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Community landlord takes on four new affordable homes in Landkey

Devon Today
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Community landlord takes on four new affordable homes in Landkey

Four new affordable homes have been handed over to local community landlord, North Devon Homes at a new development off Birch Road, Landkey.

The new homes, built by local renowned developer Pearce Construction, comprise two two-bedroom houses and two three-bedroom houses, all of which will be available for social rent, helping to meet local housing need in the parish.

Paul Scovell, Development Manager of North Devon Homes was at the official handover. He said, “We are delighted to take ownership of these new affordable homes at Long Close in Landkey. This marks another important step in our commitment to increasing the supply of affordable housing across North Devon. These high-quality homes will provide secure, affordable places to live for local people who need them most. This partnership working with our trusted partner, Pearce Construction, enables us to continue to invest in our communities and deliver homes where people want to live.”

Nick Hopkins, Homes Director at Pearce Construction, added, “Long Close, is an impressive development of 20 two, three and four bedroom homes in the village Landkey. Each property has been built to a high-quality specification and benefits from off-street parking, EV charging points and air source heat pumps, supporting more sustainable and energy-efficient living. Internally, the homes offer spacious living accommodation, with light-filled living areas and French doors opening onto private rear gardens, creating practical and comfortable family homes. We’re proud to have worked in partnership with North Devon Homes to deliver these high-quality, energy-efficient homes for local people in housing need.”

This is the latest successful collaboration between North Devon Homes and Pearce Construction, building on a long-standing working relationship. The handover demonstrates North Devon Homes’ ongoing commitment to investing in new affordable housing, supporting sustainability, and working in partnership to create communities where people want to live.

The four homes will be let through Devon Home Choice, and an initial preference will be given to applicants with housing need living in Landkey or with a strong local connection.

North Devon builder celebrates 80 years shaping towns and communities

Devon Today
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North Devon builder celebrates 80 years shaping towns and communities

Pearce Construction, a cornerstone of North Devon’s construction industry, is proudly celebrating its 80th anniversary, reflecting on eight decades of exceptional builds, meticulous craftsmanship and community impact across Devon.

Founded in 1946 as R Harris & Sons Builders Limited, the company quickly established itself as a leader in private housing and commercial construction, across North Devon. Over the decades, the business evolved, through changes in ownership and identity, before becoming Pearce Construction (Barnstaple) Ltd in 1987.  In 2003, a management buyout restored the business to local ownership, allowing its senior leadership team to expand its footprint in the local housing market, further solidifying its reputation for delivering high-quality new homes

David Parsons, Chairman joined the business in 1982 and led the management buyout. He remarked, “From Mr. Harris’s humble beginnings in 1946, Pearce Construction has grown brick by brick, with iconic/noteable builds including Ilfracombe’s Landmark Theatre, Clovelly Visitor Centre, the regeneration of Forches Estate, Pottington Industrial Estate, North Devon College and more recently, Taw Wharf in Barnstaple and Ilfracombe’s Watersports Centre.

Employees current and previous joined in the celebrations

“Pearce Construction has left an indelible mark on the region’s built environment, a legacy built not just on bricks and mortar but on the commitment, loyalty and passion of our people,’ continued Mr Parsons. “Many who began as apprentices now lead in senior roles, including at board level. Our success has always been rooted on quality workmanship and dedication to staff development, values that continue to guide us and have earned our team national recognition.”

The landmark milestone coincides with the company’s completion of the transformation of 36 and 37 Boutport Street in Barnstaple, designed to nurture North Devon’s cultural and creative industries. This regeneration stands as a testament to Pearce Construction’s 80 years of expertise as it seamlessly blends heritage restoration with modern innovation and contemporary design.

Chairman David Parsons talking to partners and clients

At a celebratory event held in the newly renovated building, Managing Director, Paul Knox said, “We are delighted to celebrate our 80th anniversary with clients, partners, and employees, past and present. This project showcases everything Pearce Construction stands for, commercial expertise, residential quality, bespoke joinery and heritage renovation. The care and craftsmanship we’ve poured into Boutport Street Studios to meticulously restore original features while integrating modern services and accessibility improvements speak volumes about what we do. We’re incredibly proud of what the company has achieved over the past 80 years and the positive impact we deliver on every project.”

MD Paul Knox reminiscing builds from the last 80 years

Looking ahead to the next 80 years, Pearce Construction has taken a visionary step to secure its future. Mr Knox explained, “In 2024 we transferred the company’s ownership into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). This forward-thinking move ensures the business remains firmly in the hands of its employees, preserving its legacy and values for generations to come.”

South Devon runners urged to lace up for vital hospice fundraising push

Rowcroft Hospice
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South Devon runners urged to lace up for vital hospice fundraising push

Rowcroft Hospice is calling on people across South Devon to turn their love of running into vital support for local people living with life-limiting illness. From fun 5ks to coastal endurance challenges and city marathons, Run for Rowcroft encourages runners of all abilities to take on a challenge and raise funds to help patients and families when they need it most.

Rowcroft has a limited number of free charity places available for a series of Winding Paths events, including the Shiver Me Timbers eight-miler on Sunday 14 June, the City to Sea Marathon or Half Marathon on Sunday 6 September, as well as the Torbay Half Marathon & 10k on Sunday 20 September.

Molly Billingsley, Challenges Fundraiser at Rowcroft Hospice, will be taking part in the City to Sea event alongside supporters and says:

“I’m really excited to be taking on the City to Sea challenge, running alongside our supporters as part of Team Rowcroft. Running can offer a sense of motivation and wellbeing, especially during difficult times, and with every mile there’s that feeling of moving forward, one step at a time, while raising vital funds for patients and families when they need it most. That’s what Run for Rowcroft is all about – bringing people together, whatever their ability, to take on a challenge that works for them and turn it into care for our community.”

Clair Knowling will be running for Rowcroft in memory of her dad, taking part in the Shiver Me Timbers Eight-Miler and the Torbay Half Marathon & 10k. Clair says:

“Running for Rowcroft feels like a way to honour my dad and give back for the incredible care our family received. Without Rowcroft we would never have had that experience — Dad loved coming home, and we can never thank them enough. Although devastated, we were able to be the family we always were for the last time. I want other families to have the same precious moments we did at the end of their loved one’s life — not everyone gets that chance.”

Other events this year include the Torbay Half Marathon, Royal Parks Half Marathon, Oxford Half Marathon and the Exeter Inflatable 5k, 10k & 15k challenge.

To find out more about running for Rowcroft in 2026, visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/challenges. If you don’t see an event listed that you’d like to run, you’re still very welcome to take part – simply get in touch at molly.billingsley@rowcrofthospice.org.uk, and we’ll help you join Run for Rowcroft in a way that works for you.

Tiny Newton Abbot school wins big praise at national teaching awards

Devon Today
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Tiny Newton Abbot school wins big praise at national teaching awards

A tiny school with a big reputation has won national recognition for the difference it makes to children’s lives.

All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, in Newton Abbot, has been awarded Certificate of Achievement status in the 2026 Pearson National Teaching Awards.

The school, part of the Learning Academy Partnership, was recognised in the Making a Difference – Primary School of the Year category.

All Saints Marsh has fewer than 100 pupils on roll and says it aims to ensure every child is known, valued and supported.

The school was recently rated Good in all areas by Ofsted, with praise for its calm and welcoming atmosphere, high expectations and strong relationships between staff and pupils.

Its curriculum begins with pupils’ local context before expanding to national and global learning. Projects have included History Hunters, run with Newton Abbot Museum, where pupils created historical displays exploring the railway and its impact on the town.

The school said 85% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths in recent assessments, compared with 57% across the local authority.

All Saints Marsh also focuses on personal development, with children taught from Reception onwards to understand emotions, build healthy relationships and take part in community life.

The school plans to mark the achievement on National Thank a Teacher Day later this year.

The Pearson awards were founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam and celebrate excellence in education.

Liam O’Sullivan, headteacher at All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, said: “I am incredibly proud of our whole school team at All Saints Marsh.

“Every member of staff works tirelessly to ensure that our pupils are supported, challenged, and inspired every day.

“This recognition is a testament to their dedication and to the strong, caring community we have built here.

“Seeing our children flourish, both academically and personally, is the greatest reward, and I am delighted that their hard work and enthusiasm are being celebrated on a national stage.”

Tracey Cleverly, CEO of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “All Saints Marsh CofE Academy exemplifies the values at the heart of the Learning Academy Partnership.

“This recognition reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to inclusion, high expectations, and the development of every child.

“We are proud of the leadership, staff, and pupils whose hard work and creativity have made such a positive impact in their community, and it is inspiring to see their achievements celebrated nationally.”

lfracombe housing crisis battle boosted by four new affordable homes

Lewis Clarke
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lfracombe housing crisis battle boosted by four new affordable homes

Four new two-bedroom homes have been acquired by North Devon Homes at Mariner’s Haven in Ilfracombe. These have been delivered through a collaborative new partnership between North Devon Homes, Homes England and local housebuilder, Devonshire Homes.

Paul Scovell, Development Manager at North Devon Homes, said, “Our partnership with Homes England and Devonshire Homes has enabled us to bring these four additional homes forward for social housing, supporting local people in accessing high-quality new homes in Ilfracombe. This collaboration not only delivers immediate benefit to the community but also represents the start of a strong and positive partnership that we look forward to developing further.

“In our mission to tackling the ongoing housing crisis, we are proud to be working with partners who share our commitment to meeting local housing needs and increasing the number of affordable homes available to residents. This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with a shared purpose.”

Mariner’s Haven, located off Old Barnstaple Road, is a collection of new 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes set in an elevated position overlooking Ilfracombe, and will ultimately create 347 high quality new homes.

Nigel Bowditch, Operations Director at Devonshire Homes, commented, “We are pleased to have worked collaboratively with North Devon Homes and Homes England to deliver these homes for affordable housing at Mariner’s Haven.

“Mariner’s Haven is a popular and high quality development that provides a mix of homes to meet a range of local needs and this agreement reflects our flexible approach to working with partners to support communities. These four homes are all finished and ready to be occupied by North Devon Homes residents.”

North Devon Homes remains committed to tackling local housing need and ensuring that more residents have access to safe, secure and affordable homes. This partnership demonstrates how organisations can work together to increase the availability of affordable homes, complementing the wider mix of home being delivered at Mariner’s Haven. The homes will offer long-term affordability and support the sustainability of the Ilfracombe community. The due diligence and quality assurance of the project was further supported by consultants, Taylor Lewis, a long term partner of the community landlord.

Tiny Devon salon stuns hair giants with place in national grand final

Devon Today
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Tiny Devon salon stuns hair giants with place in national grand final

A Devon hairdresser has said talent can come from anywhere after securing a place in the grand final of one of the UK’s most prestigious hairdressing competitions.

Zoe Hodgkiss, of Zoe Hodgkiss – Hair Artistry, impressed judges at the Western regional semi-final of the L’Oréal Colour Trophy in Bristol to earn a place in the national final at The O2 in London this summer.

The competition, founded by L’Oréal Professionnel and now in its 70th year, showcases colourists from across the UK. The Western regional semi-final took place at the Harbour Hotel in Bristol.

Zoe, who is based in Holsworthy, said reaching the final had been an emotional moment.

She said: “For years, I watched from the sidelines while other people lived their dreams, and I honestly did not think I had the confidence to put myself forward.

“So I focused on building my skills, kept working hard, and one day decided I should be up there showing people what I can do instead of shrinking myself.

“So, hearing I was through to the grand final at The O2 was such an emotional moment. It means everything to my clients and me because they know how hard I work to keep improving. I cannot wait to celebrate it with them.”

Zoe added: “What I love about this competition is that anyone can win; you can be from a small town like mine. You do not need millions of followers; it is about talent, creativity and believing in yourself.”

Industry experts including Marlon Hawkins of Brooks & Brooks, Jason Miller of Charlie Miller, Karen Dodds of CRC-Hair, Paul Davey of Davey Dublin and Desmond Murray judged the competition.

Other finalists from the Western region included Anthony John Salons stylists Eboni Snook and Troy Boyd from Lichfield, alongside Chloe Woodward of The Beauty Barn in Gloucestershire and Izzie Adams of Idlewild Hairdressing in Oxford.

Jason Miller, a 2026 L’Oréal Colour Trophy judge, said: “It is my 44th year in this industry, and I do not think I have missed many L’Oréal Colour Trophy finals in that time.

“It never fails to amaze me just how much passion, creativity and dedication people bring to the competition.

“As we celebrate the 70th year of L’Oréal Colour Trophy, the standard remains as high as ever.”

The L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 UK Grand Final will take place on Monday, July 6, at The O2 in London.

More information is available at L’Oréal Colour Trophy

Boy helped by air ambulance raises hundreds for lifesaving charity

Devon Today
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Boy helped by air ambulance raises hundreds for lifesaving charity

A young pupil who was airlifted to hospital has helped raise hundreds of pounds for the emergency service that came to his aid, with his school community rallying behind a heartfelt fundraising effort.

A year three pupil at All Saints’ Thurlestone C of E Academy, part of the Learning Academy Partnership, helped raise £752 for Devon Air Ambulance through a school fundraising event.

Angus, who was treated by the service just over a year ago, organised the fundraiser as a way of thanking the charity for supporting him and his family.

Pupils took part in a mufti day, picnic lunch, obstacle course, cake sale and lucky dip, with staff and families across the school supporting the event.

Angus said he wanted to give something back to the charity that helped him and his family, with the event backed by what he described as the school’s “amazing” community.

Angus’s mother, Natasha, said: “We are so grateful for this vital service that helped our family when we truly needed it.

“We cannot thank them enough, not just for getting Angus to hospital so quickly, but for the calm and caring doctors and pilots who helped us that day.

“Angus wanted to organise a fundraising event at school to say thank you and, with the support from our amazing little school, we have raised £752 for the charity.”

Hannah Ruston, headteacher at All Saints’ Thurlestone C of E Academy, said: “Angus was determined to give something back, and the whole school came together to support his idea.

“We are incredibly proud of him and the generosity shown by our pupils and families.”

Teen cadet lands top Devon civic role after gruelling selection process

Devon Today
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Teen cadet lands top Devon civic role after gruelling selection process

A Newton Abbot teenager has secured one of Devon’s most prestigious cadet honours after impressing judges during a demanding county-wide selection process.

Haydn, a cadet who attends Teign School, has been appointed as the High Sheriff of Devon’s Cadet following a series of interviews, leadership assessments and formal presentations designed to identify exceptional young people.

The role sees the successful cadet accompany the High Sheriff of Devon at ceremonial and civic events across the county, including royal visits, court openings and community engagements.

The High Sheriff of Devon is the King’s representative for the judiciary and law enforcement in the county, with the office regarded as one of the oldest civic positions in the United Kingdom.

As part of his new duties, Haydn will also act as an ambassador for young people, representing Police Cadets at official events and helping strengthen links between young people and civic life.

The appointment continues a successful run for the cadet unit, which has now secured the High Sheriff’s Cadet role for three consecutive years.

Lucie Wagner, headteacher at Teign School, said: “We are incredibly proud of Haydn for achieving this outstanding honour.

“The selection process is challenging and highly competitive, and this appointment is a real testament to his leadership, maturity, and commitment.

“To have secured this role is an exceptional achievement for our unit and reflects his hard work and character.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Haydn and a real point of pride for Teign School and the wider Trust.

“Opportunities like this show the power of cadet programmes in developing young people who are confident, responsible and ready to take on leadership roles in their communities.”

Education South West said the achievement highlights the role cadet programmes play in helping young people develop confidence, leadership skills and civic responsibility.

Teign School is part of Education South West, a trust comprising eight primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a university technical college, all based in Devon.

Devon teens strike a chord after anti-racism anthem wins national award

Devon Today
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Devon teens strike a chord after anti-racism anthem wins national award

A group of Devon teenagers have hit the right note after their powerful anti-racism anthem earned national recognition in a UK-wide schools competition.

Year 10 students at Coombeshead Academy have been recognised in the 2026 Show Racism the Red Card School Competition after winning an award in the music category for their original song, Connected.

Simon Vincent, Molly Nelson, Aaliyah Markman, Harrison Swan, Rosie Curtis and Will Harvey were selected from entries submitted by schools across the country.

The students, who attend the Newton Abbot school, have now been invited to a national awards ceremony at a Premier League football ground in May.

The competition celebrates creative projects promoting equality, inclusion and anti-racism, with schools from across the UK taking part each year.

Helen Coulson, headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students for this outstanding achievement.

“Their song, Connected, is a powerful reflection of their values and their commitment to promoting equality and inclusion.

“To be recognised at a national level in such an important competition is a testament to their creativity, teamwork and the strength of their message.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the students and for the wider school community.

“At Education South West, we are committed to ensuring our young people not only achieve academically but also develop as thoughtful, responsible citizens.

“This recognition highlights the impact of student voice and the important role schools play in tackling discrimination and promoting inclusion.”

Education South West said the trust includes eight primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a university technical college across Devon.

The trust added that all of its schools have UNICEF Rights Respecting accreditation, recognising their commitment to creating safe and inspiring learning environments for children.

Tickets and further information about Coombeshead Academy can be found at Coombeshead Academy while more information about the trust is available at Education South West.

Equal pay fight takes centre stage in powerful Ilfracombe musical return

Devon Today
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Equal pay fight takes centre stage in powerful Ilfracombe musical return

The women who helped change Britain’s workplace rights are set to take centre stage this summer as a hit musical based on the landmark Ford sewing machinists’ strike arrives in North Devon.

Small Pond Productions is bringing Made in Dagenham: The Musical to the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe for a three-night run in July.

Based on the true story of the 1968 Ford sewing machinists’ strike in Dagenham, the production follows a group of women campaigning for equal pay. Organisers said the musical highlights how the strike helped spark wider social change across the UK.

The show will feature a full live orchestra alongside the cast.

Director Lee Baxendale said: “It’s been an absolute joy to bring this real piece of history to life with such a fabulous and dedicated cast.

“The story of the Ford strikes is as important today as it was then, and performing alongside a live orchestra really elevates the experience.”

Performances will take place from Wednesday, July 22 to Friday, July 24 at the Landmark Theatre in Ilfracombe.

Tickets are available from the Landmark Theatre booking page.

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