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Sunshine and steam bring pirate joy to Lynton and Lynmouth streets

Lewis Clarke
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Sunshine and steam bring pirate joy to Lynton and Lynmouth streets

Steam, sunshine and a splash of pirate mischief helped turn a seaside gathering into a colourful celebration of costume, music and imagination.

The twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth were filled with crowds on Saturday May 9 for the annual Lynton and Lynmouth Steampunk and Pirate Gathering.

Despite forecasts of rain, visitors were greeted by sunshine and warm spring temperatures as the event brought together steampunk fans, pirates, families and performers.

From early morning, the streets were filled with people in Victorian-inspired costumes, including brass goggles, elaborate hats, gears, corsets and handmade inventions.

Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)

A steampunk market proved popular throughout the day, with traders selling handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing and curiosities. Two cocktail bars were also busy as visitors enjoyed the atmosphere.

Entertainment ran throughout the day, with performances from Soulcraft, the Dynamix Steampunk Choir, South Molton Town Band, Borderline Morris Men, Switchframe and Major Blunder among others.

One of the more unusual attractions was a steampunk dog show, where dogs in costume took part in front of spectators lining the streets.

The Grand Steampunk Parade was among the main highlights, led by Steampunk Horses as a long procession of costumed participants made its way through Lynmouth to applause from the crowds.

Live steam engines were also operating at both the top and bottom stations of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, with staff joining in the spirit of the event.

As the sun set on the gathering, many visitors were already looking ahead to next year’s event in 2027.

Shoppers set to bag bargains as Cotton Traders moves into town

Devon Today
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Shoppers set to bag bargains as Cotton Traders moves into town

Shoppers will have the chance to hunt for hidden vouchers and claim opening day discounts as fashion retailer Cotton Traders prepares to unveil its new-look town centre store.

The British heritage fashion brand is relocating its Newton Abbot branch from Newton Road Retail Park to a new unit at 2 High Street, with the store officially opening on Saturday, May 9.

Mayor Cllr Colin Parker is due to attend the opening and will officially welcome customers to the new store at 10am.

To mark the launch, customers spending £40 or more in store will be able to receive up to £10 off selected purchases.

Five customers will also have the opportunity to find hidden £50 vouchers placed around the store, which can be redeemed either in store or online. Free gifts will also be available during the opening event.

The new branch will stock a range of men’s and women’s summer clothing, including shirts, blouses and lightweight layers from the retailer’s SS26 collection.

Cotton Traders said the new c.1,000 sq ft store had been designed to provide customers with a “seamless” shopping experience supported by in-store staff.

Nick Hamblin, chief executive at Cotton Traders, said: “We’re delighted to be relocating in Newton Abbot and to mark the occasion with a visit from the local Mayor.

“We pride ourselves on producing high-quality clothing that is both affordable and timeless and look forward to welcoming the local community to shop our latest collections.”

The new Cotton Traders store will open at 2 High Street on Saturday, May 9.

Terms and conditions for the launch offer state the discount is only valid at the Newton Abbot store and cannot be used online, by phone or by post. The offer applies to full-price merchandise only and excludes sale, promotional and multibuy items.

New KEVICC autism unit could change support for Devon families

Devon Today
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New KEVICC autism unit could change support for Devon families

A new specialist education unit designed to support children with autism has been hailed as a major step towards keeping more young people in mainstream education closer to home.

King Edward VI Community College (KEVICC), part of Education South West, welcomed local MP Caroline Voaden for a tour of the school’s new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision, which is currently under development.

The new unit has been created to support children and young people with autism through a structured and nurturing environment with personalised support.

School leaders said the provision would operate as a small specialist space with high levels of adult support, while still allowing pupils access to the wider school community.

Leadership of the unit will sit within KEVICC’s existing structure, with additional support from the Special Partnership Trust on curriculum development and staff training.

Places within the unit will be allocated through Devon County Council’s SEN Statutory Team. Pupils will need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) before being considered for a placement.

The school said places in the unit would be additional to existing admissions numbers and would not affect mainstream places at the school.

Caroline Voaden MP said: “I really enjoyed my visit to KEVICC recently to see the progress they are making on a new unit for children with SEND.

“KEVICC’s approach is genuinely exciting, ensuring needs are met locally, without children having to travel far away for support or public funds being used on private providers.

“Given the government’s renewed push for inclusion, requiring more SEND children to be educated in mainstream settings, I expect more schools to explore similar options and follow KEVICC’s lead.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said the project had taken more than two years to develop.

Matthew said: “Welcoming Caroline Voaden to KEVICC was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the progress we’ve made in developing this important provision.

“This has been the result of over two years of dedicated work, bringing together expertise from across our schools and partners to create something that will make a real difference for young people and their families.

“At Education South West, we are committed not only to delivering high-quality SEND provision in our own communities, but also to working collaboratively with other trusts to support the development of similar models in their local areas.

“This new unit at KEVICC is a strong example of that vision in action, creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where students with additional needs can thrive and achieve their full potential.”

Education South West is made up of nine primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a university technical college across Devon.

Dartmouth development opens as first homeowners settle into new homes

Devon Today
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Dartmouth development opens as first homeowners settle into new homes

A new retirement community has opened its doors in Dartmouth, with the first homeowners now settling into apartments designed to support independent living and community connection.

Mewstone Place, a new development by McCarthy Stone, has officially opened in the town, with the Mayor of Dartmouth, Cllr Andrea Cates, joining residents, family members and staff to mark the occasion.

The development includes one and two-bedroom apartments and is located close to local amenities including supermarkets, Dartmouth Health and Wellbeing Centre and Dartmouth Leisure Centre. Dartmouth town centre and harbour are around two miles away, with public transport links connecting residents to the wider area.

Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes

Shared facilities at the site includea communal lounge, bistro restaurant and landscaped outdoor areas aimed at encouraging social interaction while allowing residents to maintain their independence and privacy.

Rebecca Johnson, sales director at McCarthy Stone, said: “Mewstone Place has been thoughtfully planned to complement the character and charm of Dartmouth, creating a community that feels both welcoming and well-established.

“It provides an opportunity for people to embrace independent living in one of Devon’s most picturesque locations, without losing the everyday connections that mean so much.

“We are proud to see the development come to fruition and to begin welcoming residents into what promises to be a thriving and supportive community.”

The development also includes an on-site House Manager during office hours, alongside a 24-hour emergency call system and camera entry system in each apartment.

McCarthy Stone said regional contractors and suppliers had been used during the development, with ongoing roles supporting the long-term management of the site.

Further information about Mewstone Place is available at McCarthy Stone or by calling 0800 153 3076.

Lifton pupils wheel away with £1,000 Tesco boost for playground fun

Devon Today
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Lifton pupils wheel away with £1,000 Tesco boost for playground fun

Playtimes have shifted up a gear for youngsters after a school secured funding for new bikes and playground equipment through a supermarket community scheme.

Pupils at Lifton Community Academy have been enjoying new balance bikes, helmets and play equipment after the school received £1,000 through Tesco’s Stronger Starts programme.

The funding has allowed the school, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, to buy a set of balance bikes and safety helmets for younger children.

Pupils have been using the bikes during playtimes to help develop confidence, coordination and early cycling skills. The funding has also paid for fine motor skill tables on the playground to support dexterity and hand-eye coordination through play.

The grant was awarded through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, which supports local projects chosen through customer votes using tokens in stores.

Adam Hill, headteacher at Lifton Community Academy, said: “The children are absolutely loving the new bikes and play equipment, and playtimes have been buzzing with excitement since they arrived.

“We’re very grateful to our school community for their support in helping us secure this funding through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme. It’s made a real difference to the children’s play experiences.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “This is a brilliant example of how community support can have a direct impact on children’s experiences in school.

“The funding is helping pupils stay active, build confidence and develop important skills through play.”

Lifton Community Academy became an academy in 2022. Before converting, the former Lifton Community Primary School was rated “Good” during its last Ofsted inspection in March 2017.

More information about the school can be found at Lifton Community Academy.

Dartmouth students make their mark on vital youth mental health study

Devon Today
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Dartmouth students make their mark on vital youth mental health study

Young voices are helping shape the future of mental health research as pupils from Dartmouth Academy teamed up with researchers working to improve support for young people.

Students from the academy have continued their collaboration with the University of Exeter Medical School through the Young Persons Advisory Group (YPAG), which works with researchers on projects linked to young people’s health and wellbeing.

The group has been working alongside researchers for several years, helping to shape studies by offering feedback on materials, contributing to research design and sharing perspectives intended to make projects more accessible and relevant to young people.

This month, pupils helped develop and refine a booklet explaining findings from a review into digital interventions for young people considered at risk of mental health problems. The completed booklet has now been published online.

The Young Persons Advisory Group aims to bridge the gap between researchers and young people by ensuring studies are informed by the experiences and perspectives of those they are designed to support.

The booklet can be viewed online at https://heyzine.com/flip-book/326d1a27e9.html#page/2.

Nicola Perrott, assistant principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “Our pupils have shown incredible commitment and insight through their work with the University of Exeter.

“Being part of the Young Persons Advisory Group allows them to see how their voices can make a real difference in research that affects young people’s health.

“It’s inspiring to see their confidence, curiosity and empathy growing as they contribute to such important projects.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive at Education South West, said: “It’s fantastic to see our students actively shaping research that impacts young people across the country.

“The Young Persons Advisory Group gives them a real voice in projects that matter, helping researchers understand what is important to young people.

“Their input not only improves the quality of the research but also builds the pupils’ confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.

“This kind of meaningful engagement demonstrates the power of student voice in making a difference.”

Education South West said all of its schools hold UNICEF Rights Respecting accreditation. Dartmouth Academy is rated Good by Ofsted across all inspected categories.

Devon school boss lands top role in fight for better meals for pupils

Devon Today
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Devon school boss lands top role in fight for better meals for pupils

A Devon education chief has been handed a leading role in shaping the future of school meals across England as pressure grows for healthier food and wider free meal access in schools.

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of academy trust Education South West, has been appointed chair of the School Food Review, a coalition of more than 40 organisations campaigning to improve school food standards nationwide.

The coalition includes charities, unions, catering organisations, education bodies and academics, alongside support from groups including School Food Matters, Chefs in Schools and The Food Foundation.

Mr Shanks said high-quality school food played “a vital role” in children’s health and education.

He said: “High-quality school food plays a vital role in supporting children’s health, wellbeing and readiness to learn.

“When pupils have access to nutritious, sustainable meals, they are better equipped to focus, attend regularly and achieve their potential.

“Working with schools every day, I see how the right support strengthens outcomes for children and makes a meaningful difference for families.”

Stephanie Slater, founder and chief executive at School Food Matters, welcomed the appointment.

She said: “We are delighted to welcome Matthew Shanks as the new chair of the School Food Review.

“With valuable expertise in the education sector and a strong track record of strategic leadership, Matthew is ideally placed to guide our work.

“Under his leadership, we will continue shaping the government’s policy commitments and advancing our mission to champion nutritious, delicious school food for every child.”

ESW canteen

Naomi Duncan, chief executive of Chefs in Schools, said the appointment came at a “pivotal moment”.

She added: “With the upcoming expansion of free school meals, revised school food standards and wider breakfast provision, we have a real opportunity to transform children’s health, wellbeing and readiness to learn.

“Children spend around 190 days a year in school, eating more than half their daily food there, so getting this right matters.

“Matthew’s education expertise and deep belief in the transformative power of school food will be invaluable as we work together to realise its full potential.”

The appointment follows government plans to extend free school meals to all children in households receiving Universal Credit from the 2026 academic year. According to the coalition, the move is expected to provide more than half a million additional children with free meals and lift around 100,000 children out of poverty.

The government has also pledged to review school food standards and strengthen monitoring arrangements alongside its school breakfast policy.

The School Food Review said recent research had linked high-quality school meals with improved attendance, higher attainment and better health outcomes for children.

Education South West oversees eight primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a university technical college in Devon.

More information is available at Education South West and School Food Review.

Red Arrows and Typhoon confirmed for huge Riviera Airshow weekend

Torbay Council
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Red Arrows and Typhoon confirmed for huge Riviera Airshow weekend

The Royal Navy Black Cats, Jet Pitts, Firebirds and Starlings are just some of the display teams recently announced for this year’s 10th anniversary Airshow.   

Event organisers have announced the full line-up of civilian and military aircraft for this year’s English Riviera Airshow, adding further excitement to what is shaping up to be a fantastic free event for the whole family. 

Taking place from Friday 29 to Sunday 31 May in Paignton, the 2026 English Riviera Airshow celebrates 10 years since the event first launched in 2016, with three action‑packed days of flying and ground‑based entertainment along Torbay’s iconic coastline. 

The English Riviera Airshow is a collaborative effort supported by Torbay Council, the English Riviera BID Company, local businesses and organisations, and aviation enthusiasts. 

Flying Display Teams 

A diverse mix of civilian and military aircraft will take to the skies over the three-day weekend, offering something for Airshow fans of all ages: 

  • Royal Navy Black Cats: A dynamic helicopter display team flying front‑line AW159 Wildcat helicopters. The Black Cats are renowned for their close‑formation flying, opposition passes and fast, dramatic transitions. 
  • Aerosuperbatics Wingwalkers: A firm favourite with English Riviera Airshow crowds, the Wingwalkers are internationally renowned for their breathtaking performances, carrying out daring stunts on the top wings of vintage biplanes.
  • Jet Pitts: Flown by award‑winning stunt pilot Rich Goodwin, the Jet Pitts combines a powerful piston engine with twin jet turbines. The result is an adrenaline‑fuelled display featuring astonishing vertical climbs, torque rolls and hover‑like manoeuvres. 
  • RAF Tutor: Used by the RAF and University Air Squadrons, the Tutor plays a crucial role in introducing student pilots to flying before they progress to more advanced aircraft, delivering an elegant and precise display. 
  • The Starlings: A two‑aircraft aerobatic display team specialising in disciplined formation flying, showcasing precision, teamwork and graceful manoeuvres in the air.
  • Jet Provost: A classic British military jet trainer, the Jet Provost played a vital role in training generations of Royal Air Force pilots during the Cold War era and remains a much‑loved sight for aviation enthusiasts.
  • Westland Wasp: A rare helicopter designed for ship‑borne operations, the Westland Wasp brings naval aviation history to life, demonstrating agile manoeuvres and impressive operational versatility.
  • Navy Wings Seafire: The naval version of Britain’s most famous fighter aircraft, the Spitfire, the Seafire offers a powerful reminder of the UK’s extraordinary maritime aviation heritage.
  • Firebirds: Renowned for their spectacular twilight displays, the Firebirds combine precision formation aerobatics with wingtip pyrotechnics and LED lighting to create a dramatic visual experience.

RAF Display Teams

Completing the flying programme are three of the RAF’s most iconic display teams: the Red Arrows, Typhoon and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).

The world‑famous Red Arrows will take to the skies on Friday and Saturday, delivering their breath‑taking display of precision flying and trademark red, white and blue smoke trails over the Torbay coastline.

The RAF Typhoon will be flying on Saturday and Sunday, wowing crowds with its sheer power. Audiences can expect heart‑pounding passes, dramatic climbs and the unmistakable thunderous roar of its twin engines long before it appears overhead.

The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will be flying on all three days – Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The BBMF will feature the C47 Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft, offering a moving tribute to the men and women who served during the Second World War.

Flying Display Times

  • Friday; 18:30 – 21:30
  • Saturday: 12:00 – 16:00
  • Sunday:  13:00 – 16:00

More information about the display teams and times can be found in the official English Riviera Airshow Programme. The programme is available to buy on the English Riviera Airshow website and is also included with all premium parking passes. To find out more visit www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk  

 

Three days of entertainment

Over the years, the English Riviera Airshow has grown into one of the region’s largest and most exciting free events. Alongside spectacular flying displays, visitors can enjoy a packed programme of ground-based entertainment and a vibrant festival atmosphere.

The Airshow opens with an exhilarating first evening featuring aerial displays, live music and entertainment. Across the rest of the weekend, attractions include an Armed Forces village, a fun fair and carnival stalls, live music performances, a fantastic selection of food and drink stalls and more.

Plan ahead

With tens of thousands of people expected to attend, people are urged to start planning their visit. Visitors can enhance their experience by booking reserved premium seating. For just £35 per day, spectators can enjoy an excellent location with stunning beachside scenes, prime viewing of the flying displays, and close proximity to event facilities and hospitality.

Those planning to drive are encouraged to pre‑book their car parking to make their visit as stress‑free as possible. Parking options include Zone 1 parking, just a 20‑minute walk from the main event, or Premium Parking located in the heart of the action.

Both parking options include all‑day parking (9am–11.30pm), plus a free official English Riviera Airshow pin badge and event programme. Reserved seating and parking are limited, so visitors are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment at www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk.

Cllr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events, and Corporate Services, said: “We are incredibly proud of the flying line‑up we have for the English Riviera Airshow’s 10th anniversary. From breath‑taking civilian displays like the Jet Pitts, Firebirds and Wingwalkers, to iconic RAF teams including the Red Arrows, Typhoon and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, it’s set to be a fantastic weekend. We hope people from across Torbay and beyond will join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary.”

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company said: ”Wow, what a line up! This year’s programme has something for everyone, and the English Riviera BID Company is very proud to sponsor this key event.”   

The English Riviera Airshow has been held annually since 2016. It combines thrilling flying displays with ground-based festivities, captivating audiences of all ages.

Get the latest news and updates by signing up to the English Riviera Airshow newsletter: www.englishrivieraairshow.co.uk/

Shock as iconic Torquay observation wheel pulls out for 2026

Torbay Council
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Shock as iconic Torquay observation wheel pulls out for 2026

We can confirm that The Mellors Group, operators of the observation wheel on Torquay seafront, have taken the decision not to return to Torquay for the 2026 season.

Council officers worked closely with the company to try to get the wheel back to Torquay, exploring a range of operational factors, various financial options and possible solutions. However, after much discussion they have taken the difficult decision not to come this year.

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events, and Corporate Services, said: “We are very disappointed by The Mellors Group’s decision not to return to Torquay this year. The wheel has become a much‑loved attraction on the seafront, and we know many residents and visitors will miss seeing it. We worked closely with the company exploring practical options to find a solution that would work for them, but despite our best efforts they have decided not to return this year. We will continue to work with Mellors to support their return.

“While this will be disappointing news for many, Torbay has a strong mix of attractions and events and an impressive events calendar for 2026, with plenty happening across the Bay for residents and visitors alike. Torbay Council remains committed to supporting our tourism industry and strengthening Torbay’s position as a year‑round destination. The English Riviera Airshow takes place later this month and will welcome tens of thousands of people, alongside many other exciting events planned throughout the year. Our ambition is to make Torbay one of the UK’s leading coastal destinations, and we remain open to working with operators and partners on future opportunities.”

Torbay’s events line‑up for 2026 is one of the strongest yet, featuring a wide range of activities, festivals and cultural celebrations that offer something for everyone. Residents and visitors can look forward to a packed programme showcasing the very best of Torbay’s culture, coastline and community spirit, helping to ensure the Bay remains an attractive destination throughout the year.

Highlights for the coming months include:

  • Art on the Doorstep – 6 March to 5 September
  • Offshore and Bays Festival – 9 to 10 May
  • English Riviera Airshow – 29 to 31 May
  • English Riviera Walking Festival – 6 to 21 June
  • Torbay Pride – 13 June
  • ICF SUP World Cup and Paddle UK SUPER Festival 2026 – 24 to 28 June
  • International Agatha Christie Festival – 12 to 20 September
  • England’s Seafood Feast – 21 September to 4 October
  • Bay of Lights – end of November to beginning of January

These highlights form part of a wider year‑round events programme, with more activities to be announced in the coming months. A full list of events taking place across Torbay can be found on our website. 

Buyers rush for first look at major new housing development in Kingsbridge

Devon Today
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Buyers rush for first look at major new housing development in Kingsbridge

Prospective homeowners packed out an early preview event as a major new housing development prepares to open its doors to buyers.

More than 30 people attended the launch of Baker Estates’ new Norden Meadows development, where visitors were given an early look at plans for the forthcoming homes and information about the first properties being released for sale.

The event was hosted by Baker Estates in partnership with Luscombe Maye estate agents at the Velarde Art Gallery. Interest centred on the first phase of the development, which is being built off Alvington Hill in Kingsbridge.

Norden Meadows will feature 52 homes, including a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom houses, along with a selection of two-bedroom apartments.

Norden Meadows bungalows

According to Baker Estates, the development has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers, including first-time purchasers, families and people looking to downsize.

The scheme will also include landscaped public spaces, sustainable building features and improved pedestrian links to surrounding areas.

Annie Williams, sales and marketing director at Baker Estates, said: “We were expecting a big turnout from local people looking for more information about the first phase of Norden Meadows and we were not disappointed.”

Baker Estates has now opened its sales and marketing suite for people who were unable to attend the launch event.

Visitors will be able to collect brochures, speak to the sales team and find out more about purchasing options, including the developer’s Home Exchange and Assisted Move schemes.

The first homes released at Norden Meadows are priced from £409,995 for three and four-bedroom properties.

Further details are available at www.bakerestatesltd.co.uk.

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