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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.

Inspectors hail caring ethos and ambition at thriving Ilsham primary

Devon Today
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Inspectors hail caring ethos and ambition at thriving Ilsham primary

A primary school where pupils are encouraged to “grow and flourish wherever you are planted” has been praised by inspectors for its caring ethos, inclusive environment and ambitious approach to learning.

Ilsham C of E Academy, part of the Learning Academy Partnership, received positive feedback following its Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools inspection, known as SIAMS.

Inspectors found the school’s Christian vision was clearly reflected throughout daily life and praised the strong sense of community shared by pupils, staff and leaders.

During the inspection, discussions were held with pupils, staff and school leaders while inspectors also observed day-to-day life across the school. The report described the environment as calm and welcoming, highlighting a shared commitment to continual improvement.

Pupils were praised for their confidence, kindness and growing sense of responsibility, while leaders were recognised for their commitment to personal development, high-quality teaching and an approach to spirituality woven throughout school life.

Ilsham pupils show a growing awareness of wider global issues and fairness

Inspectors said the school’s Christian vision helped pupils and adults grow as “confident, valued individuals” who understood their worth and potential.

The report also highlighted the school’s inclusive teaching, noting that staff were ambitious for every pupil and responsive to individual needs, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Inspectors described the school’s approach to spirituality as “a real strength”, saying it encouraged pupils to reflect on themselves, others and the wider world while exploring “big questions” about life and meaning.

Collective worship was praised for creating a calm and reflective atmosphere which supports pupils’ spiritual development and sense of belonging.

The Religious Education curriculum was also recognised for helping pupils develop respect and understanding of a range of worldviews.

Inspectors found the school to be an inclusive and welcoming community where diversity is celebrated and where pupils develop confidence, resilience and moral awareness.

The report noted that pupils were becoming increasingly aware of wider global issues and fairness, although inspectors suggested that giving children more opportunities to take action on issues of justice and injustice would strengthen this area further.

The school’s Christian vision is evident in daily life, inspectors noted

Jake Grinsill, headteacher at Ilsham C of E Primary Academy, said: “This report is a real celebration of our school community.

“I’m incredibly proud of our pupils and staff, and of the inclusive, nurturing environment we have built together where every child is supported to achieve their best.”

Tracey Cleverly, trust lead at Learning Academy Partnership, said: “We are delighted that inspectors have recognised the strength of Ilsham’s inclusive ethos and the dedication of leaders and staff who work tirelessly to ensure every child can thrive.

“This reflects the wider values we champion across our trust.”

Crowds gather as Appledore’s powerful new lifeboat arrives home

Appledore RNLI Appledore RNLI
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Crowds gather as Appledore’s powerful new lifeboat arrives home

On Friday 1 May, Appledore’s new Shannon Lifeboat arrived home for the first time escorted into the Torridge Taw estuary from Bideford Bar at around 6.30pm, led in order by Appledore RNLI’s inshore Atlantic 85 lifeboat, Glanely and Appledore’s current Tamar all weather lifeboat Mollie Hunt. The new nautically dressed Shannon was followed in by Ilfracombe’s Shannon The Barry and Peggy High Foundation, and Clovelly RNLI’s lifeboat crew in their Atlantic 85 lifeboat Toby Rundle, in flotilla welcoming her to her new base in North Devon.

Over the last few days a crew from Appledore RNLI, accompanied by RNLI trainers, have brought the lifeboat by sea around from the RNLI’s Lifeboat Support Centre in Poole. The station’s Tamar class lifeboat will remain on operational service while the volunteer crew continue an intense training period to convert their existing all weather lifeboat knowledge to a Shannon class lifeboat. Once training is complete, the Shannon will become Appledore’s official all-weather lifeboat and the Mollie Hunt will leave the area to join the charity’s relief fleet.

Crowds packed the coast at Greysands on Northam Burrows, Hillcliff Terrace and many other vantage points around the estuary, including Appledore Quay at the end of which the flotilla turned back to the lifeboat station. The crew were particularly touched as they entered the estuary by a salute by local gig boats.

Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Appledore RNLI welcomes new Shannon class lifeboat home (Credit : Simon Ellery)

Bob Mellor, RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Appledore says; ‘Our volunteer lifeboat crew have already committed a significant amount of time to their training, travelling to the RNLI Lifeboat College in Poole to complete some of their training, enhancing this while on passage from Poole. All the crew who have so far had a chance to begin their training on her are so impressed.

RNLI coastal trainers will base themselves at Appledore for the next couple of weeks and work around the crew’s availability to provide structured practical and theory-based training for all crew, with specialist training designed for different roles on the lifeboat.

‘I am really impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm in which the crew have embraced this challenge. As volunteers, everything they do is in their own time, away from work and away from their families. It will be fantastic to see them all progress over the next few weeks as they get some focussed training on station with the hope that we will be operational on the Shannon in June.’

The change from a Tamar class lifeboat to a Shannon is part of the RNLI’s wider fleet strategy which was announced in October last year. The charity has reviewed and adjusted its lifeboat fleet and placement of lifeboats to meet the changing nature of lifesaving.

From Appledore, the Shannon all weather lifeboat will be in a strategic position to provide all weather lifeboat cover to flanking inshore lifeboat stations at Minehead, Ilfracombe and Clovelly and Bude, respond to major incidents on the North Cornwall, Devon and Somerset coasts, and provide lifesaving cover up to 75 nautical miles offshore into the Bristol Channel. There is also a Tamar at Padstow and all-weather boats on the South Wales Coast.

The Shannon is the first modern all-weather lifeboat to be propelled by waterjets instead of traditional propellers, making her the RNLI’s most agile and manoeuvrable all-weather lifeboat yet. At Appledore the Shannon will increase the crew’s ability to cross the Bideford Bar, a stretch of sand that is exposed at low water at the mouths of the rivers Torridge and Taw.

RNLB Ruth and David Arthur was built at the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat centre during 2018-9 and entered the RNLI’s relief fleet where she has been deployed to various lifeboat stations, ensuring they remain operational, when their own lifeboats are undergoing maintenance.

Once RNLB Ruth and David Arthur is fully on service there will be a Service of Dedication during Appledore RNLI’s Sea Sunday on Sunday 12 July.

Car bursts into flames as firefighters battle fuel-fed garage inferno

Lewis Clarke
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Car bursts into flames as firefighters battle fuel-fed garage inferno

Firefighters were forced to tear down part of a damaged garage roof after a vehicle fire escalated into a major blaze with thick smoke visible from miles away.

Two crews from Newton Abbot Fire Station were called to reports of a vehicle fire on Monday, May 5. While travelling to the scene, firefighters spotted large plumes of smoke rising into the sky.

As multiple 999 calls came in, fire control upgraded the incident to a building fire before crews arrived.

Firefighters discovered a car parked inside a garage was “well alight”, with flames and smoke pouring from the building.

The incident commander sent in two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus to tackle the blaze using hose reel jets.

However, crews soon realised the fire involved ruptured fuel from the vehicle’s tank, creating a fuel fire which could not easily be extinguished with water alone.

Firefighters then deployed a 51mm attack jet using compressed air foam to smother the flames and bring the fire under control.

Once the blaze had been extinguished, crews dismantled parts of the garage roof after it was severely damaged by the fire and considered at risk of collapse.

Firefighters used reciprocating saws and ceiling hooks to safely pull down unstable sections to prevent debris falling uncontrollably and potentially injuring members of the public.

Crews remained at the scene for some time afterwards to cut away damaged materials and ensure no hotspots remained.

A third appliance from Torquay Fire Station was later requested to assist with fire ground decontamination after several firefighters became heavily contaminated by hazardous carbonaceous materials produced by the blaze.

Newton Abbot Fire Station said the decontamination process was an important way of protecting firefighters from the long-term health risks posed by toxic substances encountered at fires.

Maypole magic lives on despite downpours at beloved Devon tradition

Devon Today
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Maypole magic lives on despite downpours at beloved Devon tradition

Rain-soaked crowds gathered to celebrate one of Britain’s oldest May Day traditions as villagers carried on dancing, singing and crowning their May Queen despite heavy downpours.

The Dartmoor village of Lustleigh marked the 121st continuous year of its May Day celebrations on Saturday, May 2, with large crowds turning out for the annual event.

Children from the village accompanied May Queen Holly Skilton through the streets with traditional songs, folk music, a welcome from the Town Crier and a blessing from the Rector before returning to Lustleigh Orchard for the official crowning ceremony.

Holly was crowned on the village’s granite May Day rock and throne before 24 children took part in maypole dancing. Organisers said many of the young dancers were second-generation participants continuing the long-running tradition. 

May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)
May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)
May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)
May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)
May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)
May Day celebrations in Lustleigh 2026 (Credit : Owain Davies)

The afternoon featured old-fashioned fairground stalls, face painting and performances from Grimspound Border Morris and Brown Bread Choir.

Visitors also enjoyed ice creams served by Lustleigh Dairy owners Dean and Shirley, alongside afternoon tea and cakes at Lustleigh Village Hall.

Lustleigh has celebrated May Day since 1905 after the tradition was revived by antiquarian Cecil Torr. Organisers said celebrations had taken place in the village before then, although less regularly.

The granite May Day rock bears the names of previous May Queens, with Holly becoming the latest addition. Organisers said she had taken part in maypole dancing since the age of four.

Harriet Knowles, chairman of the Lustleigh May Day Committee, said: “Although we’ve been lucky enough to have sunshine on May Day in recent years, yesterday’s rain didn’t stop the visitors flocking to Lustleigh and it certainly didn’t dampen the children’s spirits.

“We are so proud of the enthusiasm and efforts of the children who work so hard to learn the dances, and to the whole community who pull together to share this special spring day.”

Next year’s Lustleigh May Day celebration will take place on Saturday, May 1.

More information is available at lustleighmayday.com.

Teen motorcyclist fighting for life after serious Tiverton crash

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Teen motorcyclist fighting for life after serious Tiverton crash

Officers are seeking witnesses after a young motorcyclist was critically injured in a serious collision in Tiverton.

Emergency services were called at 4.15pm on Saturday 2 May after the incident on Newport Street at the junction with St Peter Street.

The collision involved a black Yamaha motorcycle and a white Ford Transit box truck.

Two local males on the motorcycle were injured.

An 18-year-old man sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

A 17-year-old boy was also taken to hospital with serious injuries which are not life-threatening. 

Roads policing officers closed the road until 11.50pm for an examination of the scene and for the vehicles to be recovered.

They are investigating the circumstances of the collision and asking for information from witnesses and any relevant dashcam footage.

If you can help, please contact police via the Force website or by telephone on 101, quoting reference number 50260110639.

Teignmouth man reunited with medic who helped save his life

South West Ambulance Trust
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Teignmouth man reunited with medic who helped save his life

A Teignmouth man has been reunited with a South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) crew member who helped save his life.

Peter Grimsey, now 68, collapsed while training in a pool at Dawlish Leisure Centre on 16 April 2025. After the quick actions of trained lifeguards on site and the immediate availability of a defibrillator, Peter received four shocks before ambulance crews arrived. Peter was then given a further three shocks and once stable, was conveyed to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.

Peter spent a total of one month and one day in hospital and underwent extensive hospital assessments. He was diagnosed with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy – a condition affecting the heart muscle and its electrical system and later received an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).

Now home and on the road to recovery, one year on from his cardiac arrest, Peter hosted what he calls his “re-birthday”. He returned to Dawlish Leisure Centre for a commemorative swim alongside friends and had the opportunity to be reunited with Emergency Ambulance Associate, Colin Shepherd, who was part of the ambulance team that responded to him.  
 
Peter said; “It was fantastic being able to meet Colin today. Having the opportunity to be reunited with someone who helped save my life is really special.

“I’ve had to recalibrate my life, I can’t dive or play underwater hockey anymore, but I’m back swimming with friends and finding new ways to stay active. I’ve even taken up Tai Chi and picked up my guitar again after 50 years.

“I would not be here today if it wasn’t for Colin, the other ambulance crews and the lifeguards. I am so thankful to them all.” 

Colin Shepherd, Emergency Ambulance Associate at SWASFT said; “Situations like Peter’s highlight just how critical early intervention is, the presence of trained lifeguards and an accessible defibrillator made all the difference. By the time we arrived, the chain of survival was already well underway, and that gave Peter the best possible chance.” 
 
“Seeing Peter again, healthy and thriving is exactly why we do this job. It was a pleasure to attend Peter’s celebration and get to speak with him under much better circumstances. I wish Peter all the best for the future.” 

Now adjusting to a new way of life, Peter has become a Trustee of Teignmouth Lido Community Trust, where he also completed much of his rehabilitation. Recently, he requalified as a pool lifeguard and completed a Trainer/Assessor course, enabling him to teach future lifeguards.

Peter added; “I owe my life to people who were CPR trained and prepared. If I can help train the next generation, then that feels incredibly meaningful.” 

Peter hopes his story will encourage more people to learn lifesaving skills and support access to defibrillators in community spaces. 

To find out more about free CPR and defibrillator training from the South Western Ambulance Service, visit https://www.swast.nhs.uk/cpr-and-defibrillator-training 

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