Food For Children Totnes CIC are at Morrisons again this Friday May 10 raising funds, awareness and donations of food stuffs for our Meal Kits for the Whitsun Half Term and also for the Summer holidays where they need to be able to provide meal kits for six weeks.
They now have two more schools onboard increasing the number of children they are helping in the area.
]]>There have been celebrations at Newton Ferrers CE Primary School which has just received its Ofsted inspection results.
The school was judged as being “good” overall but with “Outstanding Personal Development”
The report praises the school for preparing pupils exceptionally well for life in modern Britain along with an engaging curriculum and personal development opportunities.
Their vision is ‘Flourishing Together in God’s Love.’
]]>Devon National Landscape have been very busy lately.
As part of their Dittisham Plum project, to plant six new orchards, expert Charles Staniland visited the sites of the new plantings including a stunning location at East Cornworthy to identify the best location.
They will also take soil samples of the sites to ensure the best match.
]]>If you’re a classic boat owner, Dartmouth Sailing Week is planning a dedicated Classic Class to race in the 4-Day Series under JCH ratings.
If you are interested in taking part you can email: entries@dartmouthsailingweek.com
They need to know ASAP as they need sufficient entries to make this start viable.
Full details at www.dartmouthsailingweek.com
]]>Concerned residents have told Totnes Town Council there is suspected (although currently unconfirmed) Hemlock Water Dropwort growing at various waterside locations throughout Totnes. This includes near the accessible to all footpath at Longmarsh.
This common plant is considered one of the most poisonous in the UK.
Touching any part of the plant can cause a skin reaction and consuming any part of it can result in poisoning.
If you don't touch it, there is no danger.
It's advisable to keep yourself, dogs, and children, well away from this or any plant that you are not sure is safe.
Oenanthe crocata, is a flowering plant in the carrot family, native to Europe, North Africa and western Asia. It grows in damp grassland and wet woodland, often along river and stream banks.
Hemlock water-dropwort is a robust hairless perennial growing up to 150cm tall with hollow, cylindrical, grooved stems up to 3.5cm across.
The stems are often branched. The upper part of the roots include five or more pale yellow, fleshy tubers up to 6cm long, which exude a yellowish oily fluid when cut that stains the skin.
The lower leaves are 3–4 times triangular, with oval toothed leaflets 10–20mm long, that are basally tapered to the stalk.
The upper leaves are 1–2 triangular, with narrower lobes and a shorterleaf stalk.
It smells of parsley or celery.
South Hams District Council, which owns Longmarsh, has been informed and will arrange for an ecologist to assess the situation.
]]>It’s an enormous achievement for two amateur sailors from the South Hams.
Pippa Jephcott, 45, from Yelverton and William Ackerley, 22, from Thurlestone, have raced 5,500nm across the world’s largest ocean, the North Pacific, from Qingdao, China, to Seattle, USA, in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
Known to be one of the most inhospitable environments on earth, the North Pacific leg of the global race is known as ‘The Big One’. It earns this title due to the extreme weather, which includes freezing temperatures and high waves, but also because it is the most remote ocean crossing on the Clipper Race circuit.
It is devoid of land mass and at certain points, the closest other humans are astronauts on the International Space Station.
For Pippa, who’s day job is Head of Learning and Organisational Development, the arrival in Seattle marks the end of her Clipper Race, having joined in Fremantle, Australia, and competed in Legs 4, 5 and 6 of the global circuit, she said: “I joined the Clipper Race with an ambition to cross an ocean, so the Pacific leg was really the culmination of my journey
For William, who is completing the entire circumnavigation with the teamQingdao, the arrival in Seattle was made extra special as the team battled to clinch second place.
Will is now three quarters of the way around the world. He said “It feels pretty nice, and like we are on the downhill stretch home, but it has been an insane journey.”
]]>Calling an ambulance when you or a loved one is in a serious emergency can be hugely distressing. But to call that ambulance not knowing whether it will arrive in time makes the anguish far worse.
If people cannot rely on that happening, then it’s a sure sign that our healthcare system is failing badly.
The Liberal Democrats looked into ambulance response times to find out exactly what is going on and the results from a FOI request showed that Devon & Cornwall is the worst performing area of England.
The NHS has a target of seven minutes for a Category 1 call out (life threatening, needing resuscitation) and 18 minutes for Category 2 (eg. stroke or chest pain).
The FOI data shows that patients in South Hams have the third longest wait in England for a Cat 1 call-out, waiting on average 14 minutes 44 seconds - more than twice the NHS target time. For a Cat 2 call-out the average wait is 58 minutes - and that wait has doubled since 2019.
Cornwall was the worst-performing region overall, with an average wait of 1 hour 41 minutes for Cat 2 — almost six times longer than it should take.
It’s clear the ambulance service is really struggling in the South West - this region saw seven out of ten of the worst response times in the country. As well as clearly needed investment in the ambulance service, this is a very clear sign that we absolutely must get to grips with Social Care and Mental Health services - so people who are well enough to leave hospital can do so.
Unless we free up those beds in hospitals, we will continue to see ambulances waiting in queues outside, treating vulnerable patients by the road, often in freezing conditions. It is an absolute disgrace in a developed country like ours and I’m deeply disappointed that Conservative MPs in Devon and Cornwall have not done more to help relieve this crisis.
This Conservative government has overseen the complete decimation of local NHS services. The health service has faced unforgivable neglect and it is patients who are bearing the brunt.
The Government says funding in the NHS is at record levels, however the Health Foundation concluded that the planned NHS England budget will have decreased by an average of 1.6% per year in real terms between 2022/23 and 2024/25, when adjusted for population size and ageing.
“We absolutely must question the priorities of this Conservative Government. Over half a billion pounds is being squandered on the Rwanda scheme, with few people having any faith in it working. Even worse is the £125 billion that has been wasted since 2019, on botched or cancelled projects, and wasteful spending. (Details at Best for Britain, Scandalous Spending).
Imagine the NHS we could have with even a fraction of that money being spent wisely by a responsible government? That’s what Liberal Democrats are fighting for and what I am committed to.
]]>A dream job has been advertised for someone who loves the great South Hams outdoors.
South Devon National Landscape is looking for a Community Officer.
It’s described as an: “Opportunity to work in one of the UK’s finest coastal landscapes - it is highly designated and includes Special Areas of Conservation, National Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and forms and important part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, South Devon Heritage Coats and South West Coast Path National Trail.”
In recognition of its special qualities, South Devon National Landscape was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1960.
It’s one of 46 National Landscapes in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and these protected landscapes are managed through partnerships on behalf of the nation.
To find out more, including how to apply, go to southdevon-nl.org.uk/jobs-and-opportunities
]]>With its 80th anniversary having just passed on March 24, Laurence Green will be giving an illustrated talk called ‘My Grandfather’s part in The Great Escape’
It will cover both The Great Escape of March 24 1944 and the Long March to escape the Russian ‘liberation’ in January 1945 to honour the 50 Allied airmen murdered by the Gestapo.
The Great Escape was amass escape from the German prisoner-of-war camp Stalag Luft III which in full in German is Stammlager Luft III, literally "Main Camp III.
It was the basis of The Great Escape, a book by Paul Brickhill describing the escape andThe Great Escape, a 1963 film based on the book.
Admission is by donation with the money raised going to St David’s Church and Stalag Luft 3 Museum at Zagan in Poland.
The talk is taking place at 7.30pm at Ashprington Village Hall on Monday May 13.
]]>To celebrate National Gardening Week which continues until Sunday (May 12), Dartmouth Town Council wants to highlight its green spaces including the Community Orchard.
This haven is only a short walk from Dartmouth Town Centre, a 3.5 acre space that is a beautiful place for picnics, walking the dog or just a quiet moment.
You can even pick some of the apples from the trees when the season is right, although they encourage people to always leave enough for others as well.
At the moment the blossom is out on the apple trees and the wild flowers are in full bloom.
The theme for National Gardening Week in 2024 is ‘Knowledge is Flower.’ All week, experts at the RHS are on hand myth-busting, debunking and demystifying the wonderful world of gardening.
From how to avoid common pitfalls with your plants, to dig or not to dig, fertilise or not fertilise and whether vinegar makes good weedkiller.
]]>The emergency services were called out after a yacht ran aground near Dartmouth Castle.
The incident happened just before 11am on Thursday, May 2.
The seven-metre vessel had just set sail from the harbour en route to Shoreham-by-Sea when it suffered a gear failure. The skipper, who was the only person on board, was unable to maintain control and the yacht collided with rocks soon afterwards.
The local harbourmaster and a lifeboat from Dart RNLI attended the scene to aid the vessel.
Dart harbour master Paul Britton told us it was a minor incident, adding that no-one was injured.
“We had our boat very close by and immediately turned the yacht clear,” he said.
Although the vessel was not damaged in the collision it was unable to continue its journey and had to return to the harbour.
]]>A former pupil of Ivybridge Community College, now a student at Cambridge University, returned to talk with current Sixth Form students about life at Oxbridge.
Thomas Chapman explained what it was like to study there and gave a frank account of the challenges involved, including high workloads and having classes on a Saturday.
Thomas also explained the application process, including the ‘Pooling’ system, giving students an opportunity to study at a different college should they be unsuccessful in securing a place at their preferred choice, the flexibility around course studies, and the opportunity to be awarded a Masters.
He also outlined the amazing facilities that the University offered including their 140 libraries and access to eight million books (every book that has been published since 1920)
The Cambridge University Library was designed by Giles Gilbert the same man who designed the classic red telephone box.
For those looking to complement their hard work and studies with a social life, Thomas also mentioned that there were nearly 1000 student-run clubs and societies with the opportunity to start your own if you cannot find one in line with your interests.
He also mentioned the 93% Club (a special society made up of students from a state education background) as well as the Cambridge Union, which has hosted speakers ranging from Margaret Thatcher through Michael van Gerwen, to Bill Gates.
Despite the high workload, Thomas acknowledged the privilege of having the opportunity to study at Cambridge and walk in the footsteps of some amazing people who have contributed to wider society.
Giving their thoughts as to the benefits of studying at Cambridge, he also quoted the views of students who said amongst other things, ‘living independently, but with plenty of support’ and ‘being around like minded people’ even if he got annoyed by some who say that one of the Colleges ‘looks like Hogwarts’
Cambridge is a “collegiate” university made up of academic faculties and departments along with 31 colleges.
Trinity is one of the largest and wealthiest college.
Peterhouse is the oldest founded in 1284 and Robinson the newest opened in 1981.
]]>An exclusive residential development in Chillington, by independent property developer, Acorn Property Group, will see its official launch take place this Summer.
There had previously been concerns over drainage to the site which have since been overcome.
Located just off Green Park Way, the first phase of the development by Acorn Property Group is for a contemporary collection of seventeen three- to four-bedroom houses, nestled in the serene landscape of the Devon countryside and will boast uninterrupted views of its rural rolling hills.
Energy-efficiency measures planned for the houses will provide an EPC Rating of A, the most efficient level within the energy rating system. Modern green initiatives planned for every house will include air source heat pumps to generate heating and hot water, high performance triple glazed windows to prevent heating loss, integrated solar panels, underfloor heating to ground floor and all homes prewired for EV charging.
Enhanced biodiversity is also in the plans, with the creation of special ecological corridors – these include external lighting designed to minimise light pollution to ensure that existing bat foraging routes remain dark.
Commenting on the new development, Ed Lewis, Regional Managing Director Acorn’s Exeter region, said: “We are delighted to be able to develop this new collection of bespoke houses in the idyllic village of Chillington.
“Our plan is to deliver stylish modern homes for those looking to access coastal and rural living. Every house is designed to be low-maintenance and will benefit from a number of energy-efficiency measures including modern heating systems that generate heat through renewable sources.
The development is also conveniently located to local amenities, including local shops and cafes, with beautiful coastline and the outstanding scenic views of Devon’s rural rolling hills right on the doorstep - offering the best of both worlds. “
In 2020 nine members of the South Hams Development Management Committee voted in favour of refusing the application over worries about there not being adequate drainage for the development but the matters have since been resolved and planning permission was granted.
The concerns revolved around the area being prone to flooding and there were also questions about the size of the affordable housing units.
]]>An Ivybridge modern pentathlete aiming for Olympic glory is among those the Army pays to pursue a full-time sporting career.
Second Lieutenant Kerenza Bryson hopes to represent Team GB at next year’s Paris Olympics.
Kerenza, known as Kay, a Reservist with Plymouth-based 265 Port (Devon) Squadron, 165 Port and Maritime, Royal Logistic Corps, won women’s individual gold at the Modern Pentathlon World Cup in Sofia, Bulgaria in May before competing in the World Modern Pentathlon Championships in Bath this summer.
She says her dreams are massively boosted by the Army’s programme for elite athletes.
The 25-year-old said: “I want to thank my unit for their constant support and commitment to my Olympic dream. I am also extremely grateful for the Army Sports Control Board who have encouraged me since I started in the University Officer Training Corps (UOTC).
“The support I have received through the Army has really contributed to my performances so far this year and will make all the difference next year leading into the games.”
Formerly a student at the University of Plymouth Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, she joined the Army Reserve for last two years of her studies and graduated as a doctor after six years.
She is now taking a year out of medicine to train full time for the Paris Olympics.
Her day-to-day role, as a troop commander consists of Maritime Surveillance, career development and a new social media officer role. She also deals with any pastoral issues that may arise.
She says: “I don’t have time for much outside of Modern Pentathlon, the Army and medicine but I have paused my medical career for a period, so am hoping to find time for some of my smaller hobbies such as painting and reading.
“Also managing soldiers’ reserve careers is challenging and very individual. Making sure I know all my soldiers and can communicate well with them has been important.
“I have become better at public speaking and leading since working in the Army and have been able to apply the skills I have learnt to other areas of my life.”
]]>Dartmouth Yacht Club hosted a quiz night in aid of Dart RNLI Lifeboat and to raise funds for the new station.
It raised £609.25, and the orgsanisers would like to thank Bushell's Riverside and St Austell Brewery for their food and prize donations.Wendy Beard, DYC club manager, said: “We are absolutely delighted to help Dart RNLI Lifeboat.
”We love the work you do and being supportive. It's good for the station and a great fit for DYC."John Butler, acting chair of Dart RNLI fundraising, added: “It really was a tremendous night and we are very grateful for all the hard work put in by DYC, Bushell's and St Austell."Our appeal for our new lifeboat station is well under way and local businesses and clubs are stepping up to the plate to help us raise the £1.2 million we need to build and fit it out."
]]>Dart RNLI Lifeboat volunteers cut the ribbon for the grand opening of Dartmouth's newest retail arrival
Local Operations Manager Michael Bryant-Mole performed the honour, flanked by crew volunteers Tatty Pettigrew and Stuart Millard, and shore crew volunteer Mark Strudwick, with some of the Flapjackery team.
Flapjackery has generously offered to donate part of their takings to help the fund for the new Dart RNLI Lifeboat station, where work will start shortly on the site of the original building.
Flapjackery is a South-West company and opens next to Dartmouth's Boat Float following the success of its pop-up last summer.
Co-founder Carol Myott said: “We’re thrilled to be opening in Dartmouth.
“We had a pop up here last summer, and as soon as a permanent base became available, we knew it was the right place for us.
“We’re also so pleased to be supporting the Dart Lifeboat Station and its appeal to raise funds for its new station.
'Operations manager Michael added: “We are always grateful for the support of local business, and welcome Flapjackery to Dartmouth.
“Every penny raised will go towards the new station, and helping our volunteers to save lives at sea.”
The current Dart Lifeboat station is at Coronation Park on North Embankment in the town.
It was originally established in 1878 and reopened in 2007 after being closed for 111 years.
They currently a B class and a D class inshore lifeboat.
You can contact them on 01803 839224.
They also have a shop at 9 South Embankment (Ground Floor).
]]>A town has reflected on its newest community initiativeaimed at encouragingshoppers and visitors to return after weeks of roadworks caused disruptions earlier in the year.
Following five weeks of sewage works in Modbury, the Parish Council, along withtheTradersgroup,decided to roll up their sleeves and offer some much-needed TLC to the town.
The Marvelous Makeover initiative, which took place at the end of April, invited residents, councillors, and local clubs to tackle numerous tasks to tidy up the town.
Modbury Parish Councillor Sarah Wyatt said:"We had cubs, residents, and Parish Councillors all pitching in together—tackling tasks from weeding and litter picking to sweeping, cleaning, planting, and flag installation."
Modbury,as a town, is no stranger to coming up with innovative ways to engage its community and visitors.
In the past, they have introduced new branding called Love Modbury— a scheme encouraging people to Eat, Shop, and Explore the town.
In 2022, they held a rooster ramble where 15 painted co*ckerels (the Modbury Emblem) were situated around the town for people to find, taking them on a history walk and a nature trail.
Modbury was also theworld'sfirst plastic bag-free zone after a successful six-month trial in April 2007.
The town has also found TV fame, featuring multiple times on the Channel 4 Documentary television show Time Team. Cllr Wyatt added:"Thank you to all those who volunteered, cleared their paths and pavements, and helped withModbury’sMarvellous Makeover."
]]>The South Hams-based Leader of Devon County Council Cllr John Hart is standing down in that role but has been nominated for another..
Cllr Hart represents Bickleigh and Wembury has been nominated to be Chairman of the Council subject to confirmation.
It is a largely ceremonial role and he would retain his constituency duties.
The most public-facing part of the chairman role is attending civic and ceremonial functions, and promoting public involvement in the council’s activities.The chairman is also responsible for chairing full council meetings, and has the power to call extraordinary meetings.
He would replace Cllr Percy Prowse
He told the full council meeting: “This is the last time I address the council as leader.
“I have done 15 years and I have a wife who would like to see me more frequently.”
He went on to say he was leaving as age was catching up with him and it was time to pass the leadership on to someone younger.
Cllr Hart had led the Conservatives since 2007.
The meeting was devolution whereby Devon and Torbay would join together to create a Combined County Authority (CCA) which was something the Leader described as his “final act”.
“In my 15 years, we’ve gone through recession, covid, the post-covid period, and now we are in a position to change Devon [County Council] for the first time in its life, and I hope you consider voting for [devolution],” he said. Cllr Hart added that he believed the creation of a CCA would give Devon a louder voice with the government and civil servants, potentially leading to it securing more funding and more responsibility as time went on.
“I think it is good for Devon, and have always said that it is something we need as we have to be closer to the action, closer to what’s going on,” he said. He added he expected central government to be “spreading the load” to councils, noting that more than 60 per cent of people were now living in local authorities that had devolution deals with central government.
Labour, the Liberal Democrats and Independents all raised concerns.
]]>The Dartmoor National Park Authority had an unusual postal delivery last week when more than 10,000 postcards were handed in at the Haytor National Park Visitor Centre by a person in a fox costume.
The good natured stunt was part of a campaign by the animal welfare charity League Against Cruel Sports, intended to highlight the practice of trail hunting, a legal activity the charity claims is being used as a cover for fox hunting.
Although fox hunting has been banned in England and Wales since 2005, the activity has effectively been replaced by trail hunts, which involve the laying of a scent trail for dogs to follow without having to kill a fox.
However, trail hunts have come under fire from animal rights campaigners who claim they are a smokescreen for actual hunts - the postcards, which were signed by the public, stated that trail hunting “is a myth invented by the hunts so they can carry on hunting foxes”.
According to a January report by the Protect the Wild association, 46 per cent of registered ‘trail hunts’ were caught chasing or killing foxes in the 2022-2023 season, adding that hunting practices were exploiting loopholes in legislation.
The League said it had also compiled reports showing “hundreds of eyewitness sightings of suspected illegal fox hunting every year”, some of which take place in national parks.
According to the League, Dartmoor and Exmoor, along with the Peak District, are the last three national park authorities in England and Wales which still allow trail hunts on their land.
John Petrie, the League’s senior campaigns manager, said: “It’s time for change and for Dartmoor and Exmoor national park authorities to protect wildlife and preserve nature by banning fox and trail hunting on their land.
“We need fox hunting laws to be strengthened by the next government so that fox hunts can no longer chase and kill animals, something sadly going on despite the fox hunting ban.
“In the meantime, national parks and landowners need to deny the hunts access to their land so that the cruel and senseless killing of foxes is ended once and for all.”
Chief Supt Matt Longman, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead on fox hunting and the most senior officer in England with responsibility for fox hunting crime, last year described trail hunts as a “smokescreen” for the banned activity, adding that the Hunting Act “is not working effectively”.
He said the Act had posed “a significant challenge for policing” because it meant police officers were often “caught in the middle” between those who oppose hunting and those who support it.
Last year, about 100 vets wrote to ministers warning that a scientific review was needed on fox numbers amid concerns that red foxes could be disappearing in some rural areas since the ban was introduced.
According to the vets, this is because landowners have been resorting to shooting some of the fittest animals and vixens with cubs, “contrary to good conservation practice”.
]]>Devon County Council recently granted permitted development for the new Totnes Skatepark.
The Crowdfunder campaign goes live on May 6, with a target of raising £40,000.
The new park will be a welcome addition to the town, giving a much-needed boost to the provision of youth facilities and improving an under-valued area of Borough Park for current and future generations.
Chairperson of the Totnes Skatepark Community Group Tracey Swan said: “We have been waiting many years for this exciting new development. My son, Max Hamilton, was on the development committee that was created over seven years ago.
“When he lost his life in a skateboarding accident in Plymouth in 2019, I continued his legacy and promised to keep skateboarders safe.
“SKATEtotheMAX CIC promotes skateboard safety, which includes our skateparks.”
Tracey continued: “My family and I are thrilled that a memorial will be built in Max’s honour at this park. We appreciate any help to raise funds to complete this long overdue community project.”
The park will be developed by Maverick Skateparks, which have developed parks throughout the UK. The Crowdfunder page provides images and a 3D animation of the proposed park design.
Maverick Skateparks have built a number of other skateparks in Devon.
Simon French – Vice-Chair of the Totnes Skatepark Community Group – said: “Providing an up-to-date facility for wheeled sports for the town will make an enormous difference to families in the area.
“The space will allow people to learn in a safe environment and develop their skills in their town, rather than travelling miles by car or on public transport to reach a skatepark. This will also save time and money for families, giving a free facility to rival anything in the area.”
To read more and donate to this project, you can visit: https://crowdfunder.co.uk/p/totnes-skatepark
Alongside donations to the Crowdfunder campaign, if you would like to get involved or are a business and would like to donate rewards that can be given out through the Crowdfunder, contact Simon French by email: totnesskatepark@gmail.com
]]>Work to repair the damage to the Ivybridge war memorial should start this month - and be complete in time for the D-Day anniversary in June.
We understand from the Chairman of the town’s Royal British Legion, Dermot Roberts and Cllr Victor Abbott that work in Fore Street should begin on May 15.
It is hoped it will be completed in time for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings on June 6.
The D-Day commemorations are especially important in the South Hams given the doomed Operation Tiger rehearsals centred on Slapton.
There were fears that the work wouldn’t be completed until just before the November remembrance events.
The War Memorial was first built in 1922 in memory of local people who died in the First World War.
It was damaged by an articulated lorry in January.
The Ivybridge Branch meetings of the Royal British Legion normally take place on the first Wednesday of the month at the Constitutional Club.
]]>It’s a small community with a big plan.
Halwell and Morleigh - between Dartmouth, Kingsbridge and Totnes - would like to offer something for the younger generation in the parish, and further afield, from young tots on scooters to teenagers on mountain bikes so have begun fundraising for a Pump Track.
A pump track is a continuous loop of banked turns, rollers & jumps for cyclists.
It’s designed and built in such a way that it enables users of all ability to circulate the track without the use of pedalling.
On their Crowdfunding page they explain:
“Like many small communities the effects of Covid-19 remain and whilst community events have started again, there is still a degree of isolation which we believe the pump track can overcome..”
The village hall is accessible to over 25,000 people within a 15 minute drive.
A company called Forte Trailscapes have developed many tracks over the last 20 years and build them to Rospa guidelines.
The organisers also intend to invite quotes from other parties to ensure they are getting value for money.
It’s thought the scheme could be achieved through permitted development as it is being run by the Parish Council but if it did not qualify the planners have suggested that an application would be positively received.
This project will cost in the region of £50,000.
They have made some significant strides in raising this amount due to recent development within the parish, but still have a way to go.
A Crowdfunding page has been created to help raise funds along with other fundraising events of their own at the hall.
The Pump Track will provide a safe environment for children to improve their cycling skills and get involved in exercise.
It will be a family focal point and improve community spirit, expanding social contact and reducing isolation.
As it will be free it will also be an inclusive activity which is important in a cost of living crisis.
They are asking for your support to help them reach their goal.
Visit: https://tinyurl.com/nhepdm4s
]]>Changes are underway at Dartmouth Visitor Centre.
Earlier this year Dartmouth & District Chamber of Commerce proposed a change to Dartmouth Town Council and from May 1, a new Community Interest Company took on The Engine House on Mayor’s Avenue and will be running the Visitor Centre, managing the online marketing of the town and providing a range of services for local businesses.
This new CIC is The Dartmouth Tourism and Business Hub, trading as Dartmouth Hub.
With the support of the Dartmouth & District Chamber of Commerce, Dartmouth Town Council and South Hams District Council this new CIC is keen to reflect the needs of business, residents and visitors alike in order to support the local economy by generating revenue and creating opportunities for businesses to flourish.
In addition, a new brand is being launched as the Official Dartmouth Tourism Brand: Explore Dartmouth.
This new brand, endorsed and supported by Dartmouth Town Council and Dartmouth & District Chamber of Commerce, is part of providing a clear change in direction for the town’s tourism offering.
This will fully reflect the natural beauty and character of Dartmouth and the breadth and depth of experiences available here.
Danni Pinnington, a Director of Dartmouth Hub, commented that: “We are already working on how Dartmouth will best be marketed online, so that our town presents a strong and vibrant case to persuade visitors to spend time and money here throughout the year”.
Laura Campbell, a Director of Dartmouth Hub, added “Key to the success of this is strengthening the commercial partnerships within our tourism eco-system, and keeping the money paid by town businesses in the town to help to fund future tourism activities.”
Jo Hinde, a Director of Dartmouth Hub, explained that: “With many of our local businesses dependent upon the visitor economy, the services provided by the Dartmouth Hub, in conjunction with the work of the Chamber of Commerce, will support businesses and help the local economy to thrive.”
These are exciting times for Dartmouth and the Dartmouth Hub invites the support of everyone in the community to make the most of the opportunity.
]]>Kingsbridge march on towards the semi-final of the Papa Johns cup after a convincing win over Frome 29-19.
Kings playing with probably their best squad of the season were too classy for a niggly Frome side.
After the disappointment of two cancelled games in the run up to this fixture Kings displayed composure not always seen this season.
Frome, a feisty side, proved a difficult team to overpower, but Kings had too much quality. And with the bonus of bringing on two of their best young players Joe Thompson and Henry Rich for the second half they ran out deserved winners.
Kings started the game on the front foot. They made Frome pay when they scored the first points of the game as Merrin bulldozed his way over, with Newman converting well.
Frome messed up their restart and Kings were on the attack again as Ferguson made a fine break down the blindside taking them close. From the following scrum Buckle made yards and the ball was eventually fed out to Tom Winzer who touched down. Frome came back into the game when they scored a try after being awarded a penalty and breaking free to score.
Frome now started to play with more confidence as a change in their front row steadied their scrum which Kings had been dominating.
Half time score 12-7.
Kings started the second half brightly and eventually moved further in front as Newman slotted a penalty after good breaks by centres Baldry and Buckle.
Kings moved up a gear and started to play some exciting rugby resulting in Newman delivering a perfect kick for Sam Jones to gather and offload to Toby Baldry to touch down and Newman converting.
The game now entered its niggly stage with the referee dishing out yellow cars regularly. At one-point Kings were down to thirteen but that didn’t stop them putting more points on the board as Stu Harris was over with Newman again converting.
Kings held on to run out deserved 29-19 winners and will now face Eastbourne in the semi finals at High House on Saturday 4th May.
]]>STOKE Gabriel return to the Tolchards DCL B Division with an away game against Bovey Tracey 2nd XI.
The last time Stoke were in the B Division was in 2014, when they finished bottom.
Stoke saw off competition from Ivybridge and Brixham to scramble out of the C Division West last term.
Jake Robinson, the promotion-winning captain, is under no illusions: “We are all really looking forward to some tougher games and our focus is going to be consistency on the field,” he said.
A significant re-signing is all-rounder Mike Smith, who has had two spells with South Devon either side of a stint with Barton, mostly at A Division level.
Smith started out with Stoke Gabriel as a teenager and Robinson is delighted to have him back in the autumn of his career.
“He also brings a lot of experience, both on and off the field,” Robinson said.
]]>Newly promoted Beesands Rovers finally showed their true colours against their more experienced Premier League rivals.
A great 3-1 win at home lifts the Bees into 5th place in the table.
This local derby was played infront of a crowd of 80+ vocal spectators and whereas the reverse fixture before Xmas was a scrappy affair, this game saw both teams serve up football of the highest quality.
Goals came from Sammy Lane, Ash Yeoman and Louis Brace - and it was decided the Beesands Man of the Match award would go to the whole team, with a special mention to Josh Clarke and Rhys Morrallee, both full backs having great games despite constantly facing fresh wingers.This weekend Beesands face a tough away trip to run away league leader Ilsington Villa, 2-30pm kick off, with several players away due to it being the May Day Bank Holiday Monday.
]]>As part of the Year 6 Stokenham Primary School Civic Award, 10 year old Joseph Levy set himself a challenge to raise £150 for the charity, Mission 44 by completing 50 miles by running, swimming and cycling in April.
He decided to keep going and has now completed over 100 miles and has raised over £500 for Mission 44.
He is determined to keep fundraising and adding to his mileage total before the end of April on Tuesday.All of the money raised will be donated to Mission 44.
They invest in solutions that empower young people to overcome social injustice and succeed.
Joseph is a huge F1 fan and his chosen charity was founded by Sir Lewis Hamilton.
It supports young people in a number of ways including education and employment, with an exciting focus on engineering and science projects.
If you would like to support Joseph visit: https://tinyurl.com/5baztsy3
]]>FIFTY-FOUR brave souls from across Devon are to abseil from the top of Exeter Cathedral’s Norman North Tower - an amazing 140 feet to the ground - on Saturday, May 4.
Those taking part are being sponsored by individuals and businesses in an effort to help raise funds for the building of a new Cloister Gallery at the Cathedral.
The new structure will connect the Cathedral with the 13th century Chapter House and Pearson Building, making it a better place for community gatherings, events and much more.
All ages will be taking part in the abseil.
Anne Eyre, aged 83 years, and two of her grandchildren will be taking part.
Anne explained: “I am doing this partly in memory of my late husband Richard, a former Dean. His head is carved into the South Tower, featuring his large ears of which he was so proud, as the Stonemasons of the time were aware!
“I have such strong links here. My husband is buried inside the cathedral. My eldest daughter was married here. We lived in the Deanery (now the Old Deanery) for over 14 years. After 17 years away, we returned 13 years ago, sadly having only two together.
“Now the present Dean has the vision, and courage, to rebuild part of the Cloister on its original mediaeval foundations. It has been SO exciting to watch the archeology retell the stories of past events from Roman times to now.”
Anne added: “We now have 54 abseilers. The day is billed to be a great day. I am praying that the weather will behave as we wish.
“I am completely amazed by all the goodwill and generosity, especially when times are so tough.
“All the abseilers are working hard and looking forward to being part of a special day. May the force be with you! THANK YOU.
“We had a most enjoyable launch recently organised by our partner from Apex Scaffolding, Matthew Cousins.
“We gained new recruits. The total so far is more than £18,000 which means we are on our way to being able to pay for two windows in the new Cloister Gallery.”
Anne said she hopes that the event will raise £25,000.
To sponsor Anne, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/anne-eyre-1701875453860 .
Matthew said: “Having spent the last 20 years on the roof of the Cathedral trying not to fall off, I am now going to be deliberately taking the quick way down.
“We are raising money to fund the new cloister building, which will allow the Cathedral to be a more welcoming place for all the people of Exeter and beyond. It would be great if you could spare a fiver to help us reach our goal. Then you too can feel like I do, proud to be a part of the Cathedral’s continuing story.”
To support Matthew, please visit: http://www.justgiving.com/page/matthew-cousins-1706614274561 .
John Lee OBE and a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon, of Crediton, will be one of those taking part.
John, who has been practising abseiling in Exeter alongside Anne, said: “Having recently joined Exeter Cathedral Chapter (in effect as a non executive director) I was open to being persuaded to support our Dean who has the vision, and courage, to rebuild part of the Cloister and to preserve this precious piece of Devon heritage for future generations, just as previous generations did for us.
“What I did not quite envisage, was how persuasive Anne Eyre would be in that I should throw myself off the top of the 140ft or so North Tower to help fundraise!
“There are many good causes to support, but conserving our history and inspiring a new audience has never been more important. The new structure will connect the Cathedral, Devon’s finest building that has the longest decorated vaulted ceiling in the world, with the 13th century Chapter House and Pearson Building.
“This will allow us to develop a Treasury to display many historical items that sadly go largely unseen and greatly enhance the experience of future visitors.
“I hope you will give to this worthwhile cause and if nothing else, donate to watch me dangle from a rope!”
To support John, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/john-lee-1711465696757 .
There will also be a “Fundraising Fun Day” held on Saturday on the Cathedral Green and there will be free entry into Exeter Cathedral.
This challenge is being organised by Dave Talbot Adventuresand supported by Apex Scaffolding and Exeter College.
]]>Police in Ivybridge are looking for information after a large number of allotment sheds were broken into.
It happened last weekend at The Filham allotments between 2pm on Saturday April 27 and 8am Sunday April 28.
Items were stolen and locks cut.
Anyone with information should call 101 using crime ref 50240100963
]]>South Hams District Council has awarded a new 40-year lease to the Caravan and Motorhome Club on its Steamer Quay Road site near the riverside, in Totnes.
The Caravan and Motorhome Club occupied the campsite on a seasonal basis since 1970, a massive 54 years of Totnes visitor history.
The Caravan and Motorhome Club won a competitive tender in 2022 with proposals to spend in excess of £1m to improve its year-round facilities and to modernise the campsite..
The work, which includes improvements to pitches, washroom and reception facilities and also includes installing solar power, is supported by local District Councillors and work started in mid-April.
South Hams District Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Commercial Strategy, Cllr John Birch, said: “This is great news for Totnes to increase the number of visitors to the town throughout the year. The Caravan and Motorhome Club has a good reputation nationally and with renewed facilities, this will encourage visitors to our wonderful town and the surrounding area.”
A spokesperson for the Caravan and Motorhome Club, said:"This is a hugely popular destination for members and non-members alike.
“The latest report by the UK Caravan and Camping Alliance shows that UK holiday parks and campsites generate £12.2billion in visitor spending each year and play a vital role in supporting local economies across the nation.”
“The Club is delighted South Hams District Council have awarded a new 40-year lease to the Club to enable people to continue to enjoy this wonderful location."
]]>Ugborough charcuterie and smoked meat brand Rare & Pasture has announced it is merging its business with Weybridge-based charcuterie company Tempus Foods, owned by Masterchef finalists Tom Whitaker and Dhruv Baker, with the aim of expanding production and sales of both of their award-winning products.
The merged business will continue to trade under both the Rare & Pasture and Tempus Foods brands, with sales and distribution being led from the Tempus location in Weybridge, Surrey, and production and packing shared between the two sites.
Rare & Pasture is based at Fowlescombe Farm, a regenerative farm.
It produces a range of exceptional charcuterie products using high-welfare meat from its own farm and from other farms that share its values and care. In addition to its charcuterie, Rare & Pasture produces a highly successful range of cooked meat products, some of them organic, including naturally smoked frankfurters.”
Andrew Owens, Chairman of Rare & Pasture commented:
“The British charcuterie and artisan meat product market is highly fragmented, leading to an unnecessarily high cost base, often combined with supply reliability issues. Through this transaction we are creating greater supply capacity as well as product and customer service synergies that can accelerate the development of this evolving British food sector.
“Our mission is not restricted to either our existing geographic situation or our existing product range, and so it is hoped that this merger will also stimulate other like-minded artisan producers and farmers to offer their skills and products into our growing portfolio.”
]]>It’s one of the more unusual South Hams traditions.
The International Festival of Wormcharming returns to Blackawton for the 38th time this Sunday (May 5).
The event includes a ceremonial toast and ode to the worms, and gets underway at The George Inn at 10am, before the ringing of the Blackawton Bells at 1120.
At 1.15pm there’s the Procession to the Secret Field with folk musicians, wormcharming teams and a samba band followed at 1.30pm by the start of the worm charming competition.
The winners will be announced at 1.50pm followed by a presentation of awards.
At 2pm there’s the Fun Dog Show in the secret field with categories including best bark, beautiful eyes and best tail either little or large followed by a crockery smash, worm shy and Gary’s Rocks. Teams consist of a Charmerer, a Pickerer and a Counterer
]]>Local amateur jazz band Kalamazoo raised £100 last Sunday afternoon for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital.
This talented seven piece jazz band played popular jazz songs from the last century including such old favourites as Blue Skies and Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White.
The easy flowing music and brilliant harmonies, arranged by Fiona Webb, entertained an enthusiastic audience at Salcombe Rugby Club who hosted the event.
Once again Club Manager Emma Woods welcomed and encouraged these amateur musicians to play at the venue where the size and layout of the room and bar is ideal for this type of event.
The comfortable friendly family club at the top of Salcombe is the ‘social centre ’ for many of the locals who live in the area. Over the past six months or so ‘Invitation Mics’ followed by a Ukulele Sunday have established the club as an ideal venue and Sundays jazz reinforced that with more to follow later in the year.
Events like this are perfect to draw in a good audience to a great venue and raise monies for charity at the same time.
The charity on the day was chosen by Salcombe Rugby Player Ben Wood who had raised over £2,300 for Great Ormond St the previous weekend by running the London Marathon in 3 hours 50 minutes.
Salcombe Rugby Club is described on its website as ‘a friendly family club where playing and watching rugby is a pleasant experience for all’ and Kalamazoo is a city in Michigan.
]]>Ivybridge Community College Sixth Form has welcomed two members of Parliament.
Sir Gary Streeter was joined by Cllr Rebecca Smith, the Conservative Party Candidate for the South West Devon constituency at the next General Election and, in another session, the students welcomed Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP Luke Pollard.
The College’s Parliamentary guests and students covered a variety of topics including the NHS, the electoral voting system, university tuition fees and Further / Higher Education, Brexit, Immigration and the Environment, based on questions the students had submitted themselves.
Both MPs emphasised to students the importance of voting, an important point, given that a General Election is on its way, and some of the students may be old enough to vote themselves.
Rebecca Smith spoke of local housing and tackling violence against women and girls as two of her motivations to getting involved in politics, whilst Luke Pollard spoke about the campaign he was involved with to stop the releasing of raw sewage into Devil’s Point as well as also highlighting the need for more housing.
Following the sessions, Luke Pollard said on X, “I want to see more young people involved in politics.
“It was good to answer questions from sixth formers at Ivybridge Community College on everything from the NHS to the environment, immigration to why they should vote.”
Sir Gary Streeter added on Facebook, “It's a highlight of the year to spend an hour with the Sixth Form at Ivybridge Community College and this morning was no different.”
Rebecca Smith also said, “Thank you to Ivybridge Community College for a really enjoyable hour this morning.
“Looking forward to meeting again to hear students' views and share my experiences on women in politics and how we tackle violence against women and girls.”
Sir Gary Streeter was the Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton from 1992 – 1997 and MP for South West Devon since 1997
Luke Pollard has been the Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport since 2017
Cllr Rebecca Smith is currently a representative for Plymstock Radford for Plymouth City Council and is the Conservative Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South West Devon.
]]>Police are appealing for witnesses after a man in his 30s died following a smash near Totnes.
It happened on the A3122 Halwell Cross around 9.30pm on Friday evening (April 26).
The driver of a black Seat Leon in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and was released on police bail.
Two passengers from the vehicle were taken to hospital - one later died, and the second has suspected life-changing injuries.
Police are appealing for witnesses and dash cam footage.
The road was closed for several hours while an investigation was carried out at the scene.
Officers want anyone who have not already spoken to them, but who may have seen the collision, or have relevant dashcam footage, to come forward.
Contact police via their website or by calling 101 quoting log 839 of April 26.
]]>There are more holiday homes in the South Hams than anywhere else in Great Britain, according to a study of statistical data.
More than four per cent of the district's 46,525 residential properties are registered as holiday homes.
Only the Isles of Scilly has a higher ratio of holiday homes to residences.
The study, by Howden Insurance, pinpoints “the areas where current property owners would benefit from letting their home out this holiday season,” the insurer said.
The appeal of holiday homes is growing in both England and Wales, with many individuals opting to stay in properties that are rented out sporadically throughout the year. This study aims to identify the areas where this trend is most common.
No other part of Devon and Cornwall, traditionally thought of as prime holiday-let destinations, features in the survey's Top Ten.
Gwynedd, north Norfok, Anglesey and the southern Lake District are the nation's other hotspots.
]]>Dartmouth’s new Banking Hub will be at 5-9, Victoria Street (the former site of Costa Coffee) although the opening date has not yet been set.
The Hub will offer a counter service operated by the Post Office, where customers of all major banks can carry out regular cash transactions from Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.
It will also offer a Community Banker service where customers can talk to their own bank about more complicated issues on the day their bank is in the Hub.
Community Bankers will work on rotation, with a different bank available on each day of the week:
Monday:HSBC, Tuesday:NatWest, Wednesday:Lloyds, Thursday:Barclays and Friday:Santander
The Hub was recommended by LINK, the UK’s cash access and ATM network, following a community request from local MP, Anthony Mangnall.
The Mayor of Dartmouth, Cllr David Wells said: “I’m really pleased that the lease had now been signed, and that a banking hub for Dartmouth would soon be here. This will really help businesses and residents who have struggled since the closure of the last of our banks.”
Councillor Mike Rowley added: “It’s great that the banking hub have chosen the old Costa Coffee shop on Victoria Road because it’s very central and will also bring people towards that area of the town, which is often overlooked like Foss Street and the Old Market.”
Anthony Mangnall MP for Totnes and South Devon said:“I am delighted that South Devon will be one of the first areas in the country to have two banking hubs.
“The Dartmouth Banking Hub, which I ran a campaign to secure, has now signed a lease and is set to open in the old Costa Coffee building on Victoria Street.
“The Banking Hub will provide a much-needed service to residents, businesses, charities and visitors, thereby helping to support our high street and town. I am particularly grateful to the Cash Access UK team for their hard work in helping to deliver this project and I look forward to seeing Dartmouth Banking Hub open in the near future.”
]]>Kingsbridge could become the site for a new mountain bike park and pump track.
The Kingsbridge Skatepark association last week uploaded a message on Facebook announcing that it would approach the local council’s property and recreation committee to build the facilities.
The initiative follows the March opening of a new skatepark in the town.
The £250,000 skatepark came about as a result of a mix of private and public capital as well as a crowdfunding initiative.
In the latest initiative, the plans are to build both a pump track - a purpose-built track for cyclists where they can practice their skills - and a mountain bike freeride park, which involves the construction of a narrow course with steep drops.
In a statement, the association said the skatepark’s “overwhelming success” demonstrated the need for free-to-use facilities in the area, pointing out that there is “no safe space for the young to learn the necessary cycling skills and develop them”.
The meeting with the local council was due to take place on Tuesday as the paper went to press.
Meanwhile, the association is encouraging people to give their views on its Facebook page ahead of a proposed public consultation.
Taking a sample viewing, the comments have been overwhelmingly in favour of the project.
Kerry Carpenter said “this is another great thing for the community”, while Ellie Anna said it would be a “fantastic addition to the recent highly successful skate park”.
Most queries were about the track and park’s possible location. The association said the matter would be discussed at the Tuesday meeting but added that “there is not a lot of available council land”.
The association said the installations would create far less noise than a skatepark, as mountain bikes have softer pneumatic tyres.
“The beauty of a pump track is that you can fit the park into any shape of space. A free ride park is slightly more complicated but feel we have a couple options for that, too,” the statement added.
It is not yet clear who would fund the scheme or whether Wheelscape, the design and construction firm responsible for the skatepark, would be involved in the new project.
]]>An award winning documentary is getting a special screening in Totnes next week - with the filmmaker on hand in person to talk about the project and answer questions.
Much Ado About Dying is described as an intimate, funny and moving portrayal of the end of a solitary life, and a quietly critical assessment of the inadequate resources available in the UK for a rapidly ageing population.
The film asks timely questions about ageing in the LGBTQ+ community and how we can care for those who have lived lives that defy convention.It tells the story of filmmaker Simon Chambers, who is shooting a documentary in India when his octogenarian uncle David calls him with a message of doom: “I think I may be dying.”
Simon finds his life drastically interrupted and everything that could go wrong does go wrong as he tries to help his uncle have a good death.
The screening will be introduced by Simon himself and forms part of the UK-wideDying Matters Awareness Week. It’s at Totnes Cinema on 9 May
Actress Juliet Stevenson raved about the film, which won the Best Directed Film category at the International Documentary Festival Amsterdam
"I absolutely loved every minute of it. David is completely captivating as a subject, and the handling of his story is exquisite. So moving and funny and altogether extraordinary," she said.
The film is also showing at selected cinemas across the UK.
]]>A fishmonger in Kingsbridge has been named as one of the UK’s favourite local food shops in a national newspaper article.
Catch of the Day was Devon’s sole entry in a list of 16 establishments in a feature in The Guardian.
Owned by married couple Emma and Darren Carter, the fishmonger on Fore Street specialises in selling locally caught fish as well as being a ‘smokehouse’, offering produce that is smoked on the premises.
Ms Darren, who took over the business in 2009 together with her husband, said she felt “very touched” by the nomination.
“We never thought we would come this far in our career,” said Ms Carter, who is also reputed to be the first woman in the UK to skipper a fishing trawler.
“Everything has to be fished sustainably, which means there is no impact on the seabed – so it’s netted or line caught,” she told this paper.
The artisanal aspect of ‘smoking’ fish, which was started by the first owners in 1955, is chemical-free and done by hand, she explained.
Ms Carter also gave details of her life as the skipper of a fishing trawler, revealing that she took an interest in the trade from an early age, as her foster father was a fisherman in Plymouth.
“He had a trawler and I was obsessed with it - I wanted to go to sea,” she said.
Although she started fishing commercially from a very young age, she hung up her oilskins after 10 years for health reasons.
Now well established in the town, Ms Carter said it was essential to have good quality fishmongers.
“We’re just trying to educate people to say ‘come on in, even if you don’t want to buy anything’. People should embrace fish!” she said, adding that she and her staff were more than happy to prep the fish and “do all the hard work” for their customers.
The business may well ‘catch’ more media attention later this summer, having beaten more than 40 rivals to reach the final of a UK Fishmonger of the Year competition.
]]>Malborough Church has organised a course called ‘Christianity Explained’ through reading Mark’s gospel.
.It is aimed at everyone from new enquirers to those wanting to refresh their Christian faith.
They meet fortnightly starting from this evening (Thursday May 2)
From 1pm to 2.30pm at Saint Peters and All Saints Church in Malborough.
Details from Sandra Price on 07475 108646.
]]>Here is this week’s selection of old photos and memories from the Cookworthy Museum in Kingsbridge:
]]>