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Bideford Bike Show rides into new home with engines roaring all day

Lewis Clarke
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Bideford Bike Show rides into new home with engines roaring all day

The sound of revving engines and live music filled the air as hundreds of bikers and visitors turned out for the 11th Bideford Bike Show at its brand new home beside Victoria Park.

Motorcycles and trikes of all shapes and sizes rolled into King George V Playing Field on Sunday, May 24, with crowds gathering throughout the day to admire the chrome-covered machines and enjoy entertainment, food stalls and live music.

The annual event moved from its traditional quay location for 2026, with organisers relocating the popular charity fundraiser to the playing fields beside Victoria Park.

More than 100 trade stalls joined the event alongside food vendors, live entertainment and music from Jude and Chris of CMC Productions, while Bideford Rugby Club provided refreshments throughout the day.

Bikers travelled from across the region to showcase their machines, with trophies awarded in a range of categories celebrating some of the standout bikes on display.

The event also raised money for The Veterans Charity and Royal Devon Hospitals Charity’s Mardon Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre Fund, with the final fundraising total still to be announced.

Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Bideford Bike Show 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)

Founder Lisa Elston thanked supporters, volunteers and businesses who have helped the event grow over the past decade.

Lisa said: “Firstly, I would like to thank everyone who has attended and supported our event over the past 10 years and helped make the show such a success.

“I would like to thank the founders alongside myself — Terry King, Mike Elston and Marco Oliveira — who helped put everything together in the beginning.”

Lisa also paid tribute to the volunteer marshals who help run the event each year.

She said: “A huge thank you also goes to all the marshals who give up their free time to help each year; your support is truly invaluable.”

She thanked businesses from across the area for supporting the show, including sponsors BoomBoom Media, North Devon Wood Craft Ltd, SJC Engineering SW Ltd, Speedy Hire, Bideford Auto Services Ltd, Anthony Pallett and Exmoor Luxury Loos.

Lisa added: “Your support helps make this event possible.”

Special thanks were also given to Jude and Chris from CMC Productions, stallholders and guest racers Jodie Fieldhouse and Nikki Carter.

The event’s judges Andy Hiscock, Louise Tanton and Graeme Barrow were also thanked for selecting the winning bikes.

Lisa also thanked Stephen Barnes and the Medifire team for providing first aid, fire cover, security and additional stewards, alongside Bideford Cobbler and Keys for supplying and engraving trophies and Claire Jolly at Morrisons Bideford for providing water for marshals.

She said: “A sincere thank you to Torridge District Council, Bideford Town Council and the councillors for all their help, support and funding towards our event.”

Lisa praised both current and former committee members for helping organise the annual show.

She said: “To think that all those years ago this started as just an idea and we hoped for around 300 bikes. We were amazed by how many turned up — bikes were parked anywhere and everywhere we could fit them.

“The money we have raised so far is astonishing for all the very worthy charities we support.

“It takes a lot of work and months of planning to put this event together, and knowing that everyone enjoys the day and comes back year after year shows we must be doing something right.”

Lisa ended by thanking those who attended the event.

She added: “And finally, the biggest thank you goes to YOU. Without everyone turning up and supporting the event, what we have achieved simply would not have been possible. So thank you, one and all.”

Visitors were able to keep up to date with the event through the Bideford Bike Show Facebook page.

Classic car fans pack Newton Abbot as retro fever sweeps the town

Nigel Canham
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Classic car fans pack Newton Abbot as retro fever sweeps the town

Teenage memories had Newton Abbot Mayor Cllr Louise Cooke unable to resist climbing onto the seat of a scooter on Saturday May 23 when the town staged its latest Classic Car Show.

Recalling times past she said: ’I remember riding on the back of one of these with all the lights and everything.

‘And of course you had the tiger in your tank on the back, it brings back a lot of good memories, it’s just wonderful.’

Cllr Cooke was delighted with how busy the town was.

‘I thought it might be quiet with everyone on the beaches but that’s not the case, they’re here and it’s wonderful.

‘What with the Taiko Drummers performing and our vinyl DJ spinning the discs it’s amazing.’

More than 60 cherished vehicles parked up in the town centre for the event which was organised jointly by Newton Abbot Town Council and Teignbridge Classics.

Heathfield resident Mark Baker of Torbay Mods said: ’It’s great, so many people come along and either nudge their wife saying remember what we used to get up to on one of those, or it’s kids going whoa, look at that!’

His daughter George added: ‘The club is like my second family and it’s great to be here on a Saturday, it’s something different to do.’

DJ Jodie Merelle from Teignmouth went down well with the crowds, playing a selection of hits from the past. Her only challenge was the soaring temperature.

‘The vinyl wasn’t thrilled about being in the heat but it’s ok, we’re surviving,’ she said.

‘People have been so friendly and saying how the songs remind them of when they used to go out clubbing or whatever, it’s been great.’

DJ Jodie Merelle at the decks
Cllr Louise Cooke with Mike and George Baker at the scooter display

Natalie Hicks, Events Co-Ordinator for Newton Abbot Town Council was thrilled with the turn out of both vehicles and people coming to take a look.

‘It’s gone very well and I’m very grateful to Teignbridge Classics for their help organising the event,’ she said.

‘It’e very vibrant, there’s a great atmosphere with lots of people here of all ages and they seem to be really happy.

‘We’re looking forward to more of this at the rest of our summer events.’

Plans lodged for late-night takeaway at former Torquay gift shop site

Lewis Clarke
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Plans lodged for late-night takeaway at former Torquay gift shop site

A new restaurant near Torquay harbour has applied for permission to operate a late-night takeaway service until 2am as part of plans to expand the business already trading from the site.

An application submitted to Torbay Council proposes a change of use for 3 The Strand from Class E commercial use to a mixed use incorporating both a restaurant and hot food takeaway. The plans also seek retrospective permission for a replacement shop front, illuminated signage and an extractor flue installed at the property.

The application has been made on behalf of Mr Suresh Sivarasa for the premises known as Torbay Kitchen at 3 The Strand, close to Torquay harbourside. Planning documents state the ground floor was previously occupied by a gift shop before being converted into a restaurant operation.

According to the submitted planning statement, the restaurant element of the business is already operating and does not require planning permission because restaurant use falls within the same Class E planning category as the former shop use. The new application specifically relates to the addition of takeaway services and retention of alterations already carried out to the building.

Planning documents state the applicant wants to offer takeaway food both directly from the premises and through delivery services during evening and night-time hours.

The proposed opening hours for the dine-in restaurant are from 11am until midnight seven days a week, while the takeaway service would operate from 11am until 2am daily. Documents submitted to the council state the business is currently operating as a dine-in restaurant between midday and 11pm.

The planning statement says the takeaway operation would run from a serving hatch on The Strand frontage after midnight, with delivery orders also available.

The site sits within Torquay town centre near Fleet Street and the harbour area, surrounded by shops, restaurants, bars and cafes. The building is located within a conservation area, although the application states it is not listed and has undergone significant alterations over the years.

Planning consultants XL Planning Ltd argued the proposal would support Torquay’s evening economy and provide additional customer choice without harming the vitality of the town centre.

The application also includes details of a new illuminated frontage and signage. Planning documents state the applicant proposes blue illuminated “Torbay Kitchen” lettering with white secondary text. The submitted statement says the lighting levels would be “mid-range brightness” and comparable with other illuminated businesses around the harbour area.

Photographs submitted with the application show examples of illuminated restaurant and bar signage elsewhere around Torquay harbour and town centre.

A separate noise impact assessment commissioned by the applicant examined the effect of the kitchen extraction system on nearby homes. The report concluded the installation would have a “low risk of adverse impact” and described the assessment outcome as acceptable.

The application states the premises would continue to provide internal seating for customers, with food preparation and storage areas located within the basement.

Torbay Council will decide the application at a later date.

Field of dreams for dogs as agility park proposed in Devon village

Lewis Clarke
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Field of dreams for dogs as agility park proposed in Devon village

A new secure dog adventure park could soon give owners a dedicated space to exercise their pets off the lead.

Plans have been submitted for a change of use from an agricultural field to a dog agility field on land at Higher Millfield, Mill Road, Bradworthy, Devon.

The applicant is Mrs Karen Whelan, with the planning statement naming the applicants as Mr Allan and Mrs Karen Whelan.

The proposal is for an adventure and agility dog park with a perimeter post-and-wire fence, a wooden shelter, agility equipment, parking and access improvements.

According to the planning statement, access would be taken from an existing track adjoining Mill Road, which would be extended to connect the field to the highway access.

The site would include a four to five-foot perimeter fence, with a lower four-foot fence proposed along the eastern boundary where there is already a dense hedge and tree line.

The statement says: “The perimeter fencing will be erected close up to the existing hedge/tree line and the hedging allowed to grow through to minimise the visual impact.”

A hard-standing parking area would be created for up to two cars, with a turning circle and a lay-by along the access track for two passing or waiting cars.

A wooden shelter would be built close to the northern hedged boundary. It would be used to store moveable agility equipment and provide cover and dry seating for dog walkers.

Permanent wooden structures, including a see-saw, tunnel and climbing frames, are also proposed, along with a sand pit.

Water troughs and dog litter bins would be provided, with a registered waste removal company used to dispose of animal waste.

The planning statement says the site is in open countryside under the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan, but adds that access adjoins part of the built form of Bradworthy and is about 100 metres from the village development boundary.

Pre-application advice dated Wednesday, December 10, says the proposal is likely to accord with planning policies in principle because a dog agility park needs a large amount of space and is well related to the settlement.

The statement says the council’s environmental protection team noted the potential for dog barking noise to affect neighbouring amenity.

In response, the applicants said use of the park would be by website bookings only, with a limit of four dogs and a maximum of two cars for each 30-minute or 60-minute booking.

Professional dog walkers with numerous dogs would not be allowed, and users would have to register.

The statement says: “Dog walkers will be required to register and if their dogs are not kept under control they will not be able to use the park in the future. The park will be open during day light hours only.”

Ecology measures proposed include leaving a three-metre strip around the dog park uncut from around April to July, reseeding two south-western corners with grass and wildflower mix, planting ten new trees, and enhancing the western boundary with native hedge species.

Villagers celebrate as bid for unwanted homes is thrown out again

CPRE Devon
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Villagers celebrate as bid for unwanted homes is thrown out again

Devon CPRE, the charity that campaigns to protect Devon’s countryside from inappropriate development, is delighted that a Planning Inspector has dismissed an appeal by the Christie Estate for outline permission to build a cluster of new houses in the village on a site that locals said was highly unsuitable for numerous environmental and heritage reasons.

Last year, Westleigh residents successfully opposed an outline planning application to construct nine houses on agricultural land just outside Westleigh’s Conservation Area (WCA), saying that the construction phase alone would ‘cause havoc’ in the settlement of just 69 homes, threatening the precarious existence of the community’s village hall, as well as the Grade-II-listed thatched dwelling known as Rock Cottage. They also argued that it would destroy a traditional Devon Bank hedge, a habitat frequented by ten species of bat, four of them endangered.

Westleigh – Rock Cottage and threatened hedgerow viewed from the north (photo supplied by Brian Lees)

To the delight of villagers and Devon CPRE, North Devon District Council resoundingly refused the initial planning application, deeming it an unsuitable location for new open-market residential development that would not meet local housing need and would cause harm to the character and appearance of the area.

The Christie Estate subsequently appealed against the council’s decision (Appeal Ref 6003960) and submitted slightly modified plans, including reducing the house at the entrance of the development to a single storey to make it less overbearing and to mitigate the impact on Rock Cottage.

The Planning Inspector’s decision to dismiss the appeal has now been made public – to the delight of Devon CPRE, Westleigh Parish Council and local residents. 

Devon CPRE Director Penny Mills says, “We have supported the villagers of Westleigh from the start in opposing this planning application, and the inspector’s ruling demonstrates that the planning system still has the power to preserve important landscape and heritage assets, despite the relentless political drive to build, build, build. This is a first-class example of why CPRE was founded 100 years ago and has campaigned relentlessly for all the protections that rural areas now rely on for their preservation. The main reasons the Inspector rejected the appeal related to damage to the setting of the listed cottage, the adjacent lane and an established hedge, as well as to the wider conservation area. We couldn’t agree more.”

Summarising the decision to dismiss the appeal, the Inspector stated, “Weighing against the proposal, the development would be contrary to the local development strategy, would be reliant upon the use of the car, harm the significance of a listed building and setting of the WCA, and harm the character and appearance of the wider area… planning decisions should guide development towards sustainable solutions whilst reflecting the character of an area and conserving and enhancing the historic environment.”

Tears and cheers as NHS stars praised for life-changing compassion

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
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Tears and cheers as NHS stars praised for life-changing compassion

The achievements of some of the incredible people who work at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has been celebrated at its annual Our People Awards Celebration.

The event, held at the Riviera International Centre on Thursday 21 May 2026, brought together around 240 health and care professionals who had won staff recognition awards during the past year, including winners of the DAISY Award for Nurses and Midwives; the Primrose Award for Healthcare Support Workers; specialty, specialist and associate specialist (SAS) doctors, resident doctors; Allied Health Professionals and Our People Awards.

As well as celebrating award winners from the past year, the winners of the prestigious Our People’s Choice team and individual awards were also announced. Gabriel Moroti, a nurse on New Forrest Ward, Torbay Hospital, received the individual award for supporting someone during their first stay in hospital when they were feeling vulnerable.

George Earle Ward, Torbay Hospital was announced as the team winner for their compassion and dedication to a patient throughout their stay on the ward. Winners were chosen by a public vote in recognition of those who have made a lasting difference through their care and compassion.

The People Partner Award, which is presented to individuals or teams in partner organisations who go the extra mile to support people who use NHS and social care services or their carers, was awarded to Lancelet Support, recognising its intensive, compassionate, and highly person‑centred work with some of the most vulnerable and hardest‑to‑reach individuals in our community.

The Charity Champion Award was presented to Helen French, Admin Team Leader from the Breast Care Unit, for her outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the Torbay and South Devon NHS Charity.

The first ever Volunteer of the Year Award winner was Sam Mead, Way Finder and Transporter, based at Torbay Hospital, for his friendly, cheerful attitude and for always going out of his way to support others. This new award recognises and celebrates the amazing volunteers, shining a light on their dedication, compassion and commitment.

Our People’s Choice individual award winner – Gabriel Moroti
Our People’s Choice individual award winner – Gabriel Moroti
People Partner Award winner – Lancelot Support
Volunteer of the Year Award winner
Our People’s Choice Team award winner – George Earle Ward

Joe Teape, Chief Executive of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust said: “This celebration is one of the highlights of our year, as it gives us the opportunity to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of our people, it is a powerful reminder of the dedication, compassion, and professionalism that runs throughout our organisation.

“Each and every one of our people plays a vital role in delivering the outstanding care and support our communities rely on. I’m incredibly proud of their passion, kindness and commitment. It’s a privilege to recognise the incredible contributions of our people, whose work embodies our values.”

The evening was funded entirely by the generous support of event sponsors Nevada Construction; Bailey Partnership; MW Benney; Stride Treglown Architecture; Services Design Solution; Hulley and Kirkwood Consulting Engineers; Arque Ltd; Multiverse and Peninsula Projects Consulting. Guests enjoyed a celebratory dinner with music and dancing, offering a well-deserved night to relax and reflect on a year of remarkable work.

The People Awards Celebration continues to be a highlight in the organisation’s calendar, reflecting the importance of recognising the people who go above and beyond, truly making a difference in the lives of patients, families, and colleagues alike.

If you have received exceptional care or support from someone at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, you can nominate them for an Our People’s Choice Award at Our People Awards – Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust.

Devon roads get £4m rescue as pothole crisis pushes drivers to edge

Steve Lodge
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Devon roads get £4m rescue as pothole crisis pushes drivers to edge

Devon’s Liberal Democrat-run County Council is providing an additional £4 million for highways maintenance teams following a rigorous review of spending that has enabled the authority to redirect savings into frontline services.

The investment, confirmed at today’s Cabinet meeting as part of the council’s year-end financial outturn, comes on top of additional funding agreed in March to tackle the immediate impact of one of the harshest winters in recent years. Between November and mid-February, Devon’s roads endured 15 freeze-thaw cycles, accelerating deterioration across the network.

The investment marks a significant shift in the council’s approach, moving from a strategy of ‘managing and mitigating decline’ to one of ‘stabilising and strengthening’ the network.

The extra funding forms part of a wider commitment to the county’s road network – the longest maintained by any local authority in England at over 8,000 miles, and growing. This year alone, 43 miles of new roads have been adopted, adding to the council’s maintenance responsibilities.

The Climate Change, Environment and Transport budget for 2026/27 stands at £96.9 million, with £36 million previously allocated specifically for highways maintenance – an increase of £6 million on 2025/26 – supported by £15 million in additional capital investment.

Over the next five years, the Liberal Democrat administration will invest £546.1 million in total in highways. This includes an extra £55 million over five years for preventative maintenance – work designed to extend the life of roads and reduce the need for more costly repairs.

Devon’s increased commitment comes against a backdrop of chronic national underfunding. According to the Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) survey, the backlog of repairs on local roads across England now stands at £18.62 billion – a funding gap that has left councils struggling to keep pace with deterioration.

Councillor Dan Thomas, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Last year we set out to manage and mitigate the decline of our road network in an exceptionally challenging environment. We prioritised safety, slowed deterioration and protected future investment. That strategy was delivered as intended.

“But managing decline was never our ambition – it was a necessity. This additional investment means we can now move to stabilising and strengthening Devon’s roads.

“We recognise that long-term sustainability requires more than just funding. It requires innovation, continuous learning and a culture where new ideas are encouraged and lessons are learned. That’s the approach we’re embedding across the service, and it’s how we’ll build resilience for the future.”

Devon chiefs pull off £17m cash miracle without slashing services

Steve Lodge
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Devon chiefs pull off £17m cash miracle without slashing services

Devon County Council has delivered a major financial turnaround during the first year of the Liberal Democrat administration. It has moved from a projected £14.7 million service overspend to a final service underspend of £2.98 million while protecting frontline services.

When the new administration took office in May 2025, it inherited both the Council’s approved budget and the existing savings programme. The Council’s formal Month 4 financial monitoring report subsequently forecast a £14.7 million service overspend for the financial year.

Following strengthened financial oversight, tighter budget management, improved forecasting and closer working between councillors, officers and frontline services, the Council has now delivered a significantly improved year-end position.

The Council’s financial position, presented to Cabinet on 20 May 2026 as part of the 2025/26 Revenue and Capital Outturn Report, confirms:

• An inherited projected service overspend of £14.7 million at Month 4 has been turned into a final service underspend of £2.98 million.

• A balanced position delivered against a net revenue budget of £695.2 million.

• £17.9 million of savings achieved during one of the most challenging periods local government has faced financially.

• An underlying underspend of £7.8 million, enabling reinvestment into frontline priorities and reserves.

• Adult Social Care delivered a £1.65 million underspend, achieving £7.7 million of its £8.2 million savings target.

• Children’s Services (General Fund) delivered a £405,000 underspend.

The improved financial position has enabled targeted reinvestment into priority services, including:

• £1 million invested into Children’s Social Care workforce recruitment and retention.

• £416,000 invested into SEND reform diagnostic support.

• £2 million invested into organisational transformation and resilience ahead of Local Government Reorganisation.

• £4 million additional investment for highways maintenance teams.

The Council has also maintained its General Fund balance at £16 million and increased earmarked reserves to £136.7 million despite continuing national pressures facing local government.

Councillor James Buczkowski, Cabinet Member for Finance and Public Value, said: “This was the first year of the new administration, and when we took office we inherited an extremely challenging financial position, alongside the existing budget and savings programme.

“The Council’s own formal Month 4 monitoring report forecast a £14.7 million service overspend. Turning that position around into a final £2.98 million service underspend represents a very significant improvement in financial control, oversight and organisational discipline.

“This has not been achieved through cuts for the sake of cuts. It has been achieved through stronger financial grip, better forecasting, constructive working between councillors and officers, and a clear organisational focus on public value and responsible stewardship of public money.

“In the current local government environment, where many councils are facing severe pressures particularly within Adults and Children’s Services, it is particularly significant that Devon has delivered stable positions in both areas while continuing to invest in improvement and resilience.

“But we are not complacent. We know there are still major long-term challenges around SEND, social care demand, inflation and Local Government Reorganisation.

“What this outturn demonstrates is that Devon County Council is becoming a more financially disciplined, evidence-led and resilient organisation, with a stronger focus on delivering value for residents.

“And importantly, this financial stability now allows us to reinvest into the services residents care about most, including highways, children’s workforce stability, SEND reform and long-term organisational resilience.”

Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council, said:

“When we took office in May 2025, we inherited the budget and savings programme. What we changed was the trajectory.

“This administration has brought stronger financial control, improved oversight and a clearer focus on long-term sustainability.

“But stable finances are not the end goal – better outcomes for Devon residents are.

“Strong financial management should protect services, unlock investment and strengthen resilience. That is exactly what this outturn demonstrates, and it provides a stronger foundation for the future of Devon County Council.”

SEND college celebrates major move into revamped Paignton youth hub

Torbay Council
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SEND college celebrates major move into revamped Paignton youth hub

A college is celebrating the end of refurbishments at its new site, which is also a hub of youth activity.

All pupils at Mayfield College will be enjoying their learning together from September following the completion of building works at Parkfield’s MyPlace site.

The second and final phase of works to refurbish the building in Paignton has now finished.

The project was funded by High Needs Capital Allocations which is government money paid to local councils to support new places and improve existing provision for children with SEND or who require alternative provision.

It comes as People’s Parkfield CIC – which manages the wider Parkfield site and the older Parkfield House building closer to Paignton seafront – prepares to host an open day for young people during next week’s half-term break.

Devon-based construction firm Mercury carried out this phase of the works at the college. It has transformed the interior spaces into multi-functional teaching and extra-curricular activity areas.

The sports hall, climbing wall and classrooms remain as spaces for the community to use in the evenings, weekends and school holidays.

Last year, Mayfield began a staggered move from its Occombe House site, which it has outgrown. The remaining students will be based at Parkfield from September.

Space became available at MyPlace when the Medical Tuition Service announced it would be relinquishing its lease. It provides education for children who can’t attend school due to medical reasons.

Parkfield was built as a dedicated space for community youth services and includes a BMX track, skate park and the MyPlace building.

The People’s Parkfield open day takes place on Wednesday 27 May from 2pm until 8pm.

Children and young people can get taster sessions at the BMX track, where there will be registered coaches on hand to provide instruction and encouragement.

People’s Parkfield hopes there will be interest from the local community to start up a BMX club.

Other attractions at the open day include inflatables, the YMCA youth van, a skate jam, smoothie bike and music.

Organisations attending include Reach Outdoors, the Brownies, Active Devon, YMCA South Devon, Sound Communities, Cycle Torbay, the Friends of Parkfield House and People’s Parkfield CIC. The school’s toilet facilities will be available.

Rachel Hawthorne, Head of Mayfield College, said: “The move of Mayfield College students from Occombe House to the Parkfield site has been exceptional. The new environment is not only visually impressive but has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of our learners. Its location has significantly supported the development of student independence and confidence.

“The improvements to the site have been a considerable asset. In particular, the enhanced workshop and art spaces now fully enable students to engage meaningfully in their vocational learning, supporting both skill development and future pathways.

“In addition, the site has strengthened our role within the local community. We have been able to open our doors to a wide range of groups and clubs, both during the college day and beyond, fostering inclusive community engagement and providing valuable real-world opportunities for our students.”

Councillor Nick Bye, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a brilliant project which has already brought MyPlace to life. It’s now being used as a truly inspirational home for Mayfield College as well as a base for multi-generational activity. Thanks to all who have been involved in this project, which has been completed on time and on budget.

“The improvements to the building will be beneficial for students and staff and it will be so good for the whole college community to finally come together under one roof from September.

“The entire site was always intended to be used for community youth services and I hope the open day will inspire young people to go along and find out what’s available for them there.”

Larissa Conman, business development manager at Mercurcy Construction, said: “As principal contractor, Mercury Construction was pleased to deliver the final phase of this refurbishment project. We developed a strong collaborative working relationship with the college and council teams throughout, which supported the safe and efficient delivery of the works, whilst the college remained fully operational. The project was completed on time and within budget.

“Alongside the construction programme, a further focus of the project was the delivery of social value across Torbay. This included facilitating 169 local apprenticeship hours, support for local skills and employment, engagement with our supply chain on equality, diversity and inclusion awareness, and volunteer activity to improve the People’s Parkfield garden.

“We also funded a community arts day in January for Mayfield students and young people using the skatepark, delivered by Sound Communities with support from supply chain partners HEI Group and O’Neill and Holman, featuring mural painting and music activity. These outcomes were delivered in alignment with the Build Torbay framework, of which Mercury is a member, and reflect a commitment to creating lasting benefit beyond the construction work. We will continue to strengthen links between the construction industry and the communities in which we work.”

Fresh cash boost handed to save crumbling Oldway Mansion tower

Torbay Council
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Fresh cash boost handed to save crumbling Oldway Mansion tower

A new phase of essential remediation work on Oldway Mansion’s historic West Tower has begun, supported by £166,109 from Historic England and £234,226 of additional funding from Torbay Council.

The works will address key structural issues and mark another significant step in securing the future of one of Torbay’s most iconic heritage landmarks. This combined funding package will support a programme of specialist structural and conservation works, including essential repairs to the roof, floors and structural framework. These are key priorities identified during earlier inspections and preparatory activity.

This latest grant builds on extensive work already underway at the site. In October 2025, we commissioned specialist teams to carry out essential conservation repairs after inspections confirmed deterioration to the roof coverings and dormers on the West Tower. These works form part of the wider restoration programme supported by £8 million in UK Government funding and £1 million from ourselves, which together represent the first major phase of Oldway’s long‑term restoration.

Oldway Mansion, built by Isaac Singer, inventor of the Singer sewing machine, and subsequently remodelled by his son Paris, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is a landmark of national and local significance. Modelled on the grandeur of French palaces, the mansion opulent interiors, formal gardens and striking architectural flourishes that reflected the Singer family’s status and character.

Oldway Mansion, Oldway Road, Paignton, Torbay, Devon. West Tower, exterior, view of tower in scaffolding prior to repair works. View from the west.

The West Tower, part of the former Riding School and Banqueting House and a distinctive element on the mansion complex, has been subject to structural decline. Its conservation is a vital component in safeguarding Oldway’s original historic fabric and ensuring the building’s long‑term future.

Oldway has been on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register since 2023, reflecting the scale and importance of the restoration needed to protect this much‑loved site.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “This investment from Historic England enables us to press ahead with the next critical phase of conservation on the West Tower. These works build on the detailed inspections, scaffolding and preparatory activity already completed and form part of our wider ambition to restore Oldway as a landmark cultural and community asset.”

“We are grateful for the continued partnership with Historic England and the funding that is helping us stabilise the building and move ever closer to restoring Oldway for the whole community.”

Rebecca Barrett, South West Regional Director at Historic England, said: “Projects like this deliver so much more than just the repair of old buildings – they strengthen local economies, bring communities together, and instil a genuine sense of pride in what makes a place special. That’s why we’re pleased to have awarded a grant for the West Tower repairs, and to support Torbay Council in their ambitions to secure the future of Oldway.”

Members of the public are welcome to continue enjoying the grounds of Oldway and the sporting facilities available on site, which remain open throughout the restoration period. However, for safety reasons, access to the building itself remains strictly prohibited, as the West Tower and wider mansion are currently surrounded by extensive scaffolding and active conservation works.

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