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Green week packed with crafts rides and family fun heads to Bovey

Nigel Canham
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Green week packed with crafts rides and family fun heads to Bovey

A Great Big Fun Day on Saturday June 20 is set to crown a week of environment-related family events in Bovey Tracey.

Organisations across the town are coming together to stage the 2026 Great Big Green Week, the aim to help stimulate community activities that can mitigate climate change and ecological decline.

The week will open with a film night at The Phoenix Hall on Saturday June 13 and a showing of The Engine Inside.

On Tuesday June 16, craft experts will stage a workshop at which participants of all skill levels can create willow baskets.

A Summertime Cycle Ride on Thursday June 18 will explore the flora and fauna of Teigngrace Meadow, followed by a corn dolly making workshop on Friday June 19, the same day as a free exhibition entitled Staying Alive and featuring the skills and stories of 14 master makers keeping endangered crafts alive.

Throughout the week an exhibition at The Riverside Gallery will reveal textile works developed in response to collections from Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM).

Each piece in the Remnants collection will consider the historical narrative, material qualities and cultural significance of the RAMM artefacts.

A Repair Cafe in the Methodist Hall on Saturday June 20 will allow households to save items that might otherwise end up being binned, followed the next day by the Great Big Fun Day in Mill Marsh Park with more craft activities, a make-your-own smoothy bike, stalls and wildlife groups.

A quieter wildlife amble will round off the week on Sunday June 21.

Spokesman and Town Councillor Steve Oldrieve said: ‘We’re looking forward to a week full of green activities in Bovey and hope plenty of people will join us.

‘We want everyone to really enjoy their time while simultaneously being gently nudged into considering society’s impact on the environment.

‘We face some serious challenges but by pulling together, at a local and wider level, nothing is impossible.’

For details search Facebook for great-big-green-week-boveytracey.

Forgotten North Devon stories to inspire new generation of young people

Libraries Unlimited
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Forgotten North Devon stories to inspire new generation of young people

Libraries Unlimited and dBs Pro are announcing a £176,351 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for Bideford Retold, a 12-month project to revitalise the Chope Collection held in Bideford Library and bring its stories to life for young people across North Devon. 

The Chope Collection is a regionally significant archive of around 500 books bequeathed to the people of Bideford by local historian and folklorist Richard Pearse Chope. Chope’s passion for North Devon was captured in a favourite line by Hilaire Belloc: “One’s native place is the shell of one’s soul.” Without this funding, the collection would remain largely unknown, and it’s fascinating local stories and histories would be unheard by the communities they belong to. 

Bideford Retold will empower young people aged 12–21 to discover and reinterpret their heritage, building pride and belonging. The project will breathe new life into the collection through new displays, interpretation panels and an inclusive, co-created digital experience developed by dBs Pro, the in-house creative studio of dBs Institute of Music. Using creative technology, dBs Pro will design an interactive space within Bideford Library where new audiences can encounter local stories in immersive and unexpected ways, beyond the page and into something they can experience first-hand. 

Over 12 months, the project will deliver a programme shaped and driven by local young people. From the outset, they will have opportunities to share ideas and influence the direction of the work, with creative practitioners and advisors brought in to demonstrate how history and local knowledge can spark new and original creative work. 

The project is a partnership between Libraries Unlimited and dBs Pro, working in collaboration with Space Youth Services, Bideford College and University of Plymouth. Together, they aim to increase the number of young people engaging with Bideford Library and generate insights into how libraries can remain relevant to young people’s lives. The project is also supported by The Bideford Bridge Trust who have contributed to funding the project.  

The project will also create opportunities for dBs Institute students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to delivery through a mix of placements and paid roles. The content created will continue to live on beyond the project, ensuring ongoing access and relevance for future audiences. 

Its legacy will be a relaunched collection as a vibrant community asset, plus a toolkit offering a repeatable model for youth engagement across Libraries Unlimited’s 54 libraries in Devon and Torbay. 

Jay Auborn, Head of Creative of dBs Pro, said: “We are over the moon to have received support from the National Lottery to make this project a reality. R.P. Chope left an untapped resource of fascinating, unique and inspiring local stories, and it’s a privilege to be leading their rediscovery in partnership with Libraries Unlimited. We’ll be working with local young people to develop a unique digital experience within the library, using creative technology to bring the collection to life in immersive and unexpected ways: connecting local history with contemporary creative practice and opening up new ways for young people to imagine futures in the creative industries. As with all dBs Pro projects, Bideford Retold will create opportunities for dBs students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to delivery through a mix of placements and paid roles. The content created will continue to live on beyond the project, ensuring ongoing access and relevance for future audiences.” 

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive Officer, Libraries Unlimited added: “It’s fantastic to have received this grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund – it shows how as a charity we can do more for the library service, allowing us to apply for funding like this to help engage more people and reach further into the community. We are delighted to be working again with dBs Pro – the Unlocking the Cage augmented reality installation we previously collaborated on was a huge success and we are looking forward to seeing what they do to bring this collection to life for young people and instil them with pride and passion for their town.” 

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Libraries added: “Getting the funding for this incredible project demonstrates one of the ways that commissioning Libraries Unlimited to run the libraries offers more to residents. On top of the money the charity receives from the Council, they can apply for funding and grants that we don’t have access to. This means important projects like this can take place, connecting young people to their communities and engaging them with libraries.” 

Murder investigation launched after man dies in Plymouth assault

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Murder investigation launched after man dies in Plymouth assault

Police have launched a murder investigation following an incident in Plymouth.

Emergency services were called at approximately 8.20pm on Monday 4 May to reports of a serious assault of a man at a property on Embankment Road.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics, a man in his 20s was pronounced deceased at the scene. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

Detective Superintendent Rachael Bentley from the Major Crime Investigation Team said: “This is a tragic incident in which a man has sadly lost his life. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.

“A thorough investigation is underway to understand the full circumstances surrounding what has happened.

“We carried out immediate searches last night which resulted in a 57-year-old man being arrested on suspicion of murder and he is currently in police custody.

“A cordon remains in place this morning, and officers will be in the area throughout the day.

“Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who was in the area at the time, to come forward.

Det Supt Bentley added: “At this stage, this is believed to be an isolated incident with no wider risk to the public. We are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was in and around the area of Embankment Road yesterday evening and may have seen or heard anything suspicious. Even information that may seem small could be vital to our investigation.”

Officers are also asking residents and motorists to check any CCTV, doorbell, or dash‑cam footage they may have from the area during the relevant time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via 101 or online quoting reference number 794 04/05/2026. 

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Girl airlifted to hospital after serious collision in Paignton

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Girl airlifted to hospital after serious collision in Paignton

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following a serious collision in Paignton.

Officers were called at around 5.20pm to Marldon Road on Monday 4 May following reports of a collision involving a car and a pedestrian.

The pedestrian, a 9-year-old girl from Paignton, received serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital. Her family are aware.

The road was closed while an investigation was carried out at the scene.

Officers from the Roads Policing Team would like to thank the public for their patience whilst the road was closed.

Anyone with any relevant information and dash-cam footage which may assist the investigation is asked to contact Police via our website or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50260112267.

Violent fugitive jailed after brutal attack at Devon caravan park

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Violent fugitive jailed after brutal attack at Devon caravan park

A man has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for a brutal attack with a baton at a caravan park in Devon.

George Powell, AKA George Whittaker, 45, of no fixed abode, appeared at Exeter Crown Court on Monday 5 May for sentencing having pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm.

The court heard how on 18 October 2025 Police were called to a report of a serious assault at a caravan park on Grange Road, Paignton.

Both Powell and the victim were known to each other having travelled to Paignton from outside of force area.

At the park, Powell attacked the victim with the baton while also in possession of a knife, leaving him with what was at the time feared to be a life-threatening head injury.

Powell – who also used the name Whittaker – left the scene and was arrested in Coventry.

It was established that he was wanted in connection to another offence, for recall to prison and for non-payment of a six-figure fine given to him due to his involvement in the discovery and illegal retention of Viking gold in 2015.

Detective Inspector Jeanne Hellyer, said: “We were called to the scene of a serious assault where a name was provided for the suspect.

“It was quickly identified this was an alias used by Powell who was wanted on warrant in relation to the non-payment of fine in regard to the undeclared Viking gold haul. 

“We initially thought he may be hard to track down as he was by now on the run again, but some sterling work by our detectives meant he was soon back in police custody. 

“We note the sentence passed at court today and my thoughts are with the victim of this violent crime.

“Such violence – particularly violence involving weapons – has no place in our community and we will continue to do everything we can to bring perpetrators to justice.”

Mid Devon inspector says social media reports are being missed by police

Lewis Clarke
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Mid Devon inspector says social media reports are being missed by police

Residents are being urged to stop relying on social media to report suspicious activity after a Mid Devon police inspector warned officers often do not see posts shared online.

Mid Devon sector inspector Mark Arthurs said members of the public should instead contact police through 101, 999 in emergencies, or via the Devon and Cornwall Police website and online chat service.

In an update shared through Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging, Insp Arthurs outlined recent policing activity across the district, including arrests linked to thefts in Crediton and action targeting anti-social behaviour in Tiverton.

He said there would be a further update regarding a “charity box thief” who stole from shops in Crediton, adding that several other people had also been arrested and charged in connection with theft offences in the town.

Insp Arthurs said street marshals in Tiverton would remain in place for another six months after funding was provided by the police and crime commissioner. He described the marshals as “a real asset” in helping tackle anti-social behaviour.

He also said officers recently joined licensing officers from Mid Devon District Council for a “pubs against drugs” operation in Cullompton and Tiverton using a specialist drugs dog.

Insp Arthurs said: “This was an excellent opportunity to work with licensees and partner agencies to disrupt drugs activity in pubs.”

The inspector also highlighted ongoing work with partner agencies to tackle rural crime across the district.

However, much of the update focused on how residents should contact police when reporting incidents.

Insp Arthurs said: “Please do not tag us in incidents on social media. We simply do not see it.”

He said many residents may assume officers are aware of incidents because posts are widely shared online, but warned this is often not the case.

Insp Arthurs added that suspicious behaviour reported promptly by phone recently led officers to a building site in Willand where thousands of pounds worth of equipment was allegedly being stolen.

He said local response officers attended alongside neighbourhood policing staff, leading to “a little bit of a chase” and the arrest of two suspects.

According to Insp Arthurs, the suspects remain on bail while officers prepare a file for a charging decision.

He also urged residents to report anti-social behaviour directly to police, saying officers can use measures outside the criminal justice system, including injunctions and closure orders for nuisance properties where thresholds are met.

Insp Arthurs said residents unsure how to report issues should use the guidance available through the Devon and Cornwall Police website.

Information about contacting police is available through the Devon and Cornwall Police website at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk.

Big names back Barnstaple run raising funds for sick children

Children's Hospice South West
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Big names back Barnstaple run raising funds for sick children

Local businesses are showing their support for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW) by sponsoring the charity’s RUN Barnstaple event, returning to the town this September.

Leading the way as headline sponsor for RUN Barnstaple once more is Wollens, joined by Travel Chapter, Stagecoach, Bond Oxborough Phillips and The Brend Collection, who have all pledged their support for this year’s event.

Judith Manser, Partner at Wollens said: “Wollens are delighted to be the headline partner for Run Barnstaple – a fantastic event that brings people and athletes of all abilities together in support of the vital work delivered by Children’s Hospice South West.

For many years, their dedicated teams across the South West have cared for babies, children and young people with life threatening and life limiting conditions, providing specialist hospice care and invaluable support to families. We hope that Run Barnstaple generates significant and much needed funds, and we would encourage everyone to get involved – whether by running, walking, volunteering, or simply making a donation.

Wollens provides a full spectrum of legal services for individuals and businesses across the region and we are proud to support events that make a real difference in our local communities.”

RUN Barnstaple, which takes place on Sunday 27 September at Rock Park, continues to grow in popularity, attracting runners of all abilities from across the South West and beyond. Whether participants are seasoned runners or taking on their very first event, RUN Barnstaple offers flat and fast courses, making it ideal for those aiming to achieve a personal best or complete a new challenge.

The event holds a Certificate of Course Accuracy and is licensed by RunEvents, giving runners confidence in the quality and credibility of the race.

Last year’s RUN Barnstaple saw over 1,200 runners take part and raised more than £50,000 to support CHSW, which provides specialist care and support to babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families across the region.

Kate Romo, Events Fundraiser for RUN Barnstaple, said: “We are so grateful to these businesses as their sponsorship means that even more of the money raised by those taking part can go straight towards the care we offer to our children and families rather than being used to cover event costs.”

Echoing this support, Serena Clarke from Travel Chapter said: “Here at holidaycottages.co.uk, we’re committed to promoting responsible tourism and supporting the local communities that make our destinations so special. Supporting RUN Barnstaple is a fantastic way for us to give back locally, while helping to raise vital funds for Children’s Hospice South West. The charity’s compassionate care and unwavering support for children with life‑limiting conditions and their families makes an incredible difference when it matters most, and we’re proud to play a small part in supporting their vital work.”

Similarly, Stagecoach shared their support. Peter Knight, Managing Director at Stagecoach South West, said: “Stagecoach is proud to support RUN Barnstaple and the incredible work of Children’s Hospice South West. This much-loved event brings the community together for a truly important cause, and we’re delighted to play a part in helping it grow year on year. We know how vital the care and support provided by CHSW is to families across the region, and we encourage as many people as possible to get involved and show their support this September.”

Also backing the event, Karl Seeley from Bond Oxborough Phillips said: “We are incredibly proud to support RUN Barnstaple and the vital work carried out by Children’s Hospice South West. As a business rooted in the communities we serve, we find this cause resonates deeply with us, both on a personal level and through our shared values.

The support they provide to local families is truly remarkable, and it is important to us that we give something back to the communities that support our business. We are delighted that our team can be part of such a meaningful event, helping raise awareness and support for a charity that makes such a genuine difference to people’s lives.”

Continuing their wider partnership with the charity, a spokesperson from The Brend Collection added:
“As part of our wider support for Children’s Hospice South West as our chosen charity partner for the next two years, we’re proud to sponsor RUN Barnstaple. Run Barnstaple is a fantastic event that brings people together for a meaningful cause, and we are delighted to play a part in helping make it a success.”

Spaces for this year’s RUN Barnstaple are filling up fast. Anyone wishing to take part in the marathon, half marathon or 10k can find out more and sign up at www.chsw.org.uk/runbarnstaple

Devon specialist schools join growing academy trust in major move

Devon Today
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Devon specialist schools join growing academy trust in major move

A network of specialist schools supporting some of the region’s most vulnerable pupils has entered a new chapter after joining a growing academy trust focused on inclusive education.

A group of provisions across Devon have officially become part of Reach South Academy Trust, strengthening the organisation’s footprint and bringing together services for children and young people with complex needs.

The schools have transferred from Transforming Futures Trust following a period of collaboration between the organisations. The move brings together settings with a shared focus on delivering education and support for pupils requiring specialist, alternative and nurture-based provision.

The schools now joining Reach South Academy Trust include ACE Dover Road, ACE Schools, ACE WRAP Primary and several other provisions across Plymouth, alongside services in Exeter and Tiverton.

These settings provide support for pupils with a wide range of needs, offering tailored education designed to improve outcomes and opportunities.

Reach South Academy Trust operates across the South West and focuses on improving educational standards while supporting social mobility. Its work centres on aspiration, resilience, excellence and integrity, with an emphasis on ensuring schools remain embedded within their communities.

Tom Leverage, chief executive officer of Reach South Academy Trust, said: “We are delighted to welcome these schools into Reach South.

“Each of them provides incredibly important support for children and young people.

“We are proud they are now part of our trust.”

Tom added: “Our shared commitment to inclusive, high-quality education means we can build on the excellent work already taking place in these settings.

“By working together, we can continue to strengthen the support we provide for pupils, families and communities across Devon.”

The trust said it would work closely with staff, pupils and families as the schools begin operating within the Reach South network.

Further information about the trust is available at www.reachsouth.org.

Councillors scrap playzone plan amid fears over losing open space

Lewis Clarke
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Councillors scrap playzone plan amid fears over losing open space

A plan to deliver new community sports facilities has been scaled back after councillors dropped a controversial third site amid mounting local opposition.

Members of Torridge District Council voted to fund a £38,000 shortfall to deliver two new “playzones”, while abandoning proposals for a third in East-the-Water following concerns over the loss of public open space and pressure on parking.

The decision was made at a full council meeting on Monday, April 27, where members debated whether to proceed with two or three sites as project costs continued to rise.

The playzones — multi-use games areas designed to support football and other sports — are intended to improve access to outdoor activity, particularly for groups facing barriers to participation.

Sean Kearney, director of communities and place, said the council had originally approved funding for three sites but rising costs meant additional funding was required.

Sean said: “If we wanted to proceed with three sites, we are asking you to consider funding £98,000 more. If you proceed with two sites, it is up to £38,000.”

The three original locations were Stanhope Park in Holsworthy, former tennis courts in Great Torrington, and Pollyfield in East-the-Water, Bideford.

However, the Pollyfield proposal faced significant opposition from residents and the local community centre, with concerns raised about the loss of green space and increased strain on parking.

Councillor Huw Thomas said he had initially supported the project but had since received strong feedback against it.

Cllr Thomas said: “Recently, I have had no support from the local community for the project, but I have had lots of opposition to it because of the loss of public open space.

“That land is used by dog walkers, kids playing. It is regularly used.”

He added that alternative locations could be considered but were not part of the current funding arrangements.

Councillor David Brenton acknowledged the need for improved facilities in East-the-Water but urged the council not to abandon the area entirely.

Cllr Brenton said: “East-the-Water is the most deprived area you can think of.

“You just cannot drop that and walk away from it. The council has got to make a real effort to find somewhere.”

But Sean said there were no viable alternative sites within the required timeframe.

Sean said: “Analysis of other sites has been undertaken. There are none available, and we would not be able to do it within the timeframe of the funding.”

He added that withdrawing support for Pollyfield would mean the planning application for the site would be pulled immediately.

Councillors ultimately agreed to proceed with two sites — in Holsworthy and Great Torrington — with the reduced funding requirement.

A council report presented to members showed the overall project costs had risen significantly over the past 12 months, creating funding gaps across all sites.

It also highlighted that the Football Foundation was contributing around 75% of the total project costs, with the three sites originally expected to exceed £1 million in total.

Following the decision, Councillor Lyndon Piper, lead member for leisure, welcomed the outcome.

Cllr Piper said: “I am delighted that my fellow councillors decided to support the funding shortfall for these new playzones.

“These facilities will help facilitate training and outdoor activity for all age groups whatever the weather, whilst protecting grass pitches during times of heavy rain.

“This opportunity does not come along often and as a council I am excited that we have the chance to use this external funding.”

The planning application for the Pollyfield site will now be withdrawn, while proposals for the Holsworthy and Torrington playzones are due to be considered by the planning committee in June.

Dog boarding site set to grow as 22 new kennels get approval

Lewis Clarke
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Dog boarding site set to grow as 22 new kennels get approval

A rural dog boarding business is set to expand after plans for a new block of kennels were given the go-ahead – paving the way for dozens more four-legged guests.

Proposals to build an additional structure containing 22 individual dog kennels have been approved by planners, allowing the existing facility to increase its capacity.

The application, submitted by Mr A Deacon, sought permission for the development at Cary Kennels, Beech Croft, Denbury.

Planning documents show the new single-storey building will include individual bays with internal sleeping areas and access to outdoor runs, designed in line with animal welfare regulations.

The scheme forms an extension to an established business, which already operates around 60 boarding kennels on site.

According to planning officers, the proposal was considered acceptable in principle, with the council noting it would not have significant environmental effects due to its scale and location.

However, the development is subject to a number of conditions. These include a requirement for a biodiversity gain plan to ensure at least a 10% improvement in habitat, as well as measures to protect wildlife during construction.

Restrictions have also been placed on lighting, with only low-level, motion-activated lights permitted in order to minimise impact on bats and other wildlife.

Planning records show that seven letters of objection were received during the consultation process. Concerns raised included potential increases in noise, traffic, and the impact on nearby residents.

Despite this, the council concluded that, with appropriate mitigation measures in place, the development complied with planning policies and could proceed.

The permission, granted by Teignbridge District Council, requires the development to begin within three years.

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