Hundreds of students from Plymouth schools will be taking part in STEMfest at the National Marine Aquarium this month
See Page 2
A young volunteer who helps coach a local youth football team has been presented with a top award by a soccer legend
See Page 3
Plymouth Chronicle is partnering with Argyle Life – the popular fans site –to bring exclusive content to our readers
See Page 19
Looking for a tradesman? Turn to our Dial The Experts guide on pages 16 and 17
The City of Plymouth Pipe Band are celebrating after winning their first ever World Championship Trophy in Glasgow. And just a few days after that success they were crowned All England Champions at the Chatsworth House band competition. A double celebration in the band's 50th anniversary year! SEE STORY ON BACK PAGE
Groundbreaking STEMFest 2025 at the National Marine Aquarium is celebrating industry, sustainability and innovation within the city of Plymouth.
For the first time ever, 1,000 Plymouth school children will take part in a completely free, barrier-breaking STEM experience at the National Marine Aquarium in September - a project set to inspire children to learn about Ocean Friendly Homes and how sustainable living protects our Ocean.
STEMFest, run by the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT), has been inspiring young people since 2012, growing each year to become a standout event in Plymouth’s education calendar. Thanks to generous funding from local engineering consultants Services Design Solutions (SDS) and support from a network of local businesses, 1,000 young people have been invited to attend free of charge, with coach travel being funded directly by the OCT, removing all financial barriers for schools and parents.
Nine Plymouth schools with the highest pupil premium rates have been selected to attend, ensuring that children who might not otherwise get the chance, can be part of this unique experience. For many, it will be their first-ever visit to the aquarium, opening doors to a world of science, discovery and Ocean literacy that may have previously been out of reach.
In addition, 500 non funded places are available for new and returning students, to supplement their STEM curriculum learning.
This year's theme, 'Ocean Friendly Homes' will inspire students to explore how everyday choices at home can impact the Ocean. The highlight of the day will see every single child building and taking home a working solar-powered fan – that's 1,500 fans in total! These fans, made using upcycled materials donated by local businesses, show young people how
Departing Tue 23 Dec ‘25
Christmas in Kent and Canterbury is truly magical, with excursions to the charming towns of Sandwich and Whitstable, along with the beautiful cathedral city of Canterbury. Enjoy a Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and nightly entertainment at our hotel.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Grand Burstin Hotel, Folkestone with dinner & breakfast (includes traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner)
Welcome drinks on arrival
After-dinner tea and coffee
Entertainment every evening
Excursions to Canterbury, Sandwich & Whitstable
the Ocean. Later in the school year, OCT Schools Officers will return to classrooms to launch a city-wide innovation challenge. Students will design their own solutions to Ocean problems, with one winning idea being brought to life by local manufacturing partners and shared with every STEMFest participant.
STEMFest 2025 runs from September 15 to October 3, with extra sessions for home-educated learners and a virtual session on October 7.
Nicola Bridge, Head of Ocean Advocacy and Engagement, said: "We're proud to host STEMFest again, and this year is especially meaningful. Thanks to our funders, more children than ever can take part, removing barriers and opening the door to transformative learning experiences. Young people are the future of our planet, and it's vital we inspire them to become the problem-solvers the world needs."
STEMFest 2025 offers an engaging, hands-on journey into Ocean literacy and sustainable innovation, bringing together 1,500 young people to become the next generation of Ocean advocates.
Departing Tue 23 Dec ‘25
Enjoy a memorable festive getaway this year, complete with plenty of food, entertainment and excursions to soak up the Isle of Wight’s seasonal charm. With its elegant resorts and miles of unspoilt coastline, this is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Shanklin Beach Hotel, Shanklin (JG2+ rating) with dinner & full English breakfast. Christmas Day includes breakfast, a traditional Christmas lunch & a light evening buffet
Entertainment every evening
Pantomime ticket at the Shanklin Theatre
Island Highlights tour (Needles, Yarmouth & Cowes) & excursion to Ryde
Departing Mon 1 Dec ‘25
Sprinkle some festive sparkle over your pre-Christmas plans with this great-value getaway! We include a traditional Christmas dinner plus a fantastic bar offer at our comfortable hotel along with the sights of Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford and the Cotswolds.
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Royal Court Hotel, Coventry (JG2 rating) with dinner & full English breakfast (includes traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner)
2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks
Excursions to Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford & Cotswolds Villages (Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold & Broadway
Lleyton Canning, a coach at Plymstockbased Morley Rangers has been awarded the Young Volunteer of the Year at the England Football Grassroots Football Awards.
The Grassroots Football Awards celebrate the amazing volunteers across the country that make grassroots football a positive, inclusive and respectful place.
Lleyton was one of 12 winners from across the country at the award ceremony at Wembley Stadium ahead of the Community Shield.
Lleyton plays a vital role in coaching, officiating, and encouraging players.
Supporting young players who've felt excluded, Lleyton helps them regain confidence through football.
As well as being a talented coach, Lleyton is a relatable young role model who every player looks up to. His patience, positivity and ability to engage are making a huge difference in helping every player know they are valued and belong.
After initially being one of over 270
nominations for various categories in Devon, Lleyton was selected by an independent panel as Devon's County winner for the Young Volunteer of the Year and was recognised with this at the Devon Football Family Awards in June. This made him
eligible for the national accolade, and he was presented with the award by former Liverpool and England star John Barnes on stage before the Community Shield in August.
Lleyton was able to have an unforgettable experience, spending
the afternoon with the FA's social media team and enjoying pitchside access in front of thousands of fans at half-time.
The Devon County FA, the FA and Lleyton will be collaborating on a new project to help recruit new young volunteers into football.
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.
Sing Devon
Sept 18 and Oct 16
Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to meet new people? Then go along to a Welcoming New Voices free session at Plymstock School from 7.15 to 9pm. The emphasis is on fun, supporting thelocal community and supporting each other. Lots of laughing mixed in with beautiful sounds. No audition, just go along and give it a go. Details at www.singdevon.com - or call Pete Scott on 07896 276577.
Plymouth Jazz Club
Sept 21
Sophisticated jazz harmonies and rhythms at the Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill from 7.30pm. Featuring the Buckstone Trio and Jane with music and songs from a wide range of genres. Non-members welcome £15 on the door £12 members. For further details see www.plymouth-jazz-club.com
Jazz and Roast Sunday
Sept 21, Oct 19 and Nov 16
Every third Sunday of then month the Honky Tonk Wine Library in Sutton Harbour hosts local jazz musician legend Martin Dale accompanied by two other talented musicians from 3pm to 5pm. The live music is accompanied by a Sunday Roast board from 12pm. Go just for the roast or eat and stay. Booking advisable via www.honkytonkwinelibrary.com
Trauma Informed Conference
Sept 26 and 27
To be held at Emmanuel Church, Mannamead. Two events for connection, learning, and transformation. Bringing together professionals, advocates, and community members committed to creating safe, supportive, and healing centred spaces. For full details visit www.emmanuelplymouth.co.uk/trauma
Pennywell Farm Pumpkin Festival
Sept 27 to Nov 2
Join in with all the family favourites plus the Pumpkin Festival included in the ticket price. A must-see event for all the family with the festival bigger and better than ever. All tickets must be booked online at www. pennywellfarm.co.uk
Plymouth Honey Show
Sept 27
Harewood House, Ridgeway in Plympton from 10am to 4pm. Featuring live bee display, trade stalls, honey, raffle and free face painting.
An Afternoon of Crime Fiction
Sept 27
An informal afternoon at Plymouth Proprietary Library with authors Stephanie Austen and Judy Leigh from 2pm. They will discuss their crime fiction, read excerpts from their books and answer questions for the audience. Free for members, £4 for non-members. Refreshments with proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support. To guarantee a seat, contact the library via www.theppl.org.uk or turn up on the day.
Plymouth City Brass
Sept 27
First anniversary concert with special guests The Cooperative Big Band. Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £5 (under 16s free) available from info@plymouthcitybrass.co.uk or any member.
Plymouth u3a Recruitment Event
Sept 27
Plymouth Central Methodist Hall from 10am to 2pm. Plymouth u3a (previously the University of the Third Age) is looking for new members. Most current members are no longer in full-time work and enjoy coming together for fun and friendship, to
Plymouth Christmas Market returns bigger and better than ever from November 27 to December 21
explore new ideas, skills and activities or share their experiences. There are 80+ interest groups along with monthly meetings with lectures by varied speakers. For more details visit www.plymouthu3a.org.uk
Harvest Festival Tea
Sept 27
Harvest Festival Afternoon Tea in the Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery, starting at 2pm. Organisers have gained a reputation for delicious food and this is no exception. Tickets costing £12 will be available from the cemetery office from 9.30am to 3.30pm tel 01752 665442.
Respect Festival 2025
Sept 27
Organised by Plymouth & Devon Racial Equality Council from 11am to 5pm at the city centre Piazza. A multicultural free family-friendly event featuring live music and dance performances, cultural workshops and activities and a parade starting at The Box to launch the event. Details from www.plymouthrec.org
Tour de Moor
Sept 28
St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s popular fundraiser returns at an earlier date than previous years. Hundreds of riders of all ages will take part again with routes to suit every level, from 11km for families, 28km of touch riding and 53km of tough riding at its fiercest. For details and registration visit www.stlukes-hospice. org.uk/tourdemoor
John Bishop
Oct 1 and 2
The popular comedian brings his stand-up tour to Plymouth Pavilions to celebrate 25 years of comedy and success. For tickets and information visit www. plymouthpavilions.com
Plymouth Seafood Tour
Oct 3 to Oct 18
In celebration of Seafood Plymouth’s 2025 Fortnight, Plymouth Seafood & Fishing Association partnering with some incredible restaurants to help locals discover the many different and delicious tastes and flavours of the seafood that’s right on your doorstep. Get ready to try all sorts of new species, taste truly wild freshness and meet the passionate chefs and retailers who together are keeping Plymouth’s seafood industry thriving. Celebrate with a fortnight of feasting on seafood and forging community spirit. For details visit www.pfsa.uk/seafood-plymouth
Tom Robinson & Adam Phillips
Oct 4
Tom Robinson presents an evening of songs and stories from 50 years wandering the wilder shores of the record industry. Hosted by the Barbican Theatre the evening will include favourites from his vast back catalogue, spanning Café Society in 1975 to his acclaimed 2015 comeback album Only The Now. For details visit www.barbicantheatre.co.uk
Good Food & Craft Market
Oct 5
Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, Royal William Yard's Good Food & Craft Markets offer everything from tasty treats to handcrafted gifts. The monthly markets have been a staple of Royal William Yard’s event calendar for years, and have won event awards along the way. From 10am to 3pm. For details visit www. royalwilliamyard.com
Trafalgar Day Celebration
Oct 11
Trafalgar Day Soup and Sweet Lunch in the Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery at 1pm. Tickets £12 available from the Cemetery Office from 9.30am to 3.30pm or call 01752 665442.
Singing Day with Joseph Judge
Oct 11
Led by the outstanding music director and conductor Joseph Judge from 9.30am to 4.30pm at Woolwell Community Centre. Joseph is chorus master of the Leeds Philharmonic Chorus, director of the Hall√© Choral Academy and a music director for Film/TV productions. The cost is £25 which includes the loan of scores. A light lunch is available for £7. For details visit www.plymouthphilchoir.org
Plymouth Collectors Toy & Train Fair
Oct 19
Organised by Plymouth Diecast Club at Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park from 10am to 1pm. Admission £1 for adults, accompanied children free. Free onsite parking, wheelchair friendly and onsite café. Details from www.plymouthdiecastclub.co.uk
Plymouth Jazz Club
Oct 19
Featuring popular all-female band Hotsy Totsy at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Non-members welcome. Details at www.plymouth-jazz-club.com
Talk on Ann Glanville - Saltash Legend and Icon
Oct 22
Plymouth Proprietary Library hosts a talk on Ann Glanville ‘the world’s female champion rower’ in the 19th Century. Starts at 2pm. Local historian Barry Brooking will explore the facts of her life and the myths surroundong her achievements. £4 for members, £8 for non-members. Refreshments provided. To guarantee a seat, contact the library at www.theppl.org.uk/about-us or simply turn up on the day.
Oktoberfest 2025
Oct 25
Plymouth welcomes a traditional Bavarian bash in Central Park from 12 noon to 11pm. New features at this year’s event which include an all-new Bavarian bar, glitter, mini trader village and a
photo booth. For tickets and information visit www. oktoberfestplymouth.co.uk
Orchestral Workshop
Oct 25
Plymouth Open Concert Orchestra, formerly the University of Plymouth Orchestra, invites instrumental players to an orchestral workshop: ‘Holst’s Planets.’ With music director, Dan Francis at the Levinsky Hall, Plymouth University from 10am. Tickets to take part £10 can be booked via the Orchestra Facebook page. All orchestra instrument players who can read music are welcome.
Bonfire Night
Nov 5
Get ready for an unforgettable night of fun and fireworks as Plymouth Hoe comes alive on Wednesday 5 November for Bonfire Night! Make your way to the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse for the best views of the bonfire, which will be lit at 7pm. Then, at 7.30pm, prepare to be wowed! The skies will explode with a stunning fireworks display launched from the historic Royal Citadel. Expect an incredible show of rockets, fountains, and crackling fireworks.
Plymouth Jazz Club
Nov 16
Featuring The Gatsby Trio with jazz from the 20s and 30s at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Nonmembers welcome. Details at www.plymouth-jazzclub.com
Plymouth Christmas Market
Nov 27 to Dec 21
Experience the all-new Plymouth Christmas Market, operated by the award-winning event operators, Market Place. With over 100 international and local traders housed in charming, traditional chalets, the Plymouth Christmas Market will be offering an authentic feast of quality Christmas fayre alongside a carefully curated mix of handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products. Set against the backdrop of Armada Way and New George Street, the market is an unmissable destination for coach parties, daytrippers, and city shoppers alike, offering the perfect place festive shopping.
Christmas Concert
Dec 13
Tamar Concert Choir perform a selection of Christmas songs and traditional carols with the opportunity for audience participation. Woolwell Community Centre, Darklake Lane, Plymouth from 6pm to 8pm.
Baroque Christmas Concert by Candlelight
Dec 13
University of Plymouth Choral Society present a concert including Vivaldi's Gloria, highlights from Handel’s Messiah, and Carols in St Andrew's Minster Church at 7.30pm. Details available at www.uopcs.org. uk
Christmas Concert
Dec 18
Tamar Concert Choir perform a Christmas concert at Stoke Damerel Church at 7.30pm. In aid of the Chestnut Appeal with a variety of Christmas themed songs and traditional carols.
Plymouth Jazz Club
Dec 21
Featuring The Bourbon Street Paraders with their New Orleans Dixie Jazz at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Non-members welcome. Details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.com
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.
A love letter to a time and place, a city and its beloved football team, Home Park Heaven is uplifting, frequently hilarious, poignant and moving.
Established crime writer, Radu Herklots, revisits his childhood and adolescence in Plymouth with technicolor clarity.
As well as his Plymouth Argyle heroes, much of 1960s and early 1970s Plymouth life is featured in Radu’s latest offering. Names like Angela Rippon, Sue Lawley, David Owen, Sir Francis Chichester, Robert Lenkiewicz and Beryl Cook bounce off the pages, together with Ivor Dewdney, Mimi Law, Robert Daniel and Gus Honeybun.
It tells of the author's shock at being plucked away from his idyllic home opposite Central Park at the pivotal age of 15 before coming up to date with an emotional return trip with his late father in 2012, a 60th birthday visit with his wife and yet another crucial encounter at Home Park in 2024.
"I hadn't found any other book that captured the excitement of growing up in Plymouth in the 60s and I decided to write one myself,” said Radu. ”Having read several 'misery memoirs' I wanted to write something happy. Once I started writing the memories started to flood back."
Radu Herklots (pictured here) grew up in Plymouth and Hampshire. He studied law at Kingston University, London, and the College of Law, Guildford. He retired from full time legal work in 2019, and has successfully published three crime novels, most recently The Turbulent Bishop. His detective hero, John Tedesco, is named after a Plymouth Argyle player. Home Park Heaven is his first foray into non-fiction.
Car parks at Jennycliff and Mount Batten could become safer after measures set to be agreed at Plymouth City Council’s cabinet meeting.
They are among nine car parks in Plymouth in the frame to have new steps introduced to stop anti-social behaviour (ASB). The Cabinet are set to agree a proposal for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to be introduced in the car parks where significant reports of ASB have been made.
The plan originally was to cover six car parks, but this has now been increased to nine because of repeated reports of ASB incidents in the Jennycliff and Mount Batten car parks. The PSPO will cover the Regent Street, Theatre Royal, Colin Campbell Court, Western Approach, Napier Street, Mayflower East, plus Jennycliff, Mount Batten Pier, and Mount Batten Castle car parks.
It follows a consultation which launched earlier this year to hear the public’s thoughts on the car parks, and how safe they felt while using them, after reported incidents relating to alcohol and drug use, and public disturbance and intimidation.
The PSPO is designed to make sure people do not occupy, loiter or congregate with other people for any reason other than to park a car, motorbike or moped.
The order will aim to crack down on antisocial and intimidating behaviour, such as people gathering or loitering, large car meets congregating and motorbikes racing and causing a noise disturbance.
Many of the car parks are regularly patrolled or have CCTV cameras, but the PSPO will give police and designated officers the power to move people on if they are causing a nuisance within these car parks.
To enact a PSPO, there needs to be evidence that the anti-social behaviour is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those living or working nearby and that the behaviour is unreasonable and persistent.One of the respondents of the consultation said: “As a woman alone, I loathe it when I see people loitering, drinking, shouting anywhere but in an enclosed space it’s even more frightening.”
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “It’s no secret that some of our car parks are leaving people feeling uneasy and unsafe while using them, we absolutely do not want anti-social behaviour to continue, which is why we are taking action to put a stop to this behaviour in the car parks.
“Our residents and people who visit Plymouth should feel safe when parking their car. “The results from the consultation will now help us move forward with the next step, we want people to feel safe when visiting our car parks, and the PSPO will help provide reassurance to our residents and visitors.”
Steve Hughes, chief executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, added: “This will be welcomed by our businesses and visitors and is a much-needed measure to make the city centre safe and more welcoming.”
The PSPOs are expected to come into force in the next few months.
Work is underway on a project to breathe new life into an iconic Plymouth building, thanks to collaboration between three organisations.
Nudge Community Builders has taken on the Millennium Building, following a £600,000 joint investment from social impact investor Resonance and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation.
Construction has now started on plans to turn the Union Street building into community spaces for young people and the wider community, including a music venue, workshops and a café bar.
Hannah Sloggett, co-founder and coDirector of Nudge Community Builders, said: “We couldn’t wait to bring this special building back into use after it had stood empty for 17 years. We can now move forward with confidence and look forward to the journey to bring this building back into use for lasting local benefit.”
The Millennium Building was constructed as a cinema in 1931 and was later turned into a nightclub, before its closure in the early 2000s.
The structure stood empty for 17 years before Nudge purchased 50 per cent of the building, thanks to investments of over £350,000 from the Rank Foundation and 491 community shareholders, and a partnership with Eat Work Art.
The latest phase has seen a joint investment of £600,000 from Resonance and Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, to purchase the remaining 50 per cent of the building, and a £480,000 grant from the Youth Investment Fund to support internal works.
Tom Crook, investment manager for
Resonance Community Developers Fund, said: “Resonance and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation are delighted to partner in a joint investment into Nudge, supporting efforts to bring this iconic building into community ownership. We are a huge supporter of Nudge and the work they are doing in Plymouth.”
Nudge Community Builders is a Charitable Community Benefit Society set up in 2017 by local residents Hannah Sloggett and Wendy Hart in Stonehouse.
They had been volunteering in their community for over 10 years and kickstarted the Union Street Party, created Union Corner and were asked by the community to do more about the empty buildings.
Within the first five years, Nudge unlocked a quarter of the empty buildings along Union Street and now offers spaces for local people to grow across five previously derelict sites. For further information visit www.nudge. community
A community project by Nudge Community Builders was featured in the Museum of Broken Dreams, a powerful exhibition in Parliament.
The Museum, designed by the We're Right Here campaign, tells the stories of community-led projects that could have transformed lives, but never reached their potential.
These projects weren't held back by a lack of ideas or dedication, but by a system that makes it difficult for community initiatives to succeed.
The Nudge Community Builders entry featured plans to turn one of its buildings into a 25-bedroom apartment block for young people with no family support. The idea was sparked by a young woman who Nudge had hired from a homeless shelter who, after gaining employment, immediately lost her accommodation and had nowhere to turn.
The project would also have offered affordable, supported housing for young people navigating housing and employment on their own. The scheme would provide benefits such as employment readiness training, access to community resources, and shared ground-floor spaces for community support, integrating young adults into local life.
With Homes England funding only accessible to bigger registered housing providers and the council prioritising other plans, the project sits in limbo.
Established community organisations such as
Nudge are often trusted as delivery partners, in some cases even for large capital projects, but they are not empowered to lead and shape their own visions.
The exhibition coincided with the second
reading of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, a key opportunity to pass legislation that could finally shift power to local communities and unlock solutions to some of the country's most pressing challenges.
Polling commissioned by the campaign earlier this year found that while 70% of UK adults believe that local residents and community groups have the ideas and skills to improve their neighbourhood, 82% feel they have 'no or not much' control over the decisions that affect their area.
Hannah Sloggett, co-founder at Nudge Community Builders, said: "Communities like ours are often pushed aside, locked out of the big decisions, or seen as a 'nice-to-have’ or the last resort. It's time to trust communities with the tools, resources and backing to turn their dreams into reality."
Rich Bell, We're Right Here Campaign director, said: "It's heartbreaking to see so many brilliant community projects that could have changed lives but never got the chance. These stories show the human cost of a system that sidelines local people, even when they have the skills and vision to make a difference.
“The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill is a once in a generation opportunity to put community voice at the heart of the devolution agenda. If we get this right, we can unlock the creativity and energy that already exists in every town and neighbourhood across the country."
Peninsula Imaging and Pathology Networks, with Healthcare Sciences, are hosting a ’Discover Diagnostics’ careers event for Plymouth students and their parents, at the South West Imaging Training Academy in Plymouth.
The event takes place on September 20 at the Training Academy premises in William Prance Road with sessions from 9am to 12 noon or 1pm to 4pm.
The event will showcase the incredible jobs that make up radiography, pathology, and healthcare sciences, as well as the progression opportunities available in the local area.
Each session will start with a welcome seminar, followed by stall exhibits and a chance to chat with professionals from across the specialisms and our next steps teams.
The event is free to attend but tickets to either the morning or afternoon event must be booked for each attendee via www.tickettailor.com/events/ nhs36/1653669 or www.tickettailor.com/ events/nhs36/1653713
For more information visit https:// peninsuladiagnostics.nhs.uk/discoverdiagnostics
Red Bull have announced that the unique Up the Mast event designed to test competitors’ speed, skill and sheer determination, is coming to Plymouth.
A total of 200 brave participants will take on the mast on September 27 in a battle to be crowned the Red Bull Up The Mast 2025 Champion.
Taking place between 2pm and 5pm, competitors will test their speed, balance and willpower as they attempt to grab the flag at the end of the greased mast situated in the Barbican and Sutton Harbour. The format is simple: successfully grab the flag and
PLYMOUTH 96.3FM or listen online at crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth
the competitor goes through to the next round, fail to grab the flag and they are out. The fastest to grab the flag in the final round will be declared the ultimate winner.
The event is open to all participants over 18 and is free to spectate, with entertainment and live music throughout the day. The competition is part of Red Bull’s wider Up The Mast series, which has so far seen hugely successful events in Turkey and the USA.
To sign-up to participate on the day and find out more about Red Bull Up The Mast visit www.redbull. co.uk/up-the-mast.
• Mobile Repair Service
• Spares for PVC/Aluminium
• Doors & Windows / Handles & Hinges
• Wide Range Of Locks & Mechanisms
• Garage Door Repairs / Patio Door Wheels Free Estimates & No Call-Out Charge
Prestigious global award for Plymouth multi-academy trust which runs two city schools
A multi academy trust which operates two schools in Plymouth has won a prestigious global award.
The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (South West) – operator of Ernesettle Community School and Tor Bridge Primary School – has been named Educational Trust of the Year in the Corporate LiveWire Global Awards - an honour that recognises outstanding organisations across the globe.
The Corporate LiveWire Awards celebrate organisations that consistently deliver excellence in their respective sectors – from SMEs and public sector bodies to multinational corporations.
Can
The International Team at City College Plymouth is recruiting host families to accommodate and care for our international students
from home? To find out more information about becoming a host, please e-mail or call international@cityplym.ac.uk 01752 305755
This year, the awards panel praised the Inspire Multi Academy Trust (TIMAT) for its transformative impact on children's education, its holistic and inclusive approach and its exemplary model of collaborative working. Aaron Meredith, chief executive of the Trust and executive headteacher of the two schools country.
key highlight of the Trust's recognition was its innovative MAT-to-MAT collaboration model.
Delicious home made cakes will be available at the new Time & Again café
Age UK Plymouth has celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of its brand new café, Time & Again, located at the William and Patricia Venton Centre in Mount Gould.
On opening day the café welcomed a mix of familiar friends and new faces, all joining together to mark this exciting new chapter for the charity.
Created as a welcoming space for all, Time & Again is the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family, take a break or enjoy something delicious.
The café serves up some much loved favourites from full English breakfasts and lunchtime classics, to indulgent cream teas and a tempting range of homemade cakes – all freshly prepared by Age UK Plymouth’s dedicated catering team.
A full menu is available to view by visiting www.ageuk.org.uk/plymouth.
Every penny spent at Time & Again goes directly to Age UK Plymouth, helping to provide its vital services, activities and support for older people, individuals living with dementia, and carers across the city.
Even a simple coffee becomes a meaningful way to give back to support the local community in Plymouth.
As a dementia friendly venue with free onsite parking and a warm welcome for well behaved dogs, Time & Again has been designed with accessibility and comfort in mind for everyone in Plymouth.
In addition to its day to day offerings, Time & Again is also available to support catering requests for events, both on site and externally.
To celebrate the launch, Time & Again is offering 10 per cent off all purchases throughout September, making it the perfect time to stop by and try something new – all while supporting a meaningful, local cause.
The café is now open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 8.30am to 4pm.
A desperate appeal has been launched to find a forever home for a Spaniel X Lurcher which has spent more than 100 days at a Plymouth rescue centre.
With just weeks until his 10th birthday, staff at Woodside Animal Welfare Sanctuary are keeping everything crossed that the lovely Mojo will be settled in a loving home before his big day in October.
Mojo first arrived at Woodside, at Elfordleigh, in the spring after his owner passed away. Having spent much of his life on a caravan site, Mojo was unfamiliar with the world outside and ready to explore.
An initial match was found for Mojo, but sadly this didn’t work out and within weeks he was back at the sanctuary, where his carers are hoping its third time lucky for this sweet boy.
Woodside kennel supervisor Kelly Beutner said: “When he first came to the sanctuary, Mojo had lived in a caravan and wasn’t well socialised, he’d only been walked around the caravan park.
“He loves a fuss and a cuddle and is a laidback boy. He’s not a dog to sit on your lap but will come and sit next to you.
“Even though he’s older he’s still active. He’s still happy to go on long walks and have a sniff around the fields.”
With kennel life starting to get to Mojo, he’s spending more time in reception, enjoying cuddles with sanctuary staff and greeting visitors with his waggy tail. He recently caught the eye of potential adopters but, due to circumstances, they were unable to offer him a home at present.
Kelly explained that when Mojo was returned to the sanctuary in June, his adopter said he’d been reactive and unpredictable on walks and needed further training. However, since returning, Mojo has been the perfect gent, with an enhanced training and assessment programme put in place to monitor his behaviour.
In recent weeks, he’s visited the bustling Plympton Ridgeway, popped into shops along route for a treat (or two!), spent time in Colebrook Village and walked on the Moors, meeting people of all ages and abilities along the way.
He’s also joined the charity’s volunteer walkers and their dogs on their adventure, without showing any reactivity.
“We’ve not seen any negative behaviour,” Kelly said. “We took Mojo to the Ridgeway and into the charity shops to meet members of the public. People were giving him treats and making a fuss of him and he was really well behaved. He was relaxed, wagging his tail.
“The butchers caught his attention as we walked along and he tried to pull
me in! Mojo’s very food orientated. He’ll sit for a treat and will bark if you take too long!
“He’s mixed with other dogs here and has gone out with different staff and volunteers. One of our regular dog walkers takes him out with her three dogs and they go off lead, and she says he’s so good. The dog walkers all adore him.”
As he hasn’t lived with dogs, cats or children before, the sanctuary is looking for a pet-free home for Mojo and any children would need to be aged 16 and above.
Anyone interested in giving Mojo a forever home should call the sanctuary on 01752 347503 or email generalenquiries@woodsidesanctuary.org.uk.
A Plymouth-based developer has donated £2,000 to one of the city’s most beloved cultural institutions.
Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon handed over the cheque to The Box and its Foundation as part of its Community Champions scheme, with Plymouth City Council’s leader, Cllr Tudor Evans, in attendance.
The council-owned, not-for-profit museum, art gallery and archive has been in operation for five years after opening in 2020 on the site of Plymouth’s former Museum and Art Gallery, Central Library, and St Luke’s church buildings, transforming them into a series of new galleries and exhibition spaces.
Education, learning and creativity are at the heart of its programme which currently includes a major exhibition celebrating 100 years of surrealism, a retrospective of the long and varied career of British artist Jyll Bradley, and family workshops for the summer holidays.
The Box Foundation has been in existence for the same amount of time and raises funds to support The Box’s cultural and educational activities, as well as helping to ensure it remains free for everyone to visit.
Developer, Persimmon, currently has two sites in Plymouth, Palmerston Heights in Derriford and Saltram Meadows in Plymstock. Persimmon’s Community Champions programme sees £700,000 go to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include Plymouth Night Patrol, Argyle Community Foundation, St Luke’s Hospice, Elburton Villa FC, and Argyle Pride.
Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon sales director Jane Cartwright said: “Given our significant presence in Plymouth, it only felt right to support
the area through supporting the great work of The Box.
“Hundreds of families will be benefiting from the new homes we are building in Derriford and Plymstock, and we want them to have a great amenity that preserves and promotes the area’s history. So, Persimmon is proud to make this donation today.”
Hamish Anderson, chair of The Box Foundation, added: “Given our dedication to making sure the city’s flagship museum, art gallery and archive
remains free and welcoming to as many visitors as possible, we very much welcome Persimmon’s generous donation, which gives a real boost to our activities.
“The Box is proud of being a space where visitors can enjoy historic insights from the city’s collections alongside an ambitious exhibitions and vibrant events programme – often displaying things you cant see anywhere else in the South West. We look forward to continuing to support that good work.”
Plymouth is home to something extraordinary – and many people in the city don't even realise it.
Tucked away in Devonport's historic Market Hall is Europe's largest immersive dome, a vast digital space where pupils can experience the Arctic, the International Space Station, the depths of the rainforest or even the battlefields of the Second World War, all without leaving the city.
From September this year until July 2026, the Dome will open its doors to schools and youth groups from across Plymouth and the wider South West. The aim is to give young people a learning experience they'll never forget.
The screenings are designed to support the curriculum and bring subjects to life in ways that classrooms can't always achieve. Children can dive into the world of cells and biology, stand beneath the stars on a journey through the universe, or take a sensory trip inside a watermelon in shows specially created for Early Years and SEND groups. With the technology to project films across its 15-metre-wide dome, Market Hall offers a unique chance to surround students in moving images and sound, creating a powerful sense of being right inside the story.
Teachers who have already visited describe the impact as transformative. Pupils return to their classrooms buzzing with questions, ideas and creative energy, often producing writing and discussion far beyond what the lesson plan
expected. For schools, the Dome is more than just a trip – it's a springboard for learning that sparks curiosity across science, history, geography and the arts.
It's also an opportunity for Plymouth as few cities in Europe have access to this kind of technology and none have anything on this scale. For Plymouth to be home to the largest immersive
dome in Europe places the city at the forefront of digital innovation in education and culture. It means that schools here – and in the wider South West – have something that pupils in other big cities would have to travel hundreds of miles to experience.
Sessions are open not only to schools but also to youth groups, Scouts, Guides and community
SPONSORED CONTENT
organisations. The Dome can hold up to 70 pupils per session, with a minimum booking of 15. Alongside blockbuster science and history films, sensory screenings ensure that children of all abilities and needs can take part.
For Plymouth teachers the Dome offers a rare chance to combine affordable learning with genuine wow factor. At just £5 per pupil, with free adult places included, the screenings make Europe-leading technology accessible to local classrooms.
But beyond the cost, the real value lies in what young people take away. Whether it's the awe of standing beneath the starry skies, the thrill of seeing a rocket launch, or the empathy stirred by witnessing marine habitats destroyed by trawling, the Dome experience leaves a mark.
It's an opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, artists and citizens by showing them the world – and beyond – in a way no textbook ever could.
For Plymouth and the South West, this is more than just another school trip option. It is a statement that the city is leading the way in immersive learning, making global technology available on our doorstep.
In a world where education is competing for children's attention, the Dome proves that when learning is truly immersive, it doesn't just capture attention – it captures imagination.
More details can be found at real-immersive. realideas.org
Police in Plymouth responded to public concerns about dangerous illegal e-bikes by taking 44 of them off the streets in August.
The South and Central Neighbourhood Teams joined forces with officers from Devon & Cornwall Roads Policing, Drone Team, Special Constables, as well as the Plymouth and Exeter Neighbourhood Support Teams to carry out joint enforcement operations at Mutley Plain, Embankment Road, City Centre, Stonehouse and the Barbican.
The operations focused on identifying and seizing illegal e-bikes and reckless riding on public roads.
Working in partnership with partner agencies, officers stopped and inspected a number of electric bikes to ensure they complied with government regulations for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs).
These regulations state that, to be road legal, e-bikes must:
• Be fitted with pedals capable of propelling the bike
• Have an electric motor with a maximum continuous power output of no more than 250 watts
• Cut off electrical assistance when the bike reaches 15.5 mph
• Be ridden by individuals aged 14 or over.
Over the two days the police operations took place 44 e-bikes were seized after being found to be in breach of the EAPC classification and four people were arrested. Bikes that exceed these limits are classed as motor vehicles and must be registered, taxed, and insured.
Riders must also hold the appropriate driving licence and wear a motorcycle safety helmet. Once seized, the illegal bikes are destroyed and will not be returned to owners.
Inspector Emma Brimicombe, from the Central Neighbourhood Team, said “The safety of all road users is our priority. With the growing use of high-powered e-bikes, it’s essential that riders
understand the legal requirements and the potential risks involved. “Operations like this help ensure compliance and protect the public.”
The police urge anyone using or considering purchasing an e-bike to familiarise themselves with the law. Non-compliant use not only carries legal consequences but also poses serious safety risks.
Inspector Greg Bridgett added: “Following complaints from our communities about the increasing use of e-bikes around the city, the public can expect further robust police action and operations of this nature throughout the year.”
If you have concerns about e-bikes in your area, please let us know by signing up to the free Devon & Cornwall Police Community Messaging system. You can receive updates via text or email so please visit www.community-messaging.dc.police.uk
For more guidance around e-bikes please visit the Government website at www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules
In other news a parcel containing suspected drugs has been intercepted. In a joint operation, the Efford Neighbourhood Policing Team (NHT) were alerted to a man who had posted parcels at a local post office.
The parcels, containing suspected illicit drugs, were subsequently intercepted at the Plymstock sorting office and swift action was taken to identify a suspect.
A man from Cornwall was arrested the following day and has since been released on police bail while enquiries continue. Police investigations are ongoing and the Neighbourhood Policing Teams continue to work diligently to disrupt the supply of drugs in our community.
The Police Enquiry Office at Charles Cross Police Station in Charles Street is open to the public from 8am until 5.30pm Monday to
Surgery services at Derriford Hospital have been upgraded from ‘requires improvement’ to ‘good,’ following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission.
Although improvements had been made since the previous inspection there were some areas that still needed attention. Inspectors found two breaches of regulations relating to dignity and respect and staffing, and CQC has asked the trust to submit an action plan setting out how they plan to address the issues.
Derriford Hospital remains rated as requires improvement overall.
Jemma Edge, deputy chief operating officer and Care Group manager for Surgery, said: “I am incredibly proud of all the hard work that has taken place, rewarded with the recognition from the CQC in upgrading our rating.
“This is such a team effort across multiple individuals and departments, all who have contributed to this outstanding achievement. It is a privilege to work alongside such inspiring colleagues who consistently go above and beyond, not only delivering outstanding patient care but also driving continuous improvement in our services for both patients and staff.
“Their commitment to excellence is evident in our performance across many national benchmarks and continues to develop.”
Catherine Campbell, CQC deputy director of operations in the South said: “When we inspected Derriford Hospital’s surgery services we found staff and leaders had been committed to using the findings from our last inspection to make improvements and this had resulted in positive changes being made across the board.
“Staff now felt listened to and understood people’s needs, views and wishes. People said they knew how to raise issues and were confident their feedback was acted on.
“Many spoke about how comfortable staff made them, and how they had been supported to make decisions about their care and give informed consent.
“The service had developed a culture of continuous improvement and we found leaders were visible, knowledgeable, and helped staff to develop in their roles. They had good systems in place to act on safety risks, including when safeguarding concerns were raised, and made sure that lessons were learned and shared with staff when things went wrong.
“Although the service had made improvements, we were concerned with how many staff had completed all the training required for their roles, and found privacy issues with the orthopaedic operating theatres.
“The doors in the theatres enabled members of the public or other staff to see people who were being taken in for surgery and the trust addressed this following our feedback.
“The trust should be pleased with the progress they have made in surgery services and we’ll continue to monitor them while further improvements take place. We will return to reinspect in future.”
A planning application to regenerate the remaining section of the historic Factory Cooperage building at Plymouth’s Royal William Yard has been submitted.
This second phase of development would create 24 new luxury townhouses and complete the transformation of the Grade I listed building, following the successful completion of its first phase over the last two years.
The planning application represents the next chapter in Urban Splash's ongoing regeneration of Royal William Yard. Urban Splash will partner with South West developer, Poppy Developments, to deliver the scheme and it will build on the success of Phase 1.
The development comes as Real Ideas transitions its Ocean Studios space from Factory Cooperage to Devonport Guildhall, part of a strategic move to centralise its creative offering in Devonport. This relocation creates the opportunity to reimagine the use of the building and convert this into residential space.
The proposed Phase 2 development aligns with Royal William Yard’s vision, balancing residential accommodation with the destination’s thriving retail, dining and cultural offerings.
The Yard has continued to evolve during its 200th anniversary year, with the recent opening of Arcade providing six new retail and leisure premises, and the new car park expansion project well underway.
Tom Lowry, Urban Splash's development manager for Royal William, said: "Poppy Developments has established itself as a trusted partner within the Yard community. Their expertise in sensitively converting these historic buildings, combined with their understanding of what buyers are looking for, makes them the ideal developer to complete this important project."
The proposed bespoke 2, 3 and 4 bedroom townhouses will complement the existing Phase 1 properties, creating a cohesive
residential community within one of Plymouth’s most prestigious waterfront locations, Factory Cooperage. Uptake for the homes in Phase 1 has been positive, with just
five properties left to be sold.
The townhouses would feature the same premium specifications and thoughtful design as Phase 1, with generous proportions across multiple floors and outdoor spaces designed to maximise the breathtaking maritime setting. Each property would blend contemporary comfort with the rich heritage of this iconic location, maintaining the exacting standards that have made Royal William Yard synonymous with quality living. Factory Cooperage represents one of the final major buildings to be transformed within Royal William Yard’s waterfront community. The heritage site, which boasts the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe, has undergone significant transformation since Urban Splash began its regeneration work 20 years ago.
The planning application submission marks another significant milestone in Royal William Yard’s evolution as a sustainable, long-term community where people can live, work and visit one of the UK’s most spectacular waterfront settings.
For more details and information visit www.royalwilliamyard.com
Plymouth has been named one of five key national defence growth areas in the UK Defence Industrial Strategy announced on September 7.
A team of city organisations that form Team Plymouth, formally Growth Alliance Plymouth, have warmly welcomed the landmark designation that marks a transformative moment for Plymouth and the region, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for economic development, innovation and community prosperity.
Backed by a £250 million UK-wide investment, the landmark designation marks a pivotal moment for the city, opening up access to new opportunities that can shift the dial on Plymouth's economic trajectory and unlock long-term prosperity for local communities and future generations.
The newly launched Team Plymouth will strengthen collaboration between key organisations, foster innovation and create high-quality jobs. This strategic partnership positions Plymouth to lead in defence, marine autonomy, and advanced manufacturing, securing its place at the forefront of national resilience and regional renewal.
The announcement builds on a series of recent major developments, including Plymouth's designation as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, a £350 million investment by defence tech firm Helsing, Babcock's expansion into Sherford, with a new Integrated Logistics Hub and Advanced Manufacturing Base and the confirmation of Plymouth and South Devon Freeport as a Defence Strategic Investment Zone.
It also follows the Ministry of Defence's £4.4 billion investment into Devonport Naval Base and Babcock's Devonport Royal Dockyard, supporting the next phase of the Royal Navy's submarine programme and the Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD), with operations extending through to at least 2070.
The Defence Growth Deal investment in Plymouth will support a wide range of initiatives designed to build long-term capability and prosperity, including:
• Strengthening local skills initiatives, with a focus on STEM outreach and training in fields such as electrical engineering, renewable energy systems, nuclear operations, and autonomy.
• Driving innovation through the Advanced Marine Technology Hub at the University of
MOD, Babcock and wider partners such as Plymouth University and City College Plymouth to make sure city residents can access these opportunities – not just in defence but in wider supply chains including marine autonomy and construction. There is a lot to do, making sure the entire city and wider region benefits from the defence growth, but we are already on the case. The Defence Industrial Strategy is shining a bright light on Plymouth, and we are very proud to be part of it."
Harry Holt, chief executive of Babcock's Nuclear Sector said: "This is a proud moment for Plymouth's defence sector. The announcement of Team Plymouth, within the national Defence Growth Deal, reflects the already strong partnerships that continue to be built locally. Babcock is committed to working with colleagues across the city, and with local and national government, to ensure this momentum delivers lasting benefits within the region and strengthens the defence dividend in our communities."
Plymouth, supporting dual-use capability development, marine science and critical national infrastructure.
• Investing in local infrastructure to support the wider defence ecosystem.
In line with the national strategy and the emergence of regional defence growth identities such as Team Barrow, Growth Alliance Plymouth is rebranding to Team Plymouth.
This new identity reflects a strengthened partnership with government, industry and local stakeholders and signals a collective ambition to seize this moment and transform the city's future.
Sir Chris Gardner, chief executive of the Submarine Delivery Agency and Senior Responsible Owner for Team Plymouth said:
“I'm immensely proud to represent this transformative partnership with Plymouth, that recognises the vital contribution of this exceptional community to the UK's defence capabilities and national endeavour.
“Team Plymouth is a testament to the power of collaboration between government, industry and academia, and the value of harnessing local expertise to create sustainable job opportunities for future generations.
"The comprehensive scope of this investment, from STEM education and skills development to cutting-edge research capabilities and infrastructure support, will ensure this region remains at the forefront of defence innovation. Together, we’re building a strategic partnership that honours this community’s proud naval history whilst securing its pivotal role in safeguarding Britain’s future.”
Council Leader Tudor Evans said: "This is a huge announcement for Plymouth. It's a new era for the city, a national endeavour which we are proud and excited to be at the heart of. Families of today and tomorrow will benefit from this announcement and the opportunities it will open up far into the future.
"This is why we are teaming up with the
Under its new branding, Team Plymouth will continue to champion the city's strategic assets, attract investment and ensure that the benefits of growth are felt across all communities. The alignment of Freeport status, Defence Growth Deals and the Industrial Strategy Zones Action Plan provides a powerful framework to deliver lasting change and to reshape Plymouth's economic future for generations to come.
Professor Richard Davies, Vice-Chancellor of Plymouth University, said: "This investment will create unprecedented opportunities for the university and everyone living and working in our city.
“It shows those in charge of our nation's defence have confidence that Plymouth –thanks to our expertise and facilities, our location and heritage – is perfectly placed to tackle the complex and varied threats the UK is currently facing, and to inspire and train those who will be critical to its future security.
“The creation of an Advanced Marine Technology Hub will enable us to build on our expertise in autonomous marine systems, maritime cyber security, offshore renewable energy and environmental intelligence. But more than that, it places us even closer to the heart of the UK's national resilience, and we and our partners are ready to seize the opportunities that brings."
A new festive experience is coming to Plymouth this winter and local businesses are invited to be at the heart of it.
From November 27 to December 21, the allnew Plymouth Christmas Market will take place in the heart of the city, transforming Armada Way and New George Street into a festive wonderland.
Operated by award-winning market specialists, Market Place, the Plymouth Christmas market is now accepting trader applications, and talented South West-based artisans, makers, and producers are being encouraged to apply.
Market Place are bringing their expertise and festive flair to Plymouth for the first time, having previously delivered the highly successful Exeter Christmas Market from 2016 to 2021. Many regard those years as among the market's most successful, with numerous former Exeter traders still choosing to work with Market Place at events across the UK.
The company have a celebrated history, having delivered the iconic Belfast Christmas Market, which attracted 1.1 million visitors in 2024, and the Glasgow Christmas Market, which drew just under 1.5 million visitors at its peak. The stars of Channel Four's documentary 'Secrets of the Christmas Market' are promising a high-quality, high-footfall event that puts local talent centre stage.
Andy Pidgen, operations director at Market Place, said: "We are making a significant investment in this year's Plymouth Christmas Market with the ambition to create an unmissable festive destination, on par with our most popular markets like Belfast and Leeds. We're looking for passionate, local traders offering high-quality products and produce –from handcrafted gifts to flavourful fresh food." With over 100 wooden chalets, the Plymouth Christmas Market will offer a rich mix of artisan crafts, bespoke gifts, festive treats, and street food favourites. The event will also feature family-friendly attractions such as a vintage Helter Skelter, a traditional carousel, a ferris wheel, and a live entertainment stage showcasing local performers.
To ensure traders thrive, Market Place will be supporting the Plymouth Christmas Market with a significant promotional campaign, including outdoor advertising, targeted social media, PR activity, and city-wide branding, all designed to drive footfall and maximise visibility for traders. Trading at a Market Place Christmas event places traders at the forefront of the city' s festive celebrations. Spaces are limited and demand is high, so early application is strongly recommended. Traders are selected based on product quality, suitability, and availability on a first-come, first-served basis.
To apply, visit www.marketplace.co.uk
Nearly 1,200 Princess Yachts workers will receive a 6.5 per cent pay rise after a successful industrial action ballot, Unite, the UK’s leading union has announced.
The workers voted in favour of strike action after being told their wages would stay the same during pay negotiations.
Following the strike ballot, the company put forward a 6.5 per cent offer from September, which the workers voted in favour of accepting.
The pay rise means those on the lowest pay grades will see their wages increase by between £2,000 and £3,000 a year.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This is a huge victory for the Princess Yachts workers, who by sticking together in their union and voting for
strike action forced the company back to the table. This is yet another example of how Unite's absolute dedication to improving jobs, pay and condition is paying dividends for our members."
The workers voted in favour of industrial action during a ballot that closed in early August. No strike action took place or was scheduled due to successful negotiations with the company.
Unite regional officer Mark Richards said: "This deal could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of Unite's workplace representatives.
"This goes to show that those wanting better wages and working lives should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join too."
A Plymouth Hoe memorial dedicated to a grandson of Queen Victoria is to get some TLC as part of Plymouth City Council's ongoing review of its assets.
The Prince Christian Victor Memorial was erected in 1902 to commemorate the death of Prince Christian Victor of Schleswig-Holstein, one of Queen Victoria’s grandsons, who died of typhoid fever during the Second Boer War.
It also commemorates the officers, noncommissioned officers and men of the Gloucestershire, Somerset and Devonshire Regiments who fell during the Boer War 1899 to 1902.
The memorial was designed by architect Frederick William Mark and has three bronze
panels by the sculptor Onslow Whiting and one by Emil Fuchs. The front panel by Fuchs shows two angels lifting a soldier 'towards another world' with a dedication to the prince.
The three panels by Whiting depict battles from the Boer War, including an attack by the Devonshire Regiment at Wagon Hill during the Siege of Ladysmith, and another shows the Somerset Light Infantry and the Gloucestershire Regiment in action.
The panel on the north has an inscription with the name of the benefactor who paid for memorial – South Africa diamond merchant Alfred Mosely.
Around the sides are the names of Boer War battles, including Ladysmith and Paardeberg – a name Plymouth people may recognise as a gun captured there now stands as a memorial to the crew of HMS Doris in Devonport Park.
The striking 12 metre pink granite obelisk with bronze panels is to get a makeover with the bronze surface cleaned and treated.
As the monument is Grade II listed, the council took advice from an historic consultant about the treatment methods and will be using a qualified historic contractor to carry out the work which will also entail cleaning the granite steps, repointing and applying wax to plaques on completion.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for assets said: "Where we can, we try to find funding to protect and preserve our monuments. This is an impressive memorial which is in need of attention.
"Whatever people's views now are on empire and colonialism, we should not shy away from
our history, but acknowledge it, learn from it and remember that many young men from this city would have died in battles far, far away from here." There's more information about memorials in Plymouth at www.theboxplymouth.com/blog/ press-release/the-boer-war
Earlier this summer Plymouth City Council fenced off an arm of West Hoe pier as a safety measure ahead of repair work to stabilise the Grade II listed structure.
Built in the 1880s, the pier has been subject to various repairs over the years, but its location means that it is subject to continuous wave action.
The council has been monitoring its condition for some time and unfortunately the pierhead is in a more fragile state than ever.
Work started at the beginning of September to stabilise the pierhead. This will initially entail repointing the outer pier walls before more intrusive work can start. This will involve digging
into the pier and refilling voids that have been created by the sea as well as constructing three concrete bands to add more stability.
The work is expected to take around six weeks
– subject to progress, tide and weather conditions – and the pier will remain closed throughout the work and over winter. Given the scale of the work needed, a second, more expansive programme of work is currently being planned for next spring.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member responsible for assets, said: "We have miles of waterfront, with walls, quays and piers – all at the mercy of time and tide. We have to balance limited budgets on where it is most needed.
"This tiny harbour is an important part of the waterfront and Plymouth's story and a place where people – especially anglers – really connect with the sea. It needs to be safe."
After years of frustration for local residents, work has finally begun to clear vegetation from Central Park Avenue, reopening a key path that has been closed for years.
The works, which began in August and will see a short one-way traffic system in place while clearance happens, mark the first step towards restoring safe access. Further works will follow in the weeks ahead to divert water that has repeatedly flooded the path.
Cllr Charlotte Holloway and Luke Pollard MP have been jointly campaigning on the issue, with Holloway posting a recent video calling on Plymouth
City Council to 'Build That Wall!'
Cllr Charlotte Holloway, Labour Councillor for Drake ward, said: “I've been working to get this issue sorted since day one of being elected as a councillor here.
"Whilst it's been a complex problem to sort, I've shared the frustration of residents and am now glad that this work finally begins to put it right. I'm pleased that our collective voice has made a difference and want to thank everyone involved for their patience and tenacity.”
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “This is a win for local people who
have been clear they wanted this bit of Central Park Avenue reopened. Charlotte and I have worked together to keep pressure on the council, and today is proof that when residents together with their councillor and MP keep raising their voices, things move.
"The first step is happening now, and we'll keep this on the council’s agenda until the permanent fix is funded and delivered.”
Cllr John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "This is an important first step, and we'll keep working with Charlotte and Luke to deliver the long-term solution residents deserve here.”
Artist and bestselling garden author TJ Maher of the incredible Patthana Garden in County Wicklow, Ireland will be giving a presentation at Harewood House, Plympton on Friday October 24.
TJ, a painter and plantsman, will explore his book ‘Grounded in the Garden – an artist’s guide to creating a beautiful garden in harmony with nature’ described by the Sunday Times as ‘A balm for the soul.’
The talk will be illustrated by a series of stunning photographs of his garden including some by the celebrated photographer Clive Nicholls.
Patthana Garden is managed organically and comprises of many areas, but it has nature at its heart. The planting is always exciting, and colour is used with huge artistry. This event will appeal to gardeners from the newest amateur to the seasoned professional and to everyone who shares TJ’s love of the natural world.
All profits from this event will be going to Wildside Tribute Garden Fund in aid of their proposed Day Respite Facility, for cancer patients and their families, within the beautiful Pavilion that has been built and needs fitting out internally to suit medical needs.
Wildside, near Yelverton, is a world-renowned
garden created by the talented Keith Wiley, who was previously head gardener at The Garden House for 25 years and his late wife, Ros, who sadly died
Plymouth locals, families and friends are being encouraged to take part in this year’s Royal British Legion's Poppy Walk to raise funds for the RBL's 2025 Poppy Appeal.
The sociable 3km walk will take place at Central Park, Plymouth on Saturday November 8. Registration will open at 10am, with the walk starting at 11am, shortly after a moment of Remembrance.
Funds raised from the Poppy Walk will help the RBL to continue supporting veterans, those serving, and their families, offering expert advice and practical support with everything from recovery, housing, finances and employment. The RBL is there for life 'whatever the need, whenever it's needed.'
As well as raising important funds for this year’s Poppy Appeal, the Poppy Walk will also be a chance to remember, reflect, and plant a lasting tribute to the Armed Forces community. Participants will receive a wooden poppy tribute that can be personalised with a message to a loved one and planted at the event. These tributes will then be replanted in the Field of Remembrance at the Royal British Legion's National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
The family and dog friendly walk has an entry
Dog owners in Plymouth are being reminded to ensure their pet is microchipped as well as collared and tagged or it could cost hundreds of pounds – that’s the message following the prosecution of a dog owner whose pet was found wandering the streets of Stoke.
fee of £10 per adult, and under 18s can attend free of charge. All participants are encouraged to fundraise what they can, and new for this year, anyone who raises £150 or more will receive an exclusive Poppy Walk medallion. '
Peter Smale, 62, from Plymouth, was supported by the RBL after finding himself homeless. Peter said: "The support I received from the RBL was a godsend. I had nowhere to go, and that's when I turned to the RBL.
"They were able to help me get a place I could call home, if it wasn't for the RBL I would still be on the streets. The money raised from generous people taking part in Poppy Walks changes the lives of people like me."
Izy Shaw, Poppy Appeal Manager in South Devon for the Royal British Legion, said: "We encourage as many people as possible from across Plymouth and the wider South Devon area to join the Royal British Legion's 2025 Poppy Walk. With over 18,000 service personnel in Plymouth, it's a fantastic way to come together with family and friends to thank and support the Armed Forces community."
A 20% discount is also available for adult entry fees, using the code 'WALK20 'at checkout. To sign up or for further information please visit: rbl.org. uk/poppy-walk
of cancer in 2019. Visit www.wileyatwildside.com for details of opening days.
The Plympton event is being organised by exteacher Caroline Crocker of Duck Garden Plants and Posies in Plymstock. Caroline is a self-taught plantswoman who featured on BBC Gardener’s World last year after transforming her previously lawned garden into a series of Wildside inspired, naturalistic mounds in just one year.
Presenter Sue Kent visited the garden to learn how changing the topography has created varied habitats and offers solutions to the UK’s increasingly wet winters and dry summers.
Caroline has been raising money for Wildside since 2020 in memory of her much loved sister-inlaw, Claire Shuter. During the creation of her new borders Caroline was also strongly influenced by TJ’s planting choices. Seeing parallels between Patthana Garden and Wildside, the idea for the fundraiser was born.
The presentation on October 24 starts at 7.30pm with doors opening at 7pm. Tickets for the event can be purchased on Eventbrite with the Earlybird price of £17.50 running until September 30. Visit: https://TJPlymouth. eventbrite.co.uk or type TJ into the Plymouth Eventbrite search box.
For further information contact Caroline via Eventbrite or through her Instagram or Facebook pages.
A 24-year-old Stoke woman was found guilty of two offences relating to failing to meet legal requirements to ensure her dog was microchipped correctly and wearing a collar and tag in public last December. She did not appear in court for the hearing, but Plymouth magistrates were told that the council’s stray dog enforcement officer picked up her Jack Russell after it was found in Home Park, Stoke, without a collar or tag.
She was ordered to pay a total of £708 – £220 for failing to ensure her dog wore a collar and tag in public, £400 costs and £88 surcharge. She was also given a criminal record.
Under the Control of Dogs Order 1992, all dogs in public must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address on it, either written on the collar or on a tag, so that if they go missing, they can quickly be reunited with their owner.
When the owner came to collect her dog, a relative paid the standard release fee. However, the council discovered that the dog’s microchip details were out of date and still listed the previous owner. This did not comply with the Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023, which require dog owners to keep their contact details accurate and up to date on the microchip database.
A legal notice was served on the 24-yearold requiring her to update the details and a final warning issued when this was not done. Despite this, the microchip details remained unchanged.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Community Safety said: “We want to get dogs and owners united as soon as they can and the easiest way to do that is for the dog to have a collar and tag with a phone number on it.
“In this instance, the dog was literally a street or so away, but the kind person who spotted him had no way of finding the owner, so contacted us.
“I can’t emphasise enough how important it is to make sure your dog has a collar and tag and that the microchip details are up to date. It cuts out the stress for both the dog and the owner as well as the possibility of a fine.”
Award-winning adult learning provider On Course South West has been awarded over £250,000 through the Turing Scheme to provide transformative study and work placements abroad for its students.
The latest funding will support international opportunities between September 2025 and August 2026, aligning with the scheme’s aims of advancing social justice and enhancing skills.
The Turing Scheme, the UK government’s global programme for studying and working abroad, aims to unlock once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for personal and professional development.
“I am absolutely delighted that On Course South West has secured even more this year in Turing Scheme funding,” said Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships.
“This investment means 146 of our learners, 100 per cent from disadvantaged backgrounds will have the chance to experience life-changing study and work placements abroad.
“These opportunities not only broaden horizons and build vital skills,
“It's great exercise, I think of it as I'm getting paid to do my steady state cardio. Good for the waistline and the wallet!”
Adults, young people and active seniors make up our brilliant team of delivery people across Plymouth. Get in touch to be part of the team. Own transport helpful but not essential. Scan to apply.
but also ensure that every young person, regardless of their background or needs, can access the benefits of international education.
“I have already seen the positive impacts of this programme and how lives have been changed, I am really eager to see even more success in the next 12 months.”
OCSW’s successful bid will enable 146 learners to participate in life-changing experiences across 11 destinations, an increase on last year’s 86 participants.
Key highlights include:
• 100% of placements reserved for students from disadvantaged backgrounds
• 100 spaces allocated to students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)
• Range of destinations offering unique cultural and educational experiences
• Tailored support to ensure accessibility for all participants
The locations for these trips will be announced in late August 2025. To find out more visit www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk/turing
Solar panels have been introduced at a Plymouth quarry to power part of its operations.
The 208 panels have been installed by Holcim UK on the rooftop of its workshops at the company’s Moorcroft site alongside the Elburton Road in Plymstock.
Holcim is a Swiss multinational company, a global leader in building materials and sustainable construction solutions.
The site, which is home to a limestone quarry, asphalt and readymix plants, is the latest location that the leading sustainable building solutions provider has brought solar to as part of its ongoing renewable energy rollout.
The project, managed by Regenerco with installation carried out by Aniron, will be able to generate more than 76,000 KWh of power per year, equating to two per cent of the site's annual power needs and resulting in a saving of 15.9 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
The introduction of more renewable energy sources is a key part of the company's net zero strategy which aims to achieve zero emissions before 2050. It follows on from rooftop installations at its Hulland Ward, Bardon Hill and Callow sites in the last 12 months.
Joanna Walker, energy manager at Holcim UK, said: "Our initial focus is on identifying suitable locations for roof mounted solar across our UK sites.
"Moorcroft is a welcome addition to the scheme we have already successfully implemented and helps us continue to roll-out renewable energy
sources as part of our Net Zero Strategy, helping us on our journey to zero emissions.
"We have further schemes in the pipeline for the rest of the year including both rooftop and ground mounted initiatives."
Nigel Price, director at Burton-based Regenerco which developed the project installation, said: "We are delighted to support Holcim UK with its ongoing clean electricity needs and welcome another successful installation."
For further information on Holcim UK, visit www.holcim.co.uk
Organisations in Plymouth are invited to apply for grants to host welcoming spaces across the city during the colder months.
Plymouth City Council received just over £4 million from the Department for Work and Pensions Household Support Fund to help support residents with the cost of living throughout 2025/26.
As part of this support, £160,000 has been allocated to help organisations open welcoming, community spaces this year – an increase of £60,000 from last winter when 37 spaces received funding.
Grants of between £2,100 and £5,350 are available to help non-profit organisations host a welcoming space, providing warmth and community connection, from November 2025 to March 2026.
Each welcoming space may offer a variety of services, including:
• Information, support and guidance
• Opportunities to participate in activities and learn new skills
• Free internet access, computers and charging points
• Friendly environment to connect with others
• Refreshments, food offers, and pportunities to cook healthy meals together.
Applications are open now and must be submitted by 5pm on September 26. Successful applicants will be notified in the first week of October.
Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: "We know that many people in Plymouth are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, especially as we head into winter.
"Our welcoming spaces programme has grown and become very successful over the last few years, so much so that we have substantially increased the budget allocated to this scheme for this winter.
"These spaces provide not just warmth, but a real sense of community and support and I've seen first hand the difference this has made to people's lives. I encourage local organisations to apply and help us create safe, inclusive places where everyone feels welcome."
Applications will be assessed to ensure a fair geographical spread across the city, with coverage at different times of day and week, and support for a wide range of people. While only one grant can be awarded per organisation, multiple applications from the same venue are allowed if submitted by different organisations supporting distinct groups.
Members of the community in Leigham have come together to fund a brand-new defibrillator which was unveiled outside Leigham Community Hall at a recent open day.
The Janner Men's Shed, a group supported by Plymouth Community Homes (PCH) that meets weekly to socialise, have lunch and complete woodwork at Leigham Community Hall held an open day to showcase their products, bring the local community together and to unveil the defibrillator which they pooled together with other key members in the community to purchase.
The defibrillator, in memory of Janet Thorning, a much-loved member of the local bingo group was funded by the Janner Men's Shed, the local community including the shops and local pub and the bingo group through combined and separate fundraisers.
All of the funders came together to put their money into the pot towards the defibrillator, following three medical emergencies that took place near the hall last winter, with the nearest one being located over a mile away.
Barbara Jarvis, the host of the Bingo Group worked with AEDdonate, an organisation who is committed to improving survival from out of hospital cardiac arrests, supporting the placement and use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) to local communities, who were extremely supportive with the fundraising process and the organising of the defibrillator, kindly donating £200 towards it.
Barbara also mentioned the amazing efforts and kindness of the local community and friends of Janet, who all came together and supported with donations.
She told as many people as she could about their fundraising efforts and the need for the device in the Leigham area and one day, Barbara received a call from AEDdonate to let her know that an anonymous individual had been in touch with them, and had contributed the rest of the funds to pay for the defibrillator, as well as funding an eight year plan to ensure the longevity of the device.
Everyone involved was delighted with this news, and extremely grateful for the 'mystery donator' for their generous contribution and through the support of AEDdonate, it was installed in June.
It was unveiled by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Kathy Watkin during the event, in front of many of the local community, the Janner Men's Shed, friends and family and more and it was a fantastic day to celebrate the hard work of the
community in making this happen.
Barbara Jarvis, bingo host and custodian of the defibrillator, said: "After taking over the bingo at Leigham Community Hall and experiencing a number of medical incidents within the group, it brought to light how important it was to continue the fundraising for a defibrillator, to protect not only the bingo group but the wider Leigham community.
"It was great to pool our money together with The Janner Men's Shed, Lee's News, the local pub and the rest of the community to fund the device, with everyone being so generous and the news that a mystery donator had covered the remaining costs and paid for an eight-year plan was truly incredible. Without this, it wouldn't have been possible, so we are truly grateful to them for what they have done for us.
"Fundraising and organising the defibrillator was extremely hard work but it was totally worth it. So far, it hasn't needed to be used, but its good to be there in case it is ever needed."
Andy, local resident and chairman at the Janner Men's Shed, said: "Everyone has been so generous in donating money towards getting a defibrillator, and by pooling our money with the local community and the kind donation from the mystery individual we have been able to purchase the defibrillator and it is great to celebrate it today.
"It is very important to us that we have a defibrillator here, and it provides reassurance to us all if we ever need it. I have never been so reassured.
"The hard work over the last three four months has been totally worth it, and seeing the huge amount of community spirit is what it's all about."
David Loynes, Treasurer of the Forder Valley Mission Community, which owns & runs Leigham Community Hall, said:
"It's very good that the whole community have been involved in funding and organising the defibrillator. It is really positive, and it shows how big of a part Leigham Community Hall plays in the community. We hope to be successful in future funding to help us further refurbish the hall, so it can continue to be used for many years to come."
Karina, owner at Lee's News, family run newsagents in the heart of Leigham, said: "Each year we choose what we're going to raise money for, and in October we started to raise money for the community defibrillator. It was fantastic to club our money together with The Janner Men's Shed and others to be able to purchase something to help the community, which is something we always try to do."
Ryan Huws, communities worker at Plymouth Community Homes, said: "Although the Janner Men's Shed have attended numerous community events with a stall, this was the first time that they'd held their own Open Day.
"There's a lovely community feel in Leigham with local groups and businesses being so supportive. The weather was perfect, and it was great to see Leigham coming together to celebrate having their own community defibrillator."
Works on the Trefusis Park Flood Relief Scheme continues to make steady progress, with several key construction milestones reached and others not too far away.
The main activity in recent weeks has been the construction of the banks of the basins – also known as bunds. To effectively contain water within the seasonal wetland basin, the bunds have been constructed to varying heights, with the maximum height reaching 3.4 metres at the southern end of the park. This accounts for the natural slope of the park from north to south.
At the northern end of the park, work has been focussed on a mechanism to divert surface water into the new system. The footpath remains temporarily rerouted through the Community Orchard while this is ongoing.
There has also been some tree work with two ash trees removed, as well as some crown raising on the western side of the park to allow Kier's earthworks machinery to operate safely.
Meanwhile, the old basketball
court has been broken out to make way for a new permanent ecology pond. Additionally, parts of the old concrete channel at the top of the park have been filled in to support the new landscape design. A brand new and improved basketball court will be built beside the playpark in the final build.
In the play park, the slide and climbing frame that was removed to form the perimeter of the site has been reinstated.
Work under way on the scheme Photo: Plymouth City Council
In coming weeks, the main contractor Kier will be completing the construction of the bunds, installing a new wall at the top of the old stream and laying the liner for the basins.
They will also build an inlet spillway to ensure that water does not erode the surrounding banks and landscaping.
Work on the scheme started in April this year and is designed to help reduce flooding in the Lipson Vale area, protecting hundreds of local homes and businesses.
More information on the scheme can be found at www.plymouth.gov. uk/trefusis-park-flood-relief-scheme
Alterations Planning & Building regulation applications Personal & efficient service 01752 936125 07745 392764 jjmmdesign@yahoo.co.uk
Plymouth's eclectic The Pit Orchestra will revive one of its landmark works this December with a special film-with-liveorchestra performance in celebration of the centenary of what is considered one of the greatest films ever created, 'Battleship Potemkin.'
For one night only on December 6, Plymouth's University's The House performing arts centre will journey audiences to a Russian Imperial Navy battleship on the Black Sea when a mutinous uprising by the ship’s crew against their ruthless officers, sparked by spoiled meat, becomes a violent clash and one of the most famous closing scenes in cinema history.
The Pit Orchestra 'accompanies Sergei Eisenstein's legendary 1925 silent film, widely considered a masterpiece in early cinema and which was inspired by the failed 1905 Russian Revolution. Its iconic climatic scenea fictional massacre of civilians on the iconic Odessa steps in Ukraine - is widely studied for its editing and pioneering use of montage. First commissioned and performed in 2017, the powerful soundtrack was originally composed collectively by The Pit Orchestra members under the guidance of lead composers Tom Richardson, Chris Muirhead and Chris Bailey. It has now been reimagined by Tom Richardson for the 2025 season with technical guidance from the virtuosic, internationally-renowned composer Simon Dobson.
Tom Richardson said: "Battleship Potemkin
not only represents a milestone in the grand history of cinema, as well as the shorter history of The Pit Orchestra, it is also a potent symbol of revolution and resistance to established authority and oppression;
a position that lies at the heart of The Pit Orchestra's ethos.
“We want to honour the film's legacy, the anti-establishment spirit of Russia’s postrevolution music scene, the geo-political
moment in which the centenary is occurring, and our own code of DIY collective action."
The event forms part of the centenary celebrations of 'Battleship Potemkin 'and continues The Pit Orchestra's mission to breathe new life into classic cinema through live performance.
Twelve musicians will perform this moving revival, many of whom will play multiple instruments while also forming a dynamic choir.
The Pit Orchestra is an evolving ensemble of trained and untrained musicians who mix classical and modern instruments and transform with every performance.
They write original scores, soundtracks and musical accompaniments in collaboration with filmmakers and artists, and are inspired by a wide variety of musical genres including rock, folk, electro, jazz, ambient and classical.
The orchestra formed in 2013 (as The Imperfect Orchestra) and has consistently maintained principles of collaboration, artistic expression, diversity, inclusivity and, perhaps most importantly, celebration of the amateur.
The Ukrainian Singers of Plymouth will open the event with a performance of traditional and contemporary Ukrainian music.
Also, as part of the centenary celebrations, later in December The Pit Orchestra will create a new, high-quality recording of their original 'Battleship Potemkin' score.
Battleship Potemkin 2025 'tickets are now on sale via www.thepitorchestra.com
• Registered Household Rubbish Removal • Power Washing 16 Lympne Ave, Ernesettle, Plymouth Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129
Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk
Plastering Renovations • Flooring
General maintenance Garden decking & fencing
Friendly & reliable Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis-ball@hotmail.co.uk
Plastering
S.G.F
Plastering & Decorating Specialist
Painting - Plastering - Wallpaper - Interior & Exterior Work - Over 30 years experienceC.S.C.S Registered - Friendly & Reliable 07859 804389 stevefull@live.co.uk
New slate roofs, Tile roofs, Flat roofs Chimney repairs Lead work All plastics, fascias, soffits, guttering Call Alex on 07979 317757 www.awroofingservice.com
At the end of July this year a front page story appeared in the Sunday Express focusing on the fact that the UK’s two main Christian leaders, from the Protestant and Roman Catholic traditions have revealed why millions of young Britons seeking ‘something deeper’ from the ‘noise’ of modern life are filling our churches again.
In 2016 headlines made grim reading with just 1.8 per cent of Britons attending Church of England services and 80-year-olds eight times more likely to go than a 21-year-old. However, since the Covid lockdown in 2020 there’s been a major spiritual U-turn. This spiritual awakening is also happening within the Orthodox Christian tradition.
YouGov data and the Bible Society's ‘Quiet Revival’ report reveal two million more attendees packed pews in 2024 than 2018 - with Gen Z’s aged 18-24 miraculously quadrupling from four per cent to 16 per cent.
Even Bible sales in the UK have almost doubled in five years with 2019 sales totalling £2.69 million - but rocketing to £5.02 million in 2024, according to Nielsen BookScan figures.
The Pews research agency, which documents global religious trends, reported 10 years ago that 87% of the global
population believe in a higher religious power. The largest global community was the Christian faith with 2.6 billion adherents.
Almost 360 million Christians lived in totalitarian regimes which persecute and imprison Christians, making the Christian faith the most persecuted religion in the world.
Access to news, documentaries, Podcasts and Vodcasts on social media platforms are
By Chris Cole, founder of Cross Rhythms charity
bringing the world within personal reach for everybody connected to the internet. With much of the instant news available to all, there are massive global societal shifts happening on a scale never before experienced.
Tom Holland, one of the UK’s greatest historians has written a book called ‘Dominion’ documenting the Judeo/Christian history of European civilisation. Even the New Atheists, like Richard Dawkins are calling themselves ‘Cultural Christians’ as the world is facing ideological social challenges not seen for decades.
The existential questions to life such as what is the meaning of our existence; what happens when we die and is there purpose to our lives are important to those trying to make sense of the ‘noise of the modern world.’
I recently had a beautiful experience when I spent time with a young 20-year-old who listens to Cross Rhythms and had been so touched by the music and the fact that it often asks serious questions about life. They came to see me and asked me to help them give their life to Jesus Christ. To me, the most important decision any human being can make.
The horror and inhumanity of man towards man we see in the Ukraine and Gaza often provoke the question of how can a loving
God allow such evil and brutality.
To even come close to understanding this we need to recognise that from a Christian perspective, the Creator of the Universe allowed Himself, in the form of Jesus Christ the Son of God 100 per cent divine and 100 per cent human, to be sacrificed on a Roman instrument of torture and death and to die in our place for the sins of the world.
Jesus rose again from death three days later and as part of that 2.6 billion community, I can testify to the goodness of God for over 40 years in the good times and the bad times, where I have the privilege of getting to know more and more about the love of Jesus for myself and those I love.
The experience and truth of biblical scripture such as Romans 8 verse 28 has been a foundational truth in some of the serious challenges I’ve experienced recently: ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’
We have much to learn from our brothers and sisters in the persecuted churches.
Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth
In last month's Chronicle, Devon and Cornwall Police highlighted the harmful effect that domestic abuse is having in Plymouth and further afield. In this latest article the impact of sexual abuse and more serious offences are highlighted with guidance on what to do as a victim
Devon and Cornwall Police understand that it can be difficult to report a sexual offence and there are many reasons why people choose not to report.
It should always be your choice, and you will not be judged by the police, whatever you decide to do. If you do not wish to report to the police there are many other support services, local and national, that you can talk to who can offer you support, whether it happened recently or a long time ago.
No matter how long ago it was, there is no time limit on when you can report it and it doesn't matter if you cant remember all the details.
There are many common myths about rape and sexual assault that might make you blame yourself, or question whether what's happened is a crime. These myths have no place in law, the police don't believe them, and they won't doubt you because of them. No matter who you are or what happened, Devon and Cornwall Police are here to support you.
Whether something is rape or sexual assault is about consent. If isn't your fault and its still rape or sexual assault no matter:
• what your relationship to the offender is
• whether you’d been drinking or taking drugs
• what you were wearing
• if you’d been flirting, kissing, or invited someone home - none of these mean you consented to sex
• if you changed your mind and stopped consenting
• whether or not you fought back or were injured
• how upset you seem - there is no ‘right’ way to react
• how long ago it happened
• whoever you are
• whatever your past, sexual or otherwise
• whatever your sex or gender - women, men and non-binary people all get raped and sexually assaulted
• whether you have any physical or mental health conditions or impairments
Hundreds of women will step out in solidarity in October for Warrior Women Walk 2025 –a bold outdoor challenge organised by Plymouth charity Trevi, dedicated to supporting women in recovery from trauma, addiction and abuse.
Now in its fourth year, the women-only walk is more than a fundraising event - it's a rallying cry for dignity, justice, and freedom. Many of the women Trevi supports are navigating the long-term impact of domestic abuse and the justice system. For them, this walk is not just symbolic.
“Warrior Women Walk isn't about physical endurance,” said Trevi’s chief executive Amanda Greenwood. “It's about courage, community, and reclaiming power. Many of the women walking have already faced unimaginable battles. This event celebrates how far they've come - and invites others to stand with them.'
Taking place on October 12, the event follows a 10K circular route across Burrator, Dartmoor, with participants walking alongside survivors, Trevi staff, volunteers, and corporate partners - including official sponsors, Plymouth Citybus, part of the GoAhead group.
The walk also brings together women connected to Trevi's services - Jasmine Mother & Child, Daffodil Family Centre, Blossom Women's House and Sunflower Women's Centre - as well as allies, funders, and community champions.
This year's event aims to raise over £50,000 to fund trauma-informed services for women dealing with addiction, domestic abuse, and criminal justice involvement. All proceeds will go directly towards frontline support that helps women heal, rebuild, and lead safe, independent lives. Registration is now open at www.trevi.org.uk/event/warrior-women-walk
Plymouth police have a number of specialist officers known as 'Gemstone' working at Crownhill Police Station who investigate serious sexual offences.
These officers work closely with other partners to support victims of sexual violence and also with the Crown Prosecution service in order to bring sexual offenders to justice.
More information can be found on what the Crown Prosecution Service do on how the CPS charges and prosecutes rape cases at the following website: www.cps.gov.uk/how-cps-chargesand-prosecutes-rape-cases
In Plymouth, The Bridge Project is an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service that supports adults and children who have been sexually assaulted, abused or raped.
They offer free support which is tailored to the victim. Their website can be found at www. bridgeprojectsw.org.uk
There are Sexual Assault Referral Centres across Devon and Cornwall. They offer practical, medical and emotional to support to everyone. They have specially trained NHS doctors, nurses, and support workers to care for you.
The police or other professionals are able to refer you or you can contact them directly if you are unsure whether to report to the police or not. For more information visit www.sarchelp.co.uk
There are a number of other of services available which can be found at www.plymouth.gov. uk/plymouth-support-offer
A Plymouth-based developer has donated £2,500 to PEM Disability Children’s Club.
Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon handed over the cheque to its members at a basketball session at Plymstock School earlier this month as part of its Community Champions scheme.
Founded by two Royal Navy veterans, it was born from a simple but powerful idea: service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. After dedicating over 40 years of service between them, founders Lee Ellis and Luke Monnington sought a new mission – one rooted in compassion, community and opportunity.
What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a thriving volunteer-led sports club designed specifically for children with disabilities. The club is a place where youngsters with pan disabilities can come together to play a range of sports and take part in other activities, having fun in a safe environment twice a month.
The volunteer-run club also puts on fun-packed events litter picks, bouncy castle play days, BBQs, trophy nights, and visits to recreation centres such as soft play, swimming pools, and adventure parks.
Persimmon has two sites in the city, Palmerston Heights in Derriford and Saltram Meadows in Plymstock.
Persimmon's Community Champions programme sees £700,000 go to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include Plymouth Night Patrol, Argyle Community Foundation, St Luke's Hospice, Elburton Villa FC, and Argyle Pride.
Lee Ellis, co-founder of PEM Disability Children's Club, added: "We believe that every child, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, deserves the chance to play, grow, and thrive through sport. Our club offers a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where children can build confidence, make friends, and discover their strengths.
"As we are run entirely by unpaid volunteers, we are very grateful to Persimmon for their support. We know they are a local business and, no doubt, we will one day have members at one of their developments, so this donation will go a long way."
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 is from Argyle Life’s Sam Down who became a viral sensation when he took on popular pundit and presenter Ally McCoist in a memory challenge. The video of their head-to-head has attracted over 60,000 views!!!
It's been a bit of a crazy last few weeks. Since I last wrote for the Chronicle, Argyle have started the season pretty terribly but I've had a lot of plaudits on a personal note thanks to the performance of myself and my good friend Adam Price in the talkSPORT Cup and a certain viral clip that has arisen from it.
Let's back up a little. The cup itself was filmed over spring and summer with most of it actually being recorded at the tail end of last season. Due to our partnership between Argyle Life and talkSPORT (we are part of the fan network for club podcasts) we were given the opportunity to participate in an event called the talkSPORT Cup. In short, it was to be a series of quizzes in a head to head straight knockout cup format of 64 teams (one team per club, all PL/EFL sides) - a maximum six rounds and three days of filming. After a few false starts, we were offered a filming date of March 28 - just before Argyle were due to play Watford on the Saturday: it seemed written in the stars to combine it with a London weekend. So we did, and we won our last 64/last 32 fixtures to progress to the second day of filming.
It was not without a scare - Huddersfield in the second round was a team made up of former Mastermind and Pointless contestants. But, Adam and I had enough to edge them out and return for a second visit.
Incidentally, all of these videos are available to watch on YouTube if you're bored on a rainy day this autumn. The viewing figures have not in truth been quite as explosive as talkSPORT may have hoped, but it is at least a chance to see two of Plymouth's nerdiest football brains (if I do say so myself!) in motion recalling utterly pointless trivia details.
Day two came with two hard fought victories over two more very strong sides. We edged out Burton Albion in the last 16 before a Titantic clash against Ipswich in the quarter-finals. Reminiscent of our 2022/23 title battle on the field, Argyle just had enough to come out on top.
The third day of filming was finals day - we were narrowly beaten by a strong Leicester side in the semi final and consoled ourselves that at least our travel was being covered as a result of having made the last four!
However, it's what happened next that seems to have truly changed things for me personally. I have, for many years, always had an exceptionally strange knack or gift when it comes to my Argyle related memory. As described by the excellent and ebullient talkSPORT host Charlie Baker 'a Westcountry talent.'
Since I was first taken along to a game by my dad on a cold Tuesday night in March 2002, I can remember the date of every Argyle game to have been played during that time including the opposition.
As a conservative estimate, I would say that about 97% of the time I can name the score and at least 90% of the time I'll be able to give you some further detail about the game such as a goalscorer or some knowledge about the goals.
So what happened to bring this to prominence?
During a break in filming for the semi-final game, one of the producers noticed how I would always provide a bit of extra detail whenever asked any question about an Argyle match and asked me three randomly selected games from the 00s for me to provide the score and date.
Having done so, the clip seems to have gone, to say the least, pretty viral. I've had a few people aware of this gift and admire it for a while due to my appearances on our podcast and on the Life of Pie YouTube channel but this has taken the attention to new heights.
My memory has always been as much of a curse as a blessing, in all honesty. I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy being able to do it. And yes, the viral 15 minutes (15 days?) of fame that has come from it does boost my ego slightly...I'm only human, after all.
The cherry on the cake then came when I was invited on to the talkSPORT Breakfast Show off the back of it with football's OG statto himself Jeff Stelling and his co host, Rangers legend Ally McCoist.
Jeff pitted me against Ally to see how my memory of Argyle games fared against Ally's memory of Rangers games. The twist being, the Rangers games were ones that Ally himself had played in!
I won 3-1 and Jeff was left in almost stunned silence. From this, the internet attention seems to have gone even further into overdrive.
Where I've began to almost rue it is the nagging doubt that I'm wasting my brainpower - the level of storage space being used on Argyle could surely be better equipped on some kind of complex coding system for the benefit of wider humanity? As Ally McCoist said to me, 'you'll be expecting a call from GCHQ soon!'
However, on reflection, memory isn't really that useful a tool when compared to some others. In this day and age, everything that can be saved on a database is saved.
And really, who doesn't know how to take an Excel course. The real talent is how to use, interpret and apply the data. And, as much as I enjoy my party trick, that isn't really part of it and never has been.
No, sometimes a good party trick is just a good party trick.
The Chronicle asked me the question many have asked - they wanted me to write about where this talent comes from. I feel to an extent I've failed in that task having described it in such detail - all I can say is that I've got one of those brains that tends to hyper fixate on a special interest and in doing so can give incredible depth of information on that subject of interest.
Perhaps not many can do so to such an extent – and I like to think I can do so with enough self/ awareness and humour that it goes down well on social media – but in truth it's not really any different to people who can give in depth episode descriptions of Star Trek or DC Comics. Some brains are made for breadth and some are trained into it – I most definitely incline naturally and perhaps irreversibly towards depth. Here's to another season of memorising wins, draws and losses alike. I do sometimes wonder if I'll eventually run out of storage?
Plymouth has a new reason to be proud after the City of Plymouth Pipe Band, led by Pipe Major Gordon Macaoidh, returned from Glasgow with their first ever World Championship trophy.
Formed 50 years ago (in the pub!) as the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders regimental association pipe band, before gaining the ‘City of Plymouth’ name, the band has a long history of supporting parades and carnivals throughout the South West and has been competing at regional events for a decade but only recently stepped up to major competitions.
On August 16, the band took to the famous Glasgow Green to compete in the 2025 World Pipe Band Championships. Facing a pool of 23 rivals in the fiercely competitive Grade 4B category, they qualified for the final for the very first time – before going on to secure sixth place and a historic major trophy.
“It was like being struck by lightning,” said Iain, the band’s secretary and piper. “There was a lot of emotion when we saw ‘City of Plymouth’ on the qualifying board. We knew we’d just achieved something really special in qualifying.”
The celebrations were short-lived as the band quickly regrouped to repeat their strong performance in the final. When the results
were announced to a packed crowd of over 35,000, the words ‘City of Plymouth’ rang out over the tannoy, sparking huge cheers from players and supporters alike.
“Despite being one of the smaller groups on the field, we certainly made plenty of
Across: 7 Etch, 8 One-sided, 9 Underestimate, 10 Throaty, 12 Stack, 14 Ogles, 16 Charred, 19 Concentration, 21 Mess hall, 22 Nigh.
1 Stench, 2 Thee, 3
4 Deity, 5 Diameter, 6 Septic, 11 Overcast, 13 Shortly, 15 Grocer, 17 Enough, 18 Inlay, 20 Tune.
noise,” Iain said. “It’s still sinking in – our first qualification for a major final, our first major trophy, and recognition on a world stage.”
The result marks a milestone for the band, which has been competing at this level for only two years. New drums, funded with the help of local supporters and businesses, played a major role in their success.
The results were broadcast live on the BBC, while videos of the band's performances shared on Facebook have since been watched by thousands, giving Plymouth’s musicians worldwide exposure.
There were further celebrations at the end of August when the Band lifted the Grade 4 All England Champions title at Chatsworth.
Now the band is preparing to celebrate closer to home. Supporters are invited to their 50th anniversary ceilidh on Saturday October 18 at The Watermark in Ivybridge. Tickets are available now from the box office or via the band’s social media pages.
“This is just the beginning,” added Iain said. “We also hope this recognition will inspire more new learners to join us, helping to secure a strong future for piping and drumming in Plymouth. The support from Plymouth has got us here – and we can’t wait to share this moment with everyone at the ceilidh.”
over 23,000 homes in Central and Waterfront
The Central and Waterfront Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Hartley, Mannamead, Compton, Efford, Laira, St Judes, Mt Gould, Lipson, Greenbank, Prince Rock, Cattedown, Barbican, Hoe, City Centre, Mutley and Peverell.
The November edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Central and Waterfront will be published on October 10 with a copy deadline of October 3. The Central and Waterfront edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city. We welcome submissions but cannot guarantee publication. We accept press releases in the form of text documents and images in JPG or TIFF format (high resolution please). Advertise
