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Hidden gold in your drawer as libraries urge public to donate old tech

Libraries Unlimited
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Hidden gold in your drawer as libraries urge public to donate old tech

Five new electronics and tech donation points are launching in libraries across Devon. People will be able to bring tech items they no longer use to be refurbished. Once refurbished, items are donated to those experiencing digital poverty.  

Libraries Unlimited, in partnership with Fixy, Resource Futures, and Donate IT, is bringing the donation programme into libraries. Part of Libraries Unlimited’s National Lottery-funded, Together For Tomorrow climate action project, the initiative aims to reduce electronic waste and tackle the lack of access to technology in local communities. 

Over 100,000 tonnes of electricals are thrown away each year, according to Material Focus. Electronic waste is hazardous for people and the planet. With binned electronic devices identified as a leading cause of fire in UK recycling and household waste, libraries are inviting the public to rethink the way they dispose of unwanted tech. The new Fixy donation points will be launching in five Devon libraries over the spring and summer. Libraries are celebrating the new electronics donation points with launch events. Asking people to bring their old tech to the library and donate it at the launch event.  

Cullompton Library launched in March, Totnes Library launches during the town’s ShareFest on April 18th, Exeter Library launches on April 22nd, 11 am – 1 pm, Tiverton Library launches on May 9th, 11 am – 1 pm, and Barnstaple Library launches on July 18th, 11 am – 1 pm. 

“Fixy is delighted to be working with several library trials in Devon,” says Linda Hull, project coordinator at Resource Futures “Closing the digital divide and tackling the ever increasing e-waste mountain has never been more important. We know that most people have a ‘Drawer of Doom’ stashed with pre-loved smart tech. Not only do we need to liberate all these hoarded precious metals, but once all these devices are securely data wiped, many can be refurbished and given back out free of charge to those in digital need in our communities. It’s win win!” 

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive Officer at Libraries Unlimited, said:   “It’s wonderful to see the Fixy boxes launch in our libraries. Libraries play such a crucial role in supporting the well-being of individuals and communities; they are spaces that evolve to meet their community’s needs, constantly promoting inclusion and aiming to reduce inequalities. Libraries are uniquely positioned to share knowledge and promote projects like Fixy, donating old tech to be refurbished for those who need it. It’s a great opportunity for people to have a clear out of their old tech and help the environment!” 

 Items accepted at Fixy donation points are:  

  • Mobile phones and smartphones 
  • Laptops (must be unlocked) 
  • Tablets (must be unlocked) 
  • PCs, desktops and towers 
  • PC combo units 
  • Digital cameras 
  • Routers 
  • Games consoles, computer games, controllers and accessories 
  • Hard drives 
  • Freeview recorders 
  • External hard drives 
  • Smart speakers 
  • Smart tech and smart devices 
  • Smart wearables and smart watches 

 Donation points cannot accept: 

  • TVs, screens, displays or monitors 
  • Keyboards and mice 
  • Plug‑in telephones 
  • Printers, scanners or photocopiers 
  • Tapes, discs, CDs or DVDs 
  • Non‑tech small electricals 

Loose batteries 

Cash seized as illegal tobacco sales exposed at Plymouth shop

Devon County Council
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Cash seized as illegal tobacco sales exposed at Plymouth shop

More than £4,300 has been seized and forfeited after illegal tobacco sales were uncovered at a Plymouth shop.

The action was taken under the Proceeds of Crime Act and following a hearing at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court, Thursday 9 April, magistrates ordered the forfeiture of £4,307.97 in cash linked to unlawful activity at Mutley Bazzar, Plymouth.

The case follows a visit to the premises on Thursday 29 May 2025, when officers from Plymouth City Council, who were there on unrelated business, witnessed illegal tobacco being sold.

Trading Standards colleagues from the Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service, including accredited financial investigators (AFIs), were called in to investigate.

A search of the shop uncovered illegal tobacco products.

Cash was seized from the till and from the person serving at the premises.

After hearing the evidence, magistrates were satisfied the money was connected to criminal activity and ordered that the full amount be forfeited.

The latest court order adds to £45,000 forfeited in a separate case heard at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court in January this year.

In total, around £60,555 has now been seized and forfeited by Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service’s AFIs over the past 12 months.

All of the cash was linked to the sale and supply of illegal tobacco and vapes across Plymouth, Torbay, Devon and Somerset.

Alex Fry, Operations Manager for Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service, said: “This seizure and forfeiture of cash sends a clear message that this kind of criminal activity will not be tolerated across Devon, Plymouth, Torbay and Somerset. We will continue working closely with the police and other partners to tackle illegal tobacco and vape sales, protect public health, support responsible businesses, and make sure that crime does not pay.”

Arson fears as mystery fires spark across Exmoor countryside

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Arson fears as mystery fires spark across Exmoor countryside

Police are continuing to work closely with local partner agencies and landowners to address instances of unauthorised burning taking place on Exmoor.

We have been notified following several incidents of suspected arson on heathland on Exmoor over recent months.

Separate fires have been discovered in Molland, South Molton and West Anstey.

Neighbourhood Team Leader for South Molton, Sergeant Rob Brown said: “Such activity presents a serious risk to life, livestock and the environment, and places a significant and unacceptable financial burden on Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

“We will take firm and robust action against any individuals responsible and will pursue all available lines of enquiry to secure prosecutions where offences are identified.

“Those involved should be aware that enforcement action and any resulting conviction may have serious consequences, including impacts on an individual’s livelihood and standing within the community.”

Anybody with any information regarding the fires is asked to contact 101 or visit our website quoting 50260095426.

Lifeline for teens as new Barnstaple hangout space officially opens

Barnstaple Town Council
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Lifeline for teens as new Barnstaple hangout space officially opens

A new dedicated youth hangout space launches in Barnstaple, offering a safe, welcoming environment for young people aged 13-17 to relax, socialise and have fun.

The launch event which took place on Tuesday 14th April at Barnstaple Youth House, featured a visit from the Mayor of Barnstaple as well as Barnstaple Youth Council representatives, local Youth Workers and young people.

This initiative is a collaboration between Barnstaple Town Council, Barnstaple Youth Council and Encompass, reflecting a shared commitment in supporting and providing a safe space for young people.

Regular sessions will run at Barnstaple Youth House every Tuesday from 3:30pm to 6:00pm, providing ongoing opportunities for young people to connect, unwind and take part in games and activities.

Barnstaple Town Council Community Developer for Youth, Rosie Mahoney with members of Barnstaple Youth Council

Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates said; “Creating spaces where young people feel safe, relaxed and able to be themselves is essential to the community. This new hangout space is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when we work together to invest in our young residents”.

Barnstaple Town Council Community Developer for Youth, Rosie Mahoney added: “We know how important it is for young people to have a place they can call their own. The youth hangout space is about more than just activities, it’s about building confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging within the wider community.”

Residents aged 13 – 17 are encouraged to come along to the Tuesday sessions and bring their friends along too. Food can be purchased and games and activities are available during the sessions.   

Young people aged 11 – 21 who would like to have their say and get more involved in local decision making are also encouraged to join Barnstaple Youth Council. Expressions of interest can be submitted online via the Barnstaple Town Council website – www.barnstapletowncouncil.gov.uk/youth-council/

Headteacher’s four-decade career earns nod for top national honour

Devon Today
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Headteacher’s four-decade career earns nod for top national honour

A headteacher whose career has spanned nearly four decades has been recognised at a national level, with his long-standing impact on schools and pupils earning him a place on a prestigious shortlist.

Lipson Co-operative Academy, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, has announced that headteacher Martin Brook has been shortlisted for the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2026.

The award recognises his contribution to education over almost 40 years, during which he has worked across Nottinghamshire and the South West, helping to improve outcomes for thousands of young people.

Martin joined Lipson in 2019 at a time when the school was facing significant challenges. Initially appointed for a single day, he went on to lead a longer-term programme of change over seven years. The academy is now described as a high-performing school, with both academic success and an inclusive ethos. He left the school in 2026.

Staff and students pictured at the entrance to Lipson Co-operative Academy
(Credit : Submitted)

His leadership has focused on building a culture centred on belonging, high expectations and support for both pupils and staff. Students have said they feel safe and valued, while colleagues have highlighted a strong sense of trust across the school community.

Beyond his role at Lipson, Martin has supported wider improvements in education. He has mentored other headteachers, worked as a National Leader of Education accredited by the Department for Education, and contributed to school development across Plymouth and the wider South West.

Martin Brook said: “If I can overcome the slight uneasiness I feel about the nomination, it is clearly a real honour to have been put forward and shortlisted for such a prestigious award, an award that I believe initially carried Ted Wragg’s name.

“Ted was my first mentor during my teacher training in the 1980s and had been an inspiration to me, and I now finish my career working for a Trust that carries his name.

“I have been blessed to do a job that I love for the best part of 40 years and this nomination is for every student, member of staff and parent that I have been lucky enough to serve during that time.”

Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “Martin’s contribution to education over nearly forty years is simply extraordinary.

“He has transformed not only the life chances of thousands of young people, but also the careers of the many leaders he has developed and supported along the way.

“His leadership is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the very best. We are incredibly proud to see him recognised at a national level for the lasting legacy he has created.”

Winners of the Pearson National Teaching Awards will be announced on National Thank a Teacher Day in June. The awards were founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam and celebrate excellence in education.

Hospital patients get boost as new wheelchairs transform daily journeys

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
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Hospital patients get boost as new wheelchairs transform daily journeys

Patients and staff at Torbay Hospital are set to benefit from new motorised wheelchairs, thanks to the generous support of the Torbay Hospital League of Friends.

The League has funded three motorised transfer chairs, including a bariatric chair, to support the safe and efficient movement of patients between wards, clinics and diagnostic areas across the hospital site. The new equipment will make a particular difference on longer routes and steeper inclines, helping patients reach appointments more quickly and comfortably, while reducing physical strain for portering staff.

Torbay Hospital’s unique setting means moving around the site can be challenging for some patients, particularly those with mobility issues. The motorised wheelchairs will support smoother patient journeys, helping to avoid delays to scans, surgery and outpatient appointments, while also improving safety and comfort for both patients and staff.

Ryan Evans, Facilities Operations Manager, Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Torbay Hospital is built on a hill and these motorised wheelchairs will make a real difference to everyday patient care. They’ll help people reach appointments more comfortably and with less delay, while also reducing the physical strain on our porters. We’re very grateful to the League of Friends for supporting something so practical that will be felt immediately across the hospital..”

Martin Tucker, Chair of Torbay Hospital League of Friends, said: “When people come into hospital, small things can make a big difference to how safe and cared for they feel. Something as simple as being moved comfortably and without delay really matters. The League of Friends is proud to support projects like this that improve everyday experiences for patients and make life a little easier for the staff who look after them.”

Torbay Hospital League of Friends has been supporting Torbay Hospital for more than 70 years and received the Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2012. The League continues to fund equipment and improvements that go above and beyond NHS provision, always with the aim of enhancing patient care and experience.

Torbay Hospital League of Friends are hosting a coffee morning on Wednesday 20 May 2026, from 11.00am to 12.30pm, at the Livermead Cliff Hotel, Torquay. Tickets cost £6.50, with all proceeds supporting the League’s work to enhance care and improve facilities at Torbay Hospital.

Tickets are available by emailing info@thlof.co.uk or calling 07747 742009. The League of Friends welcomes local residents, supporters and NHS staff to come along for coffee, conversation and to support Torbay Hospital.

Last orders called as struggling village pub announces sudden closure

Lewis Clarke
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Last orders called as struggling village pub announces sudden closure

A village is preparing to lose its only pub after owners confirmed it will close its doors, citing growing debts and a lack of local support.

The Old George Inn in High Bickington is set to shut on Thursday, May 28, following a decision made jointly by the operator and the property owner.

In a statement shared online, Nick, who runs the pub, said the closure was necessary to prevent debts from continuing to rise.

He said: “On the 28th of May Nick will close the old George inn. This decision has been made by Nick and the property owner so that debts cease to grow.”

Nick acknowledged that his efforts to revive the pub may not have been supported by everyone in the community.

He said: “Nick may not be to everyone’s liking but he is the only person who took the gamble to give High Bickington a pub again.”

The statement suggested that demand for a pub in the village had not met expectations.

Nick added: “As a pub obviously is not wanted by the majority, we will stop trying.”

He thanked those who had supported the business during its time open.

He said: “Thank you to all those people from the village who made the most of it. We are sorry we are unable to continue.”

The closure marks the end of an attempt to re-establish a local pub in the village.

Fashion shoot at civic hall raises eyebrows over council priorities

Devon Today
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Fashion shoot at civic hall raises eyebrows over council priorities

Concerns have been raised over how a town hall is being promoted after images shared online prompted questions from residents about the building’s intended use.

A post circulating on social media questioned whether recent “marketing” photographs linked to Lynton Town Hall reflected the purpose of a communications role previously described as supporting weddings, parties, community events and income generation.

The post stated: “Residents were told the new communications role would help promote Lynton Town Hall for weddings, parties, community events and income generation.”

It continued: “And yet some of the ‘marketing’ images now surfacing make the hall look less like a welcoming venue and more like the backdrop for a moody fashion shoot.”

The author added: “Is this what the mayor and council had in mind for the role?

“If these were official promotional images, someone should explain the strategy.

“If they were not, then residents are entitled to ask why a precept-funded communications role appears to have involved using the town hall in this way at all.

“This is not prudery. It is a question of judgement, priorities and public value.”

The post concluded by inviting a response from councillors, stating that “any explanation would be very welcome”.

In response, photographer Luke Anthony said the images were intended to highlight the town hall as a hireable space for creative industries.

Luke said: “I photographed this and it was done to showcase the town hall as a viable, and really cool, place for brands, filmmakers, photographers etc to hire out to be the backdrop for fashion shoots, music videos etc during times when it would otherwise be empty.”

He added that venues “all over the country need to adapt to stay relevant” and said the town hall could not rely on occasional classes or sessions alone to generate sufficient income.

Luke said: “I think you will agree that it is a great location for a photoshoot, or the backdrop for some filming, and a very unique space that should be celebrated in lots of ways.”

He also addressed criticism of the imagery, describing one comment as “highly offensive to both myself and the professional model who did not have to give up her time free of charge to do this”.

Luke added: “This is a pretty standard fashion shoot by today’s standards so I am not sure what you are finding offensive about this.

“Again, it is 2026, not 1926, things have changed.”

He said he would not be engaging further with the discussion.

Swifts given lifeline as new nest boxes installed to save summer icon

Devon County Council
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Swifts given lifeline as new nest boxes installed to save summer icon

We’ve installed Swift nest boxes on buildings at County Hall in Exeter and at the Grand Western Canal in Tiverton to help summer visitors find safe nesting sites as numbers continue to fall nationwide.

It’s all part of our scheme to support swifts – one of the UK’s most distinctive birds – and follows a decision last year to install swift nest boxes across our estate.

The RSPB say that Swifts are on the UK’s Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern. For every ten Swifts zooming across our skies in 1995, there were only about three by 2022.

Swifts typically arrive in late April and May after migrating around 3,400 miles from Africa, often stopping to refuel in countries such as Portugal and France.

They are well known for their fast, acrobatic flights and the high-pitched calls that mark the start of summer.

Because swifts stay for only a few months, it is essential that they find a nesting site quickly. Numbers have fallen significantly in the last decade, and one of the main reasons is thought to be the loss of nesting spaces.

Swifts nest in small gaps and cavities in buildings and are faithful to their sites, returning year after year.

When repairs block access points – for example during roof works or when soffits are replaced – birds can be forced to search for new sites at short notice.

We’ve already installed swift boxes in the bell tower at County Hall, Exeter.

Swifts have been seen visiting in recent years and may have nested. The Council is now expanding the scheme by installing additional boxes on other buildings when maintenance work is taking place and scaffolding is already in place.

The first new boxes have been fitted on another County Hall building, which the Council hopes will become an important nesting location, and at the Grand Western Canal offices. Boxes are also being provided for bats, house martins and sparrows.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Bio-diversity, said: “Swifts are one of the great sounds of a Devon summer, but they can only breed successfully if they can find a suitable nest site quickly. By fitting swift boxes when we’re already carrying out building maintenance, we’re making a simple, practical change that can make a real difference for local wildlife.”

Residents and businesses can also help by installing swift boxes, reporting swift sightings and raising awareness. Find out more at the Devon Swift Project and on the RSPB website: Swift Bird Facts | Apus Apus.

Twisted online predator jailed after grooming girls into sick acts

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Twisted online predator jailed after grooming girls into sick acts

A Devon sex offender targeted vulnerable young girls online and incited them into sharing degrading sexual content and carrying out self-harm. 

Miles Goninon, 29, was also found in possession of thousands of indecent images and videos of children spanning all three categories. 

Goninon, from the Winkleigh area of Devon, was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on Thursday 23 April after pleading guilty to 25 offences including possession and distribution of indecent images of children (all categories), engaging in sexual communications with children and causing a child to engage in a sexual act.

Goninon was jailed for 12 years. He was made subject of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order until further order and placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.

The court heard how Goninon targeted numerous vulnerable young girls online through Snapchat, gaining their trust before abusing them.

The offending came to light when Police received intelligence reporting that a user of a Snapchat account associated with Goninon’s email address had engaged in conversation with a child online and asked her for an indecent video of herself.

The account was traced to Goninon’s home address and in June 2024 officers executed a warrant and arrested Goninon.

As a result of the warrant, a large number of devices were seized and later found to contain a huge catalogue of troubling child sex abuse material and explicit conversations with children.

Investigation showed that Goninon was operating multiple Snapchat accounts pretending to be teenagers and had also distributed child abuse material to others.

Goninon was found in possession of hundreds of indecent videos and images of victims that he had requested and filmed virtually himself.

Some of the victims were identified from their Snapchat usernames and home visits then carried out by police. Victims of Goninon were placed around the world. Many of not been identified. 

Goninon denied any criminal wrongdoing in his interviews.

The sentencing judge described Goninon as taking no responsibility for the horrendous impact his crimes had on his victims and showing very limited empathy.

Following the sentencing, Detective Inspector Simon Foster said: “This was a complex and extremely disturbing investigation led by the Devon and Cornwall Paedophile Online Investigation Team. 

“The officers involved have shown incredible dedication to identify and safeguard as many children as possible. 

“Due to the nature of his offending, our specialist officers had to examine a huge amount of traumatic material to ensure all lines of enquiry were pursued. 

“Miles Goninon showed no remorse or care for his victims and was driven by his sadistic desires to harm children. 

“We welcome today’s sentence and hope this conviction serves as a stark warning to those with an unlawfully blurred view of consent and the wider implications of the sexual abuse of children. 

“I would also like to thank all the identified victims in this case for their bravery and courage in coming forward. It’s not an easy thing to disclose something very personal to you, particularly when it relates to sexual offences. 

“I hope this investigation highlights that the police take sexual allegations seriously, you will be believed, and we will always support you. 

“We believe there are still hundreds of victims targeted by Miles Goninon that our specialist victim ID officers continue to try and identify. 

“He often used his true name as usernames so if anyone feels they have been targeted by his offending, please get in contact so we can support you.

“We will never stop investigating online offences to safeguard children and protect the public from those who seek to hurt children. For those tempted to engage in this type of behaviour, our message is simple: we are watching you, you will be caught, and you can expect a knock at the door from us very soon.”

Support available

If you have been affected by this article there is support available.

You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.

You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Advice and support can also be found at:

National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999

Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626

For more information please visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault

If you suspect a child is in immediate danger from sexual abuse or exploitation call 999 now. If it’s not an emergency please use the “Report” button on our website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or call 101. You can report child sexual abuse anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

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