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Torquay set for ten-hour music marathon in pancreatic cancer fight

Lewis Clarke
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Torquay set for ten-hour music marathon in pancreatic cancer fight

Music fans are being urged to wear purple and dance into the early hours as a ten-hour fundraising event aims to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer while bringing together DJs, bands and singers for a packed day of entertainment.

The event, titled The Show Must Go On, is due to take place at Arena Torquay on Saturday, November 21, from 3pm until 1am. Organisers say the fundraiser will feature DJs, bands, singers and live acts, with the full line-up set to be announced at a later date.

Promotional material for the event describes it as a fundraising and awareness event for pancreatic cancer, encouraging attendees to “wear purple to show support and raise awareness”.

The event branding also carries the slogan: “The beat always goes on – even in loss, the rhythm of life continues.”

No ticket or booking information has yet been released.

Beer, barn dances and beach fun as Ilfracombe bursts into life this weekend

Devon Today
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Beer, barn dances and beach fun as Ilfracombe bursts into life this weekend

Beer festivals, barn dances and classic Volkswagens are among the attractions drawing visitors into Ilfracombe this weekend as the seaside town prepares for one of its busiest spells of the season.

From live music and local ales to family activities and coastal walks, organisers say there is something for all ages across the town and surrounding area over the coming days.

A beer festival will take place outside The Landmark across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, featuring local brews, food and live entertainment organised by Ilfracombe Round Table.

Visitors can also enjoy a barn dance, while the Seaweed Festival will celebrate coastal culture, foraging and ocean-inspired living.

Classic car enthusiasts are expected to gather on the seafront on Sunday for the North Shore Aircooled VW event, which begins at 11.30am and showcases air-cooled vehicles and vintage Volkswagens.

Shoppers hoping for bargains can visit a local car boot sale, while those staying into next week can also explore the Ilfracombe Monday Market and the Lee Spring Fair, featuring stalls, food and family activities.

Families visiting the area are also being encouraged to make the most of local attractions, including Ilfracombe Aquarium, Ilfracombe Museum and Watermouth Castle.

Outdoor attractions including The Torrs cliffs, Cairn Nature Reserve, Hillsborough and Bicclescombe Park are also expected to prove popular as warmer weather arrives along the North Devon coast.

Away from the harbour, Ilfracombe’s town centre is also continuing to attract new independent businesses and experiences.

Fore Street and the High Street have seen several new openings in recent months, adding to established businesses including Mark’s Models, The Wellington Arms, hand:plant, Pedlars Of Ilfracombe, Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium, Sage Cottage Tearoom, In The Pink and Sue’s Treasure Trove.

Newer additions include Venture Games Ilfracombe, which offers a paint splatter room and escape room experience, and Still Point Studio, which hosts yoga and wellness classes.

Visitors can also browse record shops, book stores, gift shops, galleries, eco refill stores and independent food retailers across the town centre.

Promoting the area’s growing independent business scene, Andrew White said Ilfracombe was “full of fresh energy right now”.

He added: “At a time when many high streets are facing real challenges, Ilfracombe is bucking the trend.

“New independent shops, cafés, studios and experiences have opened in recent months, adding even more character to a town already packed with local favourites.”

Andrew said the town’s independent spirit was helping attract more visitors and encouraging people to spend more time exploring beyond the harbour area.

He said: “Local people are opening doors, trying new ideas, investing in the town and giving visitors more reasons to stay, browse, eat, shop and enjoy.”

More information about businesses and attractions in the town can be found at the Ilfracombe visitor guide

Giant wheel returning to Torquay seafront with stunning new look

Torbay Council
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Giant wheel returning to Torquay seafront with stunning new look

Torbay Council is pleased to confirm that DeVey Events Limited will be bringing a new wheel to Torquay seafront this summer, with construction of the 35-metre attraction now underway.

This year’s attraction follows the previous operator’s decision not to return for 2026 after reviewing operational and financial factors. In response to this, we have been working extensively behind the scenes to secure a new operator and bring forward a solution, with work now progressing on the new wheel ahead of its installation on the seafront.

This marks a positive step forward in bringing a refreshed and high-quality offer back to Torquay, following significant efforts to move plans forward at pace. By working closely with partners, we have ensured the seafront continues to be a vibrant and attractive destination. The attraction will also include associated catering outlets, helping to enhance the overall visitor experience and support the local economy.

The wheel has been a much-loved feature of the seafront in recent years, and its return in a new form reflects the ongoing commitment to support and attract high-quality attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors. The aim is to ensure the new offer complements the character of the seafront, respects its setting, and delivers long-term benefits for the Bay.

Alongside this, we continues to invest in a wide-ranging programme of attractions and events throughout 2026, with one of the most extensive calendars to date showcasing the very best of the Bay’s culture, coastline and community spirit.

Councillor Jackie Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture, Events and Corporate Services, said: “We were naturally disappointed when the previous operator decided not to return to Torbay this year, particularly as the wheel has become such a popular and much-loved feature for both residents and visitors. But rather than dwell on that, we got straight to work with interested partners to make sure this fantastic opportunity wasn’t lost.”

“I’m absolutely delighted that, in such a short space of time, we’ve secured a new operator, and that construction of this brand-new 35-metre wheel is already underway. Before long, people will once again be able to enjoy those breathtaking panoramic views across Torbay and the English Riviera from high above the seafront.”

“This is exactly the kind of energy and ambition we want to see for Torbay; moving quickly, working positively with partners, and making sure our residents and visitors continue to enjoy brilliant attractions here in the Bay.”

The 35-metre wheel will feature enclosed gondolas, offering residents and visitors panoramic views across Torbay and the English Riviera. The opening hours are expected to extend from daytime into the evening. This will allow passengers to experience the bay in full daylight, with the coastline illuminated by evening lights.

The attraction will open on Saturday 23 May at 3pm with ticketing information to be confirmed. Follow the council’s social media channels for the latest updates. 

New affordable homes handed over at landmark Taw Wharf project

Devon Today
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New affordable homes handed over at landmark Taw Wharf project

A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Barnstaple’s Taw Wharf, as the final affordable homes have been completed and handed over to community landlord, North Devon Homes.

Developer and contractor Pearce Construction has delivered the last 14 affordable homes at the landmark riverside development, bringing to a close more than a decade of planning and construction. The homes, made up of 12 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom houses, mark the final stage of the long-running regeneration project.

Martyn Gimber, Chief Executive of North Devon Homes, said:
“Today is a special day as these 14 new homes are the final affordable homes at Taw Wharf as we complete this fantastic development and regeneration in the heart of Barnstaple. These homes are a great design, great quality and are just the start of many stories and new lives and opportunities for the new residents who will start moving in from next week.

“The development has won several awards and sold over 100 homes, with the wider Taw Wharf regeneration supporting the creation of more than 500 jobs across the construction of new homes and in the retail and leisure businesses on site, helping to build a thriving community for generations to come. When I look around at what has been achieved over the last 11 years, I am proud to say that we have worked together to create communities where people want to live.”

The scheme has been led by North Devon Homes (NDH) in partnership with Pearce Construction, alongside funding and support from Homes England and the local authority with further support from architects, Woodward Smith and advisors, Taylor Lewis. The completion showcases the transformation of the former 30-acre brownfield site at Anchorwood Bank into a thriving new community.

Paul Knox, Managing Director of Pearce Construction, added:
“Throughout the regeneration project, both Pearce and NDH have worked in close partnership to deliver this vision, with a shared commitment to creating high-quality places to live. In development nothing is easy and it’s a very proud moment to see these homes being handed over.

“NDH now has the privilege of welcoming new residents to these affordable homes. They will be joining a close-knit community that takes pride in Taw Wharf, a place we have all worked hard to build together.”

A key part of the project’s success has been the innovative approach to funding affordable housing. In response to dwindling government grants, North Devon Homes established Anchorwood Ltd in 2015, an ethical property development company. Profits generated from the sale of open market homes at Taw Wharf have been reinvested to help fund affordable housing.

Since its formation, Anchorwood Ltd has built and sold more than £20 million worth of homes and funded 37 affordable properties for local people, helping to address the ongoing demand for affordable housing across North Devon. Once fully complete, the Taw Wharf development will deliver a total of 172 homes with the build of the remaining market sale homes nearing completion.

North Devon MP warns families fear sewage spills at popular beaches

Aaron James
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North Devon MP warns families fear sewage spills at popular beaches

Families are checking sewage alerts before heading into the sea as concerns grow over pollution at some of North Devon’s best-known beaches ahead of the bank holiday weekend.

North Devon MP Ian Roome has called for stronger action against water companies after attending a Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out protest in Croyde. The Liberal Democrats say designated bathing sites in England have been affected by more than one million hours of sewage spills over the past five years.

North Devon is home to beaches including Croyde, Saunton, Woolacombe, Putsborough, Combe Martin, Ilfracombe Tunnels and Ilfracombe Hele. Ian warned that more needed to be done to protect residents and visitors as warmer weather arrives and the bathing water season gets underway.

The official bathing water season runs from Thursday, May 15 until Tuesday, September 30, during which regular water quality testing is carried out at designated sites.

Environment Agency data showed designated bathing sites in England recorded 145,606 hours of sewage dumping in 2025, equivalent to 6,067 days. In the South West, South West Water reported 49,067 sewage spills between 2020 and 2025, lasting a total of 326,864 hours.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Government to make water companies report sewage spill volume rather than duration. The party has also renewed calls for Ofwat to be replaced with what it described as a stronger regulator capable of holding water companies to account.

Ian said: “North Devon has some of the most stunning coastline in the country, yet I’m hearing from families who are now checking for sewage spills before letting their children swim. Water companies simply are not being held to account.

“It was great to join local campaigners at the Surfers Against Sewage paddle-out recently in Croyde, and I know that local groups and campaigners have been working hard to keep pressure up on water companies and Government.

“We need far bolder action by the government: full transparency on sewage spills, closing the loopholes that allow water company executives to avoid bonus restrictions, and real accountability for polluters.

“I am calling on the Government to stop stalling, replace Ofwat with a regulator that has real teeth, and clean up our bathing sites in North Devon ahead of summer.”

Air ambulance called after biker seriously hurt in Devon crash

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Air ambulance called after biker seriously hurt in Devon crash

We are appealing for witnesses and information following a serious road traffic collision on an unnamed road near Barnstaple.

Officers were called at around 8.20am on Friday 22 May, to an unnamed road between Filliegh and Swimbridge.

It was reported that the single vehicle collision involved a Honda motorcycle.

A man, aged 63 from Swimbridge, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital. His next of kin 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 dashcam footage which may assist the investigation is asked to contact police via our website or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50260129430.

Tragic update after deadly Devon crash claims second victim

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Tragic update after deadly Devon crash claims second victim

A second man has died following a three-vehicle collision on the A386 near Okehampton.

Emergency services were called to a collision between Hatherleigh and Folly Gate at around 1.50pm on Tuesday 19May.

It involved a silver-coloured BMW estate, a white Ford Transit van and a white Citroen Relay Luton van.

The 33-year-old male driver of the BMW, from the Okehampton area, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Transit van, a 74-year-old man from the Bude area, was taken to Derriford Hospital with serious injuries.

We have now been informed that he died of his injuries on Thursday 21 May. His next of kin have been informed.

The driver of the Citroen van was uninjured.

Officers are continuing to appeal for information and dashcam footage following the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information or dash-cam footage, is asked to contact us via our website here or by calling 101 quoting log 397 of 19/5/26.

Fears mount as more than 1,100 back bid to save Plymouth climbing wall

Lewis Clarke
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Fears mount as more than 1,100 back bid to save Plymouth climbing wall

A growing campaign to save Plymouth’s only roped climbing wall has gathered more than 1,100 signatures after plans emerged to close the facility at Plymouth Life Centre.

An official e-petition launched through Plymouth City Council is calling on the authority to halt the proposed closure of the Plymouth Life Centre climbing wall and protect what campaigners describe as a “vital community sporting facility”.

The petition, started by Ellie Moyse, argues the climbing wall plays a key role in supporting physical and mental wellbeing for residents across Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall.

Campaigners say the wall, which opened in 2012, is the only roped climbing facility in Plymouth and provides a well-equipped and accessible venue within walking distance of the city centre and the University of Plymouth.

The petition states: “The closure of this climbing wall would not only diminish community health and fitness options but also deprive many residents, especially youth, of a safe and supportive environment where they can engage in positive activities.”

It adds that climbing “has been proven to improve both mental and physical health”.

Supporters have also highlighted the wall’s role in hosting competitions and developing young talent since climbing became an Olympic sport.

The petition says removing the facility could affect opportunities for future athletes and reduce economic activity linked to visiting events and competitions.

Campaigners also raised concerns about the impact on schools and children, saying the centre works closely with local schools to introduce pupils to climbing through structured sessions and courses.

According to the petition, many children would lose the opportunity to try climbing in a supervised environment if the wall closes because there are no comparable alternatives in the immediate Plymouth area.

The petition states the nearest alternative climbing centre is more than 20 miles away and would involve a round trip of more than an hour by car, with limited public transport available.

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, said she had been contacted by residents, families and members of the climbing community following concerns over the future of the wall.

In a social media post, Rebecca said: “While community-led petitions have already received significant support, Plymouth City Council will only formally recognise petitions submitted through its own system.”

She added that residents had highlighted the difference between the Life Centre climbing wall and other facilities in the region.

Rebecca said: “Many people have also pointed out that the Life Centre wall is not directly comparable to facilities such as Clip ‘n Climb or The Hangar because the Life Centre offers the largest wall in the South West, is used locally by schools for students studying their GCSEs and the team there are trained to offer SEN sessions as well.”

The Plymouth City Council e-petition opened on Tuesday, May 19 and runs until Tuesday, June 23. At the time of writing, 1,146 people had signed the petition.

River Taw search ends with missing Devon teen Taylor still not found

Devon and Cornwall Police
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River Taw search ends with missing Devon teen Taylor still not found

Extensive physical searches of the River Taw and surrounding estuary in Barnstaple have now been completed as 14-year-old Taylor Charlton remains missing.

A substantial investigation is ongoing to locate Taylor and to establish the circumstances surrounding his disappearance on Friday 8 May.

This follows a sustained and focused search operation during the past week involving highly-trained and specialist teams.

A sonar-equipped boat and divers have been utilised to carry out further enquiries along the waterway today [Thursday 21 May]. 

Significant efforts have also included the use of drones, search dogs and the police helicopter. HM Coastguard has been consulted over current and tidal flows within the estuary.

Sadly, Taylor has not been located.

Detectives remain committed to a large-scale and active investigation.

Numerous officers are working to review information and CCTV and have carried out house-to-house, digital and witness enquiries. 

The last-confirmed sighting of Taylor was captured on CCTV in the Tesco Extra car park, in Station Road, at around 10.30pm on Friday 8 May. Footage shows him heading in the direction of the River Taw.

Taylor was reported as missing at around 5.15pm on Saturday 9 May.

Shoes believed to belong to Taylor were respectively found on the high tide line of the riverbank between Sticklepath and Bickington, around 480m apart, on consecutive days on 13 and 14 May.

While all lines of enquiry remain open, investigators believe that Taylor may have entered the water.

Sector Inspector Andy Wills said “We fully understand how difficult and upsetting this continues to be for Taylor’s family, friends, and the wider community.

“Our thoughts remain firmly with them. Taylor’s family continue to be updated and supported by specially-trained officers.

“The River Taw and its estuary present an extremely challenging environment to search, particularly given tidal conditions.

“Over the past week, a rigorous and methodical search of the area has been conducted with support from specialist resources and equipment and partner agencies.

“I want to reassure the public that our investigation remains very much active.

“Detectives continue to carry out extensive enquiries, review information, and carefully assess any new intelligence that comes to light.

“Our commitment to doing everything we can to provide clarity and to find answers for Taylor’s loved-ones will not stop.

“Further searches can and will take place if further information comes to light as part of continuing enquiries.

“We are very grateful for the support shown by the local community throughout this difficult time. It has been significant and deeply appreciated.

“We would continue to urge anyone with information, no matter how small it may seem to them, to come forward and speak to us.”

If you have information that is urgent please phone 999, or in less pressing circumstances please consider using 101 quoting reference number 50260117084.

Beer lovers can hop aboard boozy steam train festival in Devon

Devon Today
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Beer lovers can hop aboard boozy steam train festival in Devon

The South Devon Railway is inviting visitors to swap the car for the train this May Bank Holiday as its popular Spring Rails & Ales event returns from 22nd to 25th May.

Running alongside the much-loved Staverton Beer Festival, the event offers a straightforward idea.

Travel by heritage steam train through the Dart Valley, step off at Staverton and spend time exploring a festival of ales, craft beers and ciders before catching a later service home.

Trains will run throughout the weekend from Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside, giving visitors flexibility to plan their day without worrying about driving.

Free parking is available at Buckfastleigh, while Totnes Riverside station sits around a 450 metre walk from the mainline station with nearby bus connections.

The journey itself remains central to the experience. Passengers travel through one of Devon’s most scenic stretches of countryside, following the River Dart on board heritage steam and diesel services that reflect the character of the line.

At Staverton, the Devon Diesel Society’s award-winning bar will be serving a wide selection of beers and ciders, alongside hot and cold snacks, teas, coffees and soft drinks.

The festival is designed to be informal and accessible, with space to sit, talk and enjoy the surroundings.

Music will feature across the weekend, with a Sunday bingo night offering a more relaxed close to the event before the final return services.

Food and drink will also be available on selected trains, with on board buffet facilities complementing the festival offering.

“Spring Rails & Ales works because it is simple,” said Ernest Elsworth Wilson, General Manager at South Devon Railway.

“You can leave the car behind, travel through the valley by train and spend time at the festival without needing to rush. It is a social event as much as a railway one,” he added.

The event continues to attract visitors from across the region, combining heritage rail travel with Devon’s established brewing and cider making traditions.

Tickets and further details are available online.

• For full event details and to book tickets, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk 

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