine after receiving support on her strength and mobility from the team at the Short Term Care Centre.
Manager Karen Turvey said: “Dolly is an absolute inspiration. 100 years of wisdom. We are so grateful for the opportunity to share such a special day with her. Thank you to everyone who helped support the birthday party. It really meant a lot.”
The Short Term Care Centre, based at the William and Patricia Venton Centre, is a place where people can go for residential assessment from Livewell Southwest’s Community Crisis Response Team. This is so they don’t have to go into hospital.
It is also for those who are medically fit for discharge from hospital but need a short period of rehabilitation before returning home. It is provided in partnership with Plymouth City Council, Plymouth Age UK and the NHS.
Roofing
Stairlifts
Dorothy ‘Dolly’ pictured as a girl on the farm
Dolly - an absolute inspiration
Photo: Livewell Southwest
Police tackle anti-social behaviour in city park
Devon & Cornwall Police are stepping up their patrols and cracking down on alcohol-fuelled antisocial behaviour at a city park in response to concerns shared by local people in Plymouth.
As part of the police’s commitment to respond to issues across communities, officers visited over 300 homes in the Stonehouse area to gather information about crime to support their plans to target ASB and drug use.
Police Inspector Greg Bridgett, who supported the visits to local residents, said: “One of the issues echoed across the community was around how people had started to feel uncomfortable visiting Patna Park. They shared experiences of seeing people drinking alcohol, which led to ASB. This included the use of offensive language, urinating in public, general disorder and littering smashed glass bottles on the pavement.
“It was clear that this behaviour was having an impact on people, with some residents avoiding the area. No one should feel like they cannot enjoy the public spaces they live nearby, and this behaviour will not be tolerated. Our officers will be taking a targeted approach to tackle it.”
Police officers will be carrying out additional patrols across the park, targeting different days and times. Officers will also be robust in their enforcement of the Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which gives them the power to request individuals to stop drinking alcohol as well as the power to remove alcohol. Failure to comply could lead to arrest.
“We’re also encouraging people to call 999 if they see crime or ASB happening. This is an effective way for us to gather evidence and identify offenders responsible for this behaviour.”
Speaking on the impact of alcohol use in a public space, Insp Bridgett continued: “We know that alcohol use can lead to antisocial behaviour which can intimidate or scare other people, especially in a space where children play and people walk their dogs.
“The PSPO covers the area of the park, which means people are not allowed to drink alcohol there. This allows us to remove alcohol from people before a situation escalates.
“To be clear, officers will be focusing on individuals who are causing ASB as a result of drinking alcohol.
“The park is a space for everyone to enjoy and we will be targeting the few who choose to disrupt this peace.”
Insp Bridgett commented on the importance of listening to local people about issues that are impacting how safe they feel: “People’s voices are key to community policing. If we’re not listening to what matters to our communities, then the impact of what we’re doing isn’t going to be felt. The door-knocks were a vital piece of work to make sure we get it right for local people, so that they feel safe in the area they live.”
Individuals found to be causing a disturbance will be directed out of the PSPO zone. Failure to comply with a request to surrender the alcohol can lead to arrest.
Anti-social behaviour can be reported via www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/ro/report/in a non-emergency. If crime or ASB is taking place, call 999.
Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org/
Iconic St Luke’s Men’s Day Out fund raiser is another sell-out success
An incredible 2,500 men took to the streets of Plymouth on March 22, striding out to honour their much-missed loved ones and show their support for the independent charity that provides specialist end of life care for local families.
Sunny skies made an unexpected appearance as the biggest gathering yet of big-hearted chaps of all ages turned out for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s Men’s Day Out, setting off from Plymouth Albion rugby ground at Devonport to walk 12km along the waterfront and through the city – a reversal of the route to ring the changes for regular participants.
The iconic sold-out event – the biggest men’s charity walk of its kind in the South West and beyond – has gained huge momentum over the years. Since it was first held in 2014, with just 574 walkers, it has raised more than £1 million through sponsorship and donations to fund the clinical, practical and emotional support St Luke’s provides for people in their last months, weeks and days of life and their families.
United by a common goal, the men enjoyed a unique camaraderie as they walked, sharing lighthearted banter as well as digging deeper to reveal moving stories of their own experiences of loss and grief and how St Luke’s has helped them and their loved ones.
Most sported distinctive official navy blue event T-shirts, but as usual a host of eye-catching fancy-dress outfits added a touch of drama to the day, including a topical Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, knights of old England, Roman gladiators, cops and robbers, seagulls and chips, burger pickles, clowns and Dunkin Donuts.
Georgina Dyke, St Luke’s events manager, was thrilled by the turnout, the atmosphere and the kind weather. She said: “It was unbelievably heart-
warming to see so many men come together to support the compassionate care St Luke’s provides in the local community. Having the sun shine on us was an added bonus on what was an incredibly joyful, emotional and uplifting day.
“A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and raised funds for us this year, and to all the people whose generous support makes Men’s Day Out possible – to our main sponsors JEM Scaffolding Ltd, hosts and raffle sponsors Plymouth
Albion RFC, Salcombe Brewery, Ace Double Glazing and Sir Fix a Lock Ltd, and the army of support teams and volunteers who give their time to make sure the event runs smoothly.
“Thank you also to the Samaritans and Andy’s Mans Club who were on hand to offer mental health support.
“We never cease to be amazed and overwhelmed by the generosity of our wonderful community. St Luke’s wouldn’t be here without you.”
The art of colour at Theatre Royal Plymouth
The artists of Plymouth Colour Collective return to Theatre Royal Plymouth (TRP) for their 2025 Summer Exhibition – and this year, they’re also showcasing the work of guest artists from across Devon and Cornwall.
The Collective – Brian Pollard (paintings) Arth Lawr (paintings and woodcut), Lou C Fused Glass (glass art), Laura Edmunds of Serendipity Sea Crafts (beach clean art), and Henry Sells (paintings) – all work very differently but their pieces have one thing in common: colour.
For this year’s exhibition, which runs from June 24 to July 19, they’ve invited six artists to join them: painters Amy Teague and Abi Douglas, both from Plymouth, paper cut collage artist Clover Robin from Teignmouth, textiles artist Gill Sargeant from Okehampton, water colourist Mary Boreham from Kingsbridge and painter Paul Nicholls from Mithian in Cornwall.
Brian, one of the UK’s leading naive artists and co-founder of Plymouth Colour Collective, explained: “As a group, the Plymouth Colour Collective has always planned to expand in order to include more of the wonderful artists who live and work in the South West.
“We are fortunate that TRP
provides the space for us to invite a number of guest artists to exhibit alongside our artwork and produce a colourful, diverse, and hopefully interesting exhibition for people to come and enjoy.”
Visitors can expect to see around 50 pieces of new art that the artists have been working on for the event. The exhibition takes place in the gallery space on the first floor at the theatre and follows the collective’s hugely successful exhibition there last summer
For details visit www.instagram. com/plymouthcolourcollective
Work by Brian Pollard (right) Laura Edmunds (below) and Henry Sells
A colourful and creative collection of outfits for Men’s Day Out Photo: Paul Slater
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 before the Argyle Women’s game against Exeter in the Devon FA Women’s Challenge Cup Final at Newton Abbot is from lifelong Argyle fan and one of the founders of Argyle Life, Aaron Hocking
Women’s football : a Plymouth legacy?
If you’d have told me in 2017, when the Lionesses were last in a semi-final, that I’d be heading off down the pub with matesin-tow to watch Women’s football I’d have laughed. Not a chance.
Connotations of ‘women don’t play football’ or ‘I’m not watching that rubbish’ most probably rang around my head. Obviously, all nonsense.
Five years later, in 2022, we arrived to find that the pub in question point blank refused to turn on the TV which left us fuming – what a change in emotions since the last European Championships.
We all huddled around mobile screens with varying delays, as Alessia Russio lit up the European stage with an outrageous nutmeg in-between the legs of Hedvig Lindahl in the Sweden goal, as Millie Bright did her best Sonny Bradley impression and as Mary Earps pulled off yet another impressive string of saves.
Only three weeks earlier I was in Manchester along with roughly 68,000 others to watch a rather dry affair as Beth Mead chipped the goalkeeper to hand England an opening 1-0 win over Austria – now I get this isn’t a piece on me and my new found love of the game.
However, that night at Old Trafford felt different to anything previous.
We were surrounded by similar figures I’d become accustomed to at a men’s game. The baldheaded, England-tattoo clad men, the young lads awash with Stone Island clobber, the older couple who had huddled together with matching scarves but also thousands of young kids vying for their opportunity to watch those they look up to. Bucket hats and retro shirts galore. St George’s Flags aplenty.
Despite all the usual suspects, the women’s game can quite often be a much more relaxed affair, but the atmosphere that night was rousing. Equal to that of a European night for the Red Devils. It gained a real sense that this game and tournament was about to live-long in the minds of today’s youth and inspire a generation.
So where am I going with this?
Ian Wright’s recent outburst on the BBC was seen by millions both live and on social media; his message was clear. Let. Them. Play.
The women’s game has stalled in progress mainly due to the FA’s ban in 1921 that lasted 100 years – partly due to their belief their game was outgrowing the men’s post-war – and until girls are able to play at all levels the game will continue to be below where it should.
Recent reports from the FA concluded that only 63% of schools offer girls football in PE lessons and whilst only 40% of schools offer girls extracurricular football. You could argue it’s encouraging compared to when I was at school, but it’s still depressing.
It’s at this level that attitudes really begin to change; my nephews running home from school to catch games on TV and talking about it amongst friends is fascinating to me the most.
The transformation is already in full flow; 68,000 at Old Trafford, 90,000 at a sell-out Wembley final, 11.3 million tuning in to the semi-final against Sweden and the government insisting it will invest further into the women’s game – all positives on the surface.
But the real legacy won’t necessarily be if our Lionesses reach another final; it will be if grassroots clubs sprout women’s sides, if girls are offered more football on the school curriculum and if deep-routed stigmas that belong in the past stay there. With Argyle’s Women’s side now fully under the wing of the football club, they’re starting to get the much needed support of the club and partnerships like the 2019 deal with the University of Marjon aids both parties to provide greater opportunities.
Opportunities
As for said opportunities, Argyle invited the women’s side to open the newly refurbished grandstand in front of around 800 hardy souls who had braved the awful weather, in a test event against Watford. The club themselves tried to drum up endless support for the game for which TV cameras were deployed and Simon and Jane Hallett flew over.
Argyle, on an 11 game unbeaten run were pipped on the day to a 5-4 defeat. Goals aplenty, talent all over the pitch.
We’ve since had a game that saw 846 in attendance, again at Home Park, as we drew 2-2 with Portsmouth. But barring these two anomalies, attendances are
USEFUL NUMBERS
often very low, with Manadon not being the best suited to the visiting match-day experience but here’s hoping the recent successes of the Lionesses not only boost the attendances and following of Argyle Women, but also encourage the next Beth Ireland, Kayleigh Lane or Sophie Perrin through the academy ranks.
Mari Ward, Mia Endacott, Taya Pomfret, Rosie Train and Ruby Murphy among others have been called up to represent England in a variety of roles and age groups, further testament to the work being done at the club; alongside being named as an FA Emerging Talent Centre for the next three years.
We’ve seen Poppy Soper and Panagiota Papaioannou feature on the international stage for Wales and Greece respectively in recent seasons. Poppy earned herself a move to Women’s Super League champions Chelsea. All this just in the last few years.
The talent is there, it’s just waiting to be seen.
Argyle’s women’s team may not have progressed as much as we’d hoped since that balmy day in 2022, however we can already see the tide is turning and long may it continue. The final is not the end of the journey, but the start of one.
The recent outpouring of support for the Project 35 campaign shows Plymouth, and our fanbase, is far less singleminded than most cities and the club appear keen to harness that community spirit, so here’s hoping we can carry that support through to the women’s team.
As much as Argyle regularly outshine Exeter in the men’s department, our county rivals have the edge on us in the women’s game. At the time of print, Argyle Women play in the Devon Challenge Cup Final tomorrow (April 2) vs ‘them up the road’. The Grecians have been better than us for a good few years now, and often tend to steal our best talent.
The more supporters turn up to watch, the more the club will be persuaded that the women’s side of the game is worthy of its own investment and promotion.
Long story short; get yourself to a game, you might surprise yourself.
Photo courtesy PAFC
Pounds House to be auctioned off
A search is on for a ‘sympathetic new owner’ who can revive and restore a Grade II listed mansion house in the heart of Plymouth.
Pounds House in Central Park is in need of a new lease of life and the City Council, which owns the building, has looked extensively at options but has not identified a use for it and has now decided to open up its future to other interested parties.‚
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member with responsibility for assets said: “We constantly review our properties and assets to make sure they provide value in meeting the needs of our services to residents and helping us deliver priorities for the city.
“This involves both buying and selling properties to best meet the needs of the residents we serve. We have not identified a council use for the building that would warrant large scale investment and need to focus our efforts elsewhere. It is a shame, but we need to be pragmatic and offer this as an opportunity which we hope others will grasp. We want this building to be loved for the long term.”
In the last five years the council has spent nearly £500,000 on the property, including work to the roof, security, electrical installations, gas and water hygiene inspections and insurance.
Removing the property from the council’s books would remove a substantial liability for maintenance. The mansion house has been empty since 2017 and significant external work is needed.
The future of the house has had a number of false starts. Investigation works were due to start in 2020 but were put on hold to allow the building to be used as part of the Mayflower 400 celebrations. There were further delays due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021 some work carried out to address more pressing issues including repairs to very old window frames.
The house is expected to be sold at auction in the next few months.
Pounds House started life as a gentleman’s country house built for William Hodge in 1825.
The Chapell Hodge family were local society figures who bought more land from neighbouring landowners and by the end of the 19th Century, the estate covered some 500 acres.
The house began to lose its isolation as Plymouth and Devonport grew and there was a demand for land for building development. In 1898 the estate was sold at public auction to building contractors Shellabear, Sheaks and Shellabear, who sought planning permission to build Peverell Park Road and housing from Pounds Park Road in the north to Gifford Terrace in the south, called the Pounds Freehold Building Estate.
George Shellabear kept Pounds House and
Pounds House - empty for eight years and in need of major refurbishment
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grounds from development and let the house to Sir John Jackson, who was responsible for the Keyham Dockyard Extension and later became MP for Devonport. He lost his seat in 1914 and left Pounds House the same year.
At the outbreak of the Great War, Pounds was untenanted, but the grounds used for social gatherings and fetes. The house was rarely used in the 1920s and George Shellabear and Henry Hurrell sold it to the Plymouth Corporation. The house and park, covering of 18 acres, was one of three plots sold to Plymouth to form the 241 acres of Central Park which opened in 1931.
During the war it was used as offices for the Town Clerk’s department. Its most popular use was as a public library, but this ended with a fire in 1991. When the house was restored and reopened in 1992 the library had moved to Hope Baptist Church Hall. Over the years the council has owned it, the property has had many uses, including a cafe, wedding venue and offices.
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