Plymouth Chronicle October West 2025

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Hundreds of students from Plymouth schools will be taking part in STEMfest at the National Marine Aquarium this month See Page 2

Two members of the Pregnancy Crisis Care charity team in Plymouth have been nominated for an award See Page 15

Plymouth Chronicle is partnering with Argyle Life – the popular fans site –to bring exclusive content to our readers See Page 19

Looking for a tradesman? Turn to our Dial The Experts guide on pages 16 and 17

Pride of Plymouth!

The City of Plymouth Pipe Band are celebrating after winning their first ever World Championship Trophy in Glasgow. And just a few days after that success they were crowned All England Champions at the Chatsworth House band competition. A double celebration in the band's 50th anniversary year! SEE STORY ON BACK PAGE

Hundreds of city students to take part in groundbreaking STEMfest

Groundbreaking STEMFest 2025 at the National Marine Aquarium is celebrating industry, sustainability and innovation within the city of Plymouth.

For the first time ever, 1,000 Plymouth school children will take part in a completely free, barrier-breaking STEM experience at the National Marine Aquarium in September - a project set to inspire children to learn about Ocean Friendly Homes and how sustainable living protects our Ocean. STEMFest, run by the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT), has been inspiring young people since 2012, growing each year to become a standout event in Plymouth’s education calendar. Thanks to generous funding from local engineering consultants Services Design Solutions (SDS) and support from a network of local businesses, 1,000 young people have been invited to attend free of charge, with coach travel being funded directly by the OCT, removing all financial barriers for schools and parents.

Nine Plymouth schools with the highest pupil premium rates have been selected to attend, ensuring that children who might not otherwise get the chance, can be part of this unique experience. For many, it will be their first-ever visit to the aquarium, opening doors to a world of science, discovery and Ocean literacy that may have previously been out of reach. In addition, 500 non funded places are available for new and returning students, to supplement their STEM curriculum learning.

This year's theme, 'Ocean Friendly Homes' will inspire students to explore how everyday choices at home can impact the Ocean. The highlight of the day will see every single child building and taking home a working solar-powered fan – that's 1,500 fans in total! These fans, made using upcycled materials donated by local businesses, show young people how

the Ocean. Later in the school year, OCT Schools Officers will return to classrooms to launch a city-wide innovation challenge. Students will design their own solutions to Ocean problems, with one winning idea being brought to life by local manufacturing partners and shared with every STEMFest participant.

STEMFest 2025 runs from September 15 to October 3, with extra sessions for home-educated learners and a virtual session on October 7.

Nicola Bridge, Head of Ocean Advocacy and Engagement, said: "We're proud to host STEMFest again, and this year is especially meaningful.

Thanks to our funders, more children than ever can take part, removing barriers and opening the door to transformative learning experiences. Young people are the future of our planet, and it's vital we inspire them to become the problem-solvers the world needs."

STEMFest 2025 offers an engaging, hands-on journey into Ocean literacy and sustainable innovation, bringing together 1,500 young people to become the next generation of Ocean advocates.

WARNER ISLE OF WIGHT ENTERTAINMENT BREAK

Departing Thu 15 Jan ‘26

Join us at Warner Norton Grange Coastal Village for a few days away with entertainment and a range of activities on offer. There’s also the opportunity to enjoy a lovely trip to two of the island’s most recognisable locations, Newport and the Needles.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel & ferry crossings from Plymouth, Saltash

 2 nights at the Warner Norton Grange Coastal Village, Isle of Wight (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast

 Daytime activities in the resort

 Use of leisure facilities

 Entertainment every evening

Optional excursion to Newport & the Needles (£12pp)

BOSWORTH HALL & THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Departing Fri 14 Nov ‘25

We visit the best markets in the heart of England and enjoy the fabulous Bosworth Hall Hotel with a fantastic bar offer.

Browse wooden stalls for unique gifts at Birmingham and Nottingham Christmas markets and visit the beautiful town of Stratford-upon-Avon.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel from Plymouth, Saltash

 3 nights at the Bosworth Hall Hotel & Spa (JG3 rating) Market

Bosworth, with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 Excursions to Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon & Nottingham

ISLE OF WIGHT HOUSE PARTY

Departing Fri 28 Nov ‘25

Enjoy a break away to the Isle of Wight for a fun weekend of sightseeing and entertainment by the bucket (and spade) load!

There’s also a fabulous drinks offer at our hotel and excursions to Newport and Ryde to enjoy.

SO MUCH INCLUDED...

 Return coach travel and ferry crossings from Plymouth, Saltash

 3 nights at the Shanklin Beach Hotel, Shanklin (JG2+ rating) with dinner & breakfast

 2 for 1 bar (6pm-9pm) on selected drinks

 Entertainment every evening

 Afternoon with tea, coffee & cake

 Excursion to Newport & Ryde

Optional excursion to Cowes, Yarmouth & Ventnor

By Coach from Plymouth, Saltash
innovation and sustainability can work hand in hand. Each student will also receive a 'home audit' survey, encouraging them to explore how their households affect

Campaign launched for fire station in Devonport to replace 'shameful' Camels Head site

Plymouth MP Luke Pollard and firefighters have launched a campaign for a new fire station in Devonport to replace the rundown station at Camels Head.

The MP said Camels Head Fire Station, more than 60 years old, is in a ‘shameful state for our firefighters’ with structural damage, heating outages, and firefighters sleeping in pods. He convened a roundtable of stakeholders, who have agreed a proposal for a new fire station in Devonport to be put to the government. Stakeholders include Devon and Somerset Fire Service and the Fire Brigades Union.

Camels Head Fire Station is staffed 24 hours a day and serves areas including Barne Barton, Mount Wise, Keyham and Ernesettle, as well as Devonport dockyard.

Devon and Somerset Fire Service has recently carried out public engagement on whether to refurbish Camels Head station or close it and colocate the crews at nearby Crownhill station.

Luke Pollard said: "Camels Head Fire Station is in a shameful state for our firefighters that’s why I'm launching a campaign to provide a brand new fire station for our firefighters in Devonport.

"Devonport fire station protected the dockyard

during the Second World War. I'm calling for a new station there to keep communities in the west of Plymouth well-served."

Chief Fire Officer at Devon and Somerset Fire Service, Gavin Ellis, said: "We recognise the pride that people in the community have in their local services and how much value they put in their fire stations.

"We want to improve our estate in Plymouth so we can provide better, sustainable facilities for our colleagues to support communities now and in the future."

Fire Brigades Union brigade chair for Devon and Somerset, Alex Smith, said: "The FBU are committed to supporting the rebuild of Camels Head Fire Station.

"We have been working with our members at the station branch, MPs, councillors, and the service in a bid to secure funding, and to get the commitment pushed forward for a new facility suitable for the community it serves, and for the safe and modern working environment of the watches based there.

"Camels Head is a proud branch, highly committed to the communities within their response ground and dedicated to Plymouth alongside neighbouring crews in the city."

Lions Club donation to St Luke's Hospice

Roy Russell, along with three members of his family in addition to a number of Lions Club members.

Receiving the cheque on behalf of St Luke's was the Hospice partnership manager Nina Wearne.

The Lions Club of Plymouth, which was formed in 1964, currently has 30 members and is part of Lions Clubs International, which has 1.4 million members in 49,000 clubs throughout the world.

A donation of £400 has been made to St Luke's Hospice Plymouth by the Lions Club of Plymouth in memory of the late Iris Russell, the wife of club member Lion Roy Russell.
The cheque was presented by Lions Club president Alan Clifford at the Hospice premises in Stamford Road, Turnchapel, in the company of Lion
Presenting the cheque are club president Lion Alan Clifford (left), St Luke's partnership manager Nina Wearne (centre) and Lion Roy Russell (right)
Plymouth MP Luke Pollard with Gavin Ellis (right)
Chief Fire Officer at Devon & Somerset Fire Service and representatives from the Fire Brigades Union

Send details of your event to info@ cornerstonevision.com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

Caterpillar

Sept 27, Oct 3, 4, 10 and 11

Soapbox Children’s Theatre in Devonport Park present an immersive show for tiny audiences and their grown up people with colour, movement and visual narrative. Join the fun loving caterpillars and they wriggle out to explore the big wide world. This original show, created by Stiltskin will delight young audiences to six months up to eight years - and their parents! Tickets and details from www.stiltskin.org.uk

Pennywell Farm Pumpkin Festival

Sept 27 to Nov 2

Join in with all the family favourites plus the Pumpkin Festival included in the ticket price. A must-see event for all the family with the festival bigger and better than ever. All tickets must be booked online at www. pennywellfarm.co.uk

Plymouth Honey Show

Sept 27

Harewood House, Ridgeway in Plympton from 10am to 4pm. Featuring live bee display, trade stalls, honey, raffle and free face painting.

An Afternoon of Crime Fiction

Sept 27

An informal afternoon at Plymouth Proprietary Library with authors Stephanie Austen and Judy Leigh from 2pm. They will discuss their crime fiction, read excerpts from their books and answer questions for the audience. Free for members, £4 for non-members. Refreshments with proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support. To guarantee a seat, contact the library via www.theppl.org.uk or turn up on the day.

Plymouth City Brass

Sept 27

First anniversary concert with special guests The Cooperative Big Band. Plymouth Methodist Central Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets £5 (under 16s free) available from info@plymouthcitybrass.co.uk or any member.

Harvest Festival Tea

Sept 27

Harvest Festival Afternoon Tea in the Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery, starting at 2pm. Organisers have gained a reputation for delicious food and this is no exception. Tickets costing £12 will be available from the cemetery office from 9.30am to 3.30pm tel 01752 665442.

Respect Festival 2025

Sept 27

Organised by Plymouth & Devon Racial Equality Council from 11am to 5pm at the city centre Piazza. A multicultural free family-friendly event featuring live music and dance performances, cultural workshops and activities and a parade starting at The Box to launch the event. Details from www.plymouthrec.org

Tour de Moor

Sept 28

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s popular fundraiser returns at an earlier date than previous years. Hundreds of riders of all ages will take part again with routes to suit every level, from 11km for families, 28km of touch riding and 53km of tough riding at its fiercest. For details and registration visit www.stlukes-hospice. org.uk/tourdemoor

John Bishop

Oct 1 and 2

The popular comedian brings his stand-up tour to Plymouth Pavilions to celebrate 25 years of comedy and success. For tickets and information visit www. plymouthpavilions.com

Plymouth Seafood Tour

Oct 3 to Oct 18

In celebration of Seafood Plymouth’s 2025 Fortnight, Plymouth Seafood & Fishing Association partnering with some incredible restaurants to help locals

Out and About

Your guide to events in the local community and beyond

discover the many different and delicious tastes and flavours of the seafood that’s right on your doorstep. Get ready to try all sorts of new species, taste truly wild freshness and meet the passionate chefs and retailers who together are keeping Plymouth’s seafood industry thriving. Celebrate with a fortnight of feasting on seafood and forging community spirit. For details visit www.pfsa.uk/seafood-plymouth

Coffee Morning

Oct 4

Crownhill Methodist Church Hall from 10.30am to 12 noon. Various stalls. Supporting the Brikama Medical Mission. All welcome.

Tom Robinson & Adam Phillips

Oct 4

Tom Robinson presents an evening of songs and stories from 50 years wandering the wilder shores of the record industry. Hosted by the Barbican Theatre the evening will include favourites from his vast back catalogue, spanning Café Society in 1975 to his acclaimed 2015 comeback album Only The Now. For details visit www.barbicantheatre.co.uk

Good Food & Craft Market

Oct 5

Known for showcasing some of the region’s most talented artists and makers, Royal William Yard's Good Food & Craft Markets offer everything from tasty treats to handcrafted gifts. The monthly markets have been a staple of Royal William Yard’s event calendar for years, and have won event awards along the way. From 10am to 3pm. For details visit www. royalwilliamyard.com

Trafalgar Day Celebration

Oct 11

Trafalgar Day Soup and Sweet Lunch in the Visitor Centre at Ford Park Cemetery at 1pm. Tickets £12 available from the Cemetery Office from 9.30am to 3.30pm or call 01752 665442.

Singing Day with Joseph Judge

Oct 11

Led by the outstanding music director and conductor Joseph Judge from 9.30am to 4.30pm at Woolwell Community Centre. Joseph is chorus master of the Leeds Philharmonic Chorus, director of the Hallé Choral Academy and a music director for Film/TV productions. The cost is £25 which includes the loan of scores. A light lunch is available for £7. For details visit www.plymouthphilchoir.org

Tumble’s Toddlers

Oct 13 to Oct 23

Dartmoor Zoo presents Tumble’s Toddlers – a fun, social, and educational group for two to four year olds to explore their wild side. The sessions help little ones to grow in an encouraging and playful setting. Each day from 10.30am to 12 noon. Fancy dress highly encouraged but not essential. Details from www. dartmoorzoo.org.uk/events/tumbles-toddlers/

Sing Devon

Oct 16

Do you enjoy singing? Do you like to meet new people? Then go along to a Welcoming New Voices free session at Plymstock School from 7.15 to 9pm. The emphasis is on fun, supporting thelocal community and supporting each

Plymouth Christmas Market returns bigger and better than ever from November 27 to December 21

other. Lots of laughing mixed in with beautiful sounds. No audition, just go along and give it a go. Details at www.singdevon.com - or call Pete Scott on 07896 276577.

Jazz and Roast Sunday

Oct 19 and Nov 16

Every third Sunday of then month the Honky Tonk Wine Library in Sutton Harbour hosts local jazz musician legend Martin Dale accompanied by two other talented musicians from 3pm to 5pm. The live music is accompanied by a Sunday Roast board from 12pm. Go just for the roast or eat and stay. Booking advisable via www.honkytonkwinelibrary.com

Plymouth Collectors Toy & Train Fair

Oct 19

Organised by Plymouth Diecast Club at Jan Cutting Healthy Living Centre, Scott Business Park from 10am to 1pm. Admission £1 for adults, accompanied children free. Free onsite parking, wheelchair friendly and onsite café. Details from www.plymouthdiecastclub.co.uk

Plymouth Jazz Club

Oct 19

Featuring popular all-female band Hotsy Totsy at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Non-members welcome. Details at www.plymouth-jazz-club.com

Talk on Ann Glanville - Saltash Legend and Icon

Oct 22

Plymouth Proprietary Library hosts a talk on Ann Glanville ‘the world’s female champion rower’ in the 19th Century. Starts at 2pm. Local historian Barry Brooking will explore the facts of her life and the myths surroundong her achievements. £4 for members, £8 for non-members. Refreshments provided. To guarantee a seat, contact the library at www.theppl. org.uk/about-us or simply turn up on the day.

Oktoberfest 2025

Oct 25

Plymouth welcomes a traditional Bavarian bash in Central Park from 12 noon to 11pm. New features at this year’s event which include an all-new Bavarian bar, glitter, mini trader village and a photo booth. For tickets and information visit www. oktoberfestplymouth.co.uk

Orchestral Workshop

Oct 25

Plymouth Open Concert Orchestra, formerly the University of Plymouth Orchestra, invites instrumental players to an orchestral workshop: ‘Holst’s Planets.’ With music director, Dan Francis at the Levinsky Hall, Plymouth University from 10am. Tickets to take part £10 can be booked via the Orchestra Facebook page. All orchestra instrument players who can read music are welcome.

Bonfire Night

Nov 5

Get ready for an unforgettable night of fun and fireworks as Plymouth Hoe comes alive for Bonfire Night! Make your way to the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse for the best views of the bonfire, which will be lit at 7pm. Then, at 7.30pm, prepare to be wowed! The skies will explode with a stunning fireworks

display launched from the historic Royal Citadel. Expect an incredible show of rockets, fountains, and crackling fireworks.

Christmas Lights Switch-On

Nov 13

Plymouth's Christmas calendar officially kicks off with the switch-on of this year's spectacular Christmas lights on the Piazza in Plymouth City Centre. More details coming soon.

Barbican Christmas Lights Switch-On

Nov 15

Head to the Barbican for the wonderful Christmas lights switch-on with an afternoon of festive family fun with free activities and entertainment from 12pm to 6pm on the Barbican and Sutton Harbour.

Plymouth Jazz Club

Nov 16

Featuring The Gatsby Trio with jazz from the 20s and 30s at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Nonmembers welcome. Details at www.plymouth-jazzclub.com

Christmas Fair

Nov 21 and 22

Stoke Damerel Church in Paradise Road, Stoke from 11am to 3pm. To hire a table or stall contact Marilyn Goldsbrough on 07890 165524 or 01752 564847.

Plymouth Christmas Market

Nov 27 to Dec 21

Experience the all-new Plymouth Christmas Market, operated by the award-winning event operators, Market Place. With over 100 international and local traders housed in charming, traditional chalets, the Plymouth Christmas Market will be offering an authentic feast of quality Christmas fayre alongside a carefully curated mix of handcrafted goods and bespoke artisan products. Set against the backdrop of Armada Way and New George Street, the market is an unmissable destination for coach parties, daytrippers, and city shoppers alike, offering the perfect place festive shopping.

Just Christmas 2025

Nov 29

A 'fair' Christmas fair at Hope Baptist Church from 10am to 3pm with all items on sale locally or ethically made. Free children's activities, community choirs, homemade cakes, pasties and raffle. Free entry and all proceeds to buy Christmas gifts for the homeless.

Christmas Concert

Dec 13

Tamar Concert Choir perform a selection of Christmas songs and traditional carols with the opportunity for audience participation. Woolwell Community Centre, Darklake Lane, Plymouth from 6pm to 8pm.

Baroque Christmas Concert by Candlelight Dec 13

University of Plymouth Choral Society present a concert including Vivaldi's Gloria, highlights from Handel’s Messiah, and Carols in St Andrew's Minster Church at 7.30pm. Details available at www.uopcs.org. uk

Christmas Concert

Dec 18

Tamar Concert Choir perform a Christmas concert at Stoke Damerel Church at 7.30pm. In aid of the Chestnut Appeal with a variety of Christmas themed songs and traditional carols.

Plymouth Jazz Club

Dec 21

Featuring The Bourbon Street Paraders with their New Orleans Dixie Jazz at the Royal Briths Legion Club, Crownhill at 7.30pm. Entry £15 on the door (£12 members). Non-members welcome. Details at www. plymouth-jazz-club.com

Send details of your event to info@cornerstonevision. com and we will do our best to include them in Out and About. Unfortunately because of space limitations we are unable to publish details of regular meetings of groups and societies or similar organisations.

Photo: Chris Heaney

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“If my mind can conceive it, if my heart can believe it, then I can achieve it.” Muhammad Ali

Crime writer's love affair with Argyle is focus of his latest book

A love letter to a time and place, a city and its beloved football team, Home Park Heaven is uplifting, frequently hilarious, poignant and moving.

Established crime writer, Radu Herklots, revisits his childhood and adolescence in Plymouth with technicolor clarity.

As well as his Plymouth Argyle heroes, much of 1960s and early 1970s Plymouth life is featured in Radu’s latest offering.

Names like Angela Rippon, Sue Lawley, David Owen, Sir Francis Chichester, Robert Lenkiewicz and Beryl Cook bounce off the pages, together with Ivor Dewdney, Mimi Law, Robert Daniel and Gus Honeybun.

It tells of the author's shock at being plucked away from his idyllic home opposite Central Park at the pivotal age of 15 before coming up to date with an emotional return trip with his late father in 2012, a 60th birthday visit with his wife and yet another crucial encounter at Home Park in 2024.

"I hadn't found any other book that captured the excitement of growing up in Plymouth in the 60s and I decided to write one myself,” said Radu. ”Having read several 'misery memoirs' I wanted to write something happy. Once I started writing the memories started to flood back."

Radu Herklots (pictured here) grew up in Plymouth and Hampshire. He studied law at Kingston University, London, and the College of Law, Guildford. He retired from full time legal work in 2019, and has successfully published three crime novels, most recently The Turbulent Bishop. His detective hero, John Tedesco, is named after a Plymouth Argyle player. Home Park Heaven is his first foray into non-fiction.

Special order to improve safety at car parks across Plymouth

Car parks at Jennycliff and Mount Batten could become safer after measures set to be agreed at Plymouth City Council’s cabinet meeting.

They are among nine car parks in Plymouth in the frame to have new steps introduced to stop anti-social behaviour (ASB). The Cabinet are set to agree a proposal for a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to be introduced in the car parks where significant reports of ASB have been made.

The plan originally was to cover six car parks, but this has now been increased to nine because of repeated reports of ASB incidents in the Jennycliff and Mount Batten car parks. The PSPO will cover the Regent Street, Theatre Royal, Colin Campbell Court, Western Approach, Napier Street, Mayflower East, plus Jennycliff, Mount Batten Pier, and Mount Batten Castle car parks.

It follows a consultation which launched earlier this year to hear the public’s thoughts on the car parks, and how safe they felt while using them, after reported incidents relating to alcohol and drug use, and public disturbance and intimidation.

The PSPO is designed to make sure people do not occupy, loiter or congregate with other people for any reason other than to park a car, motorbike or moped.

The order will aim to crack down on antisocial and intimidating behaviour, such as people gathering or loitering, large car meets congregating and motorbikes racing and causing a noise disturbance.

Many of the car parks are regularly patrolled or have CCTV cameras, but the PSPO will give police and designated officers the power to move people on if they are causing a nuisance within these car parks.

To enact a PSPO, there needs to be evidence that the anti-social behaviour is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of those living or working nearby and that the behaviour is unreasonable and persistent. One of the respondents of the consultation said: “As a woman alone, I loathe it when I see people loitering, drinking, shouting anywhere but in an enclosed space it’s even more frightening.”

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: “It’s no secret that some of our car parks are leaving people feeling uneasy and unsafe while using them, we absolutely do not want anti-social behaviour to continue, which is why we are taking action to put a stop to this behaviour in the car parks.

“Our residents and people who visit Plymouth should feel safe when parking their car. “The results from the consultation will now help us move forward with the next step, we want people to feel safe when visiting our car parks, and the PSPO will help provide reassurance to our residents and visitors.”

Steve Hughes, chief executive of Plymouth City Centre Company, added: “This will be welcomed by our businesses and visitors and is a much-needed measure to make the city centre safe and more welcoming.”

The PSPOs are expected to come into force in the next few months.

Major milestone is reached as first new homes completed at Barne Barton estate

The transformation of Barne Barton, once the largest naval estate in the South West, has reached an important milestone with the completion of the first new homes delivered through a major regeneration programme led by Clarion Housing Group.

Working in partnership with regeneration specialist Lovell and Plymouth City Council, the project is replacing outdated post-war housing with modern, energy-efficient homes. The focus is on creating a greener, safer and more connected neighbourhood for local people.

The first 18 homes in Phase One have now been completed and handed over, providing high-quality homes for social rent and shared ownership. A further 143 homes will be delivered as part of this first phase, with all homes due to be completed by summer 2026.

The new homes are designed with sustainability and resident wellbeing at their core. Each property benefits from solar panels that supplement household energy use, ensuring that when the sun is shining, power is drawn from the panels first.

Homes are also fitted with air source water tanks, which use ambient air to pre-heat hot water, helping to reduce overall energy demand. Every property comes with an electric vehicle charging point as standard.

To mark the milestone, Richard Cook, chief development officer at Clarion, was joined by Plymouth City Council Leader Tudor Evans, Cllr Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing and Co-operative Development, Ross Field, regional managing director at Lovell, and other council representatives for a tour of the new homes.

During the visit, they met with a resident who had recently moved in and shared how delighted they were with the additional space, lower energy bills, and strong sense of community on the estate. The celebrations continued with a community event, where returning residents joined Clarion colleagues, including Clare Miller, chief executive of Clarion Housing Group, to mark the important milestone and reflect on the positive changes taking place in the area.

Richard Cook of Clarion Housing Group, said: "We are incredibly proud to see the first new homes completed at Barne Barton. This

marks a turning point for the estate and a real step forward in its transformation.

“The regeneration is focused on putting local people first by delivering homes that are energy-efficient, affordable, and built to the highest standards of design. We are excited to continue progress on this important regeneration, shaped around placemaking and supporting a thriving, sustainable community."

Ross Field of Lovell, said: “The delivery of the first new homes marks the most significant milestone to date on the Barne Barton project and are testament to the entire project teams’ efforts on what is an extremely technically challenging project. With phase

one now gathering momentum, we very much look forward to continuing to play our part in the regeneration of the Barne Barton area. Once complete, the wider regeneration will deliver more than 200 new homes, with a mix of affordable tenures and open market sale. The project will also include new green spaces and improved pedestrian connections, with an emphasis on placemaking and long-term sustainability.

£250,000 to fund overseas experiences for

Award-winning adult learning provider On Course South West has been awarded over £250,000 through the Turing Scheme to provide transformative study and work placements abroad for its students.

The latest funding will support international opportunities between September 2025 and August 2026, aligning with the scheme’s aims of advancing social justice and enhancing skills.

The Turing Scheme, the UK government’s global programme for studying and working abroad, aims to unlock once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for personal and professional development.

“I am absolutely delighted that On Course South West has secured even more this year in Turing Scheme funding,” said Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships.

“This investment means 146 of our learners, 100 per cent from disadvantaged backgrounds will have the chance to experience lifechanging study and work placements abroad.

“These opportunities not only broaden horizons and build vital

students

skills, but also ensure that every young person, regardless of their background or needs, can access the benefits of international education.

“I have already seen the positive impacts of this programme and how lives have been changed, I am really eager to see even more success in the next 12 months.”

OCSW’s successful bid will enable 146 learners to participate in life-changing experiences across 11 destinations, an increase on last year’s 86 participants.

Key highlights include:

• 100% of placements reserved for students from disadvantaged backgrounds

• 100 spaces allocated to students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

• Range of destinations offering unique cultural and educational experiences

• Tailored support to ensure accessibility for all participants

The locations for these trips will be announced in late August 2025. To find out more visit www.oncoursesouthwest.co.uk/turing

Colleagues from Clarion with members of Plymouth City Council, Lovell Construction and Alabare Veterans Self-Build Scheme, in front of one of the new Barne Barton houses. Photos courtesy of Fotonow CIC
The first of 200 new homes on the site of the former naval estate have now been completed

Peninsula Imaging and Pathology Networks, with Healthcare Sciences, are hosting a ’Discover Diagnostics’ careers event for Plymouth students and their parents, at the South West Imaging Training Academy in Plymouth.

The event takes place on September 20 at the Training Academy premises in William Prance Road with sessions from 9am to 12 noon or 1pm to 4pm.

The event will showcase the incredible jobs that make up radiography, pathology, and healthcare sciences, as well as the progression opportunities available in the local area.

Each session will start with a welcome seminar, followed by stall exhibits and a chance to chat with professionals from across the specialisms and our next steps teams.

The event is free to attend but tickets to either the morning or afternoon event must be booked for each attendee via www.tickettailor.com/events/ nhs36/1653669 or www.tickettailor.com/ events/nhs36/1653713

For more information visit https:// peninsuladiagnostics.nhs.uk/discoverdiagnostics

Red Bull Up the Mast event is coming to Plymouth

Red Bull have announced that the unique Up the Mast event designed to test competitors’ speed, skill and sheer determination, is coming to Plymouth.

A total of 200 brave participants will take on the mast on September 27 in a battle to be crowned the Red Bull Up The Mast 2025 Champion.

Taking place between 2pm and 5pm, competitors will test their speed, balance and willpower as they attempt to grab the flag at the end of the greased mast situated in the Barbican and Sutton Harbour.

The format is simple: successfully grab the flag and

• Central Heating

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• All Plumbing Work

• Free Estimates

• Landlord Certs

• All work fully Insured & Guaranteed

the competitor goes through to the next round, fail to grab the flag and they are out. The fastest to grab the flag in the final round will be declared the ultimate winner.

The event is open to all participants over 18 and is free to spectate, with entertainment and live music throughout the day. The competition is part of Red Bull’s wider Up The Mast series, which has so far seen hugely successful events in Turkey and the USA. To sign-up to participate on the day and find out more about Red Bull Up The Mast visit www.redbull. co.uk/up-the-mast.

earn up to £180 a week DBS checks necessary

Can you offer a comfortable living space to support students whilst they study away from home?

The International Team at City College Plymouth is recruiting host families to accommodate and care for our international students

award

Prestigious global award for Plymouth multi-academy trust which runs two city schools

A multi academy trust which operates two schools in Plymouth has won a prestigious global award.

The Inspire Multi Academy Trust (South West) – operator of Ernesettle Community School and Tor Bridge Primary School – has been named Educational Trust of the Year in the Corporate LiveWire Global Awards - an honour that recognises outstanding organisations across the globe.

The Corporate LiveWire Awards celebrate organisations that consistently deliver excellence in their respective sectors – from SMEs and public sector bodies to multinational corporations.

This year, the awards panel praised the Inspire Multi Academy Trust (TIMAT) for its transformative impact on children's education, its holistic and inclusive approach and its exemplary model of collaborative working.

To find out more information about becoming a host, please e-mail or call international@cityplym.ac.uk 01752 305755

Aaron Meredith, chief executive of the Trust country.

A key highlight of the Trust's recognition was its innovative MAT-to-MAT collaboration model. This pioneering shared service approach, rarely seen in

Aaron Meredith with the

Age UK Plymouth opens its 'Time & Again' café in Mount Gould

home made cakes will be available at the new Time & Again café

Age UK Plymouth has celebrated a significant milestone with the opening of its brand new café, Time & Again, located at the William and Patricia Venton Centre in Mount Gould.

On opening day the café welcomed a mix of familiar friends and new faces, all joining together to mark this exciting new chapter for the charity.

Created as a welcoming space for all, Time & Again is the perfect spot to catch up with friends and family, take a break or enjoy something delicious.

The café serves up some much loved favourites from full English breakfasts and lunchtime classics, to indulgent cream teas and a tempting range of homemade cakes – all freshly prepared by Age UK Plymouth’s dedicated catering team.

A full menu is available to view by visiting www.ageuk.org.uk/plymouth.

Every penny spent at Time & Again goes directly to Age UK Plymouth, helping to provide its vital services, activities and support for older people, individuals living with dementia, and carers across the city.

Even a simple coffee becomes a meaningful way to give back to support the local community in Plymouth.

As a dementia friendly venue with free onsite parking and a warm welcome for well behaved dogs, Time & Again has been designed with accessibility and comfort in mind for everyone in Plymouth.

In addition to its day to day offerings, Time & Again is also available to support catering requests for events, both on site and externally.

To celebrate the launch, Time & Again is offering 10 per cent off all purchases throughout September, making it the perfect time to stop by and try something new – all while supporting a meaningful, local cause.

The café is now open from Wednesday to Saturday, from 8.30am to 4pm.

Marine Academy Primary sets standard for pupils' behaviour and attendance

A primary school in Plymouth has been selected as one of a handful of schools nationally as a Lead School for the Department for Education's new Attendance and Behaviour Hubs programme.

Marine Academy Primary is among the first 21 schools nationally to be selected for this prestigious role, leading the way in supporting schools across the country to improve attendance, strengthen behaviour cultures and create supportive environments where every child can thrive.

Marine Academy Primary previously served as a Behaviour Hub Lead School between 2022-2024, in recognition for its exceptional approaches to building strong, safe and supportive school cultures. In that role, MAP worked with schools regionally, supporting them to develop good behaviour, routines

and structures, which in turn helped improve pupil engagement, mental health and wellbeing.

As part of this new role, the school will:

• Deliver intensive, one-to-one support to schools every year, working directly with senior leaders to improve systems and culture

• Provide open days, bestpractice events, and regional sharing opportunities for schools across the country

• Help schools develop safe, supportive cultures, robust attendance systems, strong leadership and evidence-informed strategies

• Use data intelligently to identify challenges and drive sustainable improvement.

The Government has said that over time, 500 schools in most need will receive intensive and targeted help, while 5,000 schools will have access to the hubs when they have all been opened.

Good school attendance matters hugely for children, impacting not just their learning but also their friendships, memories and future opportunities.

Georgina Reid, geadteacher at Marine Academy Primary said: "We believe every child has the potential to shine and deserves to learn in a safe, supportive and calm environment. We're excited to share our practice and collaborate with other schools to support improved attendance and behaviour across the region.

“Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and go on to live a life of opportunity."

Race on to find rescue dog Mojo a home

A desperate appeal has been launched to find a forever home for a Spaniel X Lurcher which has spent more than 100 days at a Plymouth rescue centre.

With just weeks until his 10th birthday, staff at Woodside Animal Welfare Sanctuary are keeping everything crossed that the lovely Mojo will be settled in a loving home before his big day in October.

Mojo first arrived at Woodside, at Elfordleigh, in the spring after his owner passed away. Having spent much of his life on a caravan site, Mojo was unfamiliar with the world outside and ready to explore.

An initial match was found for Mojo, but sadly this didn’t work out and within weeks he was back at the sanctuary, where his carers are hoping its third time lucky for this sweet boy.

Woodside kennel supervisor Kelly Beutner said: “When he first came to the sanctuary, Mojo had lived in a caravan and wasn’t well socialised, he’d only been walked around the caravan park.

“He loves a fuss and a cuddle and is a laidback boy. He’s not a dog to sit on your lap but will come and sit next to you.

“Even though he’s older he’s still active. He’s still happy to go on long walks and have a sniff around the fields.”

With kennel life starting to get to Mojo, he’s spending more time in reception, enjoying cuddles with sanctuary staff and greeting visitors with his waggy tail. He recently caught the eye of potential adopters but, due to circumstances, they were unable to offer him a home at present.

Kelly explained that when Mojo was returned to the sanctuary in June, his adopter said he’d been reactive and unpredictable on walks and needed further training. However, since returning, Mojo has been the perfect gent, with an enhanced training and assessment programme put in place to monitor his behaviour.

In recent weeks, he’s visited the bustling Plympton Ridgeway, popped into shops along route for a treat (or two!), spent time in Colebrook Village and walked on the Moors, meeting people of all ages and abilities along the way.

He’s also joined the charity’s volunteer walkers and their dogs on their adventure, without showing any reactivity.

“We’ve not seen any negative behaviour,” Kelly said. “We took Mojo to the Ridgeway and into the charity shops to meet members of the public. People were giving him treats and making a fuss of him and he was really well behaved. He was relaxed, wagging his tail.

“The butchers caught his attention as we walked along and he tried to pull

me in! Mojo’s very food orientated. He’ll sit for a treat and will bark if you take too long!

“He’s mixed with other dogs here and has gone out with different staff and volunteers. One of our regular dog walkers takes him out with her three dogs and they go off lead, and she says he’s so good. The dog walkers all adore him.”

As he hasn’t lived with dogs, cats or children before, the sanctuary is looking for a pet-free home for Mojo and any children would need to be aged 16 and above.

Anyone interested in giving Mojo a forever home should call the sanctuary on 01752 347503 or email generalenquiries@woodsidesanctuary.org.uk.

Woodside kennel supervisor Kelly Beutner pictured with Mojo
Delicious

Plymouth is home to something extraordinary – and many people in the city don't even realise it.

Tucked away in Devonport's historic Market Hall is Europe's largest immersive dome, a vast digital space where pupils can experience the Arctic, the International Space Station, the depths of the rainforest or even the battlefields of the Second World War, all without leaving the city.

From September this year until July 2026, the Dome will open its doors to schools and youth groups from across Plymouth and the wider South West. The aim is to give young people a learning experience they'll never forget.

The screenings are designed to support the curriculum and bring subjects to life in ways that classrooms can't always achieve. Children can dive into the world of cells and biology, stand beneath the stars on a journey through the universe, or take a sensory trip inside a watermelon in shows specially created for Early Years and SEND groups. With the technology to project films across its 15-metre-wide dome, Market Hall offers a unique chance to surround students in moving images and sound, creating a powerful sense of being right inside the story.

Teachers who have already visited describe the impact as transformative. Pupils return to their classrooms buzzing with questions, ideas and creative energy, often producing writing and discussion far beyond what the lesson plan

expected. For schools, the Dome is more than just a trip – it's a springboard for learning that sparks curiosity across science, history, geography and the arts.

It's also an opportunity for Plymouth as few cities in Europe have access to this kind of technology and none have anything on this scale. For Plymouth to be home to the largest immersive

dome in Europe places the city at the forefront of digital innovation in education and culture.

It means that schools here – and in the wider South West – have something that pupils in other big cities would have to travel hundreds of miles to experience.

Sessions are open not only to schools but also to youth groups, Scouts, Guides and community

SPONSORED CONTENT

Tackling anti-social behaviour, improving road safety and dealing with unauthorised encampments

Over the summer months, my team and I have been working hard across Devonport and the surrounding areas to keep people safe, tackle anti-social behaviour (ASB), and focus on your key priorities — particularly road safety on Kings Road and reducing ASB in and around Granby Way.

We’ve had a busy few weeks dealing with a range of issues. In the past six weeks alone, we’ve responded to several unauthorised encampments, working with our partners to resolve them swiftly and fairly while addressing community concerns.

We’ve also run a summer hotspot policing plan, where officers have worked an extra 100+ hours in key areas. This has meant more high-visibility patrols, more face-to-face conversations with residents, and faster responses to ASB and associated crime.

These extra patrols have focused on places where we know issues have been most frequent, sending a clear message that we will not tolerate behaviour that causes distress or harm in our community.

One of our priorities this summer has been tackling ASB in Granby Way. We’ve been there day and night, engaging with residents, working alongside housing providers, and taking enforcement action where needed. This approach has helped us target those responsible while supporting those affected.

We’ve also kept a strong focus on road safety on Kings Road. This is an area where we’ve sadly seen serious collisions in recent months. We’ve been out regularly, speaking to drivers and pedestrians, monitoring speeds, and working with our partners to identify long-term improvements.

Alongside tackling these challenges, there have been real successes. Recently, we made a large seizure of suspected Class A

With Inspector Andy Stewart, Devonport & West Plymouth Neighbourhood Policing Team

drugs with a potential street value of £50,000. This is a significant win for our community — removing potentially dangerous drugs from our streets and disrupting the criminal networks that profit from them.

Community engagement has remained at the heart of what we do. Over the summer, we’ve attended local events, met with youth groups, supported victims of crime, and held reassurance visits in areas that needed a visible policing presence. These conversations are vital — they help us understand what matters most to you and how we can work together.

Looking ahead, we’ve got more planned. In the coming weeks,

organisations. The Dome can hold up to 70 pupils per session, with a minimum booking of 15. Alongside blockbuster science and history films, sensory screenings ensure that children of all abilities and needs can take part.

For Plymouth teachers the Dome offers a rare chance to combine affordable learning with genuine wow factor. At just £5 per pupil, with free adult places included, the screenings make Europe-leading technology accessible to local classrooms.

But beyond the cost, the real value lies in what young people take away. Whether it's the awe of standing beneath the starry skies, the thrill of seeing a rocket launch, or the empathy stirred by witnessing marine habitats destroyed by trawling, the Dome experience leaves a mark.

It's an opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, artists and citizens by showing them the world – and beyond – in a way no textbook ever could.

For Plymouth and the South West, this is more than just another school trip option. It is a statement that the city is leading the way in immersive learning, making global technology available on our doorstep.

In a world where education is competing for children's attention, the Dome proves that when learning is truly immersive, it doesn't just capture attention – it captures imagination.

More details can be found at real-immersive. realideas.org

Youngsters to experience unique screenings at immersive dome Neighbourhood Policing News

officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) will be holding school surgeries — attending schools to meet students, answer questions, and build positive relationships.

We’re also preparing for a dedicated operation tackling ASB involving E-bikes and nuisance motorbikes, which we know has been a frustration for many residents.

Your safety is our priority, and we’ll continue to work with you, our partners, and the wider community to make Devonport and West a safer and stronger place to live.

Finally, we’ve been encouraging people to sign up for DC Alerts at www. community-messaging.

dc.police.uk – a free service that gives you updates, crime prevention advice, and news from your local policing team.

It’s a simple way to stay informed and involved in what’s happening in your area.

ENQUIRY

OFFICE

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The Police Enquiry Office at Devonport Police Station in Chapel Street is now open to the public from 10am to 3pm Monday to Saturday. It is closed on Bank Holidays and Sundays. Police station front desks allow members of the public to have access to walk-in services where they can speak to trained staff who can help with crime reporting, crime prevention advice and help with accessing victim services. To make sure there is enough time to deal with an enquiry, members of the public are advised to try to arrive at least an hour before closing.

Vehicle speed checks in Kings Road
Inspiring the next generation at Devonport Market Hall's immersive dome Photo: Jay Stone

Surgery services at Derriford are upgraded to ‘good’ from ‘requires improvement’

Surgery services at Derriford Hospital have been upgraded from ‘requires improvement’ to ‘good,’ following an inspection by the Care Quality Commission.

Although improvements had been made since the previous inspection there were some areas that still needed attention. Inspectors found two breaches of regulations relating to dignity and respect and staffing, and CQC has asked the trust to submit an action plan setting out how they plan to address the issues.

Derriford Hospital remains rated as requires improvement overall.

Jemma Edge, deputy chief operating officer and Care Group manager for Surgery, said: “I am incredibly proud of all the hard work that has taken place, rewarded with the recognition from the CQC in upgrading our rating.

“This is such a team effort across multiple individuals and departments, all who have contributed to this outstanding achievement. It is a privilege to work alongside such inspiring colleagues who consistently go above and beyond, not only delivering outstanding patient care but also driving continuous improvement in our services for both patients and staff.

“Their commitment to excellence is evident in our performance across many national benchmarks and continues to develop.”

Catherine Campbell, CQC deputy director of operations in the South said: “When we inspected Derriford Hospital’s surgery services we found staff and leaders had been committed to using the findings from our last inspection to make improvements and this had resulted in positive changes being made across the board.

“Staff now felt listened to and understood people’s needs, views and wishes. People said they knew how to raise issues and were confident their feedback was acted on.

“Many spoke about how comfortable staff made them, and how they had been supported to make decisions about their care and give informed consent.

“The service had developed a culture of continuous improvement and we found leaders were visible, knowledgeable, and helped staff to develop in their roles. They had good systems in place to act on safety risks, including when safeguarding concerns were raised, and made sure that lessons were learned and shared with staff when things went wrong.

“Although the service had made improvements, we were concerned with how many staff had completed all the training required for their roles, and found privacy issues with the orthopaedic operating theatres.

“The doors in the theatres enabled members of the public or other staff to see people who were being taken in for surgery and the trust addressed this following our feedback.

“The trust should be pleased with the progress they have made in surgery services and we’ll continue to monitor them while further improvements take place. We will return to reinspect in future.”

Plans are submitted for more Royal William Yard housing

Ocean Studios will move to Devonport Guildhall as part of proposal

A planning application to regenerate the remaining section of the historic Factory Cooperage building at Plymouth’s Royal William Yard has been submitted.

This second phase of development would create 24 new luxury townhouses and complete the transformation of the Grade I listed building, following the successful completion of its first phase over the last two years.

The planning application represents the next chapter in Urban Splash's ongoing regeneration of Royal William Yard. Urban Splash will partner with South West developer, Poppy Developments, to deliver the scheme and it will build on the success of Phase 1.

The development comes as Real Ideas transitions its Ocean Studios space from Factory Cooperage to Devonport Guildhall, part of a strategic move to centralise its creative offering in Devonport. This relocation creates the opportunity to reimagine the use of the building and convert this into residential space.

The proposed Phase 2 development aligns with Royal William Yard’s vision, balancing residential accommodation with the destination’s thriving retail, dining and cultural offerings.

The Yard has continued to evolve during its 200th anniversary year, with the recent opening of Arcade providing six new retail and leisure premises, and the new car park expansion project well underway.

Tom Lowry, Urban Splash's development manager for Royal William, said: "Poppy Developments has established itself as a trusted partner within the Yard community. Their expertise in sensitively converting these historic buildings, combined with their understanding of what buyers are looking for, makes them the ideal developer to complete this important project."

The proposed bespoke 2, 3 and 4 bedroom townhouses will complement the existing Phase 1 properties, creating a cohesive

residential community within one of Plymouth’s most prestigious waterfront locations, Factory Cooperage. Uptake for the homes in Phase 1 has been positive, with just

five properties left to be sold.

The townhouses would feature the same premium specifications and thoughtful design as Phase 1, with generous proportions across multiple floors and outdoor spaces designed to maximise the breathtaking maritime setting. Each property would blend contemporary comfort with the rich heritage of this iconic location, maintaining the exacting standards that have made Royal William Yard synonymous with quality living. Factory Cooperage represents one of the final major buildings to be transformed within Royal William Yard’s waterfront community. The heritage site, which boasts the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe, has undergone significant transformation since Urban Splash began its regeneration work 20 years ago.

The planning application submission marks another significant milestone in Royal William Yard’s evolution as a sustainable, long-term community where people can live, work and visit one of the UK’s most spectacular waterfront settings.

For more details and information visit www.royalwilliamyard.com

The first phase of town houses at Factory Cooperage. Photo Rob Nankivell
Factory Cooperage at Royal William Yard. Photo Felix Mooneeram
Royal William Yard boasts the largest collection of Grade 1 listed buildings in Europe Photo: Richard Downer Photography

Plymouth gets another big defence business boost

Plymouth has been named one of five key national defence growth areas in the UK Defence Industrial Strategy announced on September 7.

A team of city organisations that form Team Plymouth, formally Growth Alliance Plymouth, have warmly welcomed the landmark designation that marks a transformative moment for Plymouth and the region, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for economic development, innovation and community prosperity.

Backed by a £250 million UK-wide investment, the landmark designation marks a pivotal moment for the city, opening up access to new opportunities that can shift the dial on Plymouth's economic trajectory and unlock long-term prosperity for local communities and future generations.

The newly launched Team Plymouth will strengthen collaboration between key organisations, foster innovation and create high-quality jobs.

This strategic partnership positions Plymouth to lead in defence, marine autonomy, and advanced manufacturing, securing its place at the forefront of national resilience and regional renewal.

The announcement builds on a series of recent major developments, including Plymouth's designation as the National Centre for Marine Autonomy, a £350 million investment by defence tech firm Helsing, Babcock's expansion into Sherford, with a new Integrated Logistics Hub and Advanced Manufacturing Base and the confirmation of Plymouth and South Devon Freeport as a Defence Strategic Investment Zone.

It also follows the Ministry of Defence's £4.4 billion investment into Devonport Naval Base and Babcock's Devonport Royal Dockyard, supporting the next phase of the Royal Navy's submarine programme and the Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD), with operations extending through to at least 2070.

The Defence Growth Deal investment in Plymouth will support a wide range of initiatives designed to build long-term capability and prosperity, including:

• Strengthening local skills initiatives, with a focus on STEM outreach and training in fields such as electrical engineering, renewable energy systems, nuclear operations, and autonomy.

• Driving innovation through the Advanced Marine Technology Hub at the University of Plymouth, supporting dual-use capability development, marine science and critical

Plymouth-based frigate HMS Richmond leaves the city to join the UK’s flagship on the Royal Navy’s headline deployment of 2025. The submarine hunter, which left Devonport Naval Base in April, will be spending most of the rest of the yearprotecting aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and other ships which make up the UK Carrier Strike Group Photo: Royal Navy

national infrastructure.

• Investing in local infrastructure to support the wider defence ecosystem.

Introducing Team Plymouth

In line with the national strategy and the emergence of regional defence growth identities such as Team Barrow, Growth Alliance Plymouth is rebranding to Team Plymouth.

This new identity reflects a strengthened partnership with government, industry and local stakeholders and signals a collective ambition to seize this moment and transform the city's future.

Sir Chris Gardner, chief executive of the Submarine Delivery Agency and Senior Responsible Owner for Team Plymouth said:

“I'm immensely proud to represent this transformative partnership with Plymouth, that recognises the vital contribution of this exceptional community to the UK's defence capabilities and national endeavour.

“Team Plymouth is a testament to the

power of collaboration between government, industry and academia, and the value of harnessing local expertise to create sustainable job opportunities for future generations.

"The comprehensive scope of this investment, from STEM education and skills development to cutting-edge research capabilities and infrastructure support, will ensure this region remains at the forefront of defence innovation. Together, we’re building a strategic partnership that honours this community’s proud naval history whilst securing its pivotal role in safeguarding Britain’s future.”

Council Leader Tudor Evans said: "This is a huge announcement for Plymouth. It's a new era for the city, a national endeavour which we are proud and excited to be at the heart of. Families of today and tomorrow will benefit from this announcement and the opportunities it will open up far into the future.

"This is why we are teaming up with the MOD, Babcock and wider partners such as Plymouth University and City College Plymouth to make sure city residents can access these opportunities – not just in defence but in wider supply chains including marine autonomy and construction. There is a lot to do, making sure the entire city and wider region benefits from the defence growth, but we are already on the case. The Defence Industrial Strategy is shining a bright light on Plymouth, and we are very proud to be part of it."

Harry Holt, chief executive of Babcock's Nuclear Sector said: "This is a proud moment for Plymouth's defence sector. The announcement of Team Plymouth, within the national Defence Growth Deal, reflects the already strong partnerships that continue to be built locally.

"Babcock is committed to working with colleagues across the city, and with local and national government, to ensure this momentum delivers lasting benefits within the region and strengthens the defence dividend in our communities."

Powerful framework

Under its new branding, Team Plymouth will continue to champion the city's strategic assets, attract investment and ensure that the benefits of growth are felt across all communities. The alignment of Freeport status, Defence Growth Deals and the Industrial Strategy Zones Action Plan provides a powerful framework to deliver lasting change and to reshape Plymouth's economic future for generations to come.

Professor Richard Davies, Vice-Chancellor of Plymouth University, said: "This investment will create unprecedented opportunities for the university and everyone living and working in our city.

“It shows those in charge of our nation's defence have confidence that Plymouth –thanks to our expertise and facilities, our location and heritage – is perfectly placed to tackle the complex and varied threats the UK is currently facing, and to inspire and train those who will be critical to its future security.

“The creation of an Advanced Marine Technology Hub will enable us to build on our expertise in autonomous marine systems, maritime cyber security, offshore renewable energy and environmental intelligence. But more than that, it places us even closer to the heart of the UK's national resilience, and we and our partners are ready to seize the opportunities that brings."

Plymouth among top UK cities for 'good growth'

Plymouth is one of the top cities in the UK for economic performance and quality of life, according to the latest Good Growth for Cities report.

Plymouth ranks sixth out of 50 UK cities in the annual index produced by Demos-PWC ranks using 12 economic measures, including jobs, health, income, work-life balance, skills, housing, transport, income equality and numbers of new businesses.

Welcoming the report, Plymouth City Council leader Tudor

Evans said: "It's heartening that once again Plymouth ranks among the top cities in UK for economic performance.

"We are an ambitious city and have built strong partnerships that enable us to work together to drive sustainable growth, attract strategic investment and most importantly, deliver tangible benefits for Plymouth residents.

"With the recent announcements about the Government's huge defence investment in Devonport, Plymouth's designation as a National Defence Growth Area and the

creation of Team Plymouth partnership with the MoD and Babcock, we well and truly have the wind in our sails.

"There's a huge amount to do but we are committed to grasping this once-in-a-generation opportunity.

"The priority will be to ensure all Plymouth residents have the opportunity to benefit from this investment and regeneration, whether through gaining the skills needed for a growing job market, or benefiting from better transport, housing and a regenerated city centre."

City's Christmas Market returns with new award winning operator

A new festive experience is coming to Plymouth this winter and local businesses are invited to be at the heart of it.

From November 27 to December 21, the allnew Plymouth Christmas Market will take place in the heart of the city, transforming Armada Way and New George Street into a festive wonderland.

Operated by award-winning market specialists, Market Place, the Plymouth Christmas market is now accepting trader applications, and talented South West-based artisans, makers, and producers are being encouraged to apply.

Market Place are bringing their expertise and festive flair to Plymouth for the first time, having previously delivered the highly successful Exeter Christmas Market from 2016 to 2021. Many regard those years as among the market's most successful, with numerous former Exeter traders still choosing to work with Market Place at events across the UK.

The company have a celebrated history, having delivered the iconic Belfast Christmas Market, which attracted 1.1 million visitors in 2024, and the Glasgow Christmas Market, which drew just under 1.5 million visitors at its peak. The stars of Channel Four's documentary 'Secrets of the Christmas Market' are promising a high-quality, high-footfall event that puts local talent centre stage.

Andy Pidgen, operations director at Market Place, said: "We are making a significant investment in this year's Plymouth Christmas Market with the ambition to create an unmissable festive destination, on par with our most popular markets like Belfast and Leeds. We're looking for passionate, local traders offering high-quality products and produce –from handcrafted gifts to flavourful fresh food." With over 100 wooden chalets, the Plymouth Christmas Market will offer a rich mix of artisan crafts, bespoke gifts, festive treats, and street food favourites. The event will also feature family-friendly attractions such as a vintage Helter Skelter, a traditional carousel, a ferris wheel, and a live entertainment stage showcasing local performers.

To ensure traders thrive, Market Place will be supporting the Plymouth Christmas Market with a significant promotional campaign, including outdoor advertising, targeted social media, PR activity, and city-wide branding, all designed to drive footfall and maximise visibility for traders. Trading at a Market Place Christmas event places traders at the forefront of the city' s festive celebrations. Spaces are limited and demand is high, so early application is strongly recommended. Traders are selected based on product quality, suitability, and availability on a first-come, first-served basis.

To apply, visit www.marketplace.co.uk

Pay boost for Princess Yachts workers

Nearly 1,200 Princess Yachts workers will receive a 6.5 per cent pay rise after a successful industrial action ballot, Unite, the UK’s leading union has announced.

The workers voted in favour of strike action after being told their wages would stay the same during pay negotiations.

Following the strike ballot, the company put forward a 6.5 per cent offer from September, which the workers voted in favour of accepting.

The pay rise means those on the lowest pay grades will see their wages increase by between £2,000 and £3,000 a year.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: "This is a huge victory for the Princess Yachts workers, who by sticking together in their union and voting for

strike action forced the company back to the table. This is yet another example of how Unite's absolute dedication to improving jobs, pay and condition is paying dividends for our members."

The workers voted in favour of industrial action during a ballot that closed in early August. No strike action took place or was scheduled due to successful negotiations with the company.

Unite regional officer Mark Richards said: "This deal could not have been achieved without the hard work and dedication of Unite's workplace representatives.

"This goes to show that those wanting better wages and working lives should join Unite and organise their colleagues to join too."

Boer War Hoe Memorial to be restored

A Plymouth Hoe memorial dedicated to a grandson of Queen Victoria is to get some TLC as part of Plymouth City Council's ongoing review of its assets.

The Prince Christian Victor Memorial was erected in 1902 to commemorate the death of Prince Christian Victor of Schleswig-Holstein, one of Queen Victoria’s grandsons, who died of typhoid fever during the Second Boer War.

It also commemorates the officers, noncommissioned officers and men of the Gloucestershire, Somerset and Devonshire Regiments who fell during the Boer War 1899 to 1902.

The memorial was designed by architect Frederick William Mark and has three bronze

panels by the sculptor Onslow Whiting and one by Emil Fuchs. The front panel by Fuchs shows two angels lifting a soldier 'towards another world' with a dedication to the prince.

The three panels by Whiting depict battles from the Boer War, including an attack by the Devonshire Regiment at Wagon Hill during the Siege of Ladysmith, and another shows the Somerset Light Infantry and the Gloucestershire Regiment in action.

The panel on the north has an inscription with the name of the benefactor who paid for memorial – South Africa diamond merchant Alfred Mosely.

Around the sides are the names of Boer War battles, including Ladysmith and Paardeberg – a name Plymouth people may recognise as a gun captured there now stands as a memorial to the crew of HMS Doris in Devonport Park.

The striking 12 metre pink granite obelisk with bronze panels is to get a makeover with the bronze surface cleaned and treated.

As the monument is Grade II listed, the council took advice from an historic consultant about the treatment methods and will be using a qualified historic contractor to carry out the work which will also entail cleaning the granite steps, repointing and applying wax to plaques on completion.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for assets said: "Where we can, we try to find funding to protect and preserve our monuments. This is an impressive memorial which is in need of attention.

"Whatever people's views now are on empire and colonialism, we should not shy away from

our history, but acknowledge it, learn from it and remember that many young men from this city would have died in battles far, far away from here." There's more information about memorials in Plymouth at www.theboxplymouth.com/blog/ press-release/the-boer-war

...and work starts on repairs to the historic West Hoe pier

Earlier this summer Plymouth City Council fenced off an arm of West Hoe pier as a safety measure ahead of repair work to stabilise the Grade II listed structure.

Built in the 1880s, the pier has been subject to various repairs over the years, but its location means that it is subject to continuous wave action.

The council has been monitoring its condition for some time and unfortunately the pierhead is in a more fragile state than ever.

Work started at the beginning of September to stabilise the pierhead. This will initially entail repointing the outer pier walls before more intrusive work can start. This will involve digging

into the pier and refilling voids that have been created by the sea as well as constructing three concrete bands to add more stability.

The work is expected to take around six weeks

– subject to progress, tide and weather conditions – and the pier will remain closed throughout the work and over winter. Given the scale of the work needed, a second, more expansive programme of work is currently being planned for next spring.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet member responsible for assets, said: "We have miles of waterfront, with walls, quays and piers – all at the mercy of time and tide. We have to balance limited budgets on where it is most needed.

"This tiny harbour is an important part of the waterfront and Plymouth's story and a place where people – especially anglers – really connect with the sea. It needs to be safe."

THE WAIT IS OVER: CENTRAL PARK AVENUE FINALLY GETS CLEARED

After years of frustration for local residents, work has finally begun to clear vegetation from Central Park Avenue, reopening a key path that has been closed for years.

The works, which began in August and will see a short one-way traffic system in place while clearance happens, mark the first step towards restoring safe access. Further works will follow in the weeks ahead to divert water that has repeatedly flooded the path.

Cllr Charlotte Holloway and Luke Pollard MP have been jointly campaigning on the issue, with Holloway posting a recent video calling on Plymouth

City Council to 'Build That Wall!'

Cllr Charlotte Holloway, Labour Councillor for Drake ward, said: “I've been working to get this issue sorted since day one of being elected as a councillor here.

"Whilst it's been a complex problem to sort, I've shared the frustration of residents and am now glad that this work finally begins to put it right. I'm pleased that our collective voice has made a difference and want to thank everyone involved for their patience and tenacity.”

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said: “This is a win for local people who

have been clear they wanted this bit of Central Park Avenue reopened. Charlotte and I have worked together to keep pressure on the council, and today is proof that when residents together with their councillor and MP keep raising their voices, things move.

"The first step is happening now, and we'll keep this on the council’s agenda until the permanent fix is funded and delivered.”

Cllr John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: "This is an important first step, and we'll keep working with Charlotte and Luke to deliver the long-term solution residents deserve here.”

Warm welcome home for HMS St Albans

Five hundred family members and friends have welcomed the 200 men and women of HMS St Albans home to Plymouth.

The warship has spent the late spring and summer – nearly 150 days on operations –safeguarding the UK’s nuclear deterrent in some of the harshest, most demanding environments.

The Type 23 frigate is a dedicated submarine hunter and has been deployed since April in home waters, the North Atlantic, Norwegian Sea, and Arctic Ocean conducting numerous patrols securing UK waters and areas of interests and working with NATO allies.

As well as monitoring below the waves for submarine activity, the Saint also supported efforts on the surface to shadow contacts of interest passing the UK, tracking the progress of the frigate Admiral Golovko through the Channel. Crucial to her counter submarine patrols was

constant presence of her Merlin Mk2 helicopter from 814 Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Culdrose, using sonobuoys (listening devices dropped in the ocean) and sonar to locate submerged adversaries. The helicopter flew nearly 170 hours on sorties which varied from submarine hunting to transporting VIPs including the Norwegian Defence Minister.

HMS St Albans has been aided in her important task by both UK and NATO tankers, including RFA Tideforce, keeping her in the hunt rather than returning to port to refuel.

The ship conducted ten Replenishment at Seas while deployed, embarking enough fuel to fill more than one and a quarter Olympic-size swimming pools. That sustained the frigate as she clocked up nearly 30,000 nautical miles since leaving Plymouth – the equivalent of around one and a third times around the globe.

To underline the importance of their mission, the ship’s company were thanked in person by Major General Rich Cantrill RM, the UK Commander Maritime Operations, who joined HMS St Albans in Plymouth Sound.

Commanding Officer Commander Matthew Teare said the substantial turnout for the ship in Devonport Naval Base underscored the constant support loved ones

Sign up for the Poppy Walk

Plymouth locals, families and friends are being encouraged to take part in this year’s Royal British Legion's Poppy Walk to raise funds for the RBL's 2025 Poppy Appeal.

The sociable 3km walk will take place at Central Park, Plymouth on Saturday November 8. Registration will open at 10am, with the walk starting at 11am, shortly after a moment of Remembrance.

Funds raised from the Poppy Walk will help the RBL to continue supporting veterans, those serving, and their families, offering expert advice and practical support with everything from recovery, housing, finances and employment. The RBL is there for life 'whatever the need, whenever it's needed.'

As well as raising important funds for this year’s Poppy Appeal, the Poppy Walk will also be a chance to remember, reflect, and plant a lasting tribute to the Armed Forces community. Participants will receive a wooden poppy tribute that can be personalised with a message to a loved one and planted at the event. These tributes will then be replanted in the Field of Remembrance at the Royal British Legion's National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

The family and dog friendly walk has an entry

Hundreds of family members welcomed crew members

fee of £10 per adult, and under 18s can attend free of charge. All participants are encouraged to fundraise what they can, and new for this year, anyone who raises £150 or more will receive an exclusive Poppy Walk medallion. '

Peter Smale, 62, from Plymouth, was supported by the RBL after finding himself homeless. Peter said: "The support I received from the RBL was a godsend. I had nowhere to go, and that's when I turned to the RBL.

"They were able to help me get a place I could call home, if it wasn't for the RBL I would still be on the streets. The money raised from generous people taking part in Poppy Walks changes the lives of people like me."

Izy Shaw, Poppy Appeal Manager in South Devon for the Royal British Legion, said: "We encourage as many people as possible from across Plymouth and the wider South Devon area to join the Royal British Legion's 2025 Poppy Walk. With over 18,000 service personnel in Plymouth, it's a fantastic way to come together with family and friends to thank and support the Armed Forces community."

A 20% discount is also available for adult entry fees, using the code 'WALK20 'at checkout. To sign up or for further information please visit: rbl.org.uk/poppy-walk

had given his sailors over the past four months.

"The work we have done, often in rough weather conditions and challenging environments, has directly supported regional stability and reinforced NATO’s Northern Flank. None of this would have been possible, of course, without the extraordinary support of our families, friends, and loved ones, and today is as much a celebration of them as it is of the ship’s achievements.

CHRISTMAS FAIR WITH A DIFFERENCE

A Christmas fair with a difference is being held at Hope Baptists Church in Peverell in November.

'Just Christmas' will take place at the church on Peverell Corner between 10am and 3pm on Saturday November 29. It is a 'fair' Christmas fair – everything sold will have been locally or ethically made, or charitable, including the refreshments.

Organisers are encouraging visitors to buy from local crafts people as it is better for the local economy, as well as the environment – the more miles a product travels the higher its carbon footprint.

Just Christmas will also feature ethically sourced and Fair Trade products from elsewhere which help poorer people in third world countries lift themselves out of poverty.

Last year the event raised £700 for Christmas presents for the homeless in Plymouth and this year's event will once again fund gifts for the homeless.

Entry is free and so are the children's craft activities, which will also be in keeping with the ethos and theme of the event.

Around the middle of the day, there will be singing from local choirs, to even more festive feel for both vendors and shoppers alike.

Refreshments will be available all day and will include locally made pasties and home-made cakes.

“After nearly 150 days away, it is wonderful to receive such a warm welcome home following a highly successful and demanding deployment. The ship’s company have demonstrated an untiring commitment to the protection of the UK and her NATO allies and I’m immensely proud of all they have achieved. They could rightfully hold their heads high when they were reunited with their families today.”

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HMS St Albans returns to Devonport

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Brain tumour survivor walking for charity

A Plymouth grandmother who has outlived a brain tumour prognosis by four years is taking part in a charity walk to raise awareness of the condition.

Glenn Lilley, who is 73, was diagnosed with a meningioma in 2021 after collapsing at home and experiencing sudden memory loss. An MRI scan revealed a large mass on her brain, leading doctors to give her a life-limiting prognosis unless emergency surgery was performed.

Glenn said: "My doctor told me that the mass could be seen on a scan from 2017 and the ear, nose, and throat specialist had missed the then grapesized mass. He commented on how aggressively the tumour had grown since that scan. I was shocked and horrified."

Walk of Hope is Brain Tumour Research's annual national event raising money to bring hope to brain tumour patients and their families. Every September, hundreds of supporters join Brain Tumour Research Walk of Hope events or organise their own walks in their community, set up fundraising pages and make donations to help find a cure for brain tumours.

Glenn added: "I'm not sure people realise brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40. I've had a wonderful life and feel very lucky, now I'm beating the drum for the young people living with this disease."

“It's great exercise, I think of it as I'm getting paid to do my steady state cardio. Good for the waistline and the wallet!”

Glenn was told that she had just six months to live unless she underwent surgery. However, her operation was postponed twice due to high hospital pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the meantime, she was prescribed steroids to relieve pressure on her brain, but the side effects were swift and severe; Glenn gained three stone in just six weeks. Eventually, she underwent an 11-hour operation at Derriford Hospital in September 2021.

She now lives with partial deafness, vision impairments, and frequent headaches.

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Glenn said: "Although I was told it was low-grade, there is every chance it will come back. If it does, I'll likely need radiotherapy, as further surgery could risk life changing injuries. But I feel lucky."

Motivated to turn her experience into action, Glenn is taking part in Brain Tumour Research's Walk of Hope at Torpoint on September 27, helping to raise awareness for a disease that affects 12,000 people in the UK every year.

Letty Greenfield, cmmunity development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: "Glenn's strength and positivity in the face of such adversity is truly inspiring. Her story highlights the urgent need for greater investment in brain tumour research.

"We are campaigning for national annual research spend of £35 million to bring funding for brain tumours in line with breast, bowel, lung, and blood cancers. It's only through consistent and sustainable research that we can improve outcomes and ultimately find a cure."

Brain Tumour Research funds sustainable research at dedicated centres in the UK. It also campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more in research into brain tumours in order to speed up new treatments for patients and, ultimately, to find a cure.

The charity is the driving force behind the call for a national annual spend of £35 million in order to improve survival rates and patient outcomes in line with other cancers such as breast cancer and leukaemia.

For more information or to register for the walk visit www.walk-of-hope.org

New Derriford Urgent Treatment Centre opens

A new Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) has opened its doors to patients at Derriford Hospital.

Located in the brand-new, three-storey Dartmoor Building, the UTC will be open daily from 8am to 8pm, for patients of any age.Urgent Treatment Centres are walk-in facilities and are available to treat injuries and illness which are not life-threatening but still require urgent treatment.

The new UTC will provide treatment in addition to the Cumberland Centre in Devonport and Minor Injury Units in Tavistock and Kingsbridge.

Dr Anne Hicks, consultant in Emergency Medicine, said: “The new Urgent Treatment Centre will give patients a choice of where to visit when they have a minor illness or injury. This increased capacity in the local area will ease the pressure on our Emergency Department, enabling emergency medicine specialists to focus on those patients who are seriously unwell.”

Patients should visit the UTC if they have an injury which is not life threatening, but still requires urgent treatment such as:

• Limb fractures

• Minor illness

• Sprains and strains

• Minor head injuries

• Minor scalds and burns

• Bites and stings

• Foreign body in eyes

• Infected wounds and cuts

There is no need to pre-book an appointment, just drop-in to the centre during opening times.

There are 14 drop-off spaces and two disabled parking spaces, each with a 30-minute limit. For longer stays, the multi-storey car park is available.

The Dartmoor building is located at the top of

the hospital site, opposite the multi-storey, Costa Coffee and Boots chemist.

The Dartmoor Building, which houses the new UTC, will shortly also become home to other key hospital services such as the Fracture Clinic, Main Outpatients and Pre-operative assessment.

Derriford is also due to benefit from a new, state-of-the-art Emergency Care Building estimated to open in 2028. It’s part of the Future Hospital Programme, which aims to transform how care is delivered and improve lives across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall through investment in the most up-to-date healthcare environment. John Stephens, director of Infrastructure Strategy & Site Services said: “The opening of our new Urgent Treatment Centre marks an important milestone in the continued transformation of Urgent and Emergency Care. It forms part of a broader programme of healthcare developments at Derriford and beyond, designed to deliver stateof-the-art facilities for the people of Plymouth and the wider South West.”

For the latest updates about all the developments at Derriford Hospital visit www. plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/building-for-the-future

Grants available for groups offering warm, welcoming places

Organisations in Plymouth are invited to apply for grants to host welcoming spaces across the city during the colder months.

Plymouth City Council received just over £4 million from the Department for Work and Pensions Household Support Fund to help support residents with the cost of living throughout 2025/26.

As part of this support, £160,000 has been allocated to help organisations open welcoming, community spaces this year – an increase of £60,000 from last winter when 37 spaces received funding.

Grants of between £2,100 and £5,350 are available to help non-profit organisations host a welcoming space, providing warmth and community connection, from November 2025 to March 2026.

Each welcoming space may offer a variety of services, including:

• Information, support and guidance

• Opportunities to participate in activities and learn new skills

• Free internet access, computers and charging points

• Friendly environment to connect with others

• Refreshments, food offers, and pportunities to cook healthy meals together.

Applications are open now and must be submitted by 5pm on September 26. Successful applicants will be notified in the first week of October.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Housing, Cooperative Development and Communities, said: "We know that many people in Plymouth are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, especially as we head into winter.

"Our welcoming spaces programme has grown and become very successful over the last few years, so much so that we have substantially increased the budget allocated to this scheme for this winter.

"These spaces provide not just warmth, but a real sense of community and support and I've seen first hand the difference this has made to people's lives. I encourage local organisations to apply and help us create safe, inclusive places where everyone feels welcome."

Applications will be assessed to ensure a fair geographical spread across the city, with coverage at different times of day and week, and support for a wide range of people. While only one grant can be awarded per organisation, multiple applications from the same venue are allowed if submitted by different organisations supporting distinct groups.

Plymouth grandmother Glenn Lilley 'I feel lucky'

Two centuries of Royal William Yard revealed as 200 Exhibition opens

Royal William Yard’s landmark 200 Exhibition has opened to the public, bringing together an extraordinary collection of original artefacts, historical documents and personal stories to celebrate the bicentenary of Plymouth’s most magnificent industrial monument, which is the largest collection of Grade I listed military buildings in Europe.

The free exhibition, running until September 28 at Melville Corner, showcases treasures from the National Archives, Devonport Naval Heritage Centre, Plymouth Proprietary Library and acclaimed local historians Chris Robinson and Richard Fisher, alongside captivating submissions from the public. Many items will never be displayed together again, having travelled from archives and private collections specifically for this anniversary.

Following a private preview for exhibition contributors and supporters, visitors can now explore two centuries of hidden history through this carefully curated collection. The display reveals the remarkable scope of Royal William Yard’s operations, from feeding a global empire to the personal experiences of those who worked behind its monumental stone walls.

The exhibition uncovers extraordinary stories, including the Brewhouse that never fulfilled its original purpose – completed in 1831 just as beer was removed from naval rations and replaced by rum.

Visitors can see Sir John Rennie’s original architectural plans and discover how the Mills Bakery could

transform over 270,000 pounds of flour into ship’s biscuits in a single week using steam engines.

Documents include classified letters unopened until now and weekly wage lists recorded in meticulous Victorian handwriting.

Technical drawings demonstrate how functional blueprints became works of art, whilst correspondence addressed to co-architect Philip Richards during construction offers glimpses into the building process.

The exhibition features original cooper’s barrels, indenture documents binding a 15-year-old to a legal apprenticeship, and handcrafted naval uniforms still bearing the Yard’s storage tags.

The 200 Stories campaign – a year-long initiative calling on the community to share memories, photographs, documents and family

connections to Royal William Yard – has received numerous stories, photos and items from those with connections to the Yard, revealing remarkable personal connections spanning generations.

Stephen Dryden’s account finally breaks a 60-year silence about naval rum ration traditions, whilst Arthur Roberts tells the tale of HMS Ark Royal and the mysteriously missing tonnes of sugar. David Trigger reflects on being one of five generations of his family to work at the Yard, and Kay Vickery shared wedding photographs from a place so meaningful to her family that she named her son William in its honour.

Royal William Yard once served as the beating heart of Royal Navy supply operations, with its innovative design revolutionising naval victualling across the British Empire.

Plymouth historian Chris Robinson commented: "This exhibition is well worth visiting for anyone interested in Plymouth’s remarkable heritage. Having spent years researching Royal William Yard’s complex story, I’m impressed by how this collection bridges the gap between official records and human experience, giving visitors a complete picture of how this extraordinary place evolved from Rennie’s ambitious vision into the destination we know today."

The facility employed a range of trades from bakers to clerks, and was home to skilled coopers who completed gruelling apprenticeships with the ‘trussing out’ ceremony –being rolled around in their final barrel.

The exhibition demonstrates how the Yard continuously adapted throughout its working life, from the 1891 transfer of operations to the Naval Ordnance Department through to closure in 1992, when Derrick Pearce was ceremonially ‘pulled out’ by the Devonport Field Gun Crew after 46 years of MOD service.

The exhibition also takes visitors through the Yard's regeneration by Urban Splash, turning it into the popular destination it now is, which welcomes one million visitors a year.

The exhibition represents an incredible collaboration between institutions, historians and the community. It’s the only chance to see Royal William Yard’s full story told through the objects and voices that shaped two centuries of British naval history.

The 200 Exhibition runs until September 28 at Melville Corner, Royal William Yard (next to BLOCK Café, opposite the Marina). Open daily 11am-4pm, with free entry. For more information, visit www. royalwilliamyard.com/200-exhibition Visitors can combine their exhibition visit with the free History Trail around the Yard, featuring 11 numbered stops with QR codes unlocking audio stories and first-hand accounts – also developed this year to celebrate the 200th anniversary. Maps available from the Welcome Suite or online at www.royalwilliamyard.com/ history-trail

Pregnancy Crisis charity members nominated for award

Plymouth-based charity Pregnancy Crisis Care is celebrating after two of its team members were nominated for the West Country Women's Awards in the Health & Social Care category.

Pregnancy Crisis Care provides free counselling to individuals and couples who face a pregnancy-related crisis or loss. It has been operating in the city since 2008, when a real need and a gap in service provision for this type of care was recognised.

The charity now sees over 200 people every year and many attend for multiple counselling sessions over several months. They see individuals and couples at their premises in Plymouth city centre, and although they have a waiting list, this is shorter than most other mental health waiting lists at present.

The two members nominated are Jane Frajbis, who is the centre manager and counsellor, who has carried the original vision and helped lead the team since its beginning. Sarah Hill is a counsellor and administrator at the centre, and has also been involved for many years.

Together they help to ensure the smooth running of the centre to support its vulnerable clients.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “We are delighted for these nominations which help to raise awareness of the important work that we do. Whether we get to the finals or not, It is such an encouragement to us to have got this far! We couldn't do this vital work without the support of our amazing team alongside us, which is largely made up of volunteer counsellors.”

Jane Frajbis added: "Although this is emotional work, we consider it such an honour and privilege to support those in crisis or facing devastating loss. These nominations are such an encouragement to us all, and we greatly appreciate those who so kindly nominated us."

To get in touch with Pregnancy Crisis Care, for support, or to help to fundraise, email contact@pregnancycrisiscare.org.uk or call 01752 246788.

Photo: Jay Stone Photography
The Pregnancy Crisis Care team with Sarah Hill (seated left) and Jane Frajbis (back row second from left)

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Orchestra celebrates 'Battleship Potemkin' classic

Plymouth's eclectic The Pit Orchestra will revive one of its landmark works this December with a special film-with-liveorchestra performance in celebration of the centenary of what is considered one of the greatest films ever created, 'Battleship Potemkin.'

For one night only on December 6, Plymouth's University's The House performing arts centre will journey audiences to a Russian Imperial Navy battleship on the Black Sea when a mutinous uprising by the ship’s crew against their ruthless officers, sparked by spoiled meat, becomes a violent clash and one of the most famous closing scenes in cinema history.

The Pit Orchestra 'accompanies Sergei Eisenstein's legendary 1925 silent film, widely considered a masterpiece in early cinema and which was inspired by the failed 1905 Russian Revolution. Its iconic climatic scenea fictional massacre of civilians on the iconic Odessa steps in Ukraine - is widely studied for its editing and pioneering use of montage. First commissioned and performed in 2017, the powerful soundtrack was originally composed collectively by The Pit Orchestra members under the guidance of lead composers Tom Richardson, Chris Muirhead and Chris Bailey. It has now been reimagined by Tom Richardson for the 2025 season with technical guidance from the virtuosic, internationally-renowned composer Simon Dobson.

Tom Richardson said: "Battleship Potemkin

not only represents a milestone in the grand history of cinema, as well as the shorter history of The Pit Orchestra, it is also a potent symbol of revolution and resistance to established authority and oppression;

a position that lies at the heart of The Pit Orchestra's ethos.

“We want to honour the film's legacy, the anti-establishment spirit of Russia’s postrevolution music scene, the geo-political

moment in which the centenary is occurring, and our own code of DIY collective action."

The event forms part of the centenary celebrations of 'Battleship Potemkin 'and continues The Pit Orchestra's mission to breathe new life into classic cinema through live performance.

Twelve musicians will perform this moving revival, many of whom will play multiple instruments while also forming a dynamic choir.

The Pit Orchestra is an evolving ensemble of trained and untrained musicians who mix classical and modern instruments and transform with every performance.

They write original scores, soundtracks and musical accompaniments in collaboration with filmmakers and artists, and are inspired by a wide variety of musical genres including rock, folk, electro, jazz, ambient and classical.

The orchestra formed in 2013 (as The Imperfect Orchestra) and has consistently maintained principles of collaboration, artistic expression, diversity, inclusivity and, perhaps most importantly, celebration of the amateur.

The Ukrainian Singers of Plymouth will open the event with a performance of traditional and contemporary Ukrainian music.

Also, as part of the centenary celebrations, later in December The Pit Orchestra will create a new, high-quality recording of their original 'Battleship Potemkin' score.

Battleship Potemkin 2025 'tickets are now on sale via www.thepitorchestra.com

Scene from Battleship Potemkin - courtesy of BFI

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Learning lessons from the persecuted Experience

At the end of July this year a front page story appeared in the Sunday Express focusing on the fact that the UK’s two main Christian leaders, from the Protestant and Roman Catholic traditions have revealed why millions of young Britons seeking ‘something deeper’ from the ‘noise’ of modern life are filling our churches again.

In 2016 headlines made grim reading with just 1.8 per cent of Britons attending Church of England services and 80-year-olds eight times more likely to go than a 21-year-old. However, since the Covid lockdown in 2020 there’s been a major spiritual U-turn. This spiritual awakening is also happening within the Orthodox Christian tradition.

YouGov data and the Bible Society's ‘Quiet Revival’ report reveal two million more attendees packed pews in 2024 than 2018 - with Gen Z’s aged 18-24 miraculously quadrupling from four per cent to 16 per cent.

Even Bible sales in the UK have almost doubled in five years with 2019 sales totalling £2.69 million - but rocketing to £5.02 million in 2024, according to Nielsen BookScan figures.

The Pews research agency, which documents global religious trends, reported 10 years ago that 87% of the global

population believe in a higher religious power. The largest global community was the Christian faith with 2.6 billion adherents.

Almost 360 million Christians lived in totalitarian regimes which persecute and imprison Christians, making the Christian faith the most persecuted religion in the world.

Access to news, documentaries, Podcasts and Vodcasts on social media platforms are

bringing the world within personal reach for everybody connected to the internet. With much of the instant news available to all, there are massive global societal shifts happening on a scale never before experienced.

Tom Holland, one of the UK’s greatest historians has written a book called ‘Dominion’ documenting the Judeo/Christian history of European civilisation. Even the New Atheists, like Richard Dawkins are calling themselves ‘Cultural Christians’ as the world is facing ideological social challenges not seen for decades.

The existential questions to life such as what is the meaning of our existence; what happens when we die and is there purpose to our lives are important to those trying to make sense of the ‘noise of the modern world.’

I recently had a beautiful experience when I spent time with a young 20-year-old who listens to Cross Rhythms and had been so touched by the music and the fact that it often asks serious questions about life. They came to see me and asked me to help them give their life to Jesus Christ. To me, the most important decision any human being can make.

The horror and inhumanity of man towards man we see in the Ukraine and Gaza often provoke the question of how can a loving

God allow such evil and brutality.

To even come close to understanding this we need to recognise that from a Christian perspective, the Creator of the Universe allowed Himself, in the form of Jesus Christ the Son of God 100 per cent divine and 100 per cent human, to be sacrificed on a Roman instrument of torture and death and to die in our place for the sins of the world.

Jesus rose again from death three days later and as part of that 2.6 billion community, I can testify to the goodness of God for over 40 years in the good times and the bad times, where I have the privilege of getting to know more and more about the love of Jesus for myself and those I love.

The experience and truth of biblical scripture such as Romans 8 verse 28 has been a foundational truth in some of the serious challenges I’ve experienced recently: ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’

We have much to learn from our brothers and sisters in the persecuted churches.

Listen to Cross Rhythms Plymouth on 96.3FM or online at the new Cross Rhythms Plymouth website at www. crossrhythms.co.uk/plymouth

Chris Cole

In last month's Chronicle, Devon and Cornwall Police highlighted the harmful effect that domestic abuse is having in Plymouth and further afield. In this latest article the impact of sexual abuse and more serious offences are highlighted with guidance on what to do as a victim

Support and help available for victims of sexual abuse

Devon and Cornwall Police understand that it can be difficult to report a sexual offence and there are many reasons why people choose not to report.

It should always be your choice, and you will not be judged by the police, whatever you decide to do. If you do not wish to report to the police there are many other support services, local and national, that you can talk to who can offer you support, whether it happened recently or a long time ago.

No matter how long ago it was, there is no time limit on when you can report it and it doesn't matter if you cant remember all the details.

There are many common myths about rape and sexual assault that might make you blame yourself, or question whether what's happened is a crime. These myths have no place in law, the police don't believe them, and they won't doubt you because of them. No matter who you are or what happened, Devon and Cornwall Police are here to support you.

Whether something is rape or sexual assault is about consent. If isn't your fault and its still rape or sexual assault no matter:

• what your relationship to the offender is

• whether you’d been drinking or taking drugs

• what you were wearing

• if you’d been flirting, kissing, or invited someone home - none of these mean you consented to sex

• if you changed your mind and stopped consenting

• whether or not you fought back or were injured

• how upset you seem - there is no ‘right’ way to react

• how long ago it happened

• whoever you are

• whatever your past, sexual or otherwise

• whatever your sex or gender - women, men and non-binary people all get raped and sexually assaulted

• whether you have any physical or mental health conditions or impairments

Join the Warrior Women Walk

Hundreds of women will step out in solidarity in October for Warrior Women Walk 2025 –a bold outdoor challenge organised by Plymouth charity Trevi, dedicated to supporting women in recovery from trauma, addiction and abuse.

Now in its fourth year, the women-only walk is more than a fundraising event - it's a rallying cry for dignity, justice, and freedom. Many of the women Trevi supports are navigating the long-term impact of domestic abuse and the justice system. For them, this walk is not just symbolic.

“Warrior Women Walk isn't about physical endurance,” said Trevi’s chief executive Amanda Greenwood. “It's about courage, community, and reclaiming power. Many of the women walking have already faced unimaginable battles. This event celebrates how far they've come - and invites others to stand with them.'

Taking place on October 12, the event follows a 10K circular route across Burrator, Dartmoor, with participants walking alongside survivors, Trevi staff, volunteers, and corporate partners - including official sponsors, Plymouth Citybus, part of the GoAhead group.

The walk also brings together women connected to Trevi's services - Jasmine Mother & Child, Daffodil Family Centre, Blossom Women's House and Sunflower Women's Centre - as well as allies, funders, and community champions.

This year's event aims to raise over £50,000 to fund trauma-informed services for women dealing with addiction, domestic abuse, and criminal justice involvement. All proceeds will go directly towards frontline support that helps women heal, rebuild, and lead safe, independent lives. Registration is now open at www.trevi.org.uk/event/warrior-women-walk

Plymouth police have a number of specialist officers known as 'Gemstone' working at Crownhill Police Station who investigate serious sexual offences.

These officers work closely with other partners to support victims of sexual violence and also with the Crown Prosecution service in order to bring sexual offenders to justice.

More information can be found on what the Crown Prosecution Service do on how the CPS charges and prosecutes rape cases at the following website: www.cps.gov.uk/how-cps-chargesand-prosecutes-rape-cases

In Plymouth, The Bridge Project is an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service that supports adults and children who have been sexually assaulted, abused or raped.

They offer free support which is tailored to the victim. Their website can be found at www. bridgeprojectsw.org.uk

There are Sexual Assault Referral Centres across Devon and Cornwall. They offer practical, medical and emotional to support to everyone. They have specially trained NHS doctors, nurses, and support workers to care for you.

The police or other professionals are able to refer you or you can contact them directly if you are unsure whether to report to the police or not. For more information visit www.sarchelp.co.uk

There are a number of other of services available which can be found at www.plymouth.gov. uk/plymouth-support-offer

DEVELOPER'S DONATION FOR PLYMOUTH CHILDREN’S GROUP

A Plymouth-based developer has donated £2,500 to PEM Disability Children’s Club.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon handed over the cheque to its members at a basketball session at Plymstock School earlier this month as part of its Community Champions scheme.

Founded by two Royal Navy veterans, it was born from a simple but powerful idea: service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. After dedicating over 40 years of service between them, founders Lee Ellis and Luke Monnington sought a new mission – one rooted in compassion, community and opportunity.

What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a thriving volunteer-led sports club designed specifically for children with disabilities. The club is a place where youngsters with pan disabilities can come together to play a range of sports and take part in other activities, having fun in a safe environment twice a month.

The volunteer-run club also puts on fun-packed events litter picks, bouncy castle play days, BBQs, trophy nights, and visits to recreation centres such as soft play, swimming pools, and adventure parks.

Persimmon has two sites in the city, Palmerston Heights in Derriford and Saltram Meadows in Plymstock.

Persimmon's Community Champions programme sees £700,000 go to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include Plymouth Night Patrol, Argyle Community Foundation, St Luke's Hospice, Elburton Villa FC, and Argyle Pride.

Lee Ellis, co-founder of PEM Disability Children's Club, added: "We believe that every child, regardless of physical or cognitive ability, deserves the chance to play, grow, and thrive through sport. Our club offers a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where children can build confidence, make friends, and discover their strengths.

"As we are run entirely by unpaid volunteers, we are very grateful to Persimmon for their support. We know they are a local business and, no doubt, we will one day have members at one of their developments, so this donation will go a long way."

Photo: RDNE Stock Project
Photo: John Allen

The Plymouth Chronicle is excited to announce a collaboration with Argyle Life to provide regular Plymouth Argyle content from the perspective of the fans. We’ll be publishing regular pieces from Argyle Life contributors in print and via our website at www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk. Our latest article is from Argyle Life’s Sam Down who became a viral sensation when he took on popular pundit and presenter Ally McCoist in a memory challenge. The video of their head-to-head has attracted over 60,000 views!!!

Sam Down on his Argyle Memory: talkSPORT and Ally McCoist

It's been a bit of a crazy last few weeks. Since I last wrote for the Chronicle, Argyle have started the season pretty terribly but I've had a lot of plaudits on a personal note thanks to the performance of myself and my good friend Adam Price in the talkSPORT Cup and a certain viral clip that has arisen from it.

Let's back up a little. The cup itself was filmed over spring and summer with most of it actually being recorded at the tail end of last season. Due to our partnership between Argyle Life and talkSPORT (we are part of the fan network for club podcasts) we were given the opportunity to participate in an event called the talkSPORT Cup. In short, it was to be a series of quizzes in a head to head straight knockout cup format of 64 teams (one team per club, all PL/EFL sides) - a maximum six rounds and three days of filming. After a few false starts, we were offered a filming date of March 28 - just before Argyle were due to play Watford on the Saturday: it seemed written in the stars to combine it with a London weekend. So we did, and we won our last 64/last 32 fixtures to progress to the second day of filming.

It was not without a scare - Huddersfield in the second round was a team made up of former Mastermind and Pointless contestants. But, Adam and I had enough to edge them out and return for a second visit.

Incidentally, all of these videos are available to watch on YouTube if you're bored on a rainy day this autumn. The viewing figures have not in truth been quite as explosive as talkSPORT may have hoped, but it is at least a chance to see two of Plymouth's nerdiest football brains (if I do say so myself!) in motion recalling utterly pointless trivia details.

Day two came with two hard fought victories over two more very strong sides. We edged out Burton Albion in the last 16 before a Titantic clash against Ipswich in the quarter-finals. Reminiscent of our 2022/23 title battle on the field, Argyle just had enough to come out on top.

The third day of filming was finals day - we were narrowly beaten by a strong Leicester side in the semi final and consoled ourselves that at least our travel was being covered as a result of having made the last four!

However, it's what happened next that seems to have truly changed things for me personally. I have, for many years, always had an exceptionally strange knack or gift when it comes to my Argyle related memory. As described by the excellent and ebullient talkSPORT host Charlie Baker 'a Westcountry talent.'

Since I was first taken along to a game by my dad on a cold Tuesday night in March 2002, I can remember the date of every Argyle game to have been played during that time including the opposition.

As a conservative estimate, I would say that about 97% of the time I can name the score and at least 90% of the time I'll be able to give you some further detail about the game such as a goalscorer or some knowledge about the goals.

So what happened to bring this to prominence?

During a break in filming for the semi-final game, one of the producers noticed how I would always provide a bit of extra detail whenever asked any question about an Argyle match and asked me three randomly selected games from the 00s for me to provide the score and date.

Having done so, the clip seems to have gone, to say the least, pretty viral. I've had a few people aware of this gift and admire it for a while due to my appearances on our podcast and on the Life of Pie YouTube channel but this has taken the attention to new heights.

My memory has always been as much of a curse as a blessing, in all honesty. I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy being able to do it. And yes, the viral 15 minutes (15 days?) of fame that has come from it does boost my ego slightly...I'm only human, after all.

The cherry on the cake then came when I was invited on to the talkSPORT Breakfast Show off the back of it with football's OG statto himself Jeff Stelling and his co host, Rangers legend Ally McCoist.

Jeff pitted me against Ally to see how my memory of Argyle games fared against Ally's memory of Rangers games. The twist being, the Rangers games were ones that Ally himself had played in!

I won 3-1 and Jeff was left in almost stunned silence. From this, the internet attention seems to have gone even further into overdrive.

USEFUL NUMBERS

Where I've began to almost rue it is the nagging doubt that I'm wasting my brainpower - the level of storage space being used on Argyle could surely be better equipped on some kind of complex coding system for the benefit of wider humanity? As Ally McCoist said to me, 'you'll be expecting a call from GCHQ soon!'

However, on reflection, memory isn't really that useful a tool when compared to some others. In this day and age, everything that can be saved on a database is saved.

And really, who doesn't know how to take an Excel course. The real talent is how to use, interpret and apply the data. And, as much as I enjoy my party trick, that isn't really part of it and never has been.

No, sometimes a good party trick is just a good party trick.

The Chronicle asked me the question many have asked - they wanted me to write about where this talent comes from. I feel to an extent I've failed in that task having described it in such detail - all I can say is that I've got one of those brains that tends to hyper fixate on a special interest and in doing so can give incredible depth of information on that subject of interest.

Perhaps not many can do so to such an extent – and I like to think I can do so with enough self/ awareness and humour that it goes down well on social media – but in truth it's not really any different to people who can give in depth episode descriptions of Star Trek or DC Comics. Some brains are made for breadth and some are trained into it – I most definitely incline naturally and perhaps irreversibly towards depth. Here's to another season of memorising wins, draws and losses alike. I do sometimes wonder if I'll eventually run out of storage?

Argyle Life co-founder Sam Down took on Ally McCoist in a memory challenge - and completely outplayed the popular Scottish pundit and presenter

Big celebrations for City of Plymouth Pipe Band

Plymouth has a new reason to be proud after the City of Plymouth Pipe Band, led by Pipe Major Gordon Macaoidh, returned from Glasgow with their first ever World Championship trophy.

Formed 50 years ago (in the pub!) as the Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders regimental association pipe band, before gaining the ‘City of Plymouth’ name, the band has a long history of supporting parades and carnivals throughout the South West and has been competing at regional events for a decade but only recently stepped up to major competitions.

On August 16, the band took to the famous Glasgow Green to compete in the 2025 World Pipe Band Championships. Facing a pool of 23 rivals in the fiercely competitive Grade 4B category, they qualified for the final for the very first time – before going on to secure sixth place and a historic major trophy.

“It was like being struck by lightning,” said Iain, the band’s secretary and piper. “There was a lot of emotion when we saw ‘City of Plymouth’ on the qualifying board. We knew we’d just achieved something really special in qualifying.”

The celebrations were short-lived as the band quickly regrouped to repeat their strong performance in the final. When the results

were announced to a packed crowd of over 35,000, the words ‘City of Plymouth’ rang out over the tannoy, sparking huge cheers from players and supporters alike.

“Despite being one of the smaller groups on the field, we certainly made plenty of

Crossword

noise,” Iain said. “It’s still sinking in – our first qualification for a major final, our first major trophy, and recognition on a world stage.”

The result marks a milestone for the band, which has been competing at this level for only two years. New drums, funded with the help of local supporters and businesses, played a major role in their success.

The results were broadcast live on the BBC, while videos of the band's performances shared on Facebook have since been watched by thousands, giving Plymouth’s musicians worldwide exposure.

There were further celebrations at the end of August when the Band lifted the Grade 4 All England Champions title at Chatsworth.

Now the band is preparing to celebrate closer to home. Supporters are invited to their 50th anniversary ceilidh on Saturday October 18 at The Watermark in Ivybridge. Tickets are available now from the box office or via the band’s social media pages.

“This is just the beginning,” added Iain said. “We also hope this recognition will inspire more new learners to join us, helping to secure a strong future for piping and drumming in Plymouth. The support from Plymouth has got us here – and we can’t wait to share this moment with everyone at the ceilidh.”

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Proud winners of their first major trophy... Pipe Major Gordon Macaoidh (left) with band secretary Iain Smith

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