Tour de Moor – the popular fund raiser for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth – returns in September with a new look and new sponsor
See Page 3
David Hill from North Prospect was a career criminal – until he had a dramatic ‘God encounter’ See Page 19
Plymouth Chronicle is partnering with Argyle Life – the popular fans site –to bring exclusive content to our readers
See Page 23
Looking for a tradesman? Turn to our Dial The Experts guide on pages 20 and 21
The Box, Plymouth’s major award-winning museum, art gallery and archive celebrates its fifth anniversary in September. The popular attraction welcomed its one millionth visitor in April • SEE PAGES 2 and 12
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Departing Thu 16 Oct ‘25
Take a tour on the scenic side and explore the natural beauty of Shropshire. We enjoy many exciting excursions including a journey on the Severn Valley Railway, entrance to the Blists Hill Museum, a relaxing cruise along the River Severn, and more!
SO MUCH INCLUDED...
Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash
4 nights at the Bromsgrove Hotel & Spa, Bromsgrove (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
Heritage train journey on the Severn Valley Railway
Cruise on the River Severn with light refreshments
Excursions to Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ludlow Market & Shrewsbury
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
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
St Luke’ s Hospice Plymouth has announced that its legendary Tour de Moor cycling challenge is returning for 2025 – bolder and brighter than ever!
This year’s event not only has a new slot earlier in the autumn, it has a striking new look and a proud new sponsor, too. As ever though, there are plenty of challenges to thrill and delight every rider, regardless of age or ability.
Tour de Moor returning to Dartmoor on September 28 to provide participants with an unforgettable experience in aid of local hospice care. This year’s epic event, proudly sponsored by Pyramid AV, will see the moors turn radiant orange thanks to the new Tour de Moor tee-shirt colour replacing the traditional blue.
More than just a thrilling cycling event with mud, sweat and gears aplenty, Tour de Moor has community spirit firmly at its core. The annual challenge raises vital funds that enable St Luke’s to provide compassionate, expert end-of-life care for local people whose terminal illness means their time is running short.
The charity can only give its specialist services free of charge thanks to the kindness of its supporters. It’ s their generosity that keeps St Luke’s nurses on the road 365 days a year so that
patients can receive the care they need in the comfort of their own home or at Turnchapel.
Tour de Moor is best known as an adrenalinepacked two-wheel quest that can test the skills, fitness, and endurance of even the toughest of cyclists. With three distances and difficulty levels to choose from, it’s the ultimate inclusive familyfriendly cycling adventure.
Penny Hannah, head of Fundraising at St Luke’s, said: “Tour de Moor isn’t just an exhilarating biking challenge, it’s a moving show of solidarity for local families going through the toughest of times.
“Every pedal push helps us reach more patients with the bespoke end-of-life care they need to live well to the end of their lives, making precious memories with their loved ones. The energy at Tour de Moor is electric, and we’re so proud of everyone who takes part.”
Kelly Hinchliffe of Pyramid, AV said: “We couldn’t be prouder to get behind St Luke’ s by sponsoring Tour de Moor. The event brings people together for a cause that truly matters. It’s community at its best.”
All Tour de Moor routes depart from Harrowbeer Airfield (near Yelverton) at 8.30am and finish there, too. To find out more and register, visit www. stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tourdemoor
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.
Free Family Fun
Every weekend in August
Royal William Yard has a packed programme of free activities for all the family from hands-on creative workshops to thrilling outdoor adventures. For full details and timings visit www.royalwilliamyard.com/ summer
Barbican Arts and Crafts Market
Every Sunday in August
The Barbican Arts and Crafts Market is a vibrant celebration of creativity, hosted each summer at the picturesque Pier Masters House on Plymouth Barbican. Showcasing a handpicked selection of talented local artists and makers, the market offers a unique opportunity to discover beautiful handcrafted creations in a stunning waterfront location. From 11am to 4pm each Sunday.
Summer in the Scene Dock
Aug 28 to 30
A varied programme of family friendly outdoor events at The Scene Dock at the rear of Theatre
Royal Plymouth. Featuring bands, quiz nights, DJ sets, theatre, cabaret, workshops, roaming performers and more. Plus, enjoy a selection of food from local vendors and drinks from a pop-up bar. For details visit www.theatreroyal.com/whats-on/summer-in-thescene-dock
Jazz and Blues by the Sea
Aug 29
Set against the stunning backdrop of the sea, Jazz and Blues by the Sea is a one-of-a-kind live music event taking place at the iconic Tinside Lido from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. An atmospheric evening of soul-stirring performances from some of the South West’s finest artists. Enjoy a laid-back, jazz café-style setup under a stretch tent with views over the ocean, as the sun sets and the music flows. For tickets go to www.fixr.co and search for Jazz and Blues by the Sea
Charity Dog Show
Aug 30
The popular dog show returns to Ford Park Cemetery from 2pm to 4pm. There will also be a raffle and refreshments available in the Visitor Centre. More details from 01752 665442 during office hours from 10am to 4pm.
Saturday Sessions at The Square
Sept 6
Live music sessions at Old Town Square on the first weekend of the month in the city centre from 1pm to 3pm. Featuring the Hot House Combo in July, True Foxes in August and Firebird in September.
History Talk
Sept 6
Ray O’Donnell will give a talk on the History of Devonport Dockyard in the Chapel at Ford Park Cemetery starting at 2pm. Cost for the talk is £6 or £15 to include ploughman’s lunch in the Visitor Centre. Tickets from the cemetery office from 9.30am to 3.30pm tel 01752 665442.
Coffee Morning
Sept 6
Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Supporting Motor Neurone Disease Research. All welcome.
Good Food & Craft Market
Sept 7 and Oct 5
Royal William Yard’s popular market will be taking place on the first Sunday of every month from 10am to 3pm. Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, the markets offer
Seafest – a celebration of the sea across the Plymouth waterfront is back on September 13 and 14
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.
Classic Car Show
Sept 7
Organised by Saltram Rotary Club in the beautiful setting of the Lyneham Estate near Yealmpton from 11am to 4pm. Supporting Devon Air Ambulance.
Plymouth Brick Festival
Sept 7
Plymouth Brick Festival is returning to Plymouth Life Centre from 10am to 4pm with a great day for families, collectors, adult builders and every other kind of LEGO fan. With lots to see and do including speed building competitions, large scale displays, activities, traders selling loose bricks, new LEGO sets, retired LEGO sets, minifigures and accessories plus a dedicated building area. For details and tickets visit www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for Plymouth Brick Festival.
Murder in the OLD West!
Sept 10
Step back in time… and solve a crime! Join the Cheeky Reaper Murder Mystery Company at The Dock, Plymouth at 7pm for a thrilling Wild West whodunnit! Evening of immersive entertainment. Includes a threecourse meal In aid of Samaritans. Tickets £39.95 from www.CheekyReaper.co.uk
Heritage Open Days
Sept 12 to 21
Visit Buckland Abbey near Yelverton for free as part of Heritage Open Days. Explore the Abbey, gardens and estate. No booking required. For details visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/devon/buckland-abbey
Seafest Plymouth
Sept 13 and 14
A celebration by the sea with a fun-filled weekend of delectable food and sea-themed entertainment. Plymouth Waterfront Partnership is teaming up with Plymouth Sound National Marine Park to create an even more impressive experience, extending the event across the Barbican, Sutton Harbour, Mount Batten Watersports & Activities Centre, Tinside Lido, and Mount Edgcumbe. A treat for seafood lovers also featuring live music, pop up stalls and stands and demonstrations.
Derriford Abseil
Sept 13 and 14
Plymouth Hospitals Charity’s Derriford Abseil is back for 2025! Perched on the rooftop of Derriford Hospital, brave hospital heroes will face the breath-taking heights and adrenaline-pumping
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
Pennywell Farm Pumpkin Festival
Sept 27 to Nov 2
challenge of abseiling down the main wing - a moment that will stay with them forever! For details visit www.register.enthuse.com/ps/event/ PlymouthHospitalsCharityDerrifordAbseil
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.
Coffee Morning
Sept 18
Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10am to 11.30am in aid of MacMillan Cancer Support. All welcome.
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
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
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 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 explore new ideas, skills and activities or share their
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 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.
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
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
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.
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 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.
“If my mind can conceive it, if my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it.” Muhammad Ali
Plymouth residents and visitors will soon benefit from extended routes and timings on four bus services, thanks to grant funding from the Department for Transport.
Service 25, which runs between the city centre, Barbican and West Hoe, will now run until 10pm instead of 6pm from Monday to Saturday. This will be a welcome improvement for people travelling to and from the waterfront later into the evening on these days.
From Sunday August 31 the service 1A will run to Derriford Hospital on Sundays and bank holidays, providing a valuable direct link between Sherford, Plymstock and the hospital seven days a week.
The same will apply for the service 27, providing week-round access to the city centre and the hospital for residents in Lower Compton, Efford, Eggbuckland and Mainstone.
The city council will also continue to support evening journeys on the service 2 between the city centre and Mount Batten to maintain this important link for residents.
The contracts are being funded by the Department for Transport’s Bus Grant for 2025/26 and will run until March 2027.
Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “Helping people get to and from key parts of the city is a priority for us and we want to do all we can to ensure these links are there during the evenings, as well as on Sundays and bank holidays. These improvements will hopefully make a big difference to local bus passengers, as well as visitors.”
However, due to very low passenger numbers, some journeys on the council-subsidised service 4 between Plympton and the city centre via Sherford and Plymstock will be withdrawn from the end of August. The journeys involved are: Outbound from Royal Parade to Plympton Ridgeway 6am departure (Monday to Friday); 8.10pm and 9.10pm departures (Monday to Saturday); Inbound from Plympton Ridgeway to Royal Parade, 9.05pm and 10.05pm departures (Monday to Friday) 9.01pm and 10.01pm departures (Saturday)
For information about the extended hours of operation on service 25, see the Plymouth Citybus website at www.plymouthbus.co.uk/ services
Tasty donations by Warrens Bakery
Warrens Bakery, which has three stores in Plymouth, has given over £10,000 to good causes over the last two years. Warrens, famed as the oldest pasty maker in the world has outlets in Derriford Hospital, Elburton and Crownhill. Founded in 1860, the Cornish bakery business now has nearly 50 stores across Devon and the rest of the South West.
Each year Warrens Bakery donates 5p from every pasty during Cornish Pasty Week and UK Coffee Week. During the Christmas period sales of its Festive Pasty across its store network raised more than £2,000 for Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby.
Charities it has supported include Children’s Hospice South West, Plymouth Blood Donor Centre and Derriford Children’s Unit, as well as St John’s Ambulance.
Plymouth Waterfront Partnership has a new chief executive and she needs little or no introduction to waterfront businesses and organisations.
Sarah Gibson held the role for 10 years from 2010 to 2020 and succeeds former chief executive Jon Walton.
The Partnership is the Business Improvement District (BID) for Plymouth’s waterfront which encompasses businesses from Bretonside to the Royal William Yard and includes the Mount Batten peninsula.
Nick Buckland, chair of Plymouth Waterfront Partnership said: “Sarah brings with her not only direct experience of managing the BID from her previous time in role, but also wider knowledge and experience of stakeholder engagement and forming strong business relationships.
“As the BID enters its renewal period ahead of 2027, Sarah’s insights, tenacity and passion for the waterfront will be key ingredients to ensuring the BID’s continuing success.”
Sarah Gibson said: “I’m delighted to be returning to Plymouth’s waterfront and look forward to working once again with the Board, the BID team, our waterfront businesses and partner organisations. We’ve significant opportunity in the strength of the Waterfront BID developed over 15 years through its committed business community, whilst the exciting declaration of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park positions us uniquely in the UK. I can’t wait to get started.”
The Plymouth Waterfront Partnership Business Improvement District (BID) has been in operation since April 2012 and is delivered through Plymouth Waterfront Partnership Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation.
The BID encompasses more than 960 businesses across four square miles of the Plymouth waterfront, stretching from Bretonside right across to the Royal William Yard and taking in the Barbican, Hoe, West Park and Millbay.
One of the Plymouth’s waterfront locations is set for an exciting future, thanks to a long-term agreement with Cattewater Harbour Commissioners.
A 30-year lease on Commercial Wharf on Madeira Road is to be granted to the commissioners who want to invest, improve and manage the location, to continue to grow the visitor economy of marine visitors to our city from the water.
The wharf is already home to 19 boathouses, which are used for a variety of commercial purposes, including marine, storage and leisure.
The site includes the quay wall, a 17th century quay from the Mayflower Steps to a public access slipway as well as a public open space.
The commissioner’s plan is to make the area a destination in itself, to create a more welcoming feel to this historic wharf, to attract more tourists, events, visitors and marine tourism including cruise, tall ships, superyacht and leisure passengers embarking or disembarking from the nearby Barbican Landing Stage, and visitor moorings.
Cattewater Harbour Commissioners (CHC) took back ownership and responsibility for managing and maintaining the Barbican Landing Stage from the council in early 2023 - a decision that not only saved the council
future maintenance costs, but meant that, CHC, as the Statutory Harbour Authority, had better access to resources and expertise to maintain the safe operation of the facility.
Captain Richard Allan, chief executive and Harbour Master, Cattewater Harbour Commissioners said: “As we continue to grow the number of visiting leisure vessels to the Port, and invest in nearby facilities including toilets and showers, it’s a logical next step that we take on the lease of the wharf.
“We have thousands of visitors whose first experience of Plymouth is coming ashore at Commercial Wharf, we want to make this experience better, and we’re looking forward to ensuring the site provides one of the best step off points in the South West.”
Cattewater Harbour is a trust port, an independent statutory body. There are no shareholders, or owners, and any surplus generated is reinvested into the port for the benefit of its stakeholders.
Long term regeneration plans for the West End are taking a step forward with the plans now in train to knock down a row of run-down properties on Market Avenue.
Plymouth City Council has submitted documents as part of a pre-application process to demolish a block of 1960s buildings on Market Avenue.
The back of the block overlooks Colin Campbell Court, which is part of a wider regeneration programme that includes the Plymouth Community Diagnostic Centre now under construction.
The work will be funded from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund which supports local councils to release land in their ownership for new housing. This is the start of a process which is likely to take several months before a contractor is appointed and work gets underway.
City Centre Champion Councillor Mark Lowry said: “Having sites cleared and ready for delivery makes a location more attractive for developers and funders.
“We have a challenging but incredibly exciting ambition to provide thousands of homes in the city centre and are being supported in our vision by Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency.
“This is all part of the prep work that needs to happen now so that when the delivery plan is finalised, we are in the best position possible to crack on with our regeneration plans.”
The area around Colin Campbell Court has been earmarked for regeneration since 2016 and the council has been steadily acquiring leases on properties as part of a long-term acquisition programme to deliver a comprehensive redevelopment.
“The delivery of the new Plymouth Community Diagnostic Centre in Colin Campbell Court was only possible because of work we carried out to acquire and demolish properties on Western Approach and is a great example of how a proactive approach in preparing sites for redevelopment can deliver real benefits,” added Councillor Lowry.
As part of the same long-term regeneration programme, two footbridges were also demolished
– one linking to the Western Approach car park to the Pavilions and the other linking the car park to Frankfort Gate.
This scheme helped open up the space around the West End for events and for tables and chairs to be put out by businesses.
a real sense of pace and anticipation beginning to build around the city centre and we are very keen to see anything that brings in more investment and more footfall to help our businesses thrive.”
The Plymouth office of Bishop Fleming - a leading audit, accounting, tax, and advisory firm - has raised nearly £15,000 for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, exceeding its target of £12,500 set a year ago as part of the firm’s flagship 1% for Communities initiative.
Through the initiative, which pledges to give back the equivalent of 1% of the firm’s turnover community-focused volunteering, fundraising and related activities, Bishop Fleming partnered with the Plymouth charity to organise joint fundraising activities throughout the year.
In addition to volunteering at the charity, Bishop Fleming’s fundraising initiatives included taking part in St Luke’s organised events including Tour de Moor, Midnight Walk and the annual flagship fundraising event, the Bishop Fleming Plymouth Charity Quiz. The funds raised will
directly support the charity’s efforts to provide support and specialist care for people affected by life-limiting illnesses.
Wayne Marshall, new partnerships lead, St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, said: “The amazing amount raised will have a deep impact on supporting the services provided to the local community by the clinical and support teams at St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth.
“We would like to send a heartfelt thank you to all of the amazing staff at Bishop Fleming and the local businesses that have supported their fundraising events.”
Looking ahead, the 1% for Communities programme is set to expand further, with an ambitious new fundraising target of £100,000 across Bishop Fleming’s offices, and the Plymouth branch will be partnering with another local charity, Promoting Children in Plymouth, as part of the initiative.
One of Plymouth’s most treasured buildings is just weeks away from a decision which could see it restored or demolished.
Originally known as The Royal Cinema - and later The ABC or The Reel – for nearly a hundred years the building has been entertaining Plymothians and creating some very special memories with performances by, among many other legends, The Beatles, Cliff Richard, Tom Jones and Elton John. The Royal opened its Art Deco doors in July 1938 and was an immediate sensation. It seated two and a half thousand people who packed the seats to watch Katherine Hepburn on screen in ‘Stage Door’ and Hollywood heartthrob Cesar Romero in ‘Dangerously Yours.’
Today the cinema looks a shadow of its former glamorous self, boarded up and stripped out as it awaits either resurrection or destruction.
Local historian, author and member of the Plymouth Royal Cinema Trust, Chris Robinson, said it is a building of local, as well as national, significance: “It’s an important pre-war survivor of Plymouth’s modern city centre,” said Chris. “It was designed and built as a statement-building at the time of the talking pictures and its one of the few W R Glen buildings still standing. It would be a real shame if ‘time’ was called and, having survived the Blitz, it was demolished.”
The building has just a few weeks before its fate is sealed. A deadline of September 6 looms after which one of Plymouth’s most iconic prewar buildings may be reduced to rubble. The cinema has just one chance…
Since 2017 a group of dedicated admirers of the building have been campaigning to protect it and have fought several proposals to demolish it and build student accommodation, a block of flats and a hotel. In 2018 the building, which is not listed, was designated ‘An Asset of Community Value’ recognising the social importance of the cinema: past, present and future.
The designation affords it one single lifeline: a given right for ‘the community’ to put forward a bid to buy it. Enter our cinema screen saviours who have stepped out and formed The Plymouth Royal Cinema Trust Community Benefit Society with a plan to transform it into a creative and digital venue fit for the 21st Century.
Karl Parsons, chair of the Royal CBS confirms that talks with potential partners are underway:
“We are having some really exciting conversations about how the building could be transformed and what it can offer as a mixed-use venue that will, not just, increase the social value of the city but the city’s economy as well.”
Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Culture’s recent Creative Industries Plan identifies a music and performance zone falling between Royal Parade and Union Street which it predicts, with support and investment, ‘could help to establish Plymouth as the urban creative capital of Devon and Cornwall.’
Hannah Harris, chief executive of Plymouth Culture, said The Royal should be saved: “This building was purpose built to house cinema and entertainment and is still standing as a testament to the incredible cultural offer within the city. We strongly advocate for the building to be preserved for cultural use and see its potential to contribute
to
An enormous amount of money needed and work to be done before the building is ready for a new audience. But this, maintains Karl – restoring the building and making it fit for another hundred years – is just another royal opportunity:
“We are talking to potential partners,” said Karl, “who see the renovation works as being a fantastic training opportunity across many disciplines: not just traditional construction skills, like bricklaying, painting, electrical and plumbing work but also in reconstruction, repurposing existing buildings, modernising them and designing them fit for a new future and a new purpose.”
The Save The Royal campaigners are hopeful that, with enough support, the landmark building will be entrusted to the community; restored and become a place of entertainment, leisure and learning. For more information or to get involved visit www.savetheroyal.com or email plymouthroyal@hotmail.com
Defence technology company Helsing will open its first UK Resilience Factory in Plymouth, creating high-value jobs and establishing the city as a national centre for marine autonomy, the government has announced.
The announcement came alongside the publication of recommendations from the Defence and Economic Growth Taskforce, a joint initiative between government and industry aimed at unlocking the economic potential of Britain’s defence sector. The report sets out a ‘Team UK’ strategy to boost innovation, private investment, and job creation, especially in high-value defence technologies.
Helsing’s Plymouth facility will manufacture SG-1 Fathom autonomous underwater gliders, part of a £350 million private investment first outlined in the 2024 Trinity House agreement. These AI-powered systems are designed for persistent maritime surveillance and to help protect critical subsea infrastructure. The new factory will be located in Langage at the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport site.
South West Devon MP Rebecca Smith welcomed the announcement calling it ‘brilliant news for Plymouth and the wider South Hams area’. The new facility will bring high-quality jobs, innovation, and investment to Plymouth and the wider South Hams area, strengthening the South West’s position at the forefront of defence technology and marine autonomy. She said: “This marks the first major announcement since the Government recognised Plymouth as the hub for marine autonomy, building on the significant progress made in this sector over recent years.
“Marine autonomy has become an increasingly important part of Plymouth’s economic and technological landscape, with the Turnchapel Wharf hub and this latest announcement builds on that success, reinforcing our region’s position at the cutting edge of defence and maritime innovation.
“This is a real vote of confidence in our region’s skills, capabilities and strategic importance. I will continue to champion this kind of investment that strengthens both our local economy and the UK’s national resilience.”
Fred Thomas, MP for Plymouth Moor View, said: “I’m really excited by this announcement today, having supported conversations between Helsing and Plymouth City Council, and constantly lobbying government to do more around marine autonomy.
“I said that Plymouth becoming the new national centre of marine autonomy was fantastic news for our city, and this news proves exactly how. It means investment and it means jobs, and they are coming this year.
“We have so many incredible businesses in this industry already, but the more investment we can attract from others the better. This government has once again proven it’s commitment to securing investment for our city.”
While global poverty may seem like a world away, one Plymouth woman is proving that you don’t have to travel far to make a difference.
Roselyn Bamigboye, who lives in Mutley, has taken up a powerful cause: supporting The Borgen Project, a US-based not-forprofit organisatio that fights poverty worldwide by promoting robust foreign aid and laws that target poverty.
Roselyn, a Plymouth University graduate in digital and social media marketing, said: “Even though I am just one person, I think every voice and action matters. We can help change the fact that millions of people worldwide suffer from hunger, disease, a lack of clean water, and inadequate health supplies.”
She has already raised £345 towards her fundraising target, and she intends to use social media campaigns and community outreach like focus groups to raise even more.
Roselyn pointed out that more than 700 million people worldwide subsist on less than £1.50 per day while 45 million children under the age of five are malnourished. She added that foreign aid receives less than one per cent of the US federal budget.
“Foreign aid helps communities become self-sufficient, not just help individuals survive. It provides funding for clean water, vaccinations, girls’ education, and disaster relief. And we’re more connected than ever with today’s global challenges, from pandemics to climate shocks.”
Roselyn said that her activism is inspired by her passion for humanity. She claims that Plymouth has always been a city that values compassion, culture, and community. “I want to use that spirit to encourage more action and awareness here.”
She hopes others in Plymouth will join the movement by learning about global poverty, writing to MPs to support UK and US foreign aid efforts, or donating to reputable organisations such as The Borgen Project.
“It is possible to overcome poverty,” she added. “More people just need to believe that and do something about it.”
To find out more or to donate to Roselyn’s campaign, go to: www. borgenproject.org
A new blue plaque has been unveiled in Stoke in honour of Ralph Alger Bagnold, a Plymouth-born man who became a scientist, explorer and soldier and whose ground breaking research into sand dunes has been recognised by NASA.
Bagnold was born in 1896 and grew up in Stoke. During the First World War he was an engineer in the British Army. He then served in the Second World War as the first commanding officer of the ‘Long Range Desert Group.’ The unit carried out dangerous reconnaissance work and raids behind enemy lines in North Africa and is considered to be a forerunner of the SAS.
Bagnold also published books based on his research. In between the wars he undertook the first recorded east-to-west crossing of the Libyan Desert and pioneered the use of motor vehicles to explore the harsh terrain. His ‘Libyan Sands: Travel in a Dead World’ has been described as a ‘classic work of 20thcentury Saharan exploration.’
His second book, ‘The Physics of Blown Sand and Desert Dunes’ was inspired by the many sandstorms he witnessed during his time in the desert. It remains an important reference point for scientists today and has also been used by NASA to study sand dunes and the development of sand-driving mechanisms on Mars. The Bagnold Dunes, a 22-mile-long group of sand dunes on Mars were named by NASA in his honour.
Bagnold’s plaque was unveiled at Astor House in Devonport Road, Stoke. Now a care home, it was once his childhood home. The plaque will now be installed on the front of the property – a lasting tribute to a legacy that bridges military service, exploration and scientific innovation.
Age UK Plymouth’s latest dementia awareness campaign has launched ahead of World Alzheimer’s Month in September.
Age UK Plymouth’s ‘I’m Still Me’ campaign highlights the reality of living with dementia while reminding everyone that memories may fade, but identities still remain.
Over the past few months, the team at Age UK Plymouth has had open, honest, and moving conversations with clients, staff, and families.
They’ve shared how dementia has affected their lives - not just the challenges, but also the moments that show who someone still is. Their personality, their humour, their routines and their presence.
‘I’m Still Me’ is all about recognising that a person doesn’t disappear because of dementia.
The campaign shines a light on lived experience, raises awareness, and keeps the conversation going across Plymouth.
The campaign has already begun with positive action. Last month, Age UK Plymouth launched a new knitting challenge off the back of the annual innocent Big Knit.
Forget Me Knot, a city-wide challenge in support of ‘I’m Still Me’, has already received an incredible response, with the first wave of handmade forget-me-not flowers arriving at the charity’s door.
Working daily with older people and those living with dementia, Age UK Plymouth knows the importance of continuing this conversation – in homes, communities, and across the city. Because dementia doesn’t erase a person.
Throughout the campaign, Age UK Plymouth will be sharing personal stories, updates, and behind-the-scenes content on its social media platforms to help keep the conversation going.
While Age UK Plymouth is doing everything it can to spread the word, the charity is calling on the wider community to help share the message even further. The more people who know about the ‘I’m Still Me’ campaign, the more understanding, support and dignity canbe brought to those living with dementia in Plymouth.
Age UK Plymouth has set a fundraising target of £2,000. All money raised will go directly towards enhancing the charity’s dementia services.
To donate or for more information visit www.ageuk.org.uk/ plymouth
Tina and Chris have shared nearly 40 years together – from running pubs in Plymouth to travelling Europe in their motorhome. Life was always a partnership. So, when Chris began to change, Tina felt the ground shift beneath them. It started with small things – forgotten words, confusion, irritability. Within weeks of seeing a doctor, Chris was diagnosed with a rare form of frontotemporal dementia: semantic dementia. The condition slowly stripped away his ability to understand and use language. He lost vocabulary, the ability to recognise everyday objects, and eventually, to speak or follow instructions. “He’s been in our house nearly four years – he’s never known the address.”
As life slowed down, Tina learned to live more in the moment, finding joy in small things. Despite everything, she still sees the man she married in gestures, expressions, and the warmth he shows others. “He’s not who he was, but he’s still him. The kindness is still there. The spirit is still there.”
Tina has adapted to new ways of connecting with Chris – always protecting his dignity, responding to needs he can no longer voice. She draws strength from the support of Age UK Plymouth’s Dementia Day Centre and respite care. “When I brought Chris in, they’d never seen semantic dementia before – but they listened, they learned, and they cared.”
Caring for someone with dementia is complex and isolating. But with understanding and compassion, Chris is still seen and valued. That’s what ‘I’m Still Me’ means – recognising the person, not just the diagnosis.
Even without words, love endures. And Tina continues to show up – because she knows Chris would have done the same.
Plymouth is preparing for a major regeneration of its city centre, aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes alongside a massive £4.4 billion investment in Devonport by the Government. This investment is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate demand for housing, infrastructure, and services across the city.
Plymouth City Council is commissioning the necessary planning work to integrate new homes with employment, retail, leisure, education, green space, and transport. The goal is to turn the city centre into a thriving residential area, addressing a long-standing housing shortfall. Currently, Plymouth’s city centre has just 1,000 homes – well below the average of 8,000 for cities of similar size.
Earlier this year, the council and Homes England signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance the vision of a ‘new town in the city.’ With Cabinet approval, the council will now procure a multidisciplinary team to deliver a City Living Development Framework. This will guide the creation of housing and vital infrastructure across the city centre and surrounding areas.
Council Leader Tudor Evans highlighted the ambition: “We are planning not just where and what to build, but how to ensure it becomes a fantastic place to live. There’s a lot we know – such as the urgent housing need – but also much to figure out, like how people will move around or how much green space we need.”
He said that regeneration efforts in other cities like Newcastle, Manchester, and Leeds show that more city centre housing can drive revitalisation. “We’re looking at a scale of investment and building not seen since post-war reconstruction,” he added.
Public engagement will be key, with businesses, residents, and organisations invited to help shape
the vision in the coming months.
Babcock’s Devonport managing director John Gane praised the city’s ambition, saying the investment and housing plan show a ‘shared commitment to making Plymouth a thriving, inclusive and future-ready city.’ Babcock, a core member of Growth Alliance Plymouth (GAP), will play a central role in sustaining and expanding thousands of roles in both operations and construction. Local businesses are also expected to benefit significantly.
Joe Walton from Homes England described the collaboration as ‘fantastic’ highlighting how the £4.4 billion Devonport investment gives the housing plan a clear economic foundation. Homes England is working with the Council to refresh and update previous planning studies to make them fit for 21st-century needs. “We want to see cranes building something in the city centre as soon as we can,” he said.
Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet endorsed the next steps in the project and recognised the once-in-a-generation opportunity the defence investment presents. They also reaffirmed their support for the GAP partnership, which includes the Ministry of Defence, Homes England, and Babcock, to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for Plymouth.
Sailors from Devonport Naval Base swapped tools for trowels as they helped local youngsters rejuvenate two urban gardens.
A team from Fleet Support Unit (FSU) Campbell, one of several which provides wide-ranging engineering assistance to Royal Navy ships deployed around the globe, offered to work with students from Saltash Community School across the Tamar in rejuvenating their allotment space.
Meanwhile in St Budeaux, just up the road from Camel’s Head Gate, volunteers from the Surface Flotilla’s Support Unit rolled up their sleeves at Victoria Road Primary School, helping to build recentlyreceived garden equipment and planters.
The garden being created at Victoria Road is intended to help children with their schoolwork and understanding of nature.
Led by Lieutenant Scotty Kerr and Chief Joff Lucas, the group of five sailors toiled in boiling heat to build different sized
planters, which will also double up as playground seating.
“It was a pretty hot day, and our small team worked tirelessly to build two corner bench planters, three large seat planters and a much larger planter in the five
hours we had,” said Scotty.
“The results will mean the children will get involved in small gardening projects and have suitable sturdy seating areas for lunch and break times when they return after the summer break,” added Scotty.
Local MP Fred Thomas, has launched a petition to reinstate a post box in St Budeaux following Royal Mail’s decision to remove it.
The post box at the junction of Mollison Road and Roman Way was removed after the land owner requested it be moved off their land, but rather than move it to the nearby pavement Royal Mail have removed it entirely. This prompted angry and concerned residents to contact the Plymouth Moor View MP to see if there was anything that he could do to reverse the decision.
Sharing these residents’ concerns with Royal Mail, Mr Thomas asked the organisation to reconsider their decision. However, they have twice refused, citing the fact that there are two other post boxes within half a mile of Mollison Road – Royal Mail is required to ensure 98% of homes are within half a mile of a post box as a minimum.
Many of the residents who had contacted Mr Thomas were elderly and had mobility issues and stated that they simply can’t manage the walk to the alternative post boxes because the direct routes to them involve steep hills or flights of steps.
In a letter to Royal Mail, Mr Thomas told them that these alternative post boxes are simply not accessible to many
residents and urged them to reconsider their ‘misguided’ decision.
In response to their refusal to reinstate the post box, the MP has launched a petition calling on Royal Mail to reconsider and he is urging people to sign it. The petition can be signed at the www.fredforplymouth.com/mollisonroad-post-box-petition
Fred Thomas said: “I really feel that Royal Mail are making a mistake with this decision. It is misguided and fails to take into account the geography and topography of the area – it feels like a decision taken by someone in head office who has never actually been to St Budeaux.
“I have been contacted by dozens of residents who are really concerned at losing this post box, particularly elderly residents who simply can’t manage the walk to the next nearest ones – Royal Mail need to reconsider this decision.
“I would encourage anyone to sign the petition and really show the strength of feeling that people have about this decision.
“Even if it doesn’t affect you, just think about the impact that removals of post boxes may have on elderly, disabled and vulnerable people across the city.”
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has opened a public survey to find out what people think about how it provides its services within the Plymouth area.
The reason for the survey is that Camel’s Head and Crownhill fire stations are both more than 60 years old and need significant improvements or rebuilding to make them fit for the future.
The Service is exploring several options, including: • rebuilding Camels Head and rebuilding or refurbishing Crownhill
• a full development of Crownhill into a modern co-located operational facility, potentially supported by a smaller facility in the Camels Head area.
The survey asks what residents think the role of the fire service is and the value it adds to the community so that it can understand what is most important to the local community.
Chief Fire Officer Gavin Ellis said: “We are currently reviewing some of our fire station buildings in Plymouth and want the community’s views to help us come up with the best options.
“We want to understand whether there are any local risks we may
not be aware of and how valuable residents believe the local fire station is in meeting those risks.
“Nothing’s been decided yet. We want to understand what the impact could be while we explore options for what we need to build, to deliver the best community response to you that we possibly can.”
With 11,500 new homes planned for parts of Plymouth by 2034, new risks and a reduced budget for the fire service, fire chiefs are looking at the most effective way to deliver their services to the areas of Plymouth served by these stations.
Chief Fire Officer Ellis added: “We are committed to investing and improving the estate in Plymouth, however there is a need to make sure we are investing public money wisely and have an estate that is sustainable over the long term.”
More information and a survey are available at www.dsfire.gov.uk/ about-us/plymouth-estate-review
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.”
Engineering apprentices from Devonport Naval Base used their engineering skills, enthusiasm and creativity to transform an overgrown garden area at Mount Wise Community Primary School in Devonport, into an immersive, Sensory Herb Garden. From the school’s ‘wish list’ and working from a minimal budget – with generous donations of trees, plants, bark chippings from local companies, plus an abundance of previously donated old tyres and wooden pallets – apprentices were resourceful in creating colourful planters for each year group, a bug hotel and seating area.
Early Years teacher and art lead at the school, Joanna Thorne, said: “We were truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our local businesses. Their donations of plants, materials, and time have helped bring our sensory herb garden to life. Thanks to their support, our pupils now have a vibrant, calming space to explore nature with all their senses.”
The revamped space was officially opened by Brigadier Mike Tanner, Devonport Naval Base Commander who praised the hard work and commitment of his apprentices in producing a wonderful learning environment for the students.
Bridgier Tanner said: “As the Naval Base Commander I was so pleased to witness the fantastic work that the members of my apprenticeship scheme delivered at Mount Wise Primary School in creating their new sensory garden.
“It’s important to me that I am the very best neighbour to the Devonport and wider community. It’s important to me that my apprentices appreciate their wider role as civil servants in serving and supporting society.
“It is also important to me that young people grow up with positive perspective and interaction with the Royal Navy. Plus I love gardening! And I know the apprentices learnt a lot about project
The top section of the new look Armada Way was formally opened at a short ribbon cutting ceremony at the end of July.
People can now have a look and walk through the first phase of the project which began last October. This section is home to the Phoenix fountain – which will have water when the entire scheme is finished – as well as a new amphitheatre area, which is ideal for events and music.
Council Leader Tudor Evans said: “It’s safe to say it has been a quite a journey to get to this stage, so we wanted to pause to celebrate this moment.
“The pace of the work has been remarkable, and the scale of investment has inspired companies and organisations to sit up, take notice of what is happening in Plymouth and to invest here.
“We know the scheme is not finished, but we wanted to open this part of the project up so that people could get a sense of the meticulous workmanship on show, the thought that has gone into the planting. We want people to be as excited as we are.”
The work has been carried out by contractors Morgan Sindall and this part of the halfkilometre construction site has been out of bounds for the public, so this is the first opportunity to see up close some of the new features.
management in completing this task. So this tremendous work represents a great success all round.”
Headteacher Annmarie Allchurch added: “Mount Wise Primary is a community school, and we are keen to strengthen our links with local businesses and organisations. This sensory garden is the result of a fantastic collaboration between our school and apprentices from HMS Drake. Our children will benefit greatly from this wonderful project.”
The garden was previously a wasted space with nothing but weeds and overgrown grass reaching over five feet high. The engineering apprentices had two weeks to carry out the work, starting with preparing the overgrown space and prepping it ready to be landscaped. They worked together tirelessly through the hot summer heat, sawing, sanding, hammering and painting tyres and crates
to transform the space.
Staff and pupils were blown away by the incredible transformation that now provides the children with endless outdoor learning opportunities. The school cannot thank the apprentices enough and can’t wait to begin using the new space in September when the school children arrive back after the summer break
The team would like to thank the generosity from local businesses who donated various items, without this, the new space couldn’t have been achieved: Matt Rix and Darren Craig at Ridgeway Tyres in Plympton, Bogey Knights, B&Q, Endsleigh Garden Centre, Princess Yachts, Mark Binley at DHL, Babcock, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Paul Downer from SMS and Mark Ross, site manager at the schoolwho helped to bring the project together.
It includes wildflower areas, thousands of new plants, all selected to add colour interest, smell and to attract pollinators, as well as granite paving, stunning new stonework around the fountain and part of the cycle route, which will run through the scheme.
Some of the older features are also looking much better – the heraldic lions which were used in the original 1950s incarnation of Armada Way and are thought to be from a building in Whimple Street, have also been given a facelift and enjoy a more prominent position looking down the scheme.
The basin and walls of the fountain have been cleaned ahead of a new phoenix arriving next year. Original stonework, which was retained as part of the design, is also looking a lot cleaner, following a steam wash to remove algae and soot from over 50 years of car fumes.
City Centre Company chief executive Steve Hughes said: “This regeneration project is a game changer for Plymouth’s City Centre. It’s attracting interest, investment and opening up all sorts of opportunities for events that bring more families, visitors and shoppers into the city centre.
“We know construction work of this scale brings with it difficulties – and we recognise that – but the long-term gain is worth it.”
The scheme is on target for completion in early summer 2026, when the entire route from North Cross subway through to the Piazza will be opened to the public.
The total cost of the Armada Way regeneration scheme in Plymouth is £29.89 million, according to the city council’s website. However, the direct cost to local taxpayers is £11.2 million, with the remaining funds coming from government grants, developer contributions, and other sources, says the council.
A celebration of the sea across the waterfront in Plymouth takes place in September as Seafest returns bigger and better than ever.
Plymouth Waterfront Partnership, Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and Plymouth City Council have teamed up once again to bring back this popular weekend festival to celebrate and connect the sea and the city. Seafest, being held this year on Saturday 13 and
Sunday 14 September, combines Plymouth’s extraordinary maritime heritage, sustainability, with good music and a variety of top-quality themed entertainment resulting in a celebration of the city’s connection to the sea.
Visitors can take part in a range of activities including swim sessions, Scuba, snorkelling, paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing tasters, delve into the city’s nautical past and discover how everyone can contribute to becoming marine stewards in the local environment. The Plymouth Sound National Marine Park Horizons project has been made possible thanks to money raised by National Lottery players with £11.6million of funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
This year’s Seafest welcomes the return of the live cookery demo stage, where locally renowned chefs and business owners, will show off their culinary skills by creating their favourite recipes using freshly caught sustainably sourced ingredients to inspire visitors to try something new in their own kitchens.
To ensure visitors can easily access as much as the waterfront as possible during Seafest safely and sustainably, subsidised and free public transport offers supported by Plymouth Boat Trips, Mount Batten Ferry and Plymouth CityBus’ ‘Shark and Ride’ will be available across the weekend.
With the return of the live cookery demo stage, family friendly activities, facepainting, trader stands, music, street entertainment and theatre, trails and tours, crafts and making sessions spanning the whole waterfront from Sutton Harbour, the Barbican, Tinside Lido, West Hoe and Royal William Yard, from Mount Batten to Mount Edgcumbe, Seafest has all the ingredients to be a hugely popular weekend for everyone in Britain’s Ocean City. For more details go to the What’s On section of www. visitplymouth.co.uk
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Working together to tackle anti-social behaviour, improve road safety and strengthen our communities
Over the past few months, my team and I have been working hard across Devonport and West areas to tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB), improve road safety, and engage with the community.
These issues are a priority for us, and we know they matter to you.
We’ve responded to concerns around road safety on Kings Road, where we’ve sadly seen serious collisions in recent months.
Officers have been carrying out regular high-visibility patrols, speaking with drivers and pedestrians, and working alongside our partners to make the area safer for everyone.
As we head through summer, we’ve stepped up proactive patrols in hotspot areas to deal with ASB and related crime. You’ll be seeing more officers on the streets – not just responding to issues, but actively working to prevent them.
We’ve focused on places where we know there have been problems and we’ve been listening to what you’ve told us on patrol, at events, and through community meetings.
During a recent week of action, we got out into the heart of the community, holding pop-up engagement events at places like the Barn Wellbeing Hub, St Budeaux Library and the local Co-op. We spent time with youth and community groups, including local Beavers and the hobbies group at Beacon in North Prospect.
These conversations help us understand what’s going on and where we can help.
We also visited a number of vulnerable young people at local schools, carried out reassurance patrols with our local MP at Tavy House after neighbour disputes, and supported
With Inspector Andy Stewart, Devonport & West Plymouth Neighbourhood Policing Team
individuals who had previously been targeted by organised criminals through cuckooing.
This safeguarding work is a core part of what we do, and it’s making a difference.
We’ve continued to focus on shoplifting, visiting the most affected stores across Devonport, including Tesco Mount Wise and several Co-ops, to support staff and deter offenders.
Operation Vocals – our response to ASB and vulnerability – has been used 16 times across the area in the past month
with positive results. A highlight recently was the Devonport Dockyard Open Days, where we met hundreds of you in a positive and relaxed setting.
Events like these are a great way for us to break down barriers and show the human side of policing.
Finally, we’ve been encouraging people to sign up for DC Alerts at www.communitymessaging.dc.police.uk –a free service that gives you updates, crime prevention advice, and news from your local policing team.
It’s a simple way to stay informed and involved in what’s happening in your area.
We’re here to keep you safe, and we’re proud to serve this community.
Thanks for continuing to work with us.
The Police Enquiry Office at Devonport Police Station in Chapel Street is now open to the public from 10am to 3pm Monday to Saturday. It is closed on Bank Holidays and Sundays. Police station front desks allow members of the public to have access to walk-in services where they can speak to trained staff who can help with crime reporting, crime prevention advice and help with accessing victim services. To make sure there is enough time to deal with an enquiry, members of the public are advised to try to arrive at least an hour before closing.
Council leaders across Devon have joined forces to call for the creation of a South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority (MSA), representing 1.2 million residents and an economy worth over £25 billion a year.
The Leaders of Plymouth City Council, Devon County Council, Torbay Council and district councils across Devon have written jointly to Government ministers to further develop enhanced powers and funding for the whole county of Devon through a comprehensive devolution agreement.
The proposed South West Peninsula Mayoral Strategic Authority would replace the existing Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority and create what the leaders describe as an ‘economic powerhouse’ capable of accelerating the Government’s growth mission.
Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “Plymouth’s role as a regional economic hub, combined with our vital national security responsibilities at Devonport, makes this devolution proposal essential for our future.
“The £4.4 billion MoD investment over the next decade, alongside our strengths in advanced manufacturing and marine technology, demonstrates why we need the enhanced powers that only a mayoral strategic authority can provide. This is about ensuring Plymouth continues to punch above its weight on the national stage.”
Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council, said: “This is about giving our communities the tools they need to thrive. A mayoral strategic authority would unlock our region’s exceptional potential in environmental intelligence, marine innovation and clean energy. We have world-class research institutions and innovative business clusters that, working together under local leadership, can position the UK as a global leader in these critical sectors.”
Councillor David Thomas, Leader of Torbay Council, said: “The £2 billion tourism economy and the 33,000 jobs it supports across Devon and Torbay show what we can achieve when we work together strategically. A coordinated approach under a mayoral strategic authority would enable us to leverage all our tourism assets more effectively whilst addressing the housing pressures our coastal communities face. This is about creating an integrated approach that benefits all our residents and businesses.”
Councillor Mandy Ewings, Chair of the Devon Districts Forum, said: “This devolution proposal recognises that we need strategic coordination whilst preserving the local connection that makes our communities special. The mayoral strategic authority would enable us to tackle challenges like housing affordability and transport connectivity that cross traditional boundaries, whilst ensuring decisions remain rooted in our local democratic traditions.”
The leaders emphasise that their approach remains inclusive, with the door remaining open for Cornwall Council to join the authority in future. They highlight the region’s combined strengths spanning environmental assets, research capacity, tourism, advanced manufacturing and clean energy sectors.
Time flies and September marks five years since The Box first opened its doors!
It was a strange time when Plymouth’s major museum, art gallery and archive welcomed its first visitors – more than five months later than planned due to Covid 19 – but it’s gone on to win awards, display groundbreaking exhibitions, host a programme of popular events, and welcome over one million visitors.
To mark this important anniversary in style, The Box’s next ‘Super Saturday’ will be a birthday celebration. Taking place on Saturday September 6, and running from 10.30am to 3.30pm, the day will feature music, dance performances and creative activities for all ages and more.
Many of the activities will be free although visitors may need to book for some via the website or online shop.
Follow the what’s on section of www.theboxplymouth.com for a full schedule of what’s set to be a wonderful day.
People who can’t make it to the event will still have plenty
£250,000 to fund
of reasons to visit The Box – whether its to soak up the celebratory atmosphere during September or another time.
With free entry, permanent galleries that showcase the city’s collections, an onsite shop, research facilities, and the brilliant Box Kitchen & Bar with its tasty menu, there’s always a reason to visit the award-winning attraction. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday.
There are lots of things to look forward to as well.
These include the Remember Respond Resist exhibition which is part of the UK/Poland Season 2025 and features Turner Prizewinning Grayson Perry and Turner Prize nominee Goshka Macuga (from October 4 2025), a major exhibition celebrating 100 years since the birth of artist Beryl Cook (from January 24 2026) and Journeys with Mai featuring the famous portrait of Mai by Sir Joshua Reynolds (from February 14 2026).
For more information about all the events and exhibitions visit www.theboxplymouth.com
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 lifechanging study and work placements abroad.
“These opportunities not only broaden horizons and build vital
skills, 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
Plymouth Sound National Marine Park is marking a year of firsts as it continues to reconnect people with the water and lay the foundations for the UK’s first National Marine Park, thanks to support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Over the past year, thousands of people have engaged with Plymouth’s waterfront and the sea that shapes the city’s identity. Working with partners at Plymouth Active Leisure, more than 1,800 children and young people took part in Swim Safe sessions, building confidence in the water and learning vital safety skills while fostering a love of the ocean.
Plymouth Sound National Marine Park brought Sea in our Schools to nearly 1,000 students across the city, inspiring a new generation to discover and enhance the marine environment on their doorstep with our partners at Ocean Conservation Trust. The programme has received resounding praise, with 100 per cent t of teachers recommending it to other schools.
Transformation work has begun at the Mount Batten Centre to create even more opportunities for people to get on the water, while Mount Edgcumbe has been hosting archaeology camps, giving people the chance to explore the park’s history first-hand.
Community involvement has been central to the Park’s journey, with 142 local residents signing up as volunteers, contributing over 11,500 hours to beach cleans, events and activities supported by the Park’s Ranger team. For many, including Verity, volunteering has been a chance to build confidence, develop skills and gain new employment.
Nature has also taken centre stage in the Park’s first year. The Little Rays of Hope project captured hearts locally and nationally, attracting BBC Countryfile to film in Devon. Broadcast on Easter Sunday to six million viewers, the project saw 39 baby rays released into Plymouth Sound, a small but significant step towards restoring the wildlife of the Sound.
Since the episode aired, the Shark Trust has reported a 20% increase in egg cases found across the UK and Ireland, demonstrating how Plymouth Sound National Marine Park’s firstof-its-kind approach in a living, working city can inspire people to notice and care for the sea, wherever they live.
Elaine Hayes, chief executive of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, said: “Securing a prime-time BBC Countryfile feature has been a huge moment for raising awareness about our National Marine Park and the incredible work happening here in Plymouth. It supports our ambition to inspire the creation of other National Marine Parks across the UK, showing what’s possible when people reconnect with the sea. We’re excited to build on this momentum in year two.”
This summer, visitors can look forward to a range of activities led by the Park’s Coastal Rangers across Tinside Lido, Mount Batten and Mount Edgcumbe, culminating in a bigger and better Seafest.
The Park is also launching ‘Sea for Yourself’, a new digital arts programme delivered in partnership with Plymouth Culture, which will bring the National Marine Park to new audiences in creative and innovative ways.
For details of Plymouth Sound National Marine Park activities this summer visit www. plymouthsoundnationalmarinepark.com/yoursummer-your-sound/
Dog owners reminded to ensure their pet is microchipped collared and tagged as Stoke woman is fined
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.
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.
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SEPTEMBER 2025
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.”
“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!” -Marianne
Saltram has announced plans for a four-year £6.2 million scheme to transform the popular visitor attraction.
It follows the news that the National Trust has been awarded £4.5 million towards the project which will increase access to nature and heritage for the people of Plymouth.
Saltram is one of the South West’s most significant historic estates - a rare surviving 18th-century designed landscape and mansion in the boundary of a major city. Although already well-loved and used by many with almost a million visits a year, local communities still face barriers to access.
The ambitious project will support a growing city by removing barriers to make Saltram a leader in inclusive access for the heritage sector. Focused on children, young people
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.
and under-served communities, it will unlock Saltram’s potential as a thriving local destination rooted in nature, creativity, and enriching experiences.
Significant investment will transform Saltram’s accessibility by introducing a step-free route from the stables to and through the historic house - where a lift will also
be installed to access the first floor - along with improvements to path networks and the installation of Plymouth’s first Changing Places facility in a green space.
Accessible experiences, such as sensory-friendly exhibits and relaxed openings will create a more inclusive visitor offer.
Combined with investment in audience-led programming, this will help foster deeper connections to Plymouth’s heritage and make Saltram more relevant to more people. Previously untold stories will be brought to life across six revitalised spaces which 4,000
people in Plymouth have already helped to shape.
Jez McDermott, general manager for the National Trust at Saltram, said: “As the city continues to grow, the need for access to nature and heritage to support wellbeing is greater than ever. This investment will allow Saltram to evolve with Plymouth and we’re proud to be working with partners across the city to support communities now and in the future.”
Natalie Haly, project manager for the National Trust at Saltram, said: “From accessible trails and sensoryfriendly programming to supporting youth development, this project will make Saltram a place where everyone feels welcome, represented and inspired – whether they’re here to explore nature, learn new skills, or connect with the past in a way that suits them.”
The £6.2million project, co-funded by the National Trust, is part of the wider 10-year Future Saltram programme which will offer better access and connections to Saltram for local communities.
Future Saltram will increase freeto-access country park areas, create new habitats for wildlife, improve visitor facilities, and restore historic landscapes and parkland views.
Students from secondary schools across Plymouth have been given an insight into what life is like in the police
Young people from year groups 10 and 11 from 12 secondary schools took part including Plymouth High School for Girls, Eggbuckland Community College, Tor Bridge High, Coombe Dean, Plymstock School, Plympton Academy, All Saints Academy, St Boniface, Heles School and Sir John Hunt.
The students enjoyed a varied array of inputs from many different Devon & Cornwall Police departments including major crime investigation team, crime scene investigation, patrol officers, drones, dog unit and the diving & marine unit.
PC Deb Hart, Plymouth youth engagement officer, helped create the week long programme. She said: “These schemes are extremely popular with students and give a valuable insight into the many different jobs in policing that make up the whole Force.
“I would like to pass on my sincere gratitude to each and every person for the incredible part that
they played, ensuring this year’s Plymouth work experience programme was a huge success. All those taking part played a vital role ensuring that the week was inspiring, engaging and insightful.
“Many people gave up their valuable time to make the week happen and several students, as a result of this week, have grown in confidence and are now considering a career with Devon & Cornwall Police – this is fantastic news and a great outcome for us.”
On the last day the students were asked to consider what Devon & Cornwall Police need to start thinking about now in order to be the best police force in five (or even 10) years’ time – they presented their findings to Plymouth Police Commander Matt Longman and his senior management team.
The work experience course takes place each summer in June or July for students aged 15 and 16 years of age.
All students who take part in the special week receive certificates to mark their achievement.
Plymouth City Council is to spend £6.6 million on the ongoing maintenance of the city’s road surfaces, footways, structures, signals and street lighting.
As well as the citywide programme of preventative treatment and resurfacing recently announced, the funding will be used to begin urgent work to protect and strengthen Laira Bridge.
The busy road link over the River Plym is a ‘post-tension’ bridge, which means it was built using high-strength steel ‘tendons’ placed in sleeves and ducts before concrete was laid. It is suffering from damage caused by moisture, which is effectively rusting these tendons.
This year’s budget will see urgent waterproofing work get under way on the bridge to help prevent any further deterioration before a full structural repair programme is agreed.
The bridge will remain open throughout the waterproofing work, which is expected to begin in November and last around four months. We also currently
expect to be able to keep the bridge open during the later structural repairs. Funding will also support a more proactive approach to repairing potholes, whether they are found during inspections or reported to the council.
Three busy footbridges are undergoing much-needed resurfacing over the coming months – the short link from Laira Bridge Road onto the Laira Rail Bridge walking and cycling route, the footbridge over Shapters Road, near Cattedown Roundabout and the Great Berry Road footbridge over Tavistock Road, between Manadon and Crownhill.
Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “We know that people are really concerned about the condition of our roads and we are doing all we can to keep Plymouth moving –and safe– despite huge financial challenges and cost increases.
“This means being smart about how we spend our money, focusing on areas that are in the most need of repair but also trying to prevent or delay damage where we can, as well as using innovative tools to carry out the work.”
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Charity Plymouth Energy Community (PEC) has opened a new walk-in energy advice hub on Union Street, for people wanting support on energy-related issues.
The Hub, located in the Genesis Building on Union Street, is open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week, where staff will be on hand to provide advice on issues ranging from energy bills, debt and suppliers to impartial guidance on retrofitting homes.
The Hub was made possible after gas emergency and pipeline service Wales & West Utilities provided money through its Vulnerability and Carbon Monoxide Allowance (VCMA) fund.
PEC provides a wide range of energy advice to the Plymouth community, from queries about bills, supplier issues, and energy debt, as well as advice on household risks such as carbon monoxide and energy efficiency measures for the home. It is also known for its many community-owned solar schemes across the city.
PEC Advice Lead, Clare Mains, said: “We’e so pleased to open the energy advice hub as it’s something we’ve wanted to do for a long time. We know that getting help can often feel overwhelming and time-consuming, so we’ve created a space where people can pop in, have a cup of tea and a chat face-to-face about anything energy-related, from bills to adapting the home to make it more energy efficient.
“he hub is a natural extension of the work we’ve been doing to support residents since 2013, and we hope it now makes it easier to access energy advice, in a space that feels homely.”
The hub is designed to be a one-of-a-kind space with a quirky, relaxed atmosphere. In line with PEC’s environmental values, everything from the chairs to the lampshades has been sourced secondhand or reclaimed.
Sophie Shorney, from Wales & West Utilities,
said: “We are delighted to provide this funding which has allowed PEC to create a space in the heart of the city so that more people can get access to vital energy information.
“The VCMA fund allows us to work in partnership with organisations, like PEC, to reach more people and provide them with the help they need to ensure they receive the right support and help with their bills, to help keep them safe and warm in their own environment.”
Clare added: “We’re so grateful to Wales & West Utilities and the VCMA fund for helping us bring the hub to life. Their support means we can offer a warm, welcoming space for anyone who needs to talk about energy – whether they’re in crisis, or
planning major energy efficiency improvements to their home.
“We’ve had such generous support from local people and businesses to bring it to life – including B&Q, which helped us track down half a door when we needed one. We can’t wait to welcome everyone in.”
PEC’s Energy Hub is located in the Genesis Building on Union Street and is open Monday and Wednesday (10am-4pm), and Friday (10am-3pm).
Booking is not required. Residents can also get support from PEC by phone on 01752 477117 or via www.plymouthenergycommunity.com and at various drop-in sessions in Wellbeing Hubs across the city.
Luke Pollard MP has hosted his fourth annual summer school for young people in Plymouth.
More than 20 young people who live or attend school in Plymouth Sutton and Devonport attended Luke’s two day summer school held at Plymouth University.
A non-partisan event, the summer school featured speakers from across the political spectrum, including councillors from all parties elected on Plymouth City Council. Workshops on public speaking and speechwriting were also held, along with a talk on media and journalism with the BBC’s Martyn Oates, ITV’s Lucy McDaid, RadioExe’s Josh Tate and Cornwall Live’s Lee Trewhela. Free Dayrider tickets were provided by
Plymouth Citybus so that travel costs were not a barrier to participation, with free lunches provided by Co-op.
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “I was blown away by the talent and enthusiasm of the folks who attended my summer school. Our city is full of bright, hardworking young people, but they don’t always get their voices heard.
“The summer school is always a highlight of my year. My hope is that the young people left with new ideas about how to get involved in their communities and make a positive difference.”
Joe, a local young person who attended the summer school, said: “I really enjoyed the summer school. It was inspiring to hear directly from our local MP and get a real
insight into how politics works behind the scenes. I’d definitely encourage anyone interested in politics or current affairs to sign up next year.”
Outgoing
Officer of
Brigadier Jaimie Norman, the Commander of UK Commando Forces attended the passing out of the new batch of Commando Forces Boat Operators (CFBOs) at Devonport Naval Base.
Along with the outgoing Commanding Officer of 47 Commando, Colonel Will Norcott, Brigadier Norman presented certificates and awards to Royal Marines graduating from their relevant CFBO courses.
Over the previous 14 weeks, the three qualifying courses had trained together on the landing and raiding craft used by the Unit in support of UKCF, across the South of England and around the Cornish coast up towards Barnstaple Bay and RM Chivenor in North Devon, and as far east along the South Coast to the Solent, where they conducted their final exercise.
The CFBOs will now be drafted to the raiding and maritime uncrewed systems squadrons based in Devonport and across the country, where their skills will be employed with a variety of units.
Among those receiving awards for most supportive students from Brigadier Norman were Marine Morris (CFBO3s course), Marine Howe (CFBO2s course) and Corporal McLeary (CFBO1s course).
Brigadier Norman said, “I’d like to thank firstly the training teams that have put in a tremendous effort in getting you all through your courses. Your specialisation is central to the Commando Force, enabling the littoral operations part of its unique selling point.
“Your future will see you working alongside autonomous and uncrewed systems, as well as using your reconnaissance, surveillance and striking skills from the sea to achieve your mission successes.”
Attending the pass-out also were members of he Worshipful Company of Plaisterers, the Unit’s affiliated Livery Company in the City of London, including the Master Plaisterer, John Telling, who donated and presented awards for the top student on each course; honorary RN Captain, Keith Knowles, who also kindly donated gifts for the graduates; and representatives from Parkdean Resorts, who donated holidays for other award winners in the Royal Marines and wider Service.
47 Commando (Raiding Group) also said a fond farewell to Colonel Will Norcott as he handed over command of 47 Cdo, along with the unit’s new trident, to his successor, Colonel Karl Gray.
Tails are wagging with joy at Gables as a patch of land near the cats and dog home is to be transferred to the charity after Plymouth City Council stepped in to buy the land.
Late last year National Highways put up for sale a section of grass verge outside the charity’s premises in Merafield Road, sparking concern from the charity and its many supporters.
National Highways had intended to put the site up for auction, but the council has agreed terms to buy the land off market on behalf of Gables. The land was independently valued on behalf of the council and National Highways and both have now agreed to the transaction.
The council has secured the land for Gables who have agreed to underwrite the costs and will acquire the site for the price paid by the council together with professional fees. The price is currently confidential but will be made public on completion at the Land Registry.
A Plymouth woman has been rewarded with a top honour for her passion, dedication and commitment to SSAFA, the armed forces charity.
Alex Swinard, the charity’s regional cas work manager for the South West, received the Sir James Gildea Global Staff Award which recognise SSAFA staff and volunteers for their exceptional contribution and commitment to SSAFFA’s activities and values.
She was presented with the award by Kirsty Bushell, one of SSAFA’s vice presidents, at a special ceremony in London.
Alex, 39, is originally from Market Harborough and attended Plymouth University in 2004 and met Ash, now her husband who was a Royal Marines Commando in Plymouth and settled here. Ash was a Commando for nine years. In 2011 during his third tour of Afghanistan, he stepped on an IED, resulting in the loss of his right leg.
Alex said: “From the moment I received the devastating news, the support we received from multiple charities was nothing short of incredible. Although SSAFA’s Fisher House near the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham was sadly full of other families during our five-week stay, we visited often.”
She spoke of ‘the kindness, support, and sense of community there,’ that gave them comfort, adding: “Even things
like the fridge always being stocked, with treats available to grab in between hospital visits, and there was always someone nearby with a kind word during what was a truly overwhelming time.”
Later, Alex and Ash stayed at SSAFA’s Norton House near Headley Court while he underwent rehabilitation.
Alex added: “We were advised to reach out to SSAFA, and a caseworker quickly came to visit. Through the casework process, SSAFA helped us secure a deposit for a flat of our own, a bed, and a tumble dryer – essential for drying the equipment my husband needed for his prosthetic.
“That support, in what was one of the darkest times of our lives, was truly life changing. It’s something we’ve never forgotten.”
Alex wanted to give something back, which undoubtedly she has done – and with interest.
She said: “Having experienced how hard it can be to ask for help – and knowing first-hand the impact that support from military charities such as SSAFA can have – I felt driven to be part of that network.
“Just before the South West Regional Office (SWRO) launched in 2022, I saw a vacancy and knew I had to apply.
“Receiving this award is profoundly meaningful to me – not only in my role as regional casework manager, but also as someone who once received support from SSAFA. Having been a beneficiary before joining the organisation has given me a unique perspective and a deeply personal connection to the work we do.
“I know first-hand just how life changing SSAFA’s support can be, and that is what drives me every single day. I see the real and lasting impact that compassionate, dedicated support has on the lives of veterans, serving personnel, and their families.
“But this award is not mine alone; it’s testament to the incredible South West Regional Office. I’m truly privileged to work alongside such a dedicated team of staff and volunteers whose unwavering commitment, empathy, and tireless efforts make a real and lasting difference in people’s lives. This recognition belongs equally to them.”
Couple bring new training method to the city - inspired by life-changing family experience
A married couple from Plymouth have opened the city’s first Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) studio –inspired by a life-changing experience within their own family.
Matt and Ola Sadowski, who run BodyFix EMS in the north of Plymouth, discovered the potential of EMS when a close family member in Poland began using the technology during a period of severe muscle loss and joint pain. Unable to engage in traditional forms of exercise, their relative saw a remarkable improvement in strength, mobility and energy in just a matter of weeks.
“That experience stayed with us,” said Matt. “We saw how just
20 minutes of whole-body, low-impact stimulation each week could restore independence and confidence – and we couldn’t stop thinking about how many others could benefit from it.”
Electro Muscle Stimulation, widely used across Europe and the United States, works by sending low-frequency impulses to muscle groups during guided movement. These impulses mimic the body’s natural signals activating the muscle fibres. EMS workouts require no weights and are based on simple and joint friendly exercises.
Despite its international popularity, EMS remains relatively unknown in the UK – and there were no local options available in Plymouth. With the nearest studio located over two hours away, Matt and Ola decided to bring the method home and open a space of their own.
Matt, a former professional ballroom dancer with over 15 years of experience in body movement and control, said their aim was never to open a typical gym. “We wanted to create something inclusive, calm, and supportive – especially for people who feel traditional fitness environments just don’t work for them,” he added.
The couple say the benefits of EMSare wide-ranging. Clients come to improve posture, build strength, support hormonal balance and pelvic floor function, rebuild after pregnancy, tone their bodies, lose weight, or simply feel more energised and in control.
“People often tell us they’re beginning to reconnect with their bodies again,” said Matt. “They’re moving without pain, standing taller, and feeling stronger.”
They’ve had some positive feedback so far. One client, who had suffered from chronic lower back pain, told Matt after her first session that it was the first 20 minutes in four years she hadn’t thought about the pain. After just four sessions, she reported that it had completely disappeared.
“We’re not here to push anyone,” said Matt. “We just want people to know that this technology exists and that it’s already helping people right here in Plymouth.”
Cool running is all the rage on the waterfront with Plymouth’s ice cream vans now clean and green, thanks to a council initiative.
Plymouth City Council has installed five electric chargers at key points on Hoe Road so that ice cream vans can run on clean, green electricity rather than chugging out fumes from their engines.
It means that the ice cream sellers who have concessions there not only save on fuel costs – as running freezers on their engines
all day is expensive, but it also cuts the amount of fumes coming out of the exhaust –not a nice combination with a cone.
The project has been warmly welcomed by the sellers, especially as the Council installed chargers that meant that some sellers could convert their vehicles with transformers rather than fork out around £150,000 for a new van.
Cabinet member for community safety, Councillor Sally Haydon instigated the idea and the council’s street trading team worked with the vendors and liaised with contractors to make it happen.
The installation was a challenge as there were a number of services beneath the pavement, with one charger installed on a specially made build-out from the pavement.
The council employed a company called Kerbo Charge to install the cables and infrastructure – the first time the company has operated in the city. Metpow provided the submetering of energy use so that the council can remotely monitor carbon emissions as well as charge for the energy used.
It took a while to get the logistics sorted but with some Government lolly – £40,000 through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund – sprinkles of support from Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and a magnum of ingenuity from South West Highways to make it happen on a busy and popular road.
Councillor Haydon said: “There’s nothing like an ice-cream on the Hoe
in the summer. It is one of the great joys of Plymouth life. But diesel fumes is hardly the nicest topping with your 99.
“Make no cones about it – we now have a greener waterfront overlooking our amazing Plymouth Sound National Marine Park and we are helping our ice cream sellers to save fuel and money!”
Ice cream seller Kelly Pitcher welcomed the move, especially as it means the van is cooler
on warm days. She said: “We don’t have to keep the engine running which means the van doesn’t get so hot inside – which is great for me.
“It is definitely quieter to run and we have had regulars already commenting on how much quieter it is and less fumes. We’re really happy to see this happen.”
Shearwater Marine Services Ltd is seeking a skilled Dive Technician for its Torpoint office to maintain diving equipment, ensure regulatory compliance, manage supplementary equipment, and support diving teams. Candidates should have relevant certifications, knowledge of safety regulations, and operational skills including forklift and trailer licenses. The role offers a competitive salary, a safety-focused culture, and opportunities for professional growth in the diving industry.
www.shearwatermarine.co.uk/careers/dive-technician
A rogue Plymouth glazier who threatened customers and delivered substandard work has been handed a 12-month suspended prison sentence and ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work, following a successful prosecution by the Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service – a partnership of local councils including Plymouth City Council.
Reece Adam Moate, 36, of Barrack Street, Devonport, appeared at Plymouth Crown Court where he pleaded guilty to multiple offences including fraud, misleading customers, and threatening to commit criminal damage. He has also been disqualified from acting as a company director for five years.
Although not listed as a director of Go Eco Glazing Ltd, Moate was found to be running the company’s day-to-day operations. He admitted to misusing the Police’s ‘Secured by Design’ logo to falsely suggest that his products met policeapproved security standards, misleading customers into believing their homes were protected by crime-resistant windows and doors.
The court heard that complaints began surfacing in summer 2021, with customers reporting long delays, poor workmanship, use of incorrect materials, and aggressive behaviour. In one case, Moate even threatened to damage a customer’s property when they refused to pay for his substandard work.
Judge Linford described Moate’s conduct as ‘well below what is expected of a professional tradesperson,’ noting the financial and emotional distress caused to his victims. Go Eco Glazing Ltd, now in liquidation, received a 12-month conditional discharge.
Councillor Sally Haydon, Plymouth City Council Cabinet Member for Trading Standards, said: “This case highlights the vital role Trading Standards plays in protecting our residents from dishonest and dangerous practices. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our joined trading standards services, we’ve been able to take decisive action.
“I encourage anyone who suspects a rogue trader to report it – together, we can keep our communities safe.”
Fakir Mohamed Osman, Head of the Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service, added: “Moate tried to profit from poor-quality work and intimidation. This case sends a clear message: if you try to rip people off, you will be held accountable. We urge residents to use trusted sources such as the Trading Standards ‘Buy With Confidence’ scheme when choosing a trader.”
For information on Trading Standards and how to register a complaint go to www. devonsomersettradingstandards.gov.uk
Walk through the doors of Devonport Live CIC, and visitors instantly feel it – the warmth, the welcome, the sense that this is more than just a café or a community centre. This is where Devonport comes together.
Situated in the heart of one of Plymouth’s most historic neighbourhoods, Devonport Live has grown into a lively, grassroots hub where locals of all ages connect, create, and feel part of something bigger.
Tucked away in George Street Devonport Live CIC, a community hub, has become a cornerstone of local life, bringing people together with purpose, passion, and a deep sense of belonging.
Founded with a mission to reinvigorate the area through social connection and opportunity, Devonport Live offers far more than a cosy café space. It’s a thriving, multi-use venue where local residents can meet, create, collaborate, and grow.
From craft sessions and mental health drop-ins to employment advice and youth activities, the hub acts as a bridge between people and possibility.
“We wanted to create a space that felt welcoming to everyone –whether you’ re popping in for a coffee, showcasing your art, or just looking for a friendly chat,” said one of the founders. “It’s about restoring pride and connection in our community.”
Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inclusive, with walls adorned by work from local artists, a buzz of conversation over home-baked treats, and notices pinned up for everything from poetry readings to parent-and-baby groups.
The energy is palpable – Devonport Live is a space where people don’t just pass through, they stay and contribute.
Residents often describe it as ‘a second home’ and ‘a vital lifeline’ in times of hardship. In an area which has faced social and economic challenges, Devonport Live stands as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Plymouth’s Royal William Yard is inviting visitors to step into the past with the launch of its new History Trail as the popular destination becomes a free open-air museum, where visitors can explore two centuries of remarkable history.
The free, self-guided, interactive discovery trail connects visitors to a wealth of fascinating facts, images and audio. It will take guests of all ages on a journey through the archives, sharing plans, pictures and stories that bring 200 years of remarkable history alive in a unique way.
With construction starting in 1825 on the iconic site, Royal William Yard was once described as ‘the grandest of all royal victualling yards.’ It served as
As the hub looks toward the future, there are plans to expand its outreach with new community-led enterprises and events.
But at its heart, its mission remains unchanged: to be a safe, inspiring place where people of all ages and backgrounds feel they belong.
In a time when community can feel fragmented, Devonport Live CIC is living proof that with a shared vision and a little heart, a neighbourhood can truly come alive.
For details visit www.devonportlive.com
the beating heart of the Royal Navy’s food and drink supply chain for over a century, keeping sailors fed, watered and clothed while at sea and stationed across the globe. It stands as one of
England’s most magnificent industrial monuments and Europe’s largest collection of Grade I Listed military buildings.
The History Trail showcases everything from drawings by
engineering legend Sir John Rennie, to historical insights uncovered during the Yard’s restoration and little-know discoveries.
A map guides visitors round each of the 11 numbered stops, where they will find History Trail plaques on the walls of designated buildings, each with a unique QR code that unlocks captivating stories and firsthand accounts. The trail includes recordings of oral histories from people who worked on and at the Yard over the years – putting visitors in their shoes, as they stand in the same spot. The trail is open all day, every day, indefinitely and maps are available from the Yard’s Welcome Suite and online.
Find out more at: www.
royalwilliamyard.com/historytrail
People in Plymouth are being reminded that the Safe Bus has moved to a new temporary location but is still available to offer help.
The bus, which is usually in the city on Saturday nights from 10pm until 4am on Sundays, can now be found at bus stop DC2 Derry’s Cross roundabout outside Timber Vault Escape Rooms.
The bus stop changes are due to the ongoing road works on Royal Parade, which have effectively moved all the existing bus stops on to Derry’s Cross. This work is planned for the next nine months.
The Plymouth Safe Bus is responsible for helping keep hundreds of people safe on nights out over the last few years. Around 90% of individuals treated on board the Safe Bus have been discharged at the scene by medical staff, reducing pressure on police, ambulance, and hospital services.
The bus has also provided vital support to vulnerable individuals, helping to keep them safe from harm.
Plymouth Citybus ensures the upkeep and reliability of the bus, consistently providing drivers to transport it to and from its location every weekend.The Safe Bus was set up to provide support to people during the late night and
early hours of the morning.
The bus was organised by Devon & Cornwall Police and a number of local partners including Plymouth City Council.
Plymouth PC Deb Hart said: “The bus is staffed by a team of paramedics, security guards and nearby taxi marshals who ensure anyone trying to get a taxi can get home safely. It provides a general safe space, medical provision, drink spiking tests and phone charging facilities. The power on the bus is charged by solar panels.”
A criminal lifestyle meant David Hill spent a lot of time in and out of prison in his late teens and 20s. Now he looks forward to going into prison – to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
As a youngster and in his teens and twenties David was involved in many criminal activities - including major drug deals worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
He and his criminal colleagues regularly travelled across Europe robbing jewellery shops and breaking into homes to steal valuables.
By the age of 25 he had a lengthy criminal record and had served custodial sentences in approved school, borstal and prison.
He had hooked up with some of the country’s most notorious drug dealers and was planning a major deal when on the way back from France to Plymouth on the ferry he had what can only be described as a ‘God encounter.’
“I was planning the champagne lifestyle with fast cars and all the trappings of crime, but on the ferry my mate who was with me started talking about the Bible. He said his wife was reading it regularly and there was a lot of truth in it,” said David.
“It was later on the ferry journey that I heard a voice in my head say ‘Do you want to know me or do you want this life?’
“I knew it was God and I decided at that moment that I wanted to be a Christian and follow Jesus Christ,” said David.
“I called my fellow drug dealer in the Midlands and told him that I had become a Christian. He thought I had gone mad, but I told him he needed to travel down to collect the gear.”
Reflecting on his criminal past David, who lives in North Prospect, said that one of his fellow villains had been sentenced to 25 years for a multi-million pound drug deal, while another had been shot and killed in a gangland execution.
After his dramatic encounter with God on the ferry David had to come to terms with the fact that he had a wife and young children to support - with no job and a criminal record.
David said: “The Bible says ‘be transformed by the renewing of your mind’ and that’s what happened to me. From that moment on the ferry I knew I wanted to be a Christian and it totally transformed my life.”
He and his wife Lydia started to attend Plymouth Christian Centre and David embarked on a church workers course. Soon after he and Lydia were baptised at the church.
He turned his attention to his interest in furniture restoration and now runs a carpentry business focusing on reclaimed timber flooring.
He also takes every opportunity to share his testimony with others and is a member of the Prison Fellowship – a Christian ministry that supports prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families.
He has visited Exeter Prison on a number of occasions to share his testimony as well as in churches and
other locations - including a pub in Cornwall.
He has been a member of Morice Baptist Church in Ham Drive for many years, playing the guitar and leading worship at services there. David has recorded an album with the words and music reflecting how Jesus changed his life. The 12-track album is called ‘Embrace’ and is available on Spotify and other media.
He has also published a book about his remarkable transformation called ‘Still Small Voice’ which has received a number of five star ratings on Amazon.
“Through my experiences I have a real heart for the downtrodden, the troublesome and those who haven’t got a chance in life. I know that with the Lord anything can happen and He can turn their lives around.”
Describing the transformation of his life from crime to Christianity, David quoted one of his favourite verses from the Bible: ‘For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?’
David recently shared his story on Cross Rhythms. Click on the QR code here for a link
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Citizens Advice Plymouth has announced a new partnership with IE Hub – one of the UK’s leading free online budgeting tools – to support local residents with debt advice.
The partnership will give Plymouth residents another access route for support into Citizens Advice Plymouth through a streamlined, digital referral process. Through the collaboration, Plymouth residents looking for support with debts or income maximisation will be offered a direct referral option into Citizens Advice Plymouth via the IE Hub platform.
The tool means individuals won’t have to repeat their
financial information after the initial entry, which will allow Citizens Advice to focus on delivering targeted support and advice. This improves client engagement and ensures fewer people drop out of the advice process.
The IE Hub tool also flags potential entitlements, such as benefits or grant support, which Citizens Advice Plymouth can also support the client to access.
Beth Kennedy, head of partnerships at IE Hub, said: “We’re excited to be working with Citizens Advice Plymouth on this project, showing the power of digital innovation in supporting people through difficult financial situations. Together we’re making the process easier, faster, and more
effective for everyone involved.”
Emma Symonds, director of operations for Citizens Advice Plymouth, added: “In line with our digital transformation strategy, we are looking to increase accessibility into our service and this partnership is a fantastic opportunity to reach more people in Plymouth and help them access the advice and support they need in a way that suits them.”
“By using IE Hub’s digital tool, we can engage clients looking for more digital access routes more effectively.”
To find out more about Citizens Advice visit www. citizensadviceplymouth.org.uk and for more about IE Hub visit: www.iehub.co.uk/customer
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A landmark building in Union Street has been given a grant of more than £250,000 towards its preservation and refurbishment.
The Millennium building – which started life in 1931 as the Gaumont Cinema – has received the funding as part of Historic England’s £15 million Heritage at Risk Capital Fund Awards, shared across 37 sites in England. The building has been woven into the fabric of community life and over the decades it has been an important venue, giving generations
memories as a cinema, dance hall, bingo hall and multiple nightclubs.
After 19 years standing empty, the cherished local landmark now requires urgent repairs to secure its long-term preservation.
The restoration funding will repair the iconic frontage and revamp part of the derelict ground floor space, providing a rentable workshop for the community.
The building was acquired in 2020 by Nudge Community Builders, the community benefit society based in Union Street, and art-focused developer Eat Work Art for £800,000.
The organisations had each hoped to purchase the whole structure but agreed to develop the project as a 50/50 joint venture. Nudge’s £400,000 was provided by a grant from Power to Change, an independent trust that supports community businesses, and an interest-free loan from The Rank Foundation, a charitable body that supports enterprises.
A multi-million pound redevelopment plan for the Millennium building
will provide business units for small manufacturers and a 1,500 capacity music venue.
The community lies at the heart of every decision, with local schools and organisations actively involved throughout the journey.
community.
Domestic abuse is having an extremely harmful effect within society and is prevalent in Plymouth.
Each year in in the city there are around 5000 domestic abuse crimes, around 3000 stalking and harassment crimes and around 1000 sexual offences reported to police. Devon and Cornwall Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner and their partners are committed to supporting those affected by domestic abuse and bringing offenders to justice.
Plymouth police want to ensure that people understand what domestic abuse is and what the signs are. This is so they are able to identify whether they are being affected by such abuse.
Anyone who is a friend, family member or colleague of someone who is being abused can help that person by referring them to support agencies, being someone they can talk to or supporting them in reporting the abuse to the Police.
Examples of domestic abuse are:
• physical abuse
• psychological abuse and control
• emotional abuse
• financial exploitation or control
• sexual abuse
• harassment/stalking
People who are victims of domestic abuse generally do not report this straight away.
Statistically, it takes around 50 incidents of abuse before a victim seeks help and less than 24% of cases are reported to the Police. Please be aware of the signs people might show who may be victims of domestic abuse. These signs are:
• fear of a partner or their anger
• personality change (eg person becomes withdrawn)
• unexplained injuries
• absence from work, school or social events
• unable to be in company with other men or women.
• partner isolating them
• partner checking on them all the time
Women serving in the armed forces and from military families can access support for trauma and domestic abuse at Trevi – thanks to over £148,000 funding from the Armed Forces Covenant ‘Free from Fear’ fund.
Plymouth has approximately 10,000 armed force personnel and reservists. Trevi, the award-winning womens charity in Plymouth, supports over 1000 women a year by providing safe and nurturing spaces for women in recovery to heal, grow and thrive through targeted outreach and wraparound therapeutic support.
Chief executive Amanda Greenwood said: “We are very grateful to the Armed Forces Covenant for recognising the need for this important work in Plymouth meaning we can now expand our service and provide bespoke support for military communities.
“National research shows that women serving, and those from military families, often face additional barriers to disclosing domestic abuse –especially around confidentiality and career impact. Trevi’s new service offers an independent, confidential route to support.
“We have an open door for women seeking support where they need it most. Last year, over 500 women were referred to our Sunflower Women’s Centre, 89% were victims of domestic abuse, including spouses of serving personnel. At Trevi, with our partners and as part of multi-agency approach for a safer Plymouth, we are committed to working collaboratively to end violence and abuse.”
Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “There is no place for abuse in our Armed Forces. I want anyone facing unacceptable behaviour to know that support is available. Trevi are superb and I’m so pleased they are able to help people in the Armed Forces family to get the support they need.”
Carol Stone, director of Grants at Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust said: “Our Free from Fear programme helps to build and strengthen support for those who’ve experienced, or may still be experiencing, domestic abuse within our armed forces communities. It focuses on trauma-informed pathways and provides specialist support which considers the unique challenges victim-survivors in the military community can face.
“Trevi’s project is helping women navigate the right paths to support and empowering them to move forward; and the Trust is eager to see the positive difference this will make in the coming months and years.”
The Trevi team attended Plymouth Armed Forces Day in June to connect with Armed Forces organisations and launch the service to families and partners in Plymouth.
For more information visit www.trevi.org.uk
Evidence shows that victims of domestic abuse are more likely to confide in friends, colleagues and family members. Devon & Cornwall Police want to ensure everyone has the information they need about how to get help and the support agencies that are available to help.
The following websites offer advice and support:
www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk/ support-services/domestic-abuse-services www.plymouth.gov.uk/domestic-abuse www.firstlight.org.uk/
Anyone suffering abuse is encouraged to report to the police, where the call will be
managed with sensitivity and respect. Depending on the seriousness of the case victims may be offered an appointment or video call with an officer straight away, or if there is no immediate risk, within a few days. The case will be passed to a specialist team for investigation. If an arrest is made the complainant will be informed, appropriate safeguarding will be put in place and a referral to a support agency will be made. If the case goes to court, support will be provided throughout.
For more information or to get help visit: www.domesticabusehelp.co.uk
Work is starting on a new £13 million care facility for adults with complex needs and learning disabilities in Plymouth.
The facility, which will be known as Meadow View, will transform a disused piece of land on Outland Road which was formerly the Council’ s parks depot.
Meadow View will provide a day service for more than 60 adults and overnight respite care within seven bedrooms and seven self-contained apartments. Two of the apartments will also have facilities designed to support people in crisis who need a safe space to stay. This will replace the city’s existing facilities, The Vine in Whitleigh and Colwill Lodge in Estover.
Meadow View’s location on the edge of Central Park, close to main bus routes, is more accessible for families and will also encourage community inclusion, with easy access to the park. The name Meadow View was chosen with the help of existing customers, their families and staff.
Councillor Mary Aspinall, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “This is such an exciting moment for Plymouth. Meadow View isn’t just a new building, it’ s a place where people will feel safe, supported and valued.
“We’ve worked closely with families and staff to make sure this new centre reflects what people really need, giving them space to build independent skills and connect with others. This new facility is about giving people the dignity and opportunities they deserve, in a setting that feels welcoming and full of life. I can’t wait to see Meadow View take shape.”
The new single storey building will be home to a range of activity rooms including a sensory room and crafts space, with a pottery room and kiln. A communal dining room will play host to shared meals and a kitchen will help people to build independent living skills.
The site will also be home to a cycle hub with accessible bikes available both to Meadow View customers and members of the public. There will be a Changing Places toilet which will be open for public use, with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches and space for carers to meet the needs of people with disabilities.
Meadow View has been designed to support the council’s ambitions to reduce carbon emissions and will incorporate features that support energy efficiency measures such as solar power systems, air source heating and triple glazing, as well as greatly improving the biodiversity of the site.
The building’s exterior will be newly landscaped, transforming what was a predominantly concrete site into a garden that Meadow View customers can enjoy and which is better for nature. Landscaping plans include new native hedgerows, a wildflower garden, pollinator-friendly ornamental shrub planting and raised flower beds. A total of 55 new trees will also be planted, with
Devon Contractors will be carrying out the building work, with project management and oversight from Ward Williams. Work is due to complete at the end of summer 2026.
Nigel Whelan, managing director at Devon Contractors, said:”We are delighted to be starting work on this much-needed new adult care facility for Plymouth. It’ s such an important project for our city –providing dedicated, specialist support for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs in a safe and welcoming environment.
“As a locally trusted contractor, we take great pride in working alongside Plymouth City Council once again to deliver a bespoke, high-quality building that will make a real difference to people’s lives for years to come.
“We look forward to getting to work on site and seeing this vision come to life for the community we’ ve been proud to serve since 1946.”
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 lifelong Argyle fan and one of the founders of Argyle Life, Sam Down who reflects on the shortcomings of Argyle’s current squad after four League One defeats - and prior to the home match against Blackpool
We all like getting excited for the start of the season, don’t we? It’s like that feeling in the days leading up to Christmas. After a long spell having been starved of any football, we all like to embrace the excitement that finally the emotional rollercoaster is going to start again.
Not to mention the social aspect, going to games and catching up with mates over a drink or two.
As I mentioned in previous columns, I am particularly excited for the Tom Cleverley era at Argyle. I wrote in June about how he seems a great fit for the Club Argyle ethos and wants to play an attractive yet impactful passing style.
All that being said, I regret to find myself writing a column that has more negative viewpoints than positive.
As much as I want to keep that Christmas excitement feeling going, it’s currrently a bit like having a Christmas where the presents have been left out in the rain, the pudding has been dropped on the floor and everyone has been told to work a night shift.
Am I exaggerating for effect? Possibly. But it’s hard to maintain that the squad isn’t currently living up to the realistic expectations of most Argyle fans.
In the February 2025 Fans Forum, chairman Simon Hallett said that if we were to drop into League One, we’d be one of the biggest spenders in the league. At the most recent Fans Forums, he was slightly less bullish but still assertive in his stance that it was at the very least in and around the top six budgets in the division.
He did state that many of the player sales had gone to offset some of last season’s losses, but nonetheless there was the very clear message that money is there to spend.
This is not the time for a deep dive into the finances and the suitability of our budget for our needs. Perhaps that can come later. The one premise we can work on is that it should (at
Packed house for Argyle’s first home game of the season full of hope and expectation...but sadly ending in defeat and disappointment
minimum) be able to compete at the sharp end.
So, the question remains, why does our squad currently look like it’s gearing up for a mid table finish?
This is not to denigrate or downplay our playing staff.
Having spoken to a few of them in Austria and watched several interviews they all seem like excellent young men. Further, I think every one of them has something to offer be they first choice, rotational or development players.
But, imagine if you will, Tom Cleverley is a chef. He needs not just good ingredients but the right mix of ingredients in order to prepare a 5 star quality dish. At the moment, it’s like he is working with his hands behind his back.
The main transfer soap opera this summer has been the long and (at time of print) doomed pursuit of a number nine. Rumarn Burrell and Dale Taylor have both been targets and opted to move elsewhere.
Cleverley had to start the season with Owen Oseni, who has never scored above National
League level and who Cleverley admitted is ‘not quite there yet’ as his only fit recognised striker.
Bim Pepple, who was excellent for Southend in the same league, was injured but even he was only fair to middling in League Two for Chesterfield.
They’re both clearly long term signings to some extent but they’ve been forced to step up to bat due to our failure in squad management. Hardly suggests the ‘HMS win the league’ budget that was being implied.
The goalkeeping department is another area for concern.
Luca Ashby-Hammond may well have shown excellent mental resilience to recover from his blunder on the pre-season tour but it’s a huge ask to suggest he can cover for Conor Hazard who’s out injured until September, if not beyond. Ashby-Hammond last played competitive football in League Two over a year agoagain, he’s been thrown in not just at the deep end but into the whirlpool.
Without wanting to sound like a stuck record, the defence isn’t in a good place either. The injury recurrence of Julio Pleguezuelo
is of real concern especially with the news he may now require an operation. We have two fine rightbacks in Edwards and Sorinola but apart from that?
Victor Palsson, despite his brief renaissance under Miron Muslic in the centre of a back three, looks completely all at sea in a high line four favoured by Cleverley. Brendan Galloway also looks to have lost a yard of pacea superb footballer in his day but it’s maybe a case of one injury too many? I hope it’s just a dip in form and he’s back to his brilliant best soon but suffice to say I have my doubts.
The midfield is probably where we look healthiest – which isn’t to say we look healthy. Bradley Ibrahim has shown some quality and Brendan Wiredu covers an immense amount of ground and can drive forward brilliantly with the ball. Even then, we don’t have an obvious candidate for a player who can slow the game down and dictate the tempo like Jordan Houghton so often did (allowing others to thrive in the process).
I will say that Xavier Amaechi and Bali Mumba are excellent talents to have in the wide areas and Caleb Watts had a stunning debut against Barnsley, despite the loss. Even then, we are badly lacking in depth and it means Freddie Issaka cannot get the loan time he so badly needs.
All in all, I hate to be so down on our prospects so early on.I’d love nothing more than for three or four quality additions in key areas and for the existing players to rise to a League One title winning level. I’d love this column to age like curdled milk left on the side for a month.
At the moment though, the quality and depth of the squad is not satisfactory. If Tom Cleverley were to somehow get us into the top two, it would be an even more extraordinary and implausible achievement than Steven Schumacher doing the same in 2022/23.
It’s a huge few weeks for our season - the transfer activity has to be fast and it has to be impressive.
Plymouth-based Royal Marines have swooped on a passenger ferry during anti-terrorism maritime operations training in full view of tourists visiting Sydney Opera House.
As part of Australia’s largest-ever military exercise – known as Talisman Sabre 25 – marines from 42 Commando worked with counterparts from the host nation, the USA, Japan and Singapore in Sydney Harbour.
The eye-catching training saw allies work on specialist boarding operations together, perfecting the skills needed to hunt down smugglers, terrorists and pirates around the world.
Bickleigh-based 42 Commando are experts in this type of operation, recently scoring successes in the Middle East with HMS Lancaster, including seizing 1½ tonnes of illegal narcotics worth £30m.
The Commandos are required to board and seize control of suspect vessels – an extremely dangerous and complex mission which requires constant honing.The training in Sydney concluded with the recapture of an iconic green and yellow New South Wales ferry using US Black Hawk helicopters, US Special Forces Chinooks and specialist raiding craft.
42 Commando have also taken part in building clearance training in state-of-the-art training facilities in New South Wales, nurturing skills in closequarter battle – something that is crucial when fighting through the tight confines of ships and boats. Their involvement in Talisman Sabre is just part of the UK’s contribution to the major exercise,
which included 2,500 Royal Navy sailors and marines, alongside 900 British Army soldiers and 600 RAF personnel.
Aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales spearheaded the UK’s naval input into Talisman Sabre which involved some 35,000 personnel from 19 nations, spread across a vast area from Darwin to Brisbane, but also extending to Papua New Guinea.
The carrier and her strike group have been operating off Australia’s northern coast for the past couple of weeks, at times operating in conjunction with the USS George Washington carrier group for a formidable display of naval striking power.
5 Meteor, 6 Thai, 13 Customer, 15 Dainty, 17 Atrium, 19 Rush
Marines from 42 Commando taking part in the anti-terorism operations
In addition, HMS Prince of Wales has hosted the US Marine Corps, who flew their MV-22 Osprey aboard the flagship’s sprawling flight deck – a precursor to more USMC personnel and F-35B jets (identical to those flown by Royal Navy and RAF pilots from the carrier) joining later in the deployment.
Talisman Sabre ran until early August with the goal of enhancing cooperation and relationships between partner nations, and demonstrating commitment to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific region and upholding the rules-based international system.
The Waterside and West Chronicle is delivered door to door every month to homes in Stonehouse, Mount Wise, Devonport, Stoke, Keyham, Millbridge, Milehouse, Beacon Park, Pennycross, Ford, North Prospect, Ham, Weston Mill, Barne Barton and St Budeaux.
The October edition of the Plymouth Chronicle in Waterside and West will be published on September 19 with a copy deadline of September 12. The Waterside & West edition is one of four hyper local editions delivered to a total of more than 90,000 homes throughout the city.
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