Plymouth Shopper March 2016

Compton & Crownhill

SHOP LOCAL SAVE POUNDS

8,000 copies delivered in Compton, Crownhill and Manadon

March 2016

£80 million plan is approved by council

Thousands of jobs and homes plan

Win a great meal out at See page 15

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

• Advice Plymouth • Charity news • Cross Rhythms

• DIAL THE EXPERTS • What’s On in the area • Community Job Shop

TIME TO TIDY UP YOUR FINANCES - SEE PAGE 14 Vouchers on page 3

Plymouth City Council has approved a plan for thousands of new homes in the city over the next five years.

The £80 million plan will not only address the housing shortage in the city, but also create at least 2,000 new construction jubs and training opportunities.

The plan will also make better use of empty and derelict sites across the city

FULL STORY on page 2

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USEFUL Green light for £80m homes plan

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Emergency Numbers Police, Fire, Ambulance or Coastguard Police general enquiries Derriford Hospital Electricity, Western Power Distribution Gas, Transco (gas emergency service) Water, South West Water Environment Agency (emergency) RSPCA

999 or 112 101 08451 558155 0800 365900 0800 111999 0800 1691144 0800 807060 0300 1234 999

Helplines Age UK Plymouth 01752 665424 Adoption UK 0844 848 7900 Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 088 Alcoholics Anonymous 08457 697555 Carers UK 020 7378 4999 Childline 0800 1111 Christians Against Poverty (debt advice) 0800 328 0006 Crossline Listening Service 01752 666777 Cruse Bereavement Care 0870 1671677 Devon & Cornwall Food Association 07410 977598 Disability & Information Advice Line 01302 310123 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 NSPCC Child Protection Helpline 0808 8005000 National Missing Persons Helpline 0500 700700 NHS Direct 0845 4647 National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000247 Money Advice Plymouth (Debt Advice) 01752 208126 Overeaters Anonymous 07000 784 985 Parentline Plus 0808 8002222 Relateline 0845 1304010 Samaritans 08457 909090 Talk to Frank 0800 776600 Shelterline 0808 8004444 Stroke Helpline 0303 3033 100 West Country Landlords Assn 01752 242980

Travel RAC Green Flag Rail Travel, national enquiries Plymouth Citybus National Express Coaches Brittany Ferries Plymouth City Airport Cremyll Ferry Torpoint Ferry Tourist Information Passport Office, national helpline

08000 828282 0800 400600 08457 484950 01752 222221 08717 818181 08705 360360 01752 204090 01752 822105 01752 812233 01752 266030 0870 5210410

Entertainment Theatre Royal Barbican Theatre Devonport Playhouse Plymouth Athenaeum Theatre Plymouth Pavilions Reel Cinema Vue Cinema Tourist Information National Trust Saltram Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery Plymouth Arts Centre

01752 267222 01752 267131 01752 606507 01752 266079 01752 222200 01752 225553 08712 240240 01752 306330 01752 333500 01752 304774 01752 206114

Leisure Plymouth Life Centre 01752 606900 Brickfields Recreation Ground 01752 563320 Manadon Football Dev’ment Centre 01752 201918 Plympton Swimming Pool 0870 300 0020 Plymouth Pavilions 0845 146 1460 Megabowl, Coxside 0871 5501010 Tourist Information 01752 306330 The Beckly Centre, Plymstock 01752 484433

Weather The Met Office Weathercall

0870 9000100 0870 6004242

If you think your organisation would benefit from being listed in our Useful Numbers guide please e-mail your details to info@cornerstonevision.com or write to: Plymouth Shopper, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth Tel 01752 225623 Please note that whilst the Publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of telephone numbers in this Directory, and dates in the What’s On section, no responsibility can be accepted for any errors.

2

The Plymouth Shopper

A major £80 million plan for 5,000 new homes over the next five years which will also create 2,000 construction jobs and training opportunities has been approved by Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet.

“There is no quick fix to this so we need to use all our powers to make this happen, from bringing empty homes back into use, making Council land available, encouraging people to build their own homes, and making sure there is enough affordable and social housing available.

The second phase of Plan for Homes, covering 2016 – 2020, was agreed by the Cabinet with 20 new initiatives which will:

“We are helping people maintain their independence through providing more Disabled Facilities Grants and Extra Care schemes.

• Help Plymouth address the housing shortage • Make better use of empty and derelict sites • Help more people get the homes they need over the next five years

“We are also leading the way to make sure we deliver Starter Homes, which has also been identified as a Government priority – but here in Plymouth we are doing so much more to ensure there is a good mix of different types of housing.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “We are very excited to launch the next phase of Plan for Homes.

“There is a massive housing shortage and the council is committed to giving local people a better quality of life and making sure local people have a place they can call home.

“Our population is expected to rise from 258,000 to around 300,000 by 2031 and we plan to meet the need by delivering 22,700 new homes and 18,600 new jobs in construction and related industries over the next 15 years, providing a huge boost to the local economy.

“Our first Plan for Homes has already achieved so much, with the vast majority of new homes being built on brownfield sites, so we have much to celebrate, but we also have much more we want to do. That is why we as a Council are investing in all these new housing initiatives.”

Local residents have also welcomed the work the council has already done so far to deliver Plan for Homes.

Roy Critchlow is a self-builder who is building his own home on land at Shirburn Road.

Roy said: “The nice thing about Plymouth City Council’s self-building scheme is that they aren’t out to make

money, they just want to create more homes for the people of Plymouth. By taking on this project, we can free up our old house for another family. ” Natalie Jones has had her life turned around after being given a Disabled Facilities Grant for her son Liam, aged eight, who has a muscular disorder and is now wheelchair bound. The grant has paid for a through-floor stairlift and a level access shower which gives Liam more freedom to get around the home.

Natalie said: “Living in a bigger house and using the DFG to get a lift, a hoist and a wet room, gives Liam and my other children a better quality of life.

“As Liam has grown up, having the adaptations in our home has allowed him to gain more independence, just like any other boy his age is starting to do.”

Anne said: “I have lived in North Prospect for 19 years; the regeneration project has been really good for the area as it has attracted different people and more diversity within the community.”

James Savage, programme manager at Plymouth Community Homes, said: “Without the help and support of Plymouth City Council, PCH couldn’t have succeeded in building 800 new homes in just under five years. This partnership is vital to the future of North Prospect and the success of the remaining phases of the regeneration plan.”

Ground-breaking eco-village moves a step nearer A new eco-village on the outskirts of Plymouth – which will provide jobs and homes and is thought to be the first of its kind in the UK – is moving a step closer to reality.

Bickleigh Down, which is off Tavistick Road and can be accessed from Towerfield Drive, is the name of the planned development of 91 sustainable homes (including affordable homes), and will provide 33 local jobs.

The land, which was previously owned

by Plymouth City Council, has now been sold to developer Cornerstone ZED. Zero C, a subsidiary of Places for People, will be delivering the project.

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We are

very excited about this new development which will not only provide eco-friendly homes to a very high spec, but will provide valuable and much needed jobs.

“The development has been in the planning stages for some time but now that we have sold the land to CornerstoneZED working with Places for People, the project can really get going, which is fantastic news.”

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “Once again this shows Plymouth is at the forefront of providing modern, energy efficient, affordable housing for local people and we are delighted that this scheme is now moving forward.

“This unique project will be the UK’s first

Pictured (from left) Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, and Kim Slowe, managing director of Zero C.

large scale, zero carbon community that delivers direct economic benefits with sustainable jobs.”

exceptional scheme will deliver very high quality sustainable homes that people will enjoy living in for many years to come.”

Kim Slowe, Managing Director of Zero C said: “We are very pleased to be bringing our design and sustainability experience to Bickleigh.

Construction is due to start in earnest this Spring and the project is expected to take three years to complete, with the first homes available in the spring of next year.

“We are very confident that this

Work starts on walking and cycling improvements between railway station and Central Park Work to improve walking and cycling links between Plymouth’s rail station and Central Park is under way.

The scheme, which will complement improvements already made around the station, will address many of the challenges faced by cyclists and pedestrians, including those with visual impairments.

Improvements, which have been agreed following consultation with more than 1,500 residents and businesses, as well as an information event at the station, include:

Dale Road and Central Park Avenue, with a raised plateau to slow traffic speed

• Resurfacing, traffic calming and a priority give-way feature on Central Park Avenue. (A short length of double yellow lines will be needed outside Central Park Towers but residents’ permit parking will not be affected) • A shared path for pedestrians and less confident cyclists along Central Park Avenue between Dale Road and the entrance to Central Park

• Safer pedestrian and cycle access on Restormel Road, with the introduction of a ‘no entry’ restriction for vehicles from Sutherland Road

The scheme will also include new, clear direction signs, improved street lighting, several areas of road and footway resurfacing and the removal of redundant signs and posts.

• Safer and easier-to-use crossings on Restormel Road, Apsley Road and Maple Grove, with wide flush kerbs and tactile paving

Construction, which is being carried out our highways contractor Amey, started in mid-February and is expected to finish in early July.

• A kerb build-out on Maple Grove to increase space for pedestrians and provide a shorter, easier crossing Widening the path over the Sutherland Road bridge so it can be shared by cyclists (who won’t have to cycle on or cross Sutherland Road)

Temporary traffic lights and short road closures will be used at various stages to allow work to be carried out safely.

• Safer and easier-to-use crossings at the junction of

Delays will be kept to a minimum, but drivers are advised to allow extra time for journeys being made through the area and look out for yellow signs, which will be in place before work starts on each part of the route.

The project is the final link of a wider programme developed in partnership with Sustrans, the sustainable transport charity, that has secured £885,000 of central government funding, matched with £560,000 from the council.

Construction of the scheme will cost £182,000 and the substantial resurfacing and drainage improvements that will be delivered at the same time will cost an additional £210,000.

These maintenance improvements are funded through a successful funding bid to the Department for Transport’s Maintenance Challenge Fund.

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said: “This project has involved a lot of planning and consultation and I’m delighted that we are now ready to deliver another key link in Plymouth’s walking and cycling network.

“It will help to continue Plymouth’s growth in cycling, which has gone up 45 per cent in just five years and provide many benefits for pedestrians.

“I am also pleased that we will be delivering substantial resurfacing at the same time as the scheme, maximising efficiency and minimising disruption.”

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The 22nd Cornwall and Devon Wine Fair organised

by Castang Wine Shippers of Looe will be held on Tuesday March 8 at the prestigious St Mellion International Resort.

Entrance to the event is strictly by ticket only, but tickets are available free of charge on application to Castang Wines.

The Fair starts at 10.30am and finishes at 9pm.

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Castang Wine Fair in March at St Mellion The event has been billed as the largest wine tasting in the South West with over 300 wines, Champagne, Ports, Madeira’s, and Spirits available to taste and purchase.

Growers and winemakers will be arriving from the continent including Luis Marculeta from Rioja and Wines from around the world will be represented with local wineries Knightor (Cornwall) and Sharpham Estate (Devon) also present at the fair to wow all tasters with their latest vintages.

There will be a welcome return of local food products to the fair. Award winning cheeses, Cornish Blue and Cornish Gouda can be matched with wines, together with Kernow Chocolate, Cornish sea salt, Cornish Meadow preserves, Cornish Gin and many others.

The fair is a great day out in a relaxing environment providing the opportunity to taste and learn more about wines and to purchase at the same time! For the hotel, pub and restaurant industry it is the major regional event affording the chance the taste and select wines for the new season wine lists.

For more details or tickets contact Castang Wines on 01503 220359 or visit www.castang-wines.co.uk

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3

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS

Michael Campari Mar 9 Plymouth’s very own popular crooner will be performing at Ford Park Cemetery. Tickets available from the Cemetery Office on Plymouth 665442 (weekdays only 10am to 3.30pm). Cost is £8 including buffet.

Murder Mystery Mar 11 Boringdon Hall Hotel Enjoy an evening of 1920’s inspired luxury with a vintage affair in ‘The Downtown Murder’. Including an Arrival Drink, 3 Course Meal and entertainment by Candlelight Theatre Company - a Murder Mystery night is one not to be missed.

Spring Fair Mar 12 Ford Park Cemetery from 12 noon to 3pm. Entrance 20p.

Stalls will include homemade cakes, tombola, name the bunny, crafts and much more. Refreshments available in the Visitor Centre cafe.

Car Boot Table Top Sale Mar 12 Kings Tamerton Community Centre 10am-2pm £5 for table.

Contact 07955962213 Hot Cross Buns and Easter Fun Mar 12 10am to 1pm – St. Stephen’s Church, Saltash. Easter themed stalls including our Easter egg tombola. Craft stalls, refreshments including hot cross buns and pasties. Free entry Spring Fayre Mar 12 Organised by Pennycross Friendship group at Pennycross.

Methodist Church, Pridham Lane, Peverell 11am to 1pm raising funds for assistance dogs charity and church funds.

Various stalls and light refreshments.

Post St Patrick’s Day Quiz Mar 18 Stoke Damerel Parish Centre 7pm. Teams of 6 (max) Raffle.

Tickets from Debbie or Marilyn £7.50 including ploughman’s supper. Tel: 01752 564847 Glamour and Glitz Party Dance Mar 19 In support of Cancer Research UK. Organised by Derriford Hospital employee Jackie Formosa at the Royal British Legion Club, Crownhill from 7.30pm until 11pm. Tickets cost £5 each and can be reserved by calling 01752 313848.

Rhymetimes Central Library Every Monday from 11am Every Thursday from 2pm Crownhill Library Every Tuesday from 2.15pm Efford Library Every Tuesday from 10.30am North Prospect Library Every Tuesday from 2.15pm Peverell Library Every Monday from 2pm Every Friday from 11am (booking needed 01752 305633) Plympton Library Every Thursday from 2pm Every Saturday from 10.30am (Under 5s club) Plymstock Library Every Thursday from 2.15pm (booking needed 01752 306606) Every Saturday from 10am Devonport Library Every Saturday from 11am St Budeaux Library Every Thursday from 10am Southway Library Every Wednesday from 10am Stoke Library Every Wednesday from 10.30am to 11am West Park Library Every Monday from 10am to 10.30am Storytimes Central Library: every Wednesday from 11am (storytime and crafts) North Prospect Library: every Thursday: 2.15pm to 2.45pm Gadget sessions Get tips and advice on how to make the most of iPads, tablets, smartphones, e-readers and more. Find out how to use your library card to download free eBooks and magazines.

Central Library Weekly on Tuesday afternoons 2pm to 3.30pm Peverell Library Fortnightly on Thursdays 10.30 to 12 noon Plymstock Library Fourth Friday of the month Plympton Library First Wednesday of the month 2pm to 4pm Southway Library Last Thursday of the month 2.30pm to 3.30pm Stoke Library Third Monday of each month 2-4pm West Park Library Second Wednesday of each month 2 to 4pm

One Off Car Boot Sale Mar 27 Wyevale/Endsleigh Garden Centre, Ivybridge. Bookings not required. Sellers 8.30 am, buyers 9.30 am. In aid of Marie Curie and Devon Air Ambulance. Contact Tony 01752 338226 (after 6pm)

Pensioners & fifty plus action group Can we take you for a ride? If you want to meet new friends why not take advantage of our subsidised taxi service (for anyone 50+ living locally) and wishing to come to any of our meetings, but have difficulty in getting to the meeting places - like physical problems or awkward bus connections.

You can now enjoy the luxury of door to door travel, hear interesting speakers and watch a variety of cabaret acts.

We meet on the first Friday of every month in the Wolseley Trust Community Building (next to Sylvia’s Café) behind the Co-op superstore in Wolseley Road, PL2 3BY, just down from Milehouse traffic lights going towards St Budeaux. We have interesting speakers chosen by members, from MPs to representatives of national and local businesses, and these free meetings are from 10.30am to 1pm. Parking is usually available and many buses stop outside the Co-op.

Our social meetings are held in Kings Tamerton Community Centre, PL5 2BH (the No 16 bus stops outside) and we have a variety of acts to entertain us, from cabaret to country & western, and these meetings are from 2pm to 4pm on some Fridays. Non-group members pay £2 but this includes a very good buffet and we always have a raffle. Anyone over the age of 50 looking for good company and interesting meetings can get more information from Mrs Margaret Williams (Secretary) Tel; 01752 350498 or email; tomag42@hotmail. co.uk

Plymouth Scale Model Show 2016 Apr 2 Plymouth Guildhall This annual show, which is hosted by three local model clubs, will take place at the Plymouth Guildhall on Saturday, April 2nd. Numerous clubs from around the South West (and beyond) will be displaying their talents in scale model making.

Circle Dance Thursdays Yealmpton Circle Dance Group. Yealmpton Community Centre, Stray Park, PL8 2HF. 7.30pm-9.30pm. A variety of dance styles from gentle and expressive to lively and joyful.

Traditional and contemporary world music. Good for mind, body and spirit. Clearly taught and easy to learn. No partner needed. Friendly and fun. 01752 880196 for details.

Plymouth Half Marathon Apr 17 The Hoe, Plymouth Plymouth’s Half Marathon, is a much celebrated traffic-free road race, which takes in all that is great about Plymouth.

Stunning coastal views, the beautiful National Trust grounds of Saltram Park, as well as the inconic Plymouth Hoe where Sir Francis Drake once played bowls!

Dancing Duo Fortnightly Saturdays With Henry and Jeannie at Plymouth Life Centre (Central Park near Plymouth Argyle ground) for ballroom, Latin and sequence, old time and more. Time 7.45pm to 10.45pm free parking. Entry £7. Bring your own soft drinks and and snacks. Early tea and coffee available at cafe. January 30 Fireglow Evening; February 13 - Valentine Ball with charity draw (evening wear preferred); February 27 - February Romance in Pink; March 12 Heralding Spring in green & white; March 26 Easter Dance with chocolate draw; April 9 Birthday Bash; April 23 - Red & White for St George; May 7 - Kaleidoscope of Colour; May 21 Lilactime; June 4 English Country Garden; June 18 Flaming June.

Sport Relief Mile 2016 Mar 20 Central Park, Plymouth Plymouth has again been chosen as a venue to host the sports relief mile event. This year it sees the event located in the lovely surroundings of Central Park. Take part by either walking or running 1,3 or 6 miles starting from the Life Centre located.

Mary Magdelene Mar 23 The Mustard Singers present the musical Mary Magdalene written by Roger Jones at Pennycross Methodist church, Pridham Lane, Peverell at 7pm.

All things Mods, Minis, & Mopeds Show Apr 23 Plymouth Guildhall Over 60 Retro,Vintage & artisan exhibitors. Live music, retro catwalk, minis & mopeds, best dressed competition, beauty parlour and tearoom.

4

The Plymouth Shopper

Skydivers wanted!

Local heart charity HeartSWell South West is looking for people to take to the sky and jump 10,000ft from a plane to raise money for heart patients and lifesaving equipment in the Westcountry.

The 10,000ft tandem skydive can be completed in several different locations across the UK, the nearest centre being the Honiton Dropzone in Devon.

HeartSWell ask the skydiver participant to raise £395 in sponsorship money in order for them to jump for free and in turn the charity will receive an average donation of £140.

In addition to this, every extra pound that is raised by the skydiver over the minimum amount, goes directly to the charity.

The skydiving day can be booked at any time of the year, weather dependent, and will include the jump and training at the skydive centre.

During the skydive the participant will be harnessed to an instructor at all times.

The diver will freefall down to 5000ft at 120mph and be taught how to steer the canopy. On completion of the skydive, the participant will receive a certificate to prove their participation and completion of the two mile high tandem skydive.

Clem Spencer, chairman of

HeartSWell, said; “This is such an exciting way to raise money for HeartSWell.

“We hope that members of the public who have always wanted to take part in a skydive but have never had the courage or feared such a jump will be persuaded to take part!

“So, for all you dare devils out there, or if you just want to try something new and thrilling, sign up today to take to the sky and raise money for your local heart charity, HeartSWell!”

Donations in the past to HeartSWell have enabled the charity to provide specialist equipment to the Cardiac Unit at Derriford Hospital, as well as the Royal Duchy Hospital, RD&E Hospital, golf clubs, sports venues, a GP surgery and various other

locations around the region.

HeartSWell is hoping that the public will help them to raise money through a skydive so that they are able to continue providing a handful of specialist equipment and facilities for heart patients.

Other ways in which the public can raise money for HeartSWell include; climbing Ben Nevis, joining the HeartSWell 100 cycling event or experiencing a trip of a lifetime with trekking up Mount Kilimanjaro.

To sign up and take part in the 10,000ft tandem skydive, or for more information about other ways in which to raise money for HeartSWell, visit www.heartswell. org.uk/events.

Kreative Kidz Thursdays Pre school messy play sessions, overalls provided, different activity each week, meet new people make new friends £3 per child includes tea/coffee for adults. 12.30pm to 1.30pm To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Sandy’s Plymtones Mondays Fun choir for men and women. Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre (near the Co-op), Glen Road, Plympton. 2-4pm No auditions, no need to read music just good humour and enthusiasm needed. Contact Sandy on 336953 or 07737 461431.

Krafty Kidz Tuesdays Childrens activity workshops from age 7 years. Crafts, cookery, baking, woodworking, model making, scrap heap challenge. £5 per session includes materials. 5.30pm to 7pm.To book email: info:wkuk.org Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Family Events at Elburton Methodist Church Messy Church is held on the first Saturday morning of every month (excluding August), from 10.30am to 12.30pm. All welcome to join fun morning of arts, crafts, drama, music and refreshments for the whole family.

Toddler Group meets every Friday during term time from 1.30pm to 3pm. A small friendly group with lots of activities for the children, it’s a chance to chat and make new friends. For more details of both events contact Debbie on 215632

Wk’d Wednesdays Adults activity workshops activities range from crafts, cooking, woodworking, furniture up cycling, sewing. £10 per session includes materials. Accompanied children welcome. To book email: info:wkuk.org. Every Wednesday 6pm to 8pm Unit 34 Scott Business Park, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth.

Carers Hub & Active Life 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month Join a gentle health walk around historic Plympton. Are you a carer? Would you like to feel healthier, happier, meet people and have some fun? This walk is open to carers and the person they care for (if they wish to come). We meet at 10.30am outside Plympton Library and the walk ends with the opportunity to purchase refreshments and have a chat (session finishes at approximately 12.30pm). Well behaved dogs welcome! For details contact Larissa Milden at Plymouth Guild’s Active for Life service on 01752 201891 Performance Training (5-25s) Barbican Theatre’s dance and theatre workshops enable young people to build their confidence and learn new skills and techniques alongside professionals. Visit www. barbicantheatre.co.uk or call 01752 267131.

St Budeaux Square Club Meets last Wednesday each month.

Next events November 25 and December 16. All events are 11am to 3pm with full three course meal - entertainment & discussions. Entrance fee £5 all in open to senior citizens of St Budeaux to join please phone 01752-365246 Community Cafe Every Thursday in term time Stoke Damerel Church, Paradise Road between 10.30am and 2pm Community cafe run by learning support students of City College Plymouth, serving tea, coffee and cakes baked and prepared by the students

Baby and Toddler Group Friday mornings in term time St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross 10am until 11.30am. Large selection of toys, a craft table and the session concludes with nursery rhymes and action songs.

A charge of £1.50 for one adult and accompanying child/ children and £1 for extra adults covers all refreshments and craft materials. We hold occasional activity mornings and tabletop sales in the church hall to support Children’s Hospice South West.

Tuesday Coffee Morning St Pancras Church, Honicknowle Lane, Pennycross. The church cafe is open from 10 am until 12.30 on Tuesday mornings, selling coffees/teas/cake/biscuits, also locally produced organic honey and preserves.Come along to chat, read the newspaper or join in at the puzzle table.

There is a small selection of books to borrow and leading up to Christmas there will be a Traidcraft stall, selling fair trade tea/coffee, Christmas cards and small gifts.

Snack ‘N’ Chat Tuesdays Friendship group for the bereaved and those who live alone. From 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Coffee Corner in the Minster Church of St Andrew in the city centre. A community project run by two trained Counsellors and two trained listeners. Come and enjoy coffee, tea and home made cake and talk through how things are for you. Only 50p per session.

RASC/RCT/RLC Association For any welfare problems please call 01752 343 492 or write to the army reserve centre derriford plymouth (c/o RASC/ RCT/RLCAssoc)

• continued on page 6

Honors Flowers celebrate a blooming brilliant 10 years You may have missed the opportunity to impress this Valentine’s Day. You may be under the illusion that all flowers are the same, and be wondering why the bedraggled bunch you picked up at the petrol station did not have quite the effect you were looking for.

Sadly, and quite frankly, the reason for this is obvious.

Love has as one of its pillars thoughtfulness and consideration, and expressions of love are times when any old thing simply will not do.

Honors proprietor Tania Bullard pictured with Lisa Harris and Claire Marshall

Butchers & Deli Est 1971

Little Angels Pre-School Affordable child-care on North Hill, close to city centre and Mutley Spaces available for 2, 3 and 4 year old’s, £3.00 per hour for non funded children Polish speaking member of staff, all nationalities welcome

6 English Skinless Chicken Breasts minimum 1.2kg for £10 5lbs Pork Chops only £12.50 Jumbo Free Range Eggs only £3.00/dozen 5lbs West Country Minced Steak only £16.50 (£3.30 per lb/£7.26 per kilo) Large Homemade Pasties £2.50

01752 224327

79 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth

littleangelsnursery@hotmail.co.uk

All Major credit cards now accepted

Opening times • Mon: 8am - 4pm • Tue, Thur, Fri: 7.30am - 4pm • Wed: 7.30am - 1pm • Sat: 7:30am - 1pm

For our personal attention phone 01752 664582

R Robert Easton Decorating INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTER & DECORATOR

• No Job Too Small • Time Served Tradesman With 20 Years Experience • Wallpaper Hanging • Free Estimates T 01752 769755 M 07771 614856 E Roberteaston72@yahoo.co.uk W www.roberteastondecorating.co.uk

Free delivery on orders over £25 within a 3 mile radius

By Karen Pilkington Local residents are lucky enough to have a premium florist on their door step, with convenient on street parking, so considered love is simpler than you might think.

Anyone with an eye for design will have noticed with appreciation the ongoing stylish presentation of Honors Flowers external look, and for those who have had the good fortune to have had time to pop in, the inside has been recently refurbished to maximise the wow factor of the company’s colours, black, hot pink and lime green.

Whilst these may not be the traditional pastel colour scheme you might associate with flowers, they represent a strong design ethos that permeates every aspect of the business, keeping the arrangements fresh, modern and dynamic – everything the woman or man of your dreams attains to be.

Honors Flowers at 6 Peverell Park Road, has been creating a stir in the city now for 10 years, with its distinctive design and clever use of colour that attracts the gaze of all its passers-by.

Propietror Tania Bullard has a strong eye for contemporary, on trend design, often using unusual and exotic specimens which are difficult to find elsewhere in the city.

Tania has worked in Honors since its inception in 2006. The florist was opened by her colleague and fellow floristry student Karen Douglas with Tania as the supervisor. So it was natural when Karen decided she could not dedicate enough time to running the business, that she offered it into the safe hands of Tania.

“I have always loved flowers and floral displays, right from a young age, “ explained Tania, “but with running around after three daughters, it wasn’t until my mid 30s that I had the chance to gain the necessary floristry qualifications”.

The influence of being mum to three girls is obvious in the development of Honors Flowers. Specialising in weddings, Honors have their own private bridal lounge upstairs to help brides to be and their families choose the right packages for them in special surroundings to mark the importance of the day. “I love weddings, and go out of my way to provide stunning and inspirational floral designs and bridal bouquets” said Tania.

“We offer an individual and professional service, taking time to consider every single detail to help make the wedding day original and memorable. We take only one wedding booking per day which ensures that the bouquets and displays receive our full attention.

This allows us to be flexible and available to meet the customer’s needs.”

Tania is ably supported by her full time team, her daughter Lisa Harris and Claire Marshall. All three women are fully qualified with years of experience to assist with the simplest of requests, to that really special occasion worth celebrating.

OPENING TIMES

Mon–Sat 9:30am-5:30pm

Support your local Pet Shop!

Pop in and see us!

We stock all major brands of dog, cat, small animal foods and accessories Supreme, Burgess, Lilys Kitchen and James Wellbeloved to name just a few.

We now sell Simpsons dog food.

We also sell all wild bird products.

Weston Park Road, Peverell Call 01752 783481

Email: mail@bellas-pets.co.uk Website: www.bellas-pets.co.uk

They offer unique hand tied arrangements that will express to all mums this month how much they are thought of, with more than just a nod to the fact that Mum remains a fashionable, design conscious, and beautiful being despite the trials of parenthood.

For those wanting to make a similar impression in life, Tania and her team can provide show stopping corsages for proms and balls, and high quality arrangements to help corporate events and premises stand out.

There is also a sympathetic service providing flowers for funeral tributes to eloquently say that last goodbye.

Whilst we would encourage you to pop in and see for yourself Tania’s spectacular new display settings in the shop, if that is a step too far, they have an excellent website, www.honorsflowers.co.uk.

They deliver directly to addresses in the area, often carefully couriered by Tania’s own mother Ann. There is an easy to use online ordering and payment service, or simply pick up the phone and dial 01752 243524.

The Plymouth Shopper

5

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • continued from page 4

Young cast appears in Oklahoma

Plymouth-based DJR School of Performing Arts are presenting the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein’s musical Oklahoma at Devonport Playhouse in March.

This junior version ‘Getting to Know You’ features most of the classic songs including Oh What a Beautiful Morning, Out of My Dreams, Surrey with the Fringe on Top, The Farmer and the Cowman and many more.

The musical is directed

by Liz Fedrick and David Bailey and choreographed by Carly Wills.

A cast of over 30 children Bailey Cameron, who has appeared in professional aged six to 16 perform will perform the musical at pantomimes plays Will Park the Devonport Playhouse in the musical from March 3 to March 5, with evening performances at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 3pm.

The principal cast include Christopher Fowell as Curly McLain, Shannah Russell as Laurey Williams, Alice Burdett as Aunt Eller, Rhiannon Witt as Ado Annie, Bailey Cameron as Will Park, Ethan Hunter as Andrew Carnes, Fin Kinsella as Jud Fry and Florrie Evans as Gertie Cummings.

Tickets cost: £8 for adults, £7 for concessions, £25 for a family ticket, plus further reductions for block bookings.

Tickets are available on 07856723225

Osteoporosis group to launch in city

A newly established Osteoporosis Support Group for Plymouth is being launched in March.

The launch of the group will be held in the Lower Hall Guildhall, Armada Way on the March 17 between 2pm and 4pm.

Guest speaker will be Dr Nick Viner, consultant rheumatologist who will give a presentation on Osteoporosis: diagnosis, treatment and looking to the future. All interested parties are welcome to attend.

Laryngectomy Club The next meeting of the Plymouth Laryngectomy Club will be held at The Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre at Derriford Hospital on Monday March 7 at 10.30am and will include: a 30-minute presentation

by Venita Botha, a Reiki therapist and a possible presentation by a representative of the South West Ambulance Service.

The club is a cancer support group which usually meets on the first Monday of each month. It is now cooperating with all head and neck cancer patients and their carers, and will soon be changing its name to the Derriford Head & Neck Cancer Group. Further information can be obtained from: geoffnread@gmail.com or telephone (01752) 563 800.

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The Plymouth Shopper

Mayflower Offshore Rowing Club Various dates We meet on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 9.30am at Richmond Walk Devonport.

We row out to sea, in The Sound and up the Tamar & Plym rivers. Ages from 14 and all abilities welcome. We run learn to row sessions. Contact secretarymorc@hotmail.co.uk or Jeff Keast 07865 228800.

Plympton Fuschia and Pelargonium Group Second Tuesday of the month The group meets at Harewood House, Plympton at 7.30pm please free to come along. New members always welcome.

Full speaker programme to be found on pfgg.co.uk. Contact Marie 343386 for more information Community Dance Classes Exim have weekly Toddle Together dance classes on Mondays at Plymouth School of Creative Arts on Mondays from 9am to 9.45am. Parent/carer toddler sessions open to all ages crawling to four years. £3.50. Children’s contemporary dance (6-10 years) Thursdays in term time at Plymouth School of Creative Arts 4.30pm to 5.30pm. £4.50 per class. Adult just for fun contemporary dance at the same venue 6pm to 7pm Thursdays. £4.50 per class. Also Spaceshot dance classes every Wednesday at St Aidan’s Church, Ernesettle every Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm. A mixture of street dance, fitness and contemporary. Free.

Details e-mail Kerrie at kerrie@eximdance.org.uk Community Clubs at William Sutton Memorial Hall, Shelley Way St Budeaux Gardening group Mondays 10.30am to 1pm open to all to come and enjoy some gardening on the grounds of the hall. Free coached football sessions for young people aged 7 to 18 years old on Wednesdays 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Ready2Work Work Club open to all. Fridays: 1pm to 4pm Dance Yourself Fit Every Friday morning 10.30 to 11.30 at St. Budeaux Community Centre.If you want to get fitter or simply love to dance, come along and join our friendly class.for details contact Jackie 01752 950306 Solaris Yoga Enjoy vital relaxation, strengthening and toning muscles.

Pregnancy yoga, mum and baby yoga and adult yoga held at Plymouth Swallows, St Andrew’s Cross, Church of the Holy Spirit Southway, Crownhill Fort and Jump. Please call Shilpa on 0771 1899 530 for times of classes.

Plymouth & District Koi Keepers Society First Wednesday of the month If you are interested in koi keeping, or thinking of building a pond and want to learn more, then why not come along to one of our meetings. We have guest speakers, presentations, visits to club member’s ponds before finishing the evening back at the clubhouse. At the weekends trips are arranged to visit other koi club’s ponds and koi shows and these are excellent days out. Meet at 7.30 pm in the lounge of the Tamar View Community Centre, Miers Close, Barne Barton, Plymouth. New members always welcome.

For more details of club activities please visit www. plymouthanddistrictkoikeeperssociety.org or ring Sandra Crocker on 01752 210118.

Regular events at St Budeaux Baptist Church Tuesday 1pm to 3pm Senior Friendly Club 5pm to 6.15pm Noughts & Crosses primary age children’s club; Wednesday 7pm to 9pm craft group; Thursday 11am to 1pm lunch club once a month afterwards fellowship time; Fridays 9.30am to 11.30am Jelly Tots toddler and parent group. Sundays 10.30am Service & Explorers for children monthly family service.

Port of Plymouth Canoe Association Mondays , Thursdays and Saturdays May until September. Offering various introductory, taster and child ( 8-11 ) sessions throughout the spring and summer. For more information please contact Tracy Jones 01752 510653 email intro@ppca-club.org.uk or visit www. ppca-canoe-club.org.uk Special Olympics Plymouth and District Saturday and Thursday swimming club: Saturdays are free times 12.15 pm to 1.15 pm at Plymouth Life Centre.

Thursdays from 6.30pm to 8pm £4 at the Life Centre.

Plymouth Pisces swimming club from 11.15am to 1.15pm at the Life Centre subs £2 each week £4 membership.

Tamar View disco 7pm to 9.30pm once a month Monday evenings. Highbury Disco Tuesdays and Fridays subs £2 each week. St Budeaux disco £2 each week on Thursday evenings 6.30pm to 9.30pm at St Budeaux Community Centre. The Special Olympics Plymouth and District at YMCA Kitto centre on Wednesday evenings from 6pm to 8pm £15 membership £2 each week. Plymouth Boccia Mondays from 11am to 12 noon at the Life Centre £2 each week. Wednesdays from 10.30am to 11.45am at the Life Centre £2 each week. Saturdays from 10am to 11am at the Jan Cutting centre £3 each week

Midnight Walk celebrates 10th year Hard-working local charity St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is ready to rock the city once again as the awardwinning annual Midnight Walk opens registration for its 10th birthday walk.

This year, sponsored by Nash & Co Solicitors, there will be three routes, covering three, six or 13.1 mile routes and will take place on July 9.

The routes will take ladies out and around Plymouth’s cityscape starting and finishing at the home of event supporters, the University of St Mark & St John.

Whether you’re in it for the challenge, just for fun or to walk in memory of someone close to you, says the charity, St Luke’s promises to pump up the very pinkest party for their big birthday bash.

Jon Loney, managing partner at Nash & Co, said: “We are proud to offer our support to St Luke’s for this very special occasion. We look forward to working with them and co-sponsor the University of St Mark & St John to encourage participation and generate as much money as possible for what is a critically important service for Plymouth and the region.”

Simon White, sports centre manager at the University of St Mark & St John said: “We are extremely pleased to be supporting the

Senior Events Fundraiser, Emma Winter (front left, pink t-shirt). Helen Bull (front right of cake) and Eleanor Barber (front far right) from Nash & Co Solicitors. Rear of photo St Luke’s Community and Crisis Team nurses

Midnight Walk again, especially for its 10th birthday. The night always proves to be an extremely fun evening whilst raising money for a well worthy local cause. We’re really looking forward to the July 9.”

Senior events fundraiser at St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth, Emma Winter said: “We are extremely grateful to both Nash & Co and the University of St Mark & St John for backing the Midnight Walk’s 10th birthday. This year promises to be a

National Trust Plymouth Centre Make the most of your Trust membership by joining the Plymouth Centre for even more activities. During the winter there are talks. This summer there are coach visits to: July to Berkeley Castle in Gloucester, August to Dartmouth for their Regatta, September to Chedworth Roman Villa.

Membership is only £4 per person or £6 for two people at the same address. For more information and an application form call Russell on 01752 266608 Age UK Plymouth Bridge Fridays Friday afternoons between 2pm and 4pm at Elspeth Sitters House, Hoegate Street, Plymouth. Do you play bridge and would like to join a friendly, social group. £2 per session which includes tea and biscuits. Details phone 776881.

Tots Time - St. Jude’s Mondays during term-time From 9.30 to 11.30 in the Upper Hall at St Jude’s Church on Beaumont Road, babies and toddlers are welcome with their carers at £1.50 per session. Tots Time provides toys, craft, snacks, drinks, singing, etc. For more details phone 078604573727.

Plymouth Children’s Theatre Workshop Saturdays A theatre company for children and young people aged 6 to18. Try your hand at performing, set design and construction, costumes and props, stage make up and much more. Ford Baptist Church Saturdays 1 till 4. Tots 3 - 5 years 12 till 1. www.plymouthchildrenstheatreworkshop. co.uk or 07760467857 or see our Facebook page Plymouth Karate Academy Various dates Based in Faraday Mill Cattedown the club is managed by Sensei Stuart Hick (4thDan), Sensei Jon Eaton (3rdDan) and Senpai Luke Irving (2ndDan). With more than 45 years combined experience all of the instructors are CRB checked, and teach Shotokan karate. With many advantages to learning karate, instructors teach traditional skills and Self-Defence with genuine applications to modern day situations. Students often say that they feel self-confident; have increased discipline, improved fitness levels and co-ordination. But above all, they all agree its great value for money, fun and a fantastic way to meet new friends no matter what age you are. Tuesday /Thursday Kids only Karate class 6.15- 7pm; Tuesday/Thursday Adult Beginners - Intermediate - Advanced from 7pm onwards ; Saturday Morning class Kids Karate class 10am onwards. For more info: Stuart Hick 07970379268 or stuart.hick@plymouthkarateacademy.co.uk Pray Plymouth Every Wednesday morning Organised by Churches Together in Plymouth from 7am to 8am at Open Doors Language School, 14-15 ,Woodland Terrace Lane, Greenbank, Plymouth. Breakfast from 8am to 9am. Details 01752 249187.

real celebration of one of the most popular events in the local charity calendar.”

But it’s not all glitz and glitter. The flagship fundraising event raises in the region of £200,000 each year to ensure St Luke’s deliver specialist end of life care to patients at home, at Derriford Hospital or in specialist unit at Turnchapel.

To take part in the 10th anniversary walk register online at www.stlukesmidnightwalk.co.uk

Plymouth Community Choir Monday Evenings Meet at Salvation Army Congress Hall, Armada Way, Plymouth from 7pm to 9pm. New members are welcome, just come along for a free taster session at the beginning of the term, or contact the choir leader. Terms are 12 weeks long and we sing a variety of music such as gospel, contemporary, sacred, world folk, pop, funky bass lines etc.

No previous experience is necessary and you don’t need to be able to read music as we learn ‘by ear’ and repetition.

Come and give us a try and see what you think! Our choir leader is Sarah Pennington and she can be contacted on 01392 437792 or by email plymouthcommunitychoir@gmail. com We look forward to seeing you!

Plympton Probus Club Second Monday of month Plympton Probus Club was formed in 1985, and enables retired and semi- retired men to meet a convivial group aged, 55 or over who meet on a regular basis. Would you consider joining us at the Plympton Library venue? We meet on the second Monday of each month at 10am, and provide opportunity to hear a variety of interesting speakers.

Additionally, social lunches with wives and guests are held at various venues throughout the year. Currently, vacancies exist for new members and anyone interested, should contact the secretary, Gerald Hendrick, on 01752 514942 Tothill Sequence Dance Club Saturdays Up to date dances at Tothill Community Centre every Saturday from 7.30pm to 10pm. Leaders Peter and Dorothy Wheatley. Admission £3. Contact Bill 01752 667484, Sue 01752 651004 or Dorothy 01752 260193.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Every Monday Compton Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Group for young people aged 14 to 23 years. Meet 7.30pm at Compton Methodist Church. Details 01752 706056.

Breathe Easy Plymouth First Tuesday of the month Breathe Easy Plymouth, a local support group for anyone with a lung condition, their carers or anyone interested in supporting the group, meets regularly at Tothill Community Centre at 1.30 pm on the first Tuesday of each month. Entry is free and there is tea and coffee with biscuits, then usually a speaker. All are welcome. For more details phone Anne on 01752 402310 or Christine on 01752 220919 Arrows Kids Club Thursdays Held at Plymouth Methodist Central Hall every Thursday in term time. 6.30pm-8pm for all children aged 7-11 years.

(Please note the Drake Circus Mall opposite the church is open till 8pm on Thursdays.) Games, Craft, tuck shop, Bible stories .. lots of fun. Only 50p per week.

• continued on page 8

Six schools praised by education chief

Dudes looking good in West Hoe for more classic styles, and listen to the needs of all our clientèle.”

Local chain of hair salons Dudes have recently purchased the former Ocean Hair Salon on West Hoe, writes Karen Pilkington.

Gemma Clarke, who is one of the most experienced stylists, specializing in colour in the city, is the go to professional to create a dazzling new look, whether you want to go classic and elegant or bold and beautiful. Having used Goldwell Topchic for years, she is confident to be able to get very exact colour segmentation if required, as well as optimum gentleness, evenness, durability with classic, cool, intense and super reflective shades.

Owner Rob Pilgrim said: “We found the existing stylists in the salon just what the Dudes chain was looking for to add to its progressive business portfolio. We wanted to reflect this gentle transition in the name change for the salon, which we are calling Ocean Dudes.”

Entrepreneur and supportive dad, Rob has been in the business for over five years now, after purchasing the salon his daughter worked in for six years.

The pupil premium is extra funding schools receive for every disadvantaged pupil they teach. The Pupil Premium Awards recognise those schools which are able to provide evidence of effective strategies to improve the achievement of disadvantaged pupils and show sustained improvement in raising their attainment.

The other schools which have received letters are Boringdon Primary, Ernesettle Community School, High View School (regional finalist in 2015), Pomphlett Primary and Devonport High School for Girls.

Technical developments, alongside newly invented products have transformed hair styling in recent years, so no one need to battle with unruly or difficult hair. There is a treatment and product out there for everyone, no matter what difficulties a customer has had in the past.

True to his expectations, Dudes North Hill is alive and well, as are the salons in Stoke, Laira, and now West Hoe. The salons are unisex, with a beauty offering as well and are renowned in the city for producing funky original looks for their fashion conscious clientèle.

Ocean Dudes, set in a peaceful area of West Hoe, overlooking the new development of waterside living has all of the benefits we have come to expect from a Dudes Salon, and has a unique edge to

To launch the Pupil Premium Awards, Sam Gyimah MP has written to all the schools to congratulate them on their efforts to boost achievement and raise aspirations among their disadvantaged pupils.

She also uses Kadus Professional in the salon, which is a quality brand, passionate to educate its partners in the latest techniques, and products, so they can keep up with the leading trends in the industry.

Rob explained that the original Dudes in North Hill had a unique laid back vibe and friendly working atmosphere for all the staff which he knew, as a businessman with a robust record of success, would be a winning formula to take the salon forward.

They also have a great reputation for listening to their customers, making sure they understand exactly what they want. Combined with the wisdom of experienced and daring stylists, this is a winning formula.

Compton Church of England Primary School is one of six schools in the city which have been praised by the Education and Childcare Minister for raising aspirations to ensure disadvantaged pupils can fulfil their potential.

Rob Pilgrim pictured with Gemma Clarke

it that makes it stand out from the crowd.

“We wanted to establish a space that everyone felt welcome to walk into,” explained Rob. “We have worked hard to bring the salon up to date, and is now a bright attractive place to spend

time on. Obviously we are very well known for our ability to produce fantastic alternative looks, and styles that parents, especially young parents, love to have their youngsters rock, but as a family friendly business, we also wanted to cater

It is the first year that a Plymouth secondary school has been eligible to apply for the awards and all six schools are now eligible to apply for the National award.

Gemma is supported by Sue Brown and Marie Godden to create wearable yet original looks for all their customers, whether aged 90 or nine months, whether you want hands and hair to impress in business, on the dance floor, or just to keep looking well groomed and cared for whatever your age, gender and outlook on life.

Councillor Sue McDonald, Cabinet Member for Children and Young people said: “Having a good education is one of the most crucial routes out of poverty that we can provide for our children and young people.

“We’re all extremely proud that all these Plymouth schools have been recognised nationally for transforming the way we educate children from lowincome families. Raising the aspiration of our children is just as important as teaching them and I know that teachers and their support staff are working extremely hard.”

Find some great pictures, and advice on opening times on their Facebook pages – each Dudes salon has their own, or call or pop into the salon to enjoy a great experience.

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The Plymouth Shopper

7

REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • continued from page 6 Coffee Morning and Book Stall Thursdays Crownhill Methodist Church hall from 10am to 11.30am.

Join us for a cup of tea or coffee, biscuit and a chat. All welcome. For details ring Carroll on Plymouth 960746.

New coach station reaches another milestone

The redevelopment of Plymouth Coach Station has reached a major new milestone after coach company National Express signed an agreement to manage the new site.

Heads of terms have now been signed between the UK’s largest coach company and Plymouth City Council, setting out the arrangements for running the new site in the West End of the city centre.

Under the agreement, National Express will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the Mayflower Street facility when it opens for business in summer.

Conveniently, the new site is located closer to the train station – ideal for onward connectivity for those needing local rail connections.

National Express will employ a team of staff permanently at the site – creating six permanent new jobs.

It means National Express presence will move up a gear from the current site of the coach station at Bretonside with staff on-hand to provide information, process tickets and help with enquiries.

The company has been closely liaising with the council and its contractors to ensure the new station lay out and facilities meet their needs and provide a modern welcoming experience.

The seven bay coach station will also benefit from facilities including real-time passenger information systems, a waiting room, booking office, toilets, a blue badge holder drop off bay, a food and drink concession and ornamental lighting. Additionally, there will be enhanced on-site parking facilities with an 89 space car park and cycle stands, as well as a drop off and pick up area and taxi/private hire bays.

The entire site will also be surrounded by extensive landscaping and trees which will dramatically improve the look and feel and ultimately help provide a welcoming sense of arrival.

National Express Service Delivery Director Kevin Gale said: “National Express has been using Bretonside since the early days. We’ve grown up with the coach station and delivered tens of millions of passenger journeys over the years but it is fair to say it’s looking a bit dated.

“We are therefore incredibly excited about the new facility which heralds an exciting new era not only for National Express in Plymouth but also for the city itself.”

Mr Gale, who has enjoyed a long relationship with Plymouth having grown up in the area and started his transport career in the city explained customer experience for coach travellers will be transformed.

He added: “The new coach station is going to be absolutely unrecognisable and we want to create a stunning gateway to Plymouth, offering a really welcoming customer experience. It’s great to see the Council invest in new facilities for passengers and we look forward to having a stronger presence in Plymouth.”

Plymouth has used the same architect and project Manager who helped create National Express’ flagship coach station in Birmingham.

Councillor Mark Coker, Cabinet member for Strategic Transport added: “We are delighted to have National Express on board to run the new Plymouth coach station.”

Work started on the new coach station started at the new site in January, with construction company SWH Civils levelling the site. Work is on track for completion in the summer.

8

The Plymouth Shopper

Aden Veterans Calling all Aden Veterans. Did you know that the Aden Veterans Plymouth Branch meets every fourth Tuesday of the month at the RAOB Club in North Hill at 7.30pm. Why not go along and meet like-minded people.

Lipson Lions Junior Hockey Club Training every Wednesday 6pm until 7pm at Lipson Community College. Currently need players of all age groups and ability particularly girls. Age groups 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. First two visits are free. Go along and try it.

Details from Samantha on 0790 555 2318.

Pennycross Sequence Dance Club Meets at the Holy Family Church Hall, Beacon Park Road, Plymouth. Mondays 6.30pm beginners class with step by step instruction. 7.45pm sequence dance. Fridays at 7.30pm for sequence dance.

Whist Drive Tuesdays and Wendesdays Kings Tamerton Community Centre want adults of all ages to come and join us in a game of whist. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons at 1.30pm start, also The first Sunday in every month at 2pm start. Entrance is £1.50,which includes tea, coffee,and biscuits. We are a friendly crowd and would like to see some new faces. City Bus No 16 stops right out side the community centre. Call Brenda on 206204 for more details.

Baby & Toddler Group Every Friday Lipson Vale Primary School between 9.15am and 10.30am.

New families welcome. Please call Kate Timonthy or Elaine Bromhead on 01752 224801.

Plymouth Shakespeare Society Meets twice a month from September to May at the Burgess Hall (behind the Unitarian Church) Notte Street, Plymouth from 2.30 - 4.30 p.m. Everyone welcome. Further details call 257764.

Twins, Triplets or more Support group held on a Tuesday morning 10am-12pm at Surestart Children’s Centre, 25 Manor Street, Stonehouse, (Tel 208650) or a Friday morning 10am -12pm at Sir John Hunt School, Whitleigh. An informal group open to all mums and expectant mums. A great chance to meet other mums and dads in the same situation.

Mini Dance Machine Thursdays At Rees Youth Centre, Mudge Way, Plympton. Modern fun disco dance group for children. 4.15pm - 5pm for ages 4 to 6; 5pm - 6pm ages 6 to 10. £2 per session. Call Lisa 07896 105 479.

Waterfront Writers Fridays Meet every Friday during term time at The Swarthmore Education Centre, Mutley Plain 1pm to 3pm. Anyone who wishes to share or listen to poetry and prose is welcome. Visit www.waterfrontwriters.org.uk for details.

Friendly Luncheon Club Tuesdays & Fridays Tuesday 12.30pm & Fridays 1pm each week. For details and bookings call 01752 606317.

Tothill Daytime Sequence Dancers Wednesdays Tothill Daytime Sequence Dancers meet at the Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Judes, Plymouth Sequence Tea Dance 2pm to 4pm. Everyone welcome.

Portal Writers Tuesdays The Portal writers are a helpful group of writers who are dedicated to helping first time and have a go writer. Meet Tuesdays 10am to 12 noon at Southway Community Centre, Hendwell Close, Southway. Tea or coffee. Contact Gloria Lane on 01752772686.

Plymouth Dog Training Club meets at St Edward’s Church Hall, Eggbuckland on Wednesday evenings. For details call 01752 350788.

Lunch Club Tuesdays and Fridays An invitation to lunch at Welcome Hall Centre, Fore Street, Devonport. 12.30pm Tuesdays, 1pm Fridays. Friendly company. For details or to make a lunch appointment call 606317.

Boxing Classes Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Carl’s boxing stable has opened a new gym in Colebrook training for all ages to compete or just get fit. 7pm to 8pm.

Details from Carl on 07837 920150.

Kindles are just the ticket!

Two lucky Plymouth residents have won Kindle Fires following this year’s National Libraries Day celebrations.

Sara Edwards from Devonport was presented with her prize after finding a golden ticket hidden in one of the many free books distributed across the city by library staff.

Another Kindle Fire was won by Christine Browning from Plympton, who was entered into a prize draw along with hundreds of people who borrowed something from their library on the day.

National Libraries Day saw libraries pop up at venues all over the city, from the Co-op in St Budeaux to the Stannary Court pub in Plympton. In the Armada Centre, library staff showed off the plans for the new Central Library, which will open at the end of March.

Mandy Macdonald (service manager for libraries) presenting a Kindle Fire to Sara Edwards at Devonport Library. Also pictured are Sara’s daughter Molly Edwards and grandchildren Issac Stevens and Amelia Bent

North Prospect Library hosted a teddy bear sleepover and the cuddly critters got up to all sorts of mischief, even taking over the library’s Twitter account. Other activities on the day included gadget sessions, computer

coding, family history and rhymetimes.

Councillor Jon Taylor, Cabinet Member for Transformation and Customer Services, said: “This year’s event was a great success, with hundreds of people braving

the weather to discover their local library and join in with our activities. Lots of new people became members and can now take advantage of everything libraries have to offer, including free eBooks and digital magazines.”

Trinity Art Group Thursdays We are a small group of experienced artists who enjoy meeting and sharing our talents. We meet every week (ring for dates) at Trinity URC, Tor Lane, Hartley from 7pm to 9pm. If you are a beginner and would like to explore the enjoyable pastime of painting in watercolour or acrylics we could offer some assistance. We also welcome all levels of proficiency as our aim is to enjoy our time painting with time to socialise over a cup of tea or coffee and a biscuit, all for £2.50 each night. Details Dave Crawford 01752 407047

Plymouth Croquet Club Hartley Park Reservoir, Mannamead Road. New members welcome. Equipment and tuition available. For further information contact Plymouth 666801.

Country Music Venue First Friday every other month At the Aggie ‘Opry’. Agaton Club, St Budeaux. Top country acts being booked. Details 01752 362240.

Plymouth Radio Club

Plymouth Play Association For hire of resources for play, recycling scrapstore and arts and crafts. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday 10am-2pm, Thursday 10am-7pm. Details 01752 256633.

Karate Club Mondays For those aged 11 years and over at Trinity United Reform Church, Tor Lane, Hartley between 6pm and 7.15pm.

Details 07967 313285.

Monthly Soup lunch for all the community Last Wednesday of the month Lovely homemade soup, cake, tea & coffee all for £3 at the St Budeaux Church Community Hall, The Green, off Crownhill Road, Higher St Budeaux. from 12.15 - 2 p.m. A warm welcome awaits all those who come. Have a go at the quiz if you want, browse the jigsaw library or just enjoy the company.

Coffee mornings Last Wednesday of the month Run by the Highbury Trust Community Support Service, Outland Road between 10.30am and 12.30pm. All members of the public welcome to attend. For details 01752 753711 Community Activities Various dates Evening events at Keyham Community Sports Hall, Drake Primary School, Saltash Road. Monday: Karate classes suitable for children/families and adults. 5pm to 8pm; Tuesday: Keep fit classes. Making exercise fun and easy to do. 6.15pm to 7.15pm; Wednesday: Yoga classes.

Beginners/intermediate - first tester session free. 7pm to 8.30pm. The Community Sports Hall has spaces available for hire, for further information contact Roy Burt Sports Development Coordinator at the school on 01752 567649.

Plymouth Skywatch Meet at St Budeaux Parish Church Hall every third Friday of the month at 7.30pm. The meeting usually consists of highlights of the night sky for the following month followed by a talk on an astronomy-related subject. There is a break in between with tea and coffee available.

Keep Fit Classes Wednesdays Jackie Hamlin’s ladies keep fit class Wednesdays 10.15am - 11.15am or 6pm - 7pm at Hyde Park Social Club KFA registered, insured, low fees. Contact Jackie on 01752 672685. All proceeds to Alzheimer’s Society.

Second Tuesday of every month.

The Plymouth Radio Club meets second Tuesday of every month at the Weston Mill Oak Villa social Club, Situated in Ferndale Road, Weston Mill, Plymouth. Commencing 7.30 pm.

For all licenced Radio Amateurs and anyone interested in amateur radio. For those wishing to obtain a licence, email pippa117@hotmail.co.uk or telephone 07815542477.

Tennis Club Mannamead Tennis Club, Eggbuckland Rd welcomes new members. 4 hard courts and 2 grass courts. Coaching available. Contact info@mannamead.org.uk or phone 773652.

Time Out Second and fourth Wednesday A group for individuals who are lonely and isolated. Come for a chat and make new friends. Plymstock United Church, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month, from 1.30pm 3.30pm. Refreshments £1. Contact Lin: 07818 254527.

Eddystone Model Flying Club Provide help and free instruction for flying radio control fixed wing. Members fly 24/7 weather permitting. New members are welcome as well as experienced fliers. For details visit www.eddystonemfc.net or phone Dave on 07941 040633 or Mike on 01752 403124.

The Plymouth Laryngectomy Club (PLC) The club aims to offer support and understanding to Laryngectomees, and their families and carers. We also extend this invitation to all Head & Neck Cancer sufferers.

Please get in touch and come and join us. Club Members usually meet up at 10.30 a.m. on the first Monday of each month. One month we meet at the Mustard Tree Cancer Support Centre at Derriford Hospital and the following month we take a trip somewhere – anywhere! Please contact Geoff READ on (01752) 563 800 or email him on geoffnread@ gmail.com.

Buddhist meditation classes Weekday lunchtime meditations 12.15pm - 12.45pm, Wednesday evenings - Introduction to meditation class 7.30pm - 8.30pm, Thursday evenings - 7.30pm - 9.30pm Meditation - The Art Of Positive Thinking, Sunday mornings 11.30am - 12.30pm Find Inner Peace, Sunday mornings - Children’s classes - 10.30am - 11.15am. Held at Ashoka Kadampa Buddhist Centre, 33 Sutherland Road, Plymouth. Tel 01752 224137 www.meditationinplymouth.org

• continued on page 16

Councillors’ CORNER Hello everyone! The following is just a ‘snap shot’ of what’s been happening locally. Of course, if you’d like to find out more, we are always available through the usual channels.

Following residents’ feedback, walking and cycling improvements between Plymouth Railway Station and Central Park will be taking place this Spring.

The scheme will include safer and easier access, resurfacing, traffic calming, new signage, improved street lighting and the removal of clutter.

There will be an ‘inform and delight’ session to showcase the improvements to Blockhouse Park, taking place at the next Farmers Market on February, details of which can be found at www. facebook.com/tastemeandshareme Universal Credit is gradually being rolled out for eligible claimants in Stoke, Ford and Keyham. For advice or guidance, www.plymouth.gov.uk/ homepage/benefits.htm or call 01752 668000.

Local elections and Police and Crime Commissioner elections will be taking place in our area this May. There have been changes to the voting registration process, so please ensure that you are registered to vote so that you can have your say. If you are unsure, please call 01752 668000.

If you know of a Stoke/Ford based club that could benefit from Grant Aid, you can find out more by visiting www. plymouth.gov.uk/grantaid If you have an issue you’d like to talk to us about privately in a safe environment, we hold regular surgeries: Last Friday of month: 2.30 to 3.30 at Stoke Library, 21 Albert Road, PL2

1AB First Wednesday of month: 6 to 7pm at NPCL, Engage Church, St Levan Road, Plymouth In other news…

We are delighted to see that Britain’s Ocean City continues to be recognised for all the good things that are happening at the moment. As the Western Morning News reports, “regeneration projects and business site expansions are transforming the cityscape, promising further economic progress.”

At the last meeting of Full Council, motions were passed marking Holocaust Memorial Day, calling for a strong approach on habitable homes and also supporting junior doctors. You can now watch council meetings live (or recorded) via the Plymouth City Council website. Take a look!

Plymouth’s City Market is also getting ready for a major makeover. This is part of a £3.5 million makeover as part of a major investment to help the city’s West End businesses. If you haven’t been there for a while then do pop in as there is a huge variety of stalls, lots of organic food and local suppliers.

People who live and work in Stoke and Ford should check it out as you will be pleasantly surprised, not forgetting our very own Stoke Farmers Market of course!

Finally, thank you to all the young people who voted in the UK Youth Parliament elections, which took place in schools in recent weeks.

Congratulations to the newly elected Members of the Youth Parliament for Plymouth!

Councillor Mike Sparling Councillor Sam Davey Councillor Philippa Davey Labour and Cooperative (Stoke ward)

Royal Navy warship awarded top frigate trophy Royal Navy warship HMS Somerset has scooped an award as the fleet’s top frigate in a ceremony in Plymouth.

The warship was recognised for helping seize the largest haul of illegal drugs in the UK when she worked with the National Crime Agency and UK Border Agency to track down, search and detain a boat and personnel on board off Scotland.

The issue is subject to an ongoing trial in Scotland on alleged drugs smuggling.

The ceremony was conducted on board the ship in Devonport Naval Base in recognition of achievements over the last 12 months also including conducting vital security patrols and tasks around the UK and into the Mediterranean.

Rear Admiral Alexander Burton who is responsible for delivering the Royal Navy’s surface fleet’s capability presented two trophies – one for the most effective frigate and a second for best antisubmarine ship.

Speaking at the ceremony he said: “It gives me great pleasure to present

Cambridge arrives in Stoke as weight plan consultants open new centre Stoke Village has welcomed its latest new business venture.

A centre for Cambridge Weight Plan consultants has opened in Devonport Road, next door to the Rain Hair Studio.

The new business brings together three local women who are each consultants for the weight management programme.

Karen Cree from Torpoint, Lynne Palmer from Keyham and Jane Smith from Stoke have taken the opportunity to establish a ‘high street’ presence with the new centre.

All three became involved as consultants after taking part in its one-to-one weight loss programme in recent years.

Lynne said: “I first met Karen when she was my Cambridge Weight Plan consultant. I had put on a lot of weight after having my two children and Karen helped me to lose more than four stone.

“Out of the blue one day she suggested that I should become a

consultant and I have not looked back since.”

work at home or visit the client’s home.

She said that when they saw that the shop in Stoke was empty they made enquiries and decided it was the perfect location.

“We believe the new premises will definitely help raise the profile of the Cambridge Weight Plan and highlight the value of the one-to-one support that the programme offers.

“There are a growing number of Cambridge Weight Plan centres up and down the country, but most consultants tend to

“We have tried to make the premises as homely and welcoming as

possible so that our clients feel at ease when they have a consultation.”

Karen, who has been a Cambridge consultant for more than five years, said: “We look forward to welcoming clients old and new at the Stoke centre.

For further information visit the Cambridge Weight Plan Centre qt 30

Cambridge Weight Plan consultants Jane Smith, Karen Cree and Lynne Palmer pictured at the opening of their new centre in Stoke

Devonport Road, Stoke or call Karen Cree on 01752 876 524 or on her mobile 07793 225570

Stoke Damerel Church launches £30,000 appeal

A Crowdfunder campaign has been launched to raise £30,000 for refurbishment work at Stoke Damerel Church.

Work is already under way on the £200,000 project to install underfloor heating and a new limestone surface.

The church has committed to the contract, but is currently £30,000 short of the tender price.

these awards to HMS Somerset’s ship’s company who, over the last 12 months, have been called upon to do a wide variety of tasks and who have delivered with professionalism and style on each occasion.”

Looking back on the ship’s achievements he added: “In April they demonstrated the strengths of the Royal Navy, when they received a tip off and immediately slipped away from an exercise to hunt down and intercept a ship carrying cocaine with an estimated value of over £500 million of cocaine, the biggest ever seized by the UK. It is right to recognise achievements that may otherwise go unseen.”

Church warden Marilyn Goldsbrough said: “We are hoping that our Crowdfunder appeal will achieve the target, but the deadline is looming large at the end of February. We desperately need the backing from friends, neighbours and acquaintances with an attachment to Stoke Damerel Church and everyone who values our wonderful building.”

All the furniture is in storage with Princess Yachts in South Yard and shortly after this photograph was taken the floorboards were removed, and the monuments covered to protect them during the six month project.

Rev’d Dr Gemma Burnett stands arms outstretched embracing the enormous empty space in her church!

Ryearch has been commissioned to install underfloor heating covered with limestone slabs.Updates on the building work can be found on www.Facebook.com/Stoke Damerel Church.

Over the last twelve months HMS Somerset has taken part in the biggest multinational exercise in the UK in decades, saved a diver lost at sea, proven new battle winning ammunition during a three-day firing of the ship’s main gun at Cape Wrath in Scotland, trained the next generation of navigators and warfare officers from many nations whilst still finding time to support families and charities.

The Plymouth Shopper

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The Plymouth Shopper

Getting ready for the big market makeover Plymouth’s City Market is to get a £3.5 million makeover as part of a major investment to help the city’s West End businesses.

A planning application is to be submitted shortly to carry out an extensive refurbishment of the market which is one of the busiest and most successful in the country with over a million visitors a year.

The work includes: • Refurbish the main shell roof along with works to replace the flat roof areas • Refurbish the external cladding • Replace existing roof lights (north lights) • Replace the external lighting with new external floodlights • Replace the market windows including those on the upper and lower levels of the block and internal facing windows.

• Remedial work to the ceiling and internal areas of the market • Replace fascias, soffits and rainwater pipes • Replace the market flooring • Improve accessibility including the addition of a lift to the first floor • Remodel the existing entrances as per the original market design The project would also include major decoration inside and out at the market which currently has 144 main stalls and supports around 200 jobs.

Councillor Mark Lowry, Cabinet Member for Finance and Assets said: “City Market plays an important role in attracting people to the West End. It is an amazing piece of post war

Coun Mark Lowry (right) pictured at the City Market

architecture and we need to make more of it. Our market is one of the key places where people can buy local produce from traders who live in or around this city.

“If you haven’t been there for a while pop in as there is a huge variety of stalls, lots of organic food and local suppliers. People who live and work in Plymouth should check it out as they will be pleasantly surprised.

“The market plays a massively important role for somewhere aspiring entrepreneurs to try out ideas. As a council we are committed to keeping visitors and shoppers coming into the city centre. We also want to see people with drive and energy to succeed as a thriving small business base is vital to the city’s economic growth.”

City Market, which was known as the Pannier Market until 2008, is a Grade II listed building made of reinforced concrete and designed by

local architects Walls and Pearn. Built between 1957 and 1959 it has helped play an anchor role in the West End. Claire Rapson from Coronet Engravers said: “Anything they can do will be an improvement.

A long awaited refurbishment will give the market a more modern feel and should encourage shoppers. It’s nice to see the Council spending money on the Market, the anchor of the West End and home to many independent traders.”

This is the latest investment in the market by the Council. Last year it invested over £80,000 in transforming very dated toilet facilities.

If consent is granted, it is hoped that the tender could be awarded in May of this year with works starting shortly afterwards. The whole project will be carried out in phases and in close consultation with the market manager and vendors to ensure there is as little disruption to trade as possible.

Top Tips when buying a used car

Community café proves popular at Stoke church Young adult students with physical and learning challenges set up a café at Stoke Damerel Church every Thursday during term time.

Church warden Marilyn Goldsbrough said: “It is really heartening to see these young people gaining confidence through experiencing real work in the real world.

“This practical session provides huge added value to their education, and is organised by the Skills Development Department of City College, under the dedicated and watchful eyes of tutors Claire Smart and Jennie Scott, along with their team.

Marilyn said that Claire and Jennie report a positive progression in work skills and say that the students are putting a great deal of effort into it, as they are feeling tired at the end of their shift!

If you are thinking about changing your car, Plymouth City Council Trading Standards Team has some simple steps to help you to find a reliable car.

Use a Trustworthy Trader • Always use an established firm with a good reputation. Try a Buy with Confidence Trader first www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk Check a car’s history • Use the DVLA’s free online vehicle checker www.gov.uk/get-vehicleinformation-from-dvla.

• Check that MOT tests have been done regularly throughout the car’s history. Use the free service www.gov.uk/check-mot-history • Get a private history check or data check. It will tell you if the car has been reported stolen; if the seller still owes money on the car; if the car has previously been in a serious accident or if the car is showing the correct mileage.

• Inspect the car - view the car in daylight, preferably when it’s dry - it’s harder to spot damage to the car if it’s wet. It’s a good idea to meet at a private seller’s house so that if something goes wrong after you’ve bought the car you’ll have a record of their address. See www.theaa. com/motoring_advice/car-buyers-guide/cbg_diyinspection • Make sure you ask about the car’s service history.

• Always take the car for a test drive - you’ll need to make sure you’re insured to do this. Drive for at least 15 minutes on different types of road.

Purchasing the car • Visit www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/how-to-negotiatewhen-buying-a-car

• Make sure you get the original (not a photocopy) of the log book (the V5C registration certificate) and the valid MOT test document. Never buy a car without the log book.

A termly profit percentage contributes to the work of the church. During the major renovations to the church floor, the café is being set up in the Parish Centre at the rear of the church.

Local residents are welcome to go along on Thursdays in term time from 10.30 to 2pm and see for themselves!

• Check what warranty is included and ensure you read the paperwork.

A good car dealer will have the vehicle checked and serviced by an independent garage and will provide a new MOT. They should provide you with a pre-delivery inspection forms listing the checks carried out and any issues found.

The seller can’t legally transfer any car tax that they’ve already paid over to you. You’ll need to pay vehicle tax as soon as you buy the car. The seller will get a refund for any tax left on the car when it’s sold.

What if something goes wrong?

If there’s something wrong with your used car (e.g. it’s breaking down, the brakes have gone or it’s been clocked), you may have a legal right to a repair, the cost of a repair, or some or all of your money back.

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 states you have a right to a full refund if there is a fault within the first 30 days of ownership.

You won’t be entitled to anything if: • you were told about the fault when you bought the car - and someone fully explained what the problem meant • you inspected the car and should have spotted the problem, for example a dent • you’re just unhappy with how much you paid for the car

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• you caused the fault For more information contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 040506. www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer The Plymouth Shopper

11

Help is on its way for homes and gardens It’s fairly obvious to report that we have not had the best of winters. At the time of writing there is yet another severe weather warning for Plymouth, ‘showers are likely to be heavy at times and accompanied by hail and thunder, with very strong and gusty winds. Be aware of the potential for localised surface water flooding.’

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We can also offer a full range of tree services.

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In fact we’ve had the wettest December and fourth wettest January on record according to the Met Office, no wonder our homes and gardens are not looking their best!

Whilst there are many jobs that the average DIYer can tackle with gusto, there are some that require the expertise and experience of fully qualified tradesmen.

Starting from the outside, there are some pretty impressive pieces of kit that professional gardeners use to make difficult jobs a whole lot simpler, safer, and more manageable – telescopic pole pruners to sort out unruly hedges and trees, industrial strength leaf vacuums to make short work of tidying up debris, specialised patio and deck cleaning equipment. Its unlikely that we’ll have these knocking around in the garden shed!

The inclement weather has been particularly unkind to rooves, chimneys, fascias, guttering and outside walls.

There may be signs of damp inside our homes as a result of external damage, and these really need expert eyes to be able to correctly diagnose the problem and the remedy. There’s nothing worse than redecorating your room only to find the problem rapidly reappear.

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The Plymouth Shopper

The sound of lashing rain on the windowpanes

By Karen Pilkington in recent months may also have compelled you to consider extra forms of heating and insulation. New forms of triple glazing, energy efficient gas boilers, and hi-tech draught proofing can dramatically improve the quality of life within your home, and a good professional will be able to guide you through the maze of new products and technologies that have come on the market in recent years.

The good news is that there is support and advice out there, and even some financial help for the harrassed householder.

The Energy Saving Trust (www. energysavingtrust.org.uk/”www. energysavingtrust.org.uk) has free and impartial advice on what kind of financial incentives are available to help keep you warm, and can be contacted directly on 0300 123 1234.

Award winning And Plymouth is lucky enough to have the award winning Plymouth Energy Community to advise and help, on 01752 477117 or www. plymouthenergycommunity.com Age UK, www.ageuk.org.uk/plymouthoffer advice to older people on the maintenance and upkeep of their properties, and there is help available to those wishing to stay in their own homes, but require improvements and adaptations to be able to do so.

Plymouth City Council can give you general advice, let you know about grants or loans that are available and in some circumstances carry out home condition surveys.

Contact the Private Sector Housing Team on 01752 307075, or www. plymouth.gov.uk, search on private sector housing, or email decenthomes@plymouth.gov.uk

Care & Repair is a Home Improvement Agency that assists older and disabled people with their housing needs. Supported by the Department of Communities and Local Government, Plymouth City Council and Plymouth Primary Care Trust, they are a small team working in close liaison with other support services.

They can assist you in organising works that may range from repairs or adaptations to major improvement.

For minor home maintenance work they can provide you with a friendly, trustworthy and low cost Handyperson Service which is run on a membership basis, and designed to give practical support to older and disabled people to have those little maintenance/repair tasks carried out (including minor adaptations).

Care and Repair Some of the things they might assist you with include: technical support, home visits and inspections, arranging repair and improvement works, advice on funding repairs, assistance with form filling, and accessing grants and charitable funding. Please contact Care and Repair (01752) 221933 And finally, Plymouth City Council has an approved trader list of businesses registered with ‘Buy With Confidence’ who have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards to ensure that they operate in a legal, honest and fair way.

So be encouraged to take a look at what’s on offer. Your health, peace of mind, home, garden and community will thank you for it.

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The Plymouth Shopper

13

MONEY MA££ERS with Tony Jopson

The new ‘essentials’ Some good advice from Steve Carey in last month’s Money Matters on controlling debts got me thinking as to why we might have more people with debt problems in society today.

Take some advice from Einstein and tidy up your finances I’d like to talk about spring cleaning in this edition of the Shopper.

Albert Einstein is famously quoted as saying: ‘Out of clutter, find simplicity’.

I think this is extremely relevant to this time of year. We may already be feeling weighed down by all the things we have to do this year, all the things we should have done by now and all the unresolved problems we wish would just go away.

In the quote, Einstein is reminding us that we can resolve and deal with all these issues and when we do we will find a much simpler and clearer way of life.

Within the clutter there are the answers – we just have to take the time and effort to declutter to find the clearer, simpler way out the other side. Make March your month of finding simplicity.

A common situation we see at Advice Plymouth is when clients are unaware of exactly how much their income is. It is this lack of awareness of their finances that leads to overspending, debt and worry.

This month Advice Plymouth is encouraging everyone to find out exactly how much income they receive each week/month. This can be done by checking your last pay cheque, if you receive a set monthly wage, or by adding up how many hours you are expected to work this month and multiplying that by how much you get paid per hour.

Alternatively visit your bank and request a statement from the previous month. This will show exactly how much income has been paid into your account.

Of course there is the constant nagging from TV adverts to buy the latest ‘this’ or ‘that’ on credit (or rather debt!). Then there’s the peer pressure, especially among young people to have the latest i-phone, x-box etc.

I think back to my youth when a ‘broad band’ was a stretchy piece of elastic you might hold some papers together with and an i-pad was my own personal paper notebook.

Apples, oranges and blackberries were still only fruits found at the greengrocers!

By Anna Salisbury of Advice Plymouth Once you are aware of your income you can begin to spring clean your finances and live with a clearer view of your expenditure. We recommend creating a personal budget of what you expect to spend money on each month.

For example, how much your bills will be, how much will be going out of your account on direct debit, an estimated amount spent on essentials such as food and transport, and any other expenses you know will occur.

This way you know where your money is going in the coming month, you can clearly see the amount of money you will have after all expenses are paid and can start planning for making savings. With all the financial changes the government are making having a good grasp on your current finances and a savings plan in place will enable you to be far better equipped to deal with the changes.

If when taking a closer look at your finances you discover problems or have concerns, please contact Advice Plymouth with your query.

Contact us for information and advice.

Spread the word about the vital services we offer.

Tel: 03444 111 444: Mon, Wed, Fri 9am - 6.30pm. Tues, Thurs 9am - 8pm. Sat 9am - 1pm Drop-In: Ernest English House Buckwell Street, PL1 2DA: Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri 9am - 5pm

Wild About Plymouth featured in book celebrating innovation Wild About Plymouth, the family natural history programme run by the City Museum and Art Gallery, is featured in a new book highlighting innovative approaches to community engagement.

The programme, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this spring, was established by staff from the Museum’s natural history and learning teams. It offers a natural history or science based event in or around the city once a month throughout the year.

Over the last decade thousands of local people have taken part in events covering everything from birds, fossils and dinosaurs to rocks, insects and stargazing. The programme has also 14

received a huge amount of support from other local organisations including Plymouth University, the Marine Biological Association and the Sir Alistair Hardy Foundation for Ocean Science.

A chapter on Wild About Plymouth has been included in ‘Engagement and Access: Innovative Approaches for Museums’, a book put together by Dr Juilee Decker, head of the museums studies programme at the Rochester Institute of Technology in America. It features best practice examples of how museums in America and the United Kingdom are engaging with the public.

From working with teenagers to improving access to collections, the book provides museum colleagues across the world with a series of useful case studies that they can take away and share.

The Plymouth Shopper

Mobile phones were around but were the luxury of a very few and you needed to be a weightlifter to own one - they were carried in suitcases not back pockets. But now most have a home broadband package and mobiles are ‘the norm’ – indeed ‘essential’ for certainly secondary school age children and often primary age.

What has this all done to the family budget?

Well in my day no one in the family had a mobile phone or broadband package and the essentials in the family budget were still food, clothes, shelter and warmth.

Although these essentials remain, they now regularly include home broadband and a mobile phone contract for all family members. Even assuming a low average of £20 per month for a home broadband package and £10 per month for a mobile phone contract, a family of four with two secondary school age children all with mobile phones has an extra monthly sum of £60 to find before it even starts to spend on ‘non-essentials’.

Also I suspect with the number of i-phones and other smart phones out there that this figure is significantly underestimated!

So we now have a significant additional layer of cost in a family budget that was little known even only 10 years ago. No wonder financial pressure has been building! This leaves less of the household budget for spending on other items unless they are purchased on credit (that’s debt remember) which leads to people’s debt levels rising.

Many charities in recent years are experiencing drops in regular income; this is probably at least partly a result of what I’ve described above; charity giving becomes lower priority in budgets and even impossible for some.

I often work with people who have serious debt problems but they almost invariably have a mobile phone, and often not a simple ‘pay as you go’ cheap one either.

Yes, technology is significantly changing society not least in the way the average household spends its money. But the ‘if you have this you can’t have that’ principle still applies to most family budgets – have a think about how your own personal budget has changed over the past few years.

If you are struggling with unmanageable debt and require assistance, then seek independent, professional and confidential help. Apart from my firm, there are other also organisations that you can contact:

There is also an issue with the use of time – how much time is now spent playing computer games or viewing trivialities on Facebook? Again these were not an option when I was a youth – we had to run round the park or make our own entertainment at home with family and friends.

Christians Against Poverty (Plymouth) 0800 328 0006 (freephone)

Is ‘social media’ in reality ‘anti-social media’? Does it detract from people really communicating, especially within families, as they spend much of their time either playing video games or watching other people’s lives on Facebook?

Useful numbers for those with debt problems:

CAP Money website: www.capmoney.org.uk Plymouth Focus

01752 669785 www.plymouthfocus.co.uk Citizens advice (Plymouth) 0844 8269717 Tony Jopson, FCA Insolvency Consultant, 246 Peverell Park Road, Plymouth, PL3 4QG Telephone: 01752 775068

POWER TO THE PEOPLE

New community project in Devonport and Stonehouse reach as many people as possible.”

A national project launched in Stonehouse and Devonport aims to encourage people to come forward and reveal their ideas for change in their communities.

Although Plymouth has traditionally been seen to have a poor rate of business start-ups, it does have an international reputation for being a city of social enterprise excellence.

It was the first designated Social Enterprise city in the country; it boasts a city council committed to the philosophy and claims the first university to be awarded the Social Enterprise Mark.

The Power to Change initiative, believe that the solutions to many social issues and community problems can be found within those same communities.

Now Plymouth has been chosen to pilot a £50,000 project and put on a series of events aimed at helping people help themselves.

The Power to Change initiative was set up twelve months ago with £150 million of Big Lottery Funding to establish and support community businesses. It is being run in Plymouth by The Real Ideas Organisation (RIO) and the Plymouth Social Enterprise Network (PSEN) two organisations committed to social change.

Gareth Hart from PSEN says that at the heart of the project is the belief that the people bestplaced to bring change to communities are the very people that live in them: “People know their own patch,” said Gareth.

“And we know that many of these people are sat at home with some amazing ideas for change.

We want them to tell us their ideas and between us, we can turn these ideas into reality.”

Along with an established and experienced network of supportive and enabling organisations it illustrates why Plymouth was chosen as one of the two cities to launch the Power to Change programme.

The Power to Change initiative believes that, given the right support, individuals have the means to solve existing problems in their own communities. Many have already done so. There are now a growing number of community-owned businesses across the south west.

The challenge, says Gareth, is in reaching those people in the first place: “We need to inject the idea of community enterprise and social change into people’s homes so we’re marketing the project across the city and posting thousands of flyers through letterboxes in Stonehouse and Devonport in an attempt to

Lindsey Hall, chief executive of RIO said: “As a social enterprise city Plymouth has a fantastic range of support available to help turn community business ideas into reality and make real change happen.

“If you have an idea then Power to Change can help. We’re hoping that people from all kinds of backgrounds will come forward and take part in Power to Change in Devonport and Stonehouse and drive real community-led improvements in their neighbourhoods.”

For more information on this visit www. thepowertochange.org.uk; contact Gareth Hart on 07786 863206 or gareth@plymsocent.org.uk

Thornbury Villa Residential Care Home for the Elderly

‘Somewhere Special Enough To Call Home’ For information contact Jacky & Jim Van Deijl 128 Peverell Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth, PL3 4NE

Tel: (01752) 262204

‘Almost every human emotion explored’

the novel

57

★★★★★

five star reviews on amazon.co.uk

Experience WITH CHRIS COLE

ZUZiMO Competition Entry Form Please put your name below with contact details. Please send your completed entry coupon to the ZUZiMO! Competition, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY by the closing date of 31.03.16.

Question: Where is ZUZIMO located?

Answer:

TUNE IN on 96.3FM or listen online at www.xrhyth.ms/crplymouth

Name: Address: Postcode:

Sunday 10am-11am

Tel:

Email: Please tick the boxes if you don’t wish to receive any information from ZUZiMO

or Cornerstone Vision:

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• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 8 Laira Youth Brass Band Thursdays The City’s premier youth brass band meets at Woodford Methodist Church (next to the school) on Thursdays from 7.15 to 8.45 pm. Open to all youngsters from age eight upwards. Contact Tony Hollick on 01752 216784 for details.

Plymouth Numismatic Society Third Tuesday each month 7:30pm Coin collection and study can be an absorbing and rewarding pastime. New members are welcomed to informal meetings to share interest and knowledge of coins, providing the opportunity to give talks and presentations on any aspect of numismatics. This can range from studies of coins in historical, cultural or artistic context, to acquisitions, valuations and investment. Or members can just listen, learn and enjoy the company. Contact Bryan on 01752 480394 for more details and current location of meetings.

Plym Ramblers First and third Sunday in the month A well established walking organisation offering regular walks by experienced leaders all within 20 miles of Plymouth.

The group meets every first and third Sunday in the month and also hold interesting social events. For details contact the secretary on 344048 or the chairman on 405132. Plym Ramblers have now published their walking book “On the beaten track 3” The 3rd book in a popular series of local walks.

Plymouth Inter Varsity Club We are looking for lively, interesting people who want variety in their social lives and would like to mix with others in a friendly, local social group run by its members, for its members. We enjoy a wide range of activities eg meals out, cycling, themed party nights, walking, canoeing, theatre, reading group and weekends away. Want to know more?

You can go to our website www.plymouthivc.org , look at what we do and complete an enquiry or contact us direct on 07542 125575.

Second-hand book stall Every second Saturday in the month 2pm-3.30 pm, at Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street.

In aid of The Motor Neurone Disease Association Celtic Music with a Twist Every First Thursday Kitty O’Hanlon’s, 9pm. Three Strand Minstrels play lively Celtic acoustic music at Kitty O’Hanlon’s.

Woodside Animal Welfare Trust Elfordleigh Your local sanctuary for most types of unwanted domestic pets. Good homes always needed - have a look at lovely animals, and what we do on www.woodsidesanctuary.org.uk.

We don’t destroy any animal unless it’s beyond veterinary help or dangerous and we have special units for elderly residents. Please don’t allow your pet to breed, ask us for friendly advice, or about our spay and neuter scheme for owners on benefit instead. Tel 01752 347503.

Clog dancing Thursdays A fun way to exercise! The Plymouth Maids clog dancers are a small, friendly group of women who welcome new members. From the beginning of October to the end of April we practice at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, opposite the Life Centre, on Thursdays 8 - 9.45pm. During the summer we dance out on Thursday evenings at various pubs and other venues in and around Plymouth. We also dance at occasional folk festivals and days of dance. No previous dance experience is needed, just a sense of rhythm. Come along and give it a try. For details contact Shirley on 01752 407676.

Pennycross Friendship Group Thursdays The group meet every Thursday at 2pm in the Pennycross Methodist Church, Pridham Lane off Beauchamp Road, Peverell. Interesting speakers and outings. New members always welcome. For details 01752 362099.

The Boys Brigade Various dates For more information visit www.plymouth.boys-brigade. org.uk. 1st Plymouth - Salisbury Road Baptist Church (Fridays); 2nd Plymouth - Ridgeway Methodist Church (Mondays); 4th Plymouth - St Jude’s Church Halls (Wednesdays); 5th Plymouth - Mount Gould Methodist Church (Fridays); 7th Plymouth - Pennycross Methodist Church (Fridays); 8th Plymouth - Ford Baptist Church (Wednesdays). New members welcome. Age groups: Anchor Boys (5 to 7); Juniors (8-11) and Company Section (12-18). The Boys Brigade can help your church in its mission to children and young people. Contact the development team at plymouth.battalion@tiscali.co.uk or call 01579 346218.

5th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls Association We meet at Mount Gould Methodist Church, term time, and are looking to recruit both boys and girls aged 5-8yrs (6pm-7pm), 8-11yrs (6.30-8pm) and 11-18yrs (6.30-9pm).

Our programme is very varied and includes craftwork, 16

The Plymouth Shopper

Award winning model at Naval Heritage Centre HMS Warspite has returned to Plymouth Naval Dockyard in the shape of a model at the Devonport Naval Heritage Centre.

The model’s creator, David Brown, is originally from Lands End but currently lives in Liskeard. From a child David has created models of Naval ships including HMS Javelin and Kelly. He made a working model of the cruiser HMS Sheffield, which was given to the Fulham Sea Scouts. There he met a retired Chief Petty Officer who suggested that he should build HMS Warspite.

David started the model over 40 years ago, obtaining drawings and photographs to help with the process.

Work shortly stopped while a house move was undertaken, with David learning at this time that the hull plans he acquired were inaccurate.

The 20 year collection of photographs and notes were never recovered after the move. The next 30 years the model lived in the garage roof space. Acquiring plans from Greenwich National Maritime Museum allowed David to carry on with the model, using the information to correct the hull. David introduced an educational element by showing various tasks being carried out around the vessel.

In the end it took David only two years to fully complete the model, winning a Gold Medal and the Earl Mountbatten of Burma Trophy for best naval model in 2014 at the Model Engineering Exhibition in London.

Located at the Royal Navy Submarine School Heritage Museum at HMS Raleigh are over 30 submarine models cookery, games, computer work, interactive challenges, sports competitions, sponsored fundraising and much more plus the year ending event - summer camp(8yrs+). Many of the skills learnt here can help prepare them for adult life.

Interested - then come along to the church on Friday or contact Hugh Porter, 01752 667513, or email porterbb@ blueyonder.co.uk for further information 7th Plymouth Company Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association Fridays We meet at Pennycross Methodist Church in term time, Anchors (5-8 years) between 6.15pm and 7.15pm; Juniors (8-11 years) from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and Seniors (12-18 years) between 7pm and 9.45pm. There is a full programme of activities including crafts, games, drama, music, cookery, interactive challenges, national sport competitions and much more. The year culminates in a week-long summer camp. Our programme enables youngsters to learn many various skills and prepares them for adult life. Simply go along on Fridays to find out more or visit http//:7plymouth. boys-brigade.org.uk Mini Matts Parents & Toddler Group Mondays St Matthias Church Hall on the corner of Clifton Street & Bedford Park. 1.30pm to 3pm £1 per family per session. (during term time).

Plymouth Cycling Touring Club Meet Sundays for a leisure cycle ride. For our latest rides list and meet time/place see www.plymouthctc.co.uk or contact Graham Black 01752 606650 or Andy Prideaux 01752 345170 for more information.

Drake Probus Club Third Tuesday each month Are you a retired professional or businessman? If so we have a number of vacancies for membership. We invite you to come along to a meeting of the club at the Royal British Legion Club Tailyour Road, Crownhill. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 9.30am for 10am.Our programme includes guest speakers at each of our monthly meetings. Other club activities, where wives and partners are very welcome, happen regularly, include monthly pub lunches and outings to places of interest during the summer months. Just come along. For further details please contact Jim Gettings on 661450 or Richard Hill on 318704.

Plymouth West Country Embroiderers Various dates Started in 1972. A friendly group of enthusiastic needleworkers who enjoy sharing their knowledge and expertise with others. Trainees (age 8-15) meet first Saturday each month from 11am to 3pm. Adults meet on second Thursday and fourth Saturday each month from 10.30am. We welcome experts and beginners of all ages.

Contact Mary 01752 200047 for details.

Plymouth Philatelic Society First Wednesday of every month St. Edwards Hall, Home Park Avenue, Peverell from 7pm to 9pm. For details contact Derek on 01752 360551 or David on 01752 402981.

created by David. HMS Warspite can currently be viewed at the Naval Heritage Centre where David’s other Gold Medal winner model HMS Leander is also located.

Class battleships which were built to combat the threat of new faster German battleships; she fought in both World War I and World War II.

The Royal Navy warship HMS Warspite was launched from Devonport in November 1913 by the First Lord of the Admiralty in the presence of Winston Churchill. She was commissioned as one of the five Queen Elizabeth

Members of the public will be able to view the amazing work of David Brown at the first Heritage Centre open day of the year on April 3.

Mums and Babies Tuesdays Mums and Babies is a support group for mums with babies from birth to eight months old. Come and meet other new mums and enjoy being spoilt by our sympathetic leaders with tea, coffee, biscuits and a listening ear. £2 a session.

We meet at Hope Baptist Church Hall, Peverell Corner, Plymouth from 1pm to 2.30pm. For more information ring the church office on 01752 708090.

Stoke Every Friday 6- 7pm Call 01752 405027 for details.

Sequenced Dance Saturdays St Gabriels Church Hall, Hyde Park 7.30pm to 10pm Modern Sequence Dancing Tuesdays and Wednesdays Sequence dancing for all. Further details 01752 493311.

Plymouth Marjon Hockey Club Hockey for all ages and abilities from age 5 through to 60+ with weekly coaching and regular matches based at the University of St Mark & St John. Tuesdays & Thursdays 5-6pm age 7-11 boys and girls. Girls age 10+ and senior ladies Tuesday evening. Men’s Club training Wednesday 7.15-9pm. Boys age 10+ and senior men Thursday evening.

Sunday mornings boys and girls aged 5 to 14 years. For more information visit www.pmhc.co.uk The Plymouth and District Advanced Motorists Group Monthly meetings on the third Monday of each month at the United Reformed Church Hall, Powisland Drive, Derriford.

The meeting begins at 7.30p.m. with doors opening at seven. Guest speaker each month. Details 01752 405926 The Rainbow Experience First Tuesday of each month Social/Support group for older lesbian,gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people (50ish and over) living in and around Plymouth. Meet at Plymouth Arts Centre, Looe Street, Plymouth, (near Bretonside bus station) at 2.30 pm on the first Tuesday of the month. It provides a safe, non judgemental and encouraging atmosphere for LGBT people to meet and share experiences. For more information contact David on 07722 019423.

Weekly Bingo Thursdays Tothill Community Centre, Knighton Road, St Jude’s 7pm.

Entrance £1. Tea and biscuits 20p. Draw tickets on sale.

Club Focus Camera Club Mondays Meets at the Future Inn, William Prance Road, Plymouth.

Meets every Monday from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Membership Secretary 01752 231139 Website www.clubfocusplymouth.co.uk Al-Anon Family Groups Are you concerned about someone’s drinking?

A fellowship to help families and friends of alcoholics. Local meetings. Confidential Helpline 020 7403 088 www.al-anonuk.org.uk Rainbows Fridays 1st Devonport Rainbows, Salvation Army, Haddington Road,

Further details at www.devonportnhc.wordpress.com

Keep Fit Classes Wednesdays 10.15am - 11.15am and 6pm - 7pm Hyde Park Social Club.

KFA registered, insured, low fees.Details 01752 672685.

Parent & Babies and Toddler Group Tuesdays and Fridays Come and join us, meet new friends during term time at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall, 10am- 11.30am. Booking recommended as places are limited. Call Anne 07791332503.

Exercise Classes for over 60s Wednesdays Keyham Methodist Community Hall 10.15am-11.15am Exercise classes for the over 60`s and registered disabled.

Gentle exercises to music aimed at improving your core muscles and balance. Followed by a cuppa and time to chat and make new friends. For details call Bridget on 408951.

Toddler Group Thursdays Plymouth Christian Centre 9.30am to 11 am, term time only £1.50 per family. Contact Liz Crudgington on 661019 for details or see the www.plymouthchristiancentre.org Ballroom & Social Sequence Dancing Various dates Plymstock Community Centre every Tuesday afternoon 2pm until 4pm and every third Monday of the month from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. Details 01752 251313 or 01752 668017.

Plymouth Woodturners Third Friday of the month Meet at Pilgrim Church, St Levan Road at 7.30pm. Also demonstrate and sell at Otter Nurseries, Brixton, the first weekend of every month. New members always welcome, just turn up on the night.

Plymouth Striders Running Club Twice weekly Meet at Widewell School, Lulworth Drive, Widewell (behind The George at Roborough). Mondays and Thursdays 6.30pm. Over 16 years and all abilities welcome. For info contact widewellstriders@yahoo.com or check out our website www.widewellstriders.co.uk Exercise for Over 60s Tuesdays and Thursdays Life Centre Thursdays 1.30pm to 3pm in the Dance Studio.

Plymstock Tuesdays 9.30-10.30 and 10.45-11.45 Gentle exercises to music aimed at improving your core muscles and balance. Followed by a cuppa and time to chat and make new friends. For details call Bridget on 01752 408951.

Watercolour Group Every Friday 10am to 12 noon at Onward House, 55 Greenbank Road, Plymouth. To join this friendly group just come along or ring the group leader Ray on 01 752 300633 for more information.

• continued on page 18

THE CHRIS COLE

Experience

Important freedoms...

Dickens’ opening statement in A Tale of Two Cities, a novel around the French revolution of the 18th Century, states: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way.”

Glocalisation means we truly live in a global village and although we live in the Shire, Mordor is a reality. (For those who aren’t Tolkien fans in terms of not seeing The Lord of the Rings trilogy or have not read the books, I apologise). In other words, what happens across the planet impacts upon us all in our local communities, whether we like it or not. The genocide in the Middle East of ancient Christian communities is more than a concern of human rights for those of us who call ourselves Christians. It is a deep recognition that there are brothers and sisters in other cultures who share similar spiritual values with us. They are part of our global spiritual family. This inhumanity now dominates our news as the Middle East is constantly in the headlines. Remarkably, Pope Francis and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill have called for restored Christian unity between the two churches at historic talks in Cuba. The meeting this year was the first between a Pope and a Russian Church head since the Western and Eastern branches of Christianity split in the 11th Century. In a joint declaration, they also urged the world to protect Christians from persecution in the Middle East.

In these challenging times, below is an extract from the London Institute of Contemporary Christianity that I think deserves repeating in the public sphere.

Perhaps we could meditate upon what it is like living in the war torn areas we witness on the daily news. The extract below is certainly aimed at those of us who call ourselves Christians

out of the city and began to stone him. Acts 7:55-58

We can learn a lot from Stephen’s character, and from his response to accusation. But the big challenge of Stephen’s life is ‘Would I be willing to die for my faith?’

Jesus’ crucifixion was still fresh in the minds of the early Christians, and the apostles had already been arrested and flogged. So Stephen can have been under no illusions about the risk that he was taking as he performed powerful signs and proclaimed Christ.

All this may seem a far cry from the lives of those of us today who live in the so-called ‘tolerant’ West. The worst we may expect is ridicule or contempt, although we have seen an increasing number of cases where Christians have faced attacks on their freedom of conscience and expression of religion. But for our sisters and brothers in many parts of the world it remains a critical question.

Indeed, from a report of an international Anglican conference a few years ago, this bald question stood out: ‘Are you ready to die?’

And this is, in fact, the question we should all ask ourselves. How much does Christ mean to me? What am I most afraid of losing?

Respect? Status? My job? My family? Could I face imprisonment? Torture? Or threats to my family? And, ultimately, death?

Have we perhaps forgotten what it means to be a disciple? Are we happy in our own comfortable conformity, content with our church attendance, prayer and Bible study, our devotion to our families, our conscientious work and acts of service, our generosity and hospitality? Or do we perceive our calling – at every stage of our lives – to be always onward and upward?

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who literally laid down his life in a Nazi prison, hanged for his part in a conspiracy to assassinate Adolf Hitler, wasn’t speaking only of himself when he wrote: ‘When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.’ LICC article February 2016..

Dying to our selfish attitudes and self-preservation is a journey of true inner freedom.

What has this all to do with us Plymothians, whether we have a Christian faith or not?

There is a growing awareness of Mayflower 400, a series of celebrations and events taking place in 2020, commemorating the sailing of the Mayflower in 1620 to the new world. Freedom of religious conscience and freedom of speech were contentious issues during the turbulent years of the Reformation and one of the motivating factors inspiring this journey.

Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. ‘Look,’ he said, Chris Cole, is the founder of Cross Rhythms charity. He is also a Fellow ‘I see heaven open and the of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). Listen to his Cross Rhythms Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.’ At this they Experience programmes on 96.3FM or online at www.crossrhythms.co.uk/ covered their ears and, yelling plymouth. Also, download Cross Rhythms Plymouth app from Google at the top of their voices; they Play and the Apple app store. all rushed at him, dragged him

Pauline Murphy will be the next Lord Mayor of Plymouth Councillor Pauline Murphy, a Labour Councillor for the Efford and Lipson ward, will take over the reins from the current Lord Mayor, Councillor Dr John Mahony.

The ceremony took place in the Lord’s Mayor Dining Room at the Council House.

Councillor Murphy said: “I am extremely honoured to have been selected for the position of Lord Mayor. To be given the opportunity to be able to represent this fantastic city in this role, a city where I was born and have lived all my life is an amazing privilege.

“Along with my consort Councillor Brian Vincent, we will be working really hard to promote Plymouth and are looking forward to meeting many of the citizens, charities and businesses of Britain’s Ocean City.”

The 56-year-old councillor is currently employed as a regional data coordinator for Southwest Public Transport Information (Traveline Southwest), who are very pleased to support her in her role as Lord Mayor.

Councillor Murphy was elected as a councillor for the Efford and Lipson Ward in 2010 the ward which she is still proud to represent. She has also served as Deputy Lady Mayoress between 2005 and 2006, Lady Mayoress between 2008 and 2009 and Deputy Lord Mayor between 2014 and 2015.

She is currently a member of the Co-op Management Scrutiny Board, Vice Chair of Working Plymouth Scrutiny Committee and is the Chair of the Armed Forces Covenant Pictured are Current Lord Mayor, Cllr Dr John Mahony and new Lord Mayor Designate, Cllr Pauline Murphy.

This historic event means more to Americans than it may do to us, but they did sail from our fair city who historically did welcome these ‘pilgrims’ as they travelled to a new land.

Remembering our Christian heritage at Easter is so important Easter brings with it many traditions and symbols.

Starting with Pancake Day the day before Lent starts.

Then Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday and Good Friday leading up to Easter Sunday and Monday. For many children these traditional Christian customs centred on church have been forgotten and replaced by others; the bunny, the bonnet and of course the obligatory egg. Sadly many children simply do not know the meaning of Easter.

Since September 2014 all schools have been required to actively promote British Values. Values of democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect. Values of tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Part of this is an appreciation of, and respect for, their own culture. So how do we teach children about our Christian heritage and traditions when many have never stepped foot in a church?

There is a well known joke where a tourist asks a local how to get somewhere and the local says ‘well I wouldn’t start from here’. Not much help! It’s the same with our children. We must start where they are. So if their knowledge of Easter revolves around the egg, let’s start there.

By Liz

Crudgington of the Roundabout Day Nursery

There are many stories about the origin of the Easter Egg, but as Christians we would take it to represent new life, and the hope that new life brings. The egg features in our regular Easter Sunday celebrations at our church. We give out eggs after the morning celebration service and have a popular Easter Egg hunt on the moors afterwards.

It is a great time of family fun and celebration!

Essentially the egg reminds us of the new life available to us because of Jesus’ death. New life with God. A relationship with him now, and an eternity with him in heaven. If this is completely new to you the following websites may be useful to you: • The4points.com (a concise explanation of the Christian faith in four points) • Alpha.org (a short course explaining the Christian faith hosted by many churches across Plymouth and worldwide.)

• Biblesociety.org.uk (search ‘Bible Bedtime’ to find the free app that helps parents explain bible stories, including Easter, to children) So at Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus, and at Easter we remember his death and celebrate the new life this represents. Local churches will be inviting you to their services over Easter so why not find one to go along to? You’ll be able to pick from traditional services to special services and events for children.

Many churches now offer ‘Messy Church’ and will be doing so this Easter. Messy Church is an opportunity for your child to come to church with you to learn traditional bible stories in the context of a craft based session, usually followed by food.

It is a national initiative which continues to grow in popularity. It is attended by many families who would not consider themselves Christian but who want to find out more and give their children a basic grounding in the faith.

Search ‘messy church Plymouth’ on the internet to find a church running one by you. If we want our children to have an appreciation of their own culture, why not find out more about Easter this March? Starting with the egg....

The Plymouth Shopper

17

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • • continued from page 16 Plymouth Magic Circle Every second Thursday We are a small friendly Magic Club who meets every second Thursday at The Walrus, Athenaeum Street, Plymouth from 7pm to 9pm. All budding magicians are welcome to join us.

For details call Ian Marley on 07979 655018.

Sports Relief mile returns

Make A Difference, Plymouth Fridays in term time Support group for parents or carers in Plymouth of children with disabilities or special additional needs either diagnosed or still going through the process. From 10am at Tamar View Community Resource Centre Barne Barton. Open to any parent or carer who can get to us. For further information please visit Make a Difference Plymouth on Facebook or call Kerry on 07599996389.

Prince Rock Dog Training Club Puppies to adult classes, obedience training, socialisation.

St Matthias Church Hall on Monday and Tuesday evenings, from 7.15pm. More details phone 01752 772411.

Line Dancing Tuesday Evenings.

All levels, from beginner to advanced. 99 per cent country music. Very friendly club. Pennycross Methodist Church Hall, Beauchamp Rd Peverell Tel: Kathy 07780 931456.

Plymouth Hockey Club Sundays Plymouth Hockey Club is the oldest junior club in the city and has recently achieved the highest award for organisation and safeguarding. The club is operated by parents for all children and young people. The club trains every Sunday between 10am - 12 noon at Manadon Astro, off St Peter’s Road. The club cater for young people from 4-16 years and no previous experience is required. The first 6 weeks are free to new members and everyone who trains gets to play. For more information, please see the website at www.plymouthhockeyclub.org.uk or contact Rob on 07861 250682.

Plymouth Clarion Choir (Male Voice) Tuesdays Rehearsals between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at Crownhill Methodist Church Hall. Seeking to fill vacancies in all sections. For details call Darell Jago on 01752 266434.

This year is the choir’s centenary.

Community Herb Clinic Tuesdays 1-3pm Onward House, Greenbank Road. Walk-in for free general health advice or phone for appointments. Herbal medicine can be used in the treatment of any medical condition in an effective, integrated (and affordable) way to suit you. Details Sara Hills 01752 872960 www.herbs-work. co.uk Off Key Singing Group Mondays For people who love to sing in the shower! Mondays 5.50pm to 6.50pm at Derriford Health & Leisure Centre, function room. Girl Guide Hut in Plympton 10.30am to 11.30am. Call 07770 683 314 for more info.

Jelly Tots Baby & Toddler Group Fridays 9.30am to 11 am at St Budeaux Baptist Church (during Term Time). £1.50 per Family www.stbudeauxbaptist.org.uk Dartmoor Rambling Club Exercise by walking and talking, with our club. Wednesday walks 8 to 10 miles by public transport. Weekend walks 8 to10 or 10 to 12 miles by car share or public transport.

Dartmoor, countryside, coast. eg. Fox Tor, Crow Tor, Bore Hill, Dewers Tor, Teignmouth, Cadover, Three Barrows.

Call Russell on 01752 266608 for more info.

Plymouth Writers Circle Tuesdays Do you have a problem with plotting or characterisation.

The Plymouth Writers Circle meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month from 7pm to 9pm at the Plymstock Community Centre (except in the summer holidays).

Singing for the Brain Thursdays A singing programme to enable people with dementia to express themselves through music. Carers are welcome, with refreshments provided. The sessions are also supported by volunteers. Meet every Thursday between 2pm and 4pm at Catherine Street Baptist Church PL1 2AD. Call Tracey Rousell at Plymouth Alzheimers Society on 01752 608900 or Paul King 01752 608909 South West Chamber Choir Wednesdays Marjon Chapel 7.30 to 9.30 pm. We are a friendly auditioned choir of 25 to 30 singers specialising in unaccompanied singing, with a programme of madrigals, partsongs and sacred works. We give four concerts annually as well as a weekend of sung services at a cathedral each July. A reasonable standard of sight-reading is needed to join. We welcome enquiries. www.swcchoir.org.uk Tai Chi Beginners Classes Various dates Established in Plymouth since 1995. A friendly group covering all aspects of Tai Chi training for health and well being. Tai Chi is a gentle way to exercise and build strength. For those more keen, it is a complete form of body and mind martial arts system from ancient China suitable for all ages 5 to 95! To get more information, please drop into the class held every 18 16

The Plymouth Shopper

Christianity and the place of the Jewish people and Israel today. We meet from 4pm to 5:30pm at Kinterbury House, Kinterbury St, Plymouth. For details see www.beit-ezra.org.il or email david@beit-ezra.org.il

The Filling Station, Yelverton Every fourth Friday Top up spiritually: we are not a church but an informal way of expressing the Christian faith at monthly meetings.

Everybody is welcome. Meet at Yelverton Golf Club Golf Links Rd, Yelverton at 7.30pm. For details visit www.thefillingstation. org.uk or contact Les and Di Wood 01822 854877.

The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile is back – and it’s coming to Plymouth’s Central Park. Plymouth is set to host its fifth Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday March 20, and needs local people to take part in this national campaign by entering now at www.sportrelief. com Setting off from the Life Centre participants will walk and run through Central Park. The eager milers will be doing their bit to make a difference to people living across the UK and the world’s poorest communities.

Deputy Leader of Plymouth City Council, Peter Smith, said: “The Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile in Plymouth is

here and it’s you’re chance to shine. From little ones with their mums and dads, to runners up against the clock this event is for people of all abilities.”

Sport Relief is back from Friday March 18 to Sunday March 20 and there are more ways than ever for people to take part, change lives and feel a sense of achievement.

Whether you get sponsored to enter an event at the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Games or fundraise with friends and family at home, work or school, you’ll help people living incredibly tough lives.

In fact, half of all the money raised by the public is spent right here at home in the UK, with the other half used to make a difference in the world’s poorest communities.

Tuesday 6.45pm at Mount Street Primary School, Greenbank, or any other class advertised on www.wutan-plymouth.co.uk.

Tel. 07949 839088

and support to attend please contact Lynn McKenzie (Harbour Drug and Alcohol Services) on 01752 434299 or email lynn.mckenzie1@nhs.net

Fitness and fun touch rugby Wednesdays Central Park Rugby Pitches 6.45pm-7.45pm OPM Rugby is the official Touch Rugby club for Plymouth. Come along and enjoy a great welcome. No rugby experience required.

Have fun, get fit and make new friends. More details phone Ernie on 07809 209571 or www.opmrugby.com.

Guitar Classes Guitar lessons for children aged from 6 - 12 years. Taught in small groups of 2 or 3. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 3.45 or 4.30pm Fridays at 4pm Saturdays between 9.30 - 4pm For more details Tel: 01752 216456. Classes held in the Woodford area.

Coffee Afternoon Thursdays Mainstone Community Centre hold a weekly coffee afternoon every Thursday at 2pm

Carers Support Group Last Tuesday of the month Are you a carer? Would you like somewhere to go for advice & info, to relax & unwind with other Carers? Come to our drop in session at St Budeaux Library 10am- 1pm on the last Tuesday of the month.

Regular events at the Crown Centre, Stonehouse Monday and Tuesday Basic Computer course 9.30am to 11.30am free; Tuesday Art for all: try out a new skill 10am to 12 noon Tuesday Coffee morning; Thursday morning Spreadsheets and other computer skills; Thursday 2.30pm to 4.30pm Brush up on English; Friday afternoon 1.30pm to 4pm Job Club; First Friday of the month 4.30pm to 6pm Messy Church.

Plymouth Squirrels Squirrels collect nuts. Sometimes these get out of control.

We collect things and have the same problem. Do you?

Perhaps we can help. We meet at 7pm at Pilgrim Church, St Levans Road. Easy Parking. Details 07752 351234 Soundhouse Brass and Soundhouse Youth Brass Academy Thursdays Want to play with one of the finest Brass Bands in Devon then why not come along and give us a try. We also have a thriving Youth Band for younger players which is supported

by Plymouth Youth Music Service. Both groups practice at The Soundhouse, Torbridge High School, Estover on Thursday evenings (Juniors 6p.m. to 7.30p.m. and Seniors 7.30-9.45p.m) Come along any evening, visit our website www.soundhousebrass.co.uk or ring Alan 01752844108 (Senior Band) or Garry 0744618977 (Youth Band) for further details.

Devonport Park Community Choir Mondays A friendly mixed group of singers meet in the Pavilion Cafe in Devonport Park every Monday evening from 6-7.30pm.

Cost is £3 per session. No previous experience necessary.

For more details telephone 318087.

Harbour Centre Recovery Café Fridays Female-focused social group for those in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Tea, coffee, regular activities promoting independence, empowerment and positive social/support networks in recovery. Child-friendly.11am-2pm at Unit 2, 1st Floor, Hyde Park House, Mutley Plain. For more information

Badminton Club Fridays Non league club meets on Friday evenings at Whiteford Road, Plymouth. Players wanted, of any age over 18. For further details contact rcbeasley@btinternet.com Watercolour Art Sessions for Adults Thursdays Beginner and experienced artists welcome. Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre Thursdays 10am to 12 noon.

The Burrator Inn, Dousland, nr Yelverton Tuesdays 10am to 12 noon. Easy car parking at both venues. For more information call Janet: Mobile: 07742 983311 Plymouth School of Aikido Non-profit well-respected community based Martial Arts club founded over 35 years ago. Classes at Woodview Learning Campus (off Lancaster Gardens, Whitleigh) on Mondays and Coombe Dean School, Elburton, Plymstock on Fridays. Times: 7- 8pm Juniors, 7-9pm Adults. Aikido is a Japanese Martial Art suitable for both Men and Women learning and working together. Enjoyable interesting, useful, physical, family-friendly activity with Child Safeguarded/ DBS Nationally qualified Instructors leading to recognised gradings appropriate for students of all ages 7yrs to 70yrs.

Fees with concessions; excellent value. Quality equipment including clothing available for purchase at non-profit prices.

Checkout www.plymouthaikido.co.uk or Facebook Page.

Contact Tre or David Worsley 403325, or Phil Smith 219355 for more information.

CoGS Kids Club Wednesdays in term time For primary age children at the Church Hall of The Good Shepherd, Marine Rd, Oreston at 3.30pm. Games, cookery. craft, stories, films. For details contact Steve on 213358 or Sue on 480568.

Beit Ezra Saturdays We are an informal group looking at the Jewish roots of

Stay & Play Toddler Group Wednesday mornings during term time St Mary’s Church Pre-School, St Mary’s Church Parish Centre, Market Road, Plympton. 9.15am to 11.15am. Group is run by friendly and experienced early years practitioners from St Mary’s Church pre-school that was given an overall Outstanding outcome by Ofsted (July 2011). New and expectant parents welcome. A one-off donation per week to cover costs of £1.50 per adults (children under 12 months) £2 per adult (children over 12 months). Includes refreshments. Telephone 01752 348525 Mobile No: 07527 734990.

Classique Dance Studios Based in Stoke we have classes available for all ages starting from three years old in ballet, jazz, musical theatre, cheer leading, and street dance. Classes run from Monday to Saturday. After February half term we are starting ‘A Day Of Dance’ every Saturday for children from 6 to10 years which includes musical theatre group, cheer leading, street dance, ballet and jazz classes from 10.30am-3.30pm.

Anyone interested in joining Classique Dance Studios or the new ‘Day Of Dance’ on Saturday’s please email classiquedancestudios2014@gmail.com www.classiquedance-studios.com Adult Children of Alcoholics Meetings Tuesdays 6pm – 7.15pm. St Barnabas Church, The Lounge (enter by separate entrance to left of surgery), St Barnabas Terrace, Pennycomequick, Plymouth PL1 5NN. Visit the website at www.adultchildrenofalcoholics.co.uk. National Phone 01590 610 936.

Penlee Local Art and Craft Group Wednesdays Meet at the Diggin It Meeting Room at Penlle from 12 noon until 2pm. All welcome. This is a group for all levels of artistic or craftworkers to make friends and socialise, exchange ideas and perhaps even organise local exhibitions. Small contribution to room hire needed depending on numbers. Please telephone Teresa if you are interested on 07955 476727.

Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group Second Thursday of the month The Plymouth Lymphoma Support Group aims to offer friendship and support to anyone who is affected by Lymphoma (Hodgkins or Non Hodgkins Disease), whether patient (past or present), carer, family member or friend, and meets on the second Thursday of each month at the Derriford Hospital Health and Leisure Centre from 3pm to 4.30 pm. For more information, please call Pam on 01752 785094 or Scott on 01752 661035 Singing 4 Fun Thursdays 2pm - 3.30pm We welcome new members. St Pauls Church, Torridge Way, Efford from 2pm to 3.30pm. For more details contact Janette 07854 850830 Plymouth Youth Cycling.

Various days Free coaching for 10-16 yr olds. Thursdays (mountain bikes) 5pm-6.30pm Life Centre and various locations across Plymouth; Wednesdays HMS Raleigh (road racing bikes).

We can teach you manuals and jumps and how to ride like the Tour de France winners. No fancy gear needed. Bike, helmet and a sense of adventure! For locations and times find us on Facebook.

Rainbow Singers Saturdays Come and join our happy band of rainbow singers sharing singing, fellowship and prayer. We meet at St Gabriel’s Church at 10.15 am most Saturdays. For more information please call 01752 262600 Organic Gardening course Thursdays

• continued on page 18

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Do you look after your customers, but want to attract more?

Buy with Confidence will: • Promote your business • Give your customers confidence • Provide you with help and advice • Want to know more?

Call 01752 304147

trading.standards@plymouth.gov.uk

AERIALS AND TV REPAIRS SIGNAL AERIALS - Freeview specialist • TV & Video tuning • Multi room distribution • Wall mounting • Sky repairs • 16 Agaton Road, St Budeaux, Plymouth PL5 2EW Tel 01752 361858 Mob 07816 668675

BUILDERS T.CLARKE BUILDING & ROOFING Roofing & building maintenance contractors all jobs done from a slipped slate to house renovation.

Trading standards approved.

Tel: 01752 267507 - Mob: 07967150441 terryclarke2009@hotmail.com

BETTER BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS

Home Improvements

• Bathroom Design & Planning • Kitchen Design & Planning • Installation Service • All Home Improvement Work Undertaken • Tiling • Electrics

Tel: 01752 218178 Mob: 07834 616594

D HEWLETT GENERAL BUILDERS • All general household maintenance work undertaken • • No job too small • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Plastering • • Carpentry & joinery • Guttering • Windows • Bricklaying • • Bedrooms • Facias • Driveways • Patios • Decking • Call Derek on 07967 233257 or 01752 777578

CARPENTERS ALLWOOD INSTALLATIONS Trading Standards approved company Bespoke joinery • doors • staicases • bars Box frame windows • counters • PCstations.

Kitchens Bedrooms Bathrooms.

All associated plumbing,electrical & tiling Tel 07704448835 01752348648 www.allwoodinstallations.co.uk

TS CARPENTRY Kitchens • Roofs • Refurbishment • Doors • Windows • Bedrooms • Staircases • Floors • Decking • New Builds • Bathrooms • Extensions 263 Bampfield Way, Plymouth PL6 6SZ Tel: 01752 212042 Mob: 07813 115891

CLEANING SERVICES MAJESTIC CLEANING - CARPETS, RUGS, UPHOLSTERY

• Professionally Trained & Insured • Furniture Moved with Fast Drying Times • Approved by Trading Standards & Woolsafe • Sourced via Age UK • Advanced NCCA Member • Call for a FREE Survey Office: 01752 242899 Mobile: 07725 998818

STEVE ELECTRICAL Fully qualified and insured electrician • Free estimates/no call-out fees • all electrical work considered • Over 20 years experience • Friendly, local, family run business • NICEIC cert • Rewires • Certification for minor or major work • Very competitive prices/ high quality work. Will beat all other reasonable quotes • Call Steve 07894 208842

R.C. Electrical - Domestic/Commercial Ryan Cross - Fully qualified ‘Approved Electrician’ • ELECSA Approved Contractor • Fully Insured • • Over 14 years experience • FREE quotes • Lower overheads = Better prices for customers

07813195943

www.rc-electrical.net

FLOORING

PAINTER AND DECORATOR Offering a High Quality and Reliable Service in all aspects of Decorating Inside and Out Also Home improvement and Plumbing Service Call Martin for a free Quote on 07730414365

ERB PAINTING & DECORATING

• Wallpapering • All aspects of decorating internal & external • Plastering • All general maintenance undertaken • Friendly & reliable Tel: 01752 559753 Mob: 07796 961036 email: ellis@erbpaintinganddecorating.co.uk

PLASTERING MJB PLASTERING

BWF Flooring

Specialist in Carpet • Vinyl Safety Flooring • Karndean 07966 421790 ben@bwf-flooring.co.uk www.bwf-flooring.co.uk

GARAGE DOOR SERVICES PLYMPTON & SOUTH HAMS GARAGE DOORS – Local family business; repairs and servicing, new garage door installations, remote electric operators for new and existing doors, electric gate automation, electric/manual roller shutters.

Free estimates and surveys. Tel 01752 348488 www.psgdoors.co.uk

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING

Oasis Landscapes Offering a wide range of services for all you garden needs. From patios and stone walling to tree surgery and hedge trimming we provide everything you need!

• Patios and Walls • Stone Walling • Hedge Cutting • • Teracing and Fencing • Gardens cleared • • Design Service • Tree Surgery • Decking • Tel : 01752 946 526 mobile: 07486 058 597 email: info@oasissouthwest.co.uk Website: oasissouthwest.co.uk

LOCK SMITH

• Internal & External • Reliable • Clean • High quality service at affordable prices Mat Bradley - Time served Tradesman Tel: 07716 728258 Home: 01752 211649 mjb-plastering@hotmail.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES

VAT FREE PLUMBER

OFFERING OAP’s 20% DISCOUNT UNTIL 2017 Local, friendly & reliable. 30+ years experience.

Numerous references on request. 24/7 service.

Free quotes and advice. No job has ever been too small.

Clive Gavin and Son Plumbing and Heating 01752 959236 - 07803 320 755 B Williams Plumbing and Heating Reliable plumber no job too small from tap washers to central heating systems. Free quotes gas safe registered. No call out charge, recommendations can be given. 07971572632 www.bw-plumbing.co.uk MIKE JARVIS PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES All plumbing, heating and gas work undertaken • Servicing, installation and repair • Gas Safe • • No job too small • 24 hour emergency call out • • Senior citizen discounts • Tel 01752 778440 Mob 07875136429 T.R.B Heating - Trevor Bryant Full Heating Systems • Boiler Exchanges • Fire and Fireplace Installations • Complete Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation • Former British Gas Heating Installer • Gas Safe Registered Special offer on servicing boilers £50* *T&C Apply

All Hours Locksmith - 24 hr Locksmith • Lockouts • Lock Changing/Fitting • Specialist UPVC Door & Window Repairs • Replacement Glass • Free Quotes 17 Ivydale Road, Mutley, Plymouth, PL4 7DE Tel 01752 777844 Mob 07989 599969

PAINTERS & DECORATORS A.S. DECORATING & MAINTENANCE Specialising in full room skims/decor • Maintenance • Repair • Plastering • Flooring • Tiling • Kitchen & Bathroom fitting 9 Hereford Road, Whitleigh, Ply. PL5 4HG Tel 01752 771457 Mob 07966 639129 Email: a.sdecorating@hotmail.co.uk

0790 6706 799 www.trbheating.co.uk trbheating@live.co.uk

MOORHEAT

PLUMBING AND HEATING SOLUTIONS Boiler Upgrades & Repairs • Heating Installation Boiler Servicing £45 incl. VAT • Landlord Safety Certificates • No Call Out Charge Tel 01752 705042 Mob 07768 231106 Web www.moorheat.co.uk PINK PLUMBERS Fast, Friendly, Reliable and tidy service by your local FEMALE plumber.

Specialist in small to medium jobs (NO VAT) 01752 412070 07540 956436

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Gas Safe Registered • Boiler Changes • Central Heating Systems • All Plumbing Work • All Work Guaranteed Recommended and accredited installer of Ideal, Worcester and Vokera Boilers

Tel 01752 203354 Mob 07968 949558 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE For all you property maintenance needs and home improvements. Over 30 years experience. We offer honest advice and high standards of workmanship.

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Tel 01752 250801 Mob 07891 909846 email hydeparkelectrical@yahoo.co.uk

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New roofs • Repairs • General Building work • Fascias • Guttering • All work guaranteed Competitive rates • FMB Award Winner

Tel 01752 364 466 Mob 07767 835879

pnjohnson@hotmail.co.uk www.pauljohnsonroofingplymouth.co.uk

LES PIKE • Emergency roof repair specialist • Concrete tiles • Natural slate • Lead valleys • Flashings All building & construction work undertaken.

45 Years experience in the building industry.

Tel: 01752 787708 Mob: 07977949898

DEVONSHIRE ROOFING SERVICES

All aspects of roofing work undertaken, from repairs and maintenance to full restoration and new build projects.

Pitched or flat roofs • GRP (fibreglass) •lead-work • uPVC Fascias & guttering • Roof-lights A fast & friendly service. Competitive rates.

Call or email Neil for a free estimate 07543363225 • 01752216765 • devonshireroofing@live.co.uk

WASTE REMOVAL KSR Licensed Disposal REMOVAL OF WASTE Cheap rates for OAPs, Scrap Metal Cleared For a FREE Estimate, CALL Kevin: 07810 450940 WINDOWS & DOORS RESOLVE PVC Door & Window Repairs

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19

their families get it throughout all of their lives as a result of these charities. But fundraising isn’t always easy, especially when things aren’t in the news. A lot of damage has been done and we have to keep the fundraising momentum going so that the charities can continue to help everyone that needs support.”

Plymouth-based Baz sets £10,000 fundraising target

Royal Marine targets South West Coast Path record in Solo 630

“I’m preparing well. I’m running every day, with one long run each weekend. I’ll increase that long run between now and the start, with a maximum of 40 miles in a day in my training. Once the challenge starts, I’ll need to take care of my nutrition, strength and my pace.

He’s one of only two men who’ve successfully re-enacted Shackleton’s heroic voyage from Elephant Island to South Georgia, and now Plymouth Royal Marine Baz Gray has set himself a gruelling new challenge that’s much closer to home.

“It’ll be a brisk walk for the most part, with some jogging downhills. I want people to come and join me, so I’ll be going at a pace that’s do-able for most people.”

Baz will have a support team during the challenge – and he’s hoping that YOU can be part of that too, by offering accommodation at each night stop and by joining him on the route. Route and stopover details are on the Solo 630 Facebook page.

Baz, the Regimental Sergeant Major at 30 Commando IX Gp RM in Stonehouse, aims to break the record for completing the 630-mile South West Coast Path by crossing the finish line in under 10 days – and you can play a part in the attempt by joining Baz on the route.

The existing record is 11 days and eight hours. The challenge – Solo 630 – is raising money for Royal Marines charities and increasing awareness about the armed forces charity The Baton, of which Baz is a trustee, and the charity that maintains the route, the South West Coast Path Association.

As well as his 10-day completion target, Baz has also set a fundraising target of £10,000 and a target of 1,000 members of the public to join him as he jogs and walks the route along the north coast of Somerset, Devon and

“I really want this to gather momentum before I start,” said Baz. “I’ll be out training with my kitbag on my back with the flags sticking out the top. So if you see me, give me a wave!

Cornwall and then the south coast of Cornwall, Devon and Dorset.

Baz is currently in training for Solo 630, which gets under way in Minehead at 10am on Monday April 25. He hopes to reach the end of the coast path in Poole, Dorset, some time before 10am on Thursday May 5.

It will be the last of Baz’s fundraising endurance challenges, as he leaves the Royal Marines later this

year after 26 years. Baz, who has had tours of duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo and Northern Ireland, says the support is needed now more than ever before: “The Royal Marines have been hit really hard in the past 1015 years,” he said. “I’ve lost a lot of friends and a lot of friends will need assistance for the rest of their lives.

“It’s my last big fundraising push and I know I can rely on the people of the South West to support the challenge.

I’ve done a lot of fundraising around the UK in the past 15 years and of all the places, I’ve always found the people of the South West to be the most supportive. They’re brilliant, always have been, they never fail to amaze me.”

“We’re a small organisation, a small family, and when anyone in that family wants assistance they and

Links: Donate at: www.justgiving.com/solo630 Follow Baz on social media: www.facebook.com/solo630

• REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • REGULAR EVENTS • Special Class - Yoga Fitness (Crownhill); Fridays 7.30pm We tend to have a speaker one week, and an activity • continued from page 16 New course started in May based at Keyham Green Project.

Thursdays 9-30am-3-30pm. The course will help teach learners about organic gardening and develop design skills in a beautiful green space in the heart of Keyham. Places are limited: please ring Sandie Morrison on 569340 to book your place email kgpcentre@hotmail.com or for more details about Permaculture email Tess Wilmot.eclipse.co.uk Broadway Organ Society Third Wednesday of the month Organ concerts held at Plymstock Community Centre, top of Broadway car park. Concerts start at 7.45pm. Everyone welcome.

Plymouth Musical Activities Club Thursdays A music group for young people aged 9-18 supported by volunteer staff members. At Pmac we teach flute, clarinet, drums, keyboards, singing and guitar. Meet every Thursday at Courtlands School in Eggbuckland from 7.15pm to 9.15pm. The charge is just £1 a week and people of all abilities are welcome. The group plays at lots of different venues and events throughout the year such as Devonport Playhouse, Lord Mayor’s day, Eden Project and many more.

If you are interested in joining please call our treasurer Angela fuller on 01752 773482 or check out the Pmac website www.plymouthmac.co.uk The Plymouth & District Egyptology Society First Saturday of the month We are a society of some 50 members whose passion is all things related to Ancient Egypt. Between the months of September of one year to May of the next, we meet on the first Saturday of each of those months, including Day Schools, and long weekend visits to UK and European cities to view Museum Egyptology Exhibitions, enjoying the local sights etc. The Society meets at the Swarthmore Centre on Mutley Plain. Timings 2 pm until 4.30 pm for a normal lecture. Contact Details: janis.naylor@aol.co.uk Exercise Classes Various days For over 60’s and less abled people. St Margaret Mary’s Roman Catholic Church Tuesdays 9.30am to 10.30am and 11am to 12 noon. Thursdays Life Centre 1.40pm-2.45pm.

New Extend Movement to Music classes for the less able Mondays at Miles Mitchell Village Hall 11am to 12 noon and Thursdays 2pm to 3pm at St Bartholmew’s Church Hall. Run

by Birgitta Whight. Contact 01752 408951.

Rainbow Group Tuesdays The group meets at Mount Gould Church from 4.45pm to 5.45pm for girls aged from five to six and a half. For more information contact 07913697767

for Athletes @ Taurus Gym (Mutley Plain); Saturdays 10am Special Class:Yoga Sculpt @ Merlin Fitness (Crownhill).

Contact Emily on 07478 257080 Sounds Musical Theatre Company Wednesdays Founded in 1911, we are a friendly, diverse group of people who love Musical Theatre and produce two shows a year. In March/April we perform our annual full musical production, with a musical revue in October. Rehearsals are every Wednesday 7.30pm to 9.30pm in Oreston Methodist Church Hall, Plymstock Road, Oreston. Visit www. soundsmusicaltheatrecompany.co.uk for more information.

Singing for the Brain Mondays The Alzheimer’s Society hold Singing for the Brain on every Monday, ( not on Bank Holidays ) at the William Venton Centre, 8 Memory Lane, Plymstock. Do you enjoy singing?

Why not go along and increase your well being with our singing for the brain programme specifically designed for those living with dementia. Carers are welcome too. Join them every Monday between 2pm and 3.30pm.

Beckly Centre Regular events at the Beckly Centre at Mayers Way, Hooe Road, Plymstock include: Mondays 7pm to 9.30pm adult social group with a variety of activities including crafts, life skills, cooking quizzes bingo and outings; Thursdays 7pm to 9pm youth group providing social activities in a small friendship mixed ages and ability groups for young people with additional needs; Saturdays and Sundays 10.30am to 3.30pm weekend activity groups for mixed age and ability groups of children and young people with special needs offering good range of social and group opportunities; school holidays weekdays 10.30am to 3.30pm holiday playscheme activity sessions for small friendship groups of children and young people with special needs. For details call 01752 484433 or 07780 662391.

Contact and Conversation Tuesdays Every Tuesday at 2pm at St Barnabas Church, next to the doctor’s surgery off Stuart Road. Contact, conversation, tea and cakes. Everyone welcome, free to all.

Plymouth Meet Up Group First Tuesday of the month A social group for people with disabilities. Meets at Igrow Workspace 25 Phoenix Street from 4pm to 7pm for a chat and games and a short walk to the nearby Mount Pleasant pub for a meal. £2 for members and £3 for non-members.

For more information call David on 017523 268777.

Sequence Dancing for All Saturdays St Gabriel’s Church Hall, Hyde Park Peverell, 7.30pm to 10pm. With tea and biscuits. Everyone welcome.

Ford Park Cemetery Gardening Club Third Sunday of the month The Club meets outside the Visitor Centre at 11.30am and is always looking for new members. If you have a few hours spare, why not go along and join them.

Yankee Yoga Various days All abilities yoga classes set to sweet tunes. Tuesdays 5pm @ The Art of Dance (Mutley Plain) 8pm @ Coombe Dean School; Plymstock/Elburton; Wednesdays 6pm @ Merlin

Plympton Moving On Stroke Club Alternate Wednesdays Meet at The Rise, George Lane, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 1JL 10.30am to 12.30pm. There is a small charge to cover the rent of the room, and for refreshments £2 per person.

20

The Plymouth Shopper

the next. Contacts Tony Stoneman 07834276371; Steve Sargent 07944691482; President Gloria Ward 01752 776978 and Chair Janine Capstack. Website www.pmosc. btck.co.uk Emmanuel Tea Break Fridays New members welcome to join our club for mainly over 60’s, meeting at Emmanuel Church Hall, Mannamead, on Fridays at 2pm. A varied programme of indoor activities and occasional trips out. For more details call Richard on 707894.

Sunday Sale Second Saturday of the month Book stall, games, refreshments and bric-a-brac sale, 2pm to 4pm Plymouth Unitarian Church, Notte Street, Plymouth.

All in aid of Alzheimer’s Society and CHICKS’.

Beavers, Cubs and Scouts Thursdays Tavy Lodge Scout Centre, off LissonGrove, Mutley. Contact 07527687804 or 9th21stplymouthscoutgroup@gmail. com 5-6pm Beavers; 6.15-7.30pm Cubs; 7.45 - 9.15pm Scouts. Open to young people from the ages of 6 to 14. Come along and join the winter adventures.

Reading Group Third Tuesday of the month Like reading? Like to share your views on books? We are a small friendly group who meet at Tothill Community Centre on the 3rd Tuesday of every month at 2pm for approximately 1 hour to discuss chosen books and swap other reading experiences. You would receive a very warm welcome to any new members. Please ring 01752 513197 for details.

Bumps & Babes Group Fridays Make new friends with other parents and parents-to-be.

A weekly group welcoming all parents, parents-to-be and carers held in Crownhill. Organised by NCT Plymouth and West Devon branch. Refreshments, chat and toys. £1 donation to the NCT Charity. More information Sally Hall 07702 738757 Community Coffee Morning Fridays 10am-12pm Enjoy delicious English and Romanian home made cakes, a great cup of tea or coffee, and of course, some good company. Everyone welcome. Ford Baptist Church, Alfred Road, Plymouth, PL2 1QB Self defence classes Small but wel-respected martial arts club. Classes most nights of the week at St Mary the Virgin Church, Federation Road, Laira. Classes for children and adults.

For details visit www.budosocietymusashi.co.uk or call 07742 834366.

Plymstock & District Art Society (PANDAS) Pandas is a small friendly group of amateur painters meeting for two hours (7.30-9.30pm) every Wednesday fortnight at the Radford Family Centre, Plymstock.

Members paint and draw in all media and enjoy

occasional demonstrations and models. We are not a teaching class but help each other and have programme of themed evenings. Each year our annual exhibition takes place in Plymstock Library. New members are always given a warm welcome so please contact the Secretary Colin (401018).

The Gingerbread Man by Neil Trigger and illustrated by Diana Mazuru “The Gingerbread Man started life on a shelf, As a project the farmer’s wife made for herself.” This is no ordinary tale of The Gingerbread Man. With quirky twists and beautiful illustrations, The Gingerbread Man is a new telling of a classic tale. Book available on Amazon.

Lets Work It Out! Mondays Weekly drop-in at the Efford Youth and Community Centre (Blandford Road PL3 6HU). Friendly help and support for all ages and abilities in a relaxed environment Mondays 2-5pm.

Basic computer skills, job searching and CV/application writing, voluntary/work placements and training courses, benefits advice and free tea and coffee! Starting March 14. To find out more call Becky on 07933916513 or email letsworkitout@mail.com RAF Association (Plymouth Branch) The association are hoping this year to increase the membership of RAFA, that means approaching ex-members of the RAF and serving members. If any of you know of friends or relations who may wish to join please get in touch.

Branch committee meetings will be held as usual on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Dates for 2016 are Mar 23, Apr 27, May 25, June 22, July 27, Aug 24, Sep 28, Oct 26, Nov 23, and Dec 14, to which old and new members are invited, should they have any problems or wish to join up. Meetings are held at Raffles Club, Ermington Terrace, Mutley Plain, Plymouth at 6.30 pm. The AGM this year will be on Wednesday March 2, same venue at 6.30pm all welcome. For further information please contact the branch secretary on 07722 338090 especially prospective new members.

South Devon Decorative & Fine Arts Society (SDDFAS) We are part of NADFAS, the National Association, and have over 250 members. We hold monthly evening lectures on a wide range of Arts topics, occasional morning lectures, Study Days, Tours, Visits and Concert visits.

We would be pleased to welcome some new members and introductory guest visits are available. Visit www. southdevondfas.org.uk for programme information and other details.

Plym Valley Branch of the British Sugarcraft Guild Third Monday of the month The group meets at at Norley Hall, 70-74 Plymstock Road, Plymstock. We are a friendly group of likeminded people of varying age and skill, from beginners to the very experienced. Forthcoming events March 21 Janet Pavey Cat-n-Hat (members £3 non members £5) Apr 18 TBC; May 16 AGm and flower demon by Yvonne Lamerton (£2/£4); June 20 Ann Pickard Bride & Groom (£4/£8); July 17 Carolyn Harvey Sunday workshop TBC; July 18 Carolyn Harvey Various sugarcraft techniques TBC. More information from secretary Ros Hawkins 408759

Double award for city tattoo studio The fight to stamp out illegal tattoo artists, sometimes known as ‘scratchers’ in Plymouth has taken another step forward.

Barbican based tattoo studio Dust n’ Bones has become the first in the city to be a member of both the Tattoo Hygiene Rating scheme and Trading Standards Buy with Confidence scheme.

The new rating scheme to drive up tattoo hygiene standards was launched in September last year and is a voluntary scheme that enables the public to choose a tattooist that meets high standards of hygiene. Similar to the food hygiene rating scheme, following a local authority inspection each tattoo studio is awarded a rating from one, which means needing improvement, to four, which means very good.

Councillor Philippa Davey, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities said: “This is the first tattoo studio to join the Buy with Confidence scheme. We only allow those with the top hygiene rating to be a member.

Membership is not given lightly and Dust n’ Bones are committed to being an outstanding business and to trade fairly as well as safely.

“We are really lucky in Plymouth that we have lots of hugely talented tattoo artists who are committed to providing the best possible service to their clients. They

are just as determined as we are to making sure people choose a professional registered tattoo studio to get inked.”

The rating system is based on good practice and goes beyond the legal requirements. The Council can remove the award should conditions in the premises fall below that necessary to maintain the rating.

Successful premises receive a Tattoo Hygiene Rating scheme certificate and a window sticker to display for members of the public to see and their details are available on the council’s website.

Owner of Dust n’ Bones Neil Pengilley said: “We are proud to be part of the scheme. We have some top tattooists in our studio who are very experienced and all take infection control very seriously. Being part of the Buy with Confidence Scheme helps our customers be reassured that we not only operate hygienically but we care about our customers and want to show that we have the relevant insurances in place.”

Councillor Davey continued: “It is very important to always use a registered tattooist. All of our registered tattooists have been audited to ensure they meet the required standards for infection control. Blood borne viruses are continuing to rise - in particular hepatitis B and C. It is essential that tattooists follow infection control procedures to protect their customers and themselves from spreading

Owner of Dust n’ Bones Neil Pengilley and Councillor Philippa Davey Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities

blood borne viruses and bacterial infections, which can lead to the person being scarred for life.”

Public protection officers have raided eight illegal tattooists homes in the 18 months and have found horrendous standards. The scratchers do not usually have a separate, clean room specially for tattooing and they tattoo people in their living room, bedroom or kitchen.

Disposable needles are often reused and officers have found baby bottle sterilisers being used to sterilise

Council acts on derelict eyesore in Widey Lane

Plymouth City Council have just launched a joint campaign, which warns that anyone who gets a tattoo under the age of 18 is breaking the law and could be putting their health at risk.

The campaign was developed with the support of the Plymouth Safeguarding Children Board, to encourage young people to wait until they are 18 before getting a tattoo and to never use unregistered tattooists.

It is hoped that the Council will be in ownership of the house by mid-May when it will then be able to sell it on at auction in the summer in order to find a new owner who will bring it back into use. The Plan for Empty Homes aims to bring 200 empty homes back into use.

It is part of a range of measures the Council is taking to tackle empty homes, which has seen 500 vacant and often derelict buildings back into use in Plymouth over the past five years.

One of the flagship projects was the conversion of the former Job Centre in Hoegate Street, Asa House, into 30 affordable flats. The building had been empty for ten years.

“As highlighted by Plymouth’s Fairness Commission report, empty homes are a wasted housing resource for the city and with 12,000 people on the housing waiting list we can’t afford not to be doing this.

If businesses are interested in joining the scheme or attending the training, please contact 01752 304741 or email public.protection@plymouth.gov.uk. or visit www. plymouth.gov.uk/thrs or www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

Think before you ink!

That’s the message to young people in Plymouth who may be thinking about getting a tattoo.

The Secretary of State has approved the Council’s application for a CPO on the house in Widey Lane which has been subject to vandalism and anti-social behaviour. The site was where the Council launched its Plan for Empty Homes last year.

“The Council is doing everything in its power, working with local housing providers and the National Empty Homes Agency, to make better use of vacant buildings, and over the past five years has helped bring almost 500 previously unused homes back into use.

If anyone is thinking of getting a tattoo wait until you are 18 and always use a registered tattooist listed on the council’s website at www.plymouth.gov.uk/tattooists

...meanwhile council urges youngsters in schools to ‘think before you ink’

Plymouth City Council has served a Compulsory Purchase Order on a house that has been a derelict eyesore for years.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “We are committed to tackling the blight of empty homes and we are pleased the Secretary of State has approved the CPO of Widey Lane, which has been a blot on the landscape for many years.

equipment, filthy settees used for the person to have the treatment, pets defecating on the equipment and needles and contaminated waste not being disposed of correctly.

Coun Penberthy outside the property in Widey Lane

Empty homes also blight neighbourhoods; attract vermin, fly-tipping and arsonists, and can reduce the value of properties nearby by up to 20 per cent.”

In addition to bringing 200 homes into use, other key actions in Plymouth’s Plan for Empty Homes include: • Develop redundant commercial premises working with local businesses • Proactively approach empty home owners and offer them an Empty Property Sales Service to save the cost of marketing their property for sale

• Enforcement action – owners who refuse offers of help may be subject to enforcement action via use of Compulsory Purchase Orders, Enforced Sale Orders and Empty Dwelling Management Orders • Offering a Lease and Repair service to help fund the renovation of empty properties, to bring them up to a letting standard and then lease from owners for an agreed period of time.

Since the launch of the Plan for Empty Homes in January 2015, 78 empty homes have been brought back to use by the intervention of the Council’s Housing Delivery Team.

Assistant head of sixth form at St John Hunt, Stuart Fort said: “The presentation was a huge success, with students coming away from the session with the knowledge and understanding of the dangers of illegal tattoos. A number of students know friends who have had tattoos before they are 18 and it is important that they fully understand the risks involved.

We hope that this campaign will raise awareness and encourage people to report unregistered tattooists.”

THINKING ABOUT GETTING A TATTOO?

Michael Hicks, owner of Spike at the Art, who is a member of the You must be 18 years old Use a registered tattooist Tattoo Hygiene and report illegal tattooists Rating Scheme, A tattoo is for life Get it right the first time! said: “We are Councillor Philippa For more information on very supportive registered tattooists Davey, Cabinet Visit www.plymouth.gov.uk/tattooists of this campaign.

Call 01752 304147 Member for Safer, Email public.protection@plymouth.gov.uk We get a lot of Stronger Communities young people said: “It is vital that in our studio that have been tattooed young people understand the law before they were 18 and want to cover regarding underage tattoos and the risks it up. Some tattoos are difficult to cover to health by approaching unregistered up and it is very upsetting to see the tattooists. A reputable and registered shocking tattoos that have been done by tattooist will know it’s illegal to tattoo unregistered tattooists, sometimes friends anyone under the age of 18. However, or family, with no experience. I would we know there are unregistered tattooists urge anyone wanting a tattoo to ensure operating who are breaking the law”. they spend time visiting tattoo studios to find the right tattoo artist for them and Public Protection officers will give design a tattoo that they will be happy presentations to all Year 12 and 13 with for the rest of their lives.” students across the city and explain • There are 33 registered tattoo studios it’s against the law to get a tattoo if in Plymouth – all listed at www.plymouth. you’re under the age of 18. They will gov.uk/tattooists also talk about the health risks of using • It is against the law to tattoo a person an unregistered tattooist, because the who is known to be under the age of 18. premises will not have been inspected • Parental consent cannot be accepted if or the equipment checked. It could lead the person is under the age of 18. to a serious infection, disease or being • If a person is tattooed and they are permanently scarred. under the age of 18 the tattoo artist Public Protection officers launched the could face having a criminal record and project to a group sixth form students at a fine and could be at risk of losing their Sir John Hunt Community Sports College. registration.

The Plymouth Shopper

21

Young people get on their bikes in the north of the city Young people in the north of the city are being given a helping hand to get on their bikes, thanks to Plymouth City Council’s Youth Services and local Neighbourhood Police Team.

A pilot bike maintenance and recycle project was launched in Southway last July to try and support young people in achieving healthy lifestyles and learn basic bike maintenance skills so that they could have access to cheap and affordable modes of transport

“The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”

Pictured from left to right: Owen and Aiden, young people from the Southway ramp forum project, Andy Lethbridge youth support worker, Councillor Sue McDonald, PCSO’s Carl Snell and John Little

Genesis 2:18

r ppe n Sho etitio mp for Co nner i W nuary Ja

Congratulations to Christine

Mathieson of Springfield Road

in Elburton who was the winner of our January competition.

She receives six months free

membership at Fort Stamford

neighbourhood team to engage with local kids. It was great at breaking down barriers with young people who helped on the initial work and now the maintenance of the BMX. All the kids want to have a ride on it and try to get some air! The joint work between the police and the youth service in Southway is growing and becoming stronger which this project is a good example of this.”

The first lot of bikes were donated to the Southway Ramp Forum project from M.B. Waste Removals, this was followed by donations from your workers, community members and the Police. The ramp forum gives young people a safe space to use their BMX’s, Scooters and Skate boards. During these sessions the young people could repair their own bikes with parts donated, or work on a bike to be donated to young people in the community.

15 year old Jack said: “The bike project is a good idea as it gets everyone involved, and working with the police has enabled us to form friendships of trust with the local police.”

Councillor Sue McDonald, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Public Health said: “Projects like these are a fantastic opportunity for our young people.

Not only do they have fun but it gives them a safe space to practice their hobbies. The brilliant thing about this particular project is it gave the young people the chance to give something back to their local community.”

Carl Snell, the local PCSO for the area said: “The creation of the Police BMX is an excellent way for the

Post your job vacancy here

Each month we offer local businesses, charities and other organisations the chance to advertise their positions totally FREE of charge. The Community Job Shop feature is only available to advertise part-time and voluntary posts and must contain no more than 50 words including contact details. Please note that all advertisements must be submitted with a full name and address for verification purposes.

SELF EMPLOYED HAIRDRESSER РFor two days a week - Thursday 9 - 5 and Saturday 9 - 4.

Shape Hair salon, Higher Compton. The telephone number to contact is 01752 771100 between 9-5pm.

HOME HELPERS/CLEANERS – Wanted for Plymouth and surrounding areas. DBS/CRB and own car preferable, good rates of pay. Call Louise or Naomi on 01752 319981.

BEAUTY THERAPIST – We are looking for an experienced, fully qualified beauty therapist to join our team.

Hours, pay & conditions will be discussed at interview.

Part or full time hours. Only fully qualified with at least five years beauty therapist experience are sought. Please call 07866447795. Confidentially guaranteed EXPERIENCED BARBER/HAIRDRESSER - Required to work in well established, busy city barbers shop on Mutley Plain. The successful applicant will be required to work on a self employed basis for five days a week to include some weekends. Please contact Gary on 01752 252447 if interested.

VOLUNTEER - Handy person needed by charitable disabled children’s group in Plymstock to generally help with maintenance of equipment, some decorating, gardening, minor repairs to premises One or two sessions per month to be mutually arranged, Bus fares covered and DBS check. Contact Beckly Centre on 01752 484433 VOLUNTEER - Plymouth Natural Health & Healing Centre is looking for a part time Volunteer Receptionist at the centre at Outland Road. No experience is necessary, training will be given, travel expenses will be paid. If you are

interested please contact the chairman on 01752210279.

DRIVER REQUIRED - Early morning weekend Driver required. Sorting and delivering papers and paper rounds drop off. 5 hours per day. Own vehicle required.

Would suit fit retired person. For more information contact Elburton News 403871 NATURE CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS - Required to help plant trees to create native woodland on and around Dartmoor. Moor Trees run a minibus every Sunday from Mutley Plain. Pick up point is opposite 89 Houndiscombe Road 9.45am on Sundays. No experience is needed and we provide tools, training, tea, coffee and cake. Please contact us on 0845 456 9803 or visit our website www.moortrees.org for more information.

HOUSEKEEPERS - Part time Housekeepers wanted at Bright & Beautiful Plymouth. Eco-friendly domestic cleaning company looking for cleaners with good references, a love of housekeeping and preferably a car.

Fully employed role, holiday pay. Must be available 9 to 5, between two and five days a week (Mon - Fri). Please call Lucy 07927 405428.

VOLUNTEERS -YMCA Plymouth requires volunteers for minor repair work, grounds work and coffee bar assistants.

If you feel you have the skills relating to these roles and can spare us some time please contact Vic Hibbert, HR Manager on 01752-761004 or e mail vic.h@ymcaplymouth.org.uk COMPANION - Companion help for young at heart lady to visit and occasionally take out (day or evening).

4 hours per week, £10 per hour. Flexible hours and must

be reliable (no ties). Genuine Replies and references. For more information call Anne 01752 783 694. Crownhill area.

VOLUNTEERS - Plymouth Environmental Action (PEA) carries out practical conservation throughout Devon and Cornwall during weekdays and weekends. Projects include tree-planting, hedge-laying, coppicing, dry-stone walling, wildlife pond creation, species surveys, and beach cleans to name a few! Get involved, gain skills and experience in countryside management and conservation! www.pea-volunteering.co.uk 07749 818160 VOLUNTEER GROUNDSPERSON Plymouth Cricket Club needs a Groundsperson to undertake four hours a week in summer to help us prepare our pitch.

Experience of preparing cricket wickets is not essential, training will be provided. DBS checks will be needed.

Please contact: Gareth Hart on 07786863206 or gareth@ iridescentideas.com Website: www.plymouthcricketclub. com.

you’re happy to work for. If you are mature, have good references and preferably a car and DBS (police check), we have lovely clients who will appreciate you. To earn £8 an hour please call Marc on 01752 395595.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – Memory Matters SW, dedicated to improving the lives of those living with dementia needs volunteers to support craft activities, games, making tea , socialising and generally helping members have fun. Plymouth Activity day clubs run on Mondays and Fridays 10-4.If you can spare some time please contact us on 01752 692264 or kate@ memorymatterssw.co.uk or visit www.memorymatterssw.co.uk TIMEBANKING - With timebanking you volunteer your time when and how you want. Do a small job for someone, earn time in the bank. Use that time to have something done for you or gift the credit to someone else. It’s safely sharing your time and talents locally:penny@timebanksw.org.uk 01752 395131 www.timebanksw.org

VOLUNTEERS - The Landmark Trust is looking to recruit volunteers to assist with ongoing conservation work at historic Crownhill Fort. If you enjoy gardening or DIY, and can commit one day a week we would love to hear from you.

Call 01752 793754 or email info@crownhillfort.co.uk

VOLUNTEER DOG LOVERS - Would you like to look after a dog for a week or two? Dog lovers wanted to care for nice dogs whilst owners are away. This is not a job but a very rewarding hobby contact Jennifer,Terry or Carolyn on 01752 769453

VOLUNTEER - Plymouth Natural health

DISTRIBUTORS WANTED – Cornerstone Vision, publishers of The Plymouth Shopper, are looking for new distributors, to help deliver leaflets across the city and surrounding area. Transport an advantage, own phone number essential. We are particualrly looking for people to help cover Efford, Ernesettle, Saltash, Ivybridge and Torpoint, although other areas maybe available. Please email Tim@cornerstonevision.com or call 225623

and Healing Centre is looking for a Volunteer Receptionist at the centre. No experience is necessary, training will be given, Travel expenses will be paid.

Contact Robert Parkins Chairman on 01752210279

CLEANERS FOR PRE-VETTED PRIVATE HOMES – You choose how many hours a week you want to work between 10 and 20 and who

Advertise your vacancy FREE in Job Shop

All local businesses, voluntary groups, and individuals organisations and groups are invited to post their job vacancies in our Community Job Shop feature. This must be for part-time and voluntary jobs only and should contain no more than 50 words, including contact details. All you have to do is send the details via e-mail to info@cornerstonevision.com Deadline for each issue is the 10th of the month prior. We are happy to publicise vacancies FREE for up to three months.

22

The Plymouth Shopper

Devonport is alive and kicking! qualification in events management already facilitates several creative groups and is open to suggestions for more.

By Karen Pilkington

The cafe is run by experienced chef Sarah to provide home cooked food using local produce and decent coffee Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9am.

It is interesting to note that most of the deprived areas of the city of Plymouth are situated outside of the remit of Business Improvement Developments and so may subsequently be lower on the radar for plans to increase outside investment as well as visitors to the city.

There is a free internet connection and special deals for school children, so a great alternative to teenagers wanting to meet after school.

The cafe also operates a suspended coffee and soup scheme, whereby a customer puts forward a small amount of money which enables someone else to purchase a drink without needing to pay – community support in a very practical way.

However many of these areas have outstanding natural beauty, heritage, and resources, not the least of which are the community champions within them and the local residents they represent.

Next to the George Street cafe and venue is another former shop front that the Partnership is looking to bring into full time use.

Devonport is an area that has undergone a transformation in recent years, and was in the top three nominations for the Great Neighbourhood Award 2015 organised by the Academy of Urbanism.

After winning the Good Neighbour category at the Pride of Plymouth Awards for use as a distribution centre for free goods for victims of the Clowance Street fire, the Partnership is organising a community consultation about how to put the space to best use.

However despite this success for Plymouth, few outside the area are fully aware of what a great place Devonport is to live in, work, or visit and more needs to be done to integrate the area into the wider economic and visitor offering for the city.

Many vulnerable people can find themselves in occasional periods of need, and the shop could become a permanent distribution hub for ordinary everyday items.

Other ideas and suggestions are being sought from the community, so the space can become a permanent solution for various local needs.

Gems like Mount Wise Park and Waterfront, the Scott Memorial, Devonport Column and Guildhall, and St Aubyns church and library deserve the appreciation of a wider audience One body, determined to work together for an even better neighbourhood for the benefit of those living inside and out, is the Devonport Community Partnership.

Clint Jones, the development manager of the Partnership is responsible for ensuring the good governance and board management for Devonport Community Land Trust, Devonport Community Leisure Ltd and the Devonport Neighbourhood Board.

Clint has been in post for almost two years now, and has been instrumental in achieving many benefits to build on the remarkable transformation of the area in a time of severe funding restraint.

Devonport Live has also reopened the cafe in Devonport Library where local artisan food and drink is available daily from 10am excluding Thursdays and Sundays.

Sarah and Katie Brown in the community cafe

Devonport Live is a series of projects which includes a community website and quarterly publication produced to enable anyone to access all the information about what is going on in the area.

Developed through partnerships with City College Plymouth and other local businesses and residents, it aims to showcase the talents and opportunities of and for its residents.

An exciting new venue has been refitted using the empty

property on 56 George Street on a shoe string budget.

This now provides a great working space for community groups, individuals and businesses who want to take advantage of its media facilities and in house catering for workshops, events, and parties of any shape or size.

It already hosts a yoga class, toddler group, cinema group and children’s birthday parties The venue also hosts a cafe, gallery and art space run

by Sarah and Katie Brown. Katie, who is studying for a

Premium filter coffee is served from beans roasted just down the road and preserves made in the Tamar Valley are on sale.

Customers can browse, borrow and buy books to their hearts’ content – both on and offline, in an atmosphere of serenity found in the best of book shop cafes.

So, whether you live in the area, or whether you would like to rediscover its gems, Devonport is worth a visit, online at www.devonportlive.com and in person.

PART TIME, SELF EMPLOYED JOB VACANCIES DISTRIBUTOR JOBS AVAILABLE LOOKING TO EARN SOME MONEY FOR THOSE EASTER EGGS YOU LOVE SO MUCH? PERHAPS SOME EXTRA MONEY TOWARDS THOSE FLOWERS YOU’RE TREATING MUM TO THIS MOTHER’S DAY? THEN EARN SOME £S WITH CORNERSTONE VISION!

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IF EITHER OF THESE JOBS INTEREST YOU CONTACT TIM on 01752 225623 or tim@cornerstonevision.com www.cornerstonevision.com @CornerstoneVis

Since 1985

Cornerstone Vison 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY The Plymouth Shopper

23

Seven editions reaching 63,750 homes

Aid sent from Plymouth to Syria A 40ft shipping container full of relief materials has left Plymouth for Syria.

The container arrived at Quickstore in Stonehouse to transport 20 pallets of essential aid to Syria. Founder of small charity Open Hearts Open Borders Faraday Fearnside and volunteers were there to fill the first container to be sent from Plymouth with the items collected over the last six weeks.

Plymouth folk to ‘Clean for the Queen’

A campaign to get a million people out and about cleaning up their communities is being backed

by Plymouth City Council.

Quickstore generously provided the charity free use of space to store the bulky items as they were collected.

With support from Quickstore’s staff at their premises in Stonehouse, 20 pallets of winter clothing, sleeping bags, essential baby items and male and female toiletries were loaded onto the container which will arrive in Syria in March.

Clean for The Queen aims to give the country a spruce up ahead of The Queen’s 90th birthday in April.

Generous donations on the Just Giving page raised £3275 which have covered the cost of transporting the container, plus a little extra to purchase much needed new equipment.

The council would like to know what people’s plans are so that they can help as much as possible; they can provide bin bags and pick up points will be ‘littered’ across the city for the rubbish to be picked up once it’s been collected.

The event runs from March 4 to 6 and the Council is looking for support for the campaign. From school or work or community events, to family and individual projects, there are many ways to support ‘Clean for the Queen’.

Faraday said: “It is easy to become ‘compassion fatigued’ at the immensity of the disaster facing ordinary Syrian people as they are being forced from their homes through four full years of civil war.

“However it’s the little gifts of generosity that have fuelled the local charity’s desire to keep on raising awareness and making a difference.

“People have been so warm-hearted, kind and very generous. So many have given their time, money, and donated items to this appeal,” said Faraday, “Items have been donated from Plymouth, Exeter, Cornwall, Taunton, Totnes, Modbury and even Leicestershire as local people have shared the appeal. The response has been amazing.”

She said that just 60p provides one foil blanket to help keep out the cold, £15 buys a new sleeping bag, and £5 can give brand new underwear and socks as well as dignity to a person who has lost home, employment, school and family members – all aspects of life that we

CHICKS Making Memories... ...Giving Hope

Syrian aid... In the foreground is organiser Faraday Fearnside and behind goods are volunteers Geoff Blake-Lobb, Kaleigh Hindley, Kevin McKenzie with son Alexander and Mo Bottomley

take for granted, but which have been taken away from these people through no fault of their own.

Contact Faraday on 07912294122 or e-mail to openheartsopenborders@outlook.com for details.

With the support of charity One Nation, Open Hearts Open Borders will continue sending relief aid across to Syria and Europe every few months. The information for the next container appeal will be posted on the Facebook group page in early March.

More information can be found at the Open Hearts, Open Borders – Refugee Aid Facebook group page.

Further fundraising and awareness events are also planned for the coming months. Details will continue to be posted on Facebook and Twitter.

Closer to home, the Red Cross are appealing for Welcome Boxes for refugees entering the city.

They can be contacted on 01752 831618 for advice on what items are most useful. Once again, it is the little things that can mean so much to families who have lost everything.

Volunteer & make a difference!

CHICKS provides free respite breaks for disadvantaged children in the UK. We need your help to keep providing our life changing breaks!

Councillor Brian Vincent, Cabinet Member for Streetscene said: “We are delighted to be supporting Clean for The Queen and we would encourage as many groups, individuals and organisations in Plymouth to take part.

People and organisations who want to put on an event should email caroline.fiske@plmouth.gov.uk

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The Plymouth Shopper is Delivered to over 63,750 homes in Plymouth with Seven local editions. It is published by Cornerstone Vision, 28 Old Park Road, Peverell, Plymouth PL3 4PY. We welcome your news, views, pictures, events and job vacancies, Call 01752 225623 or email info@cornerstonevision.com

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Did you know Cornerstone Vision also produces the Plymouth Magazine?

CHICKS, Brentor, Tavistock, PL19 0LX 01822 811020

You can view the Plymouth Magazine online @

www.cornerstonevision.com

Registed charity in England & Wales (1080953) volunteering.indd 24 Cornerstone Ad 162mm x 180mm The Plymouth 1Shopper

The campaign is backed by organisations including the Women’s Institute, the National Trust and the RSPB, as well as businesses including McDonald’s, Costa, Greggs, KFC and Wrigley. Also supporting the nationwide spring clean are anti-litter charities such as Keep Britain Tidy and the Campaign to Protect Rural England. Plymouth City Council will be encouraging and supporting groups and individuals across the city who want to ‘do their bit’ to help clear up litter and clean for our Queen.

17/02/2016 14:33:10