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Westward Ho! beach bags top awards for 23rd year running

Torridge District Council
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Westward Ho! beach bags top awards for 23rd year running

Westward Ho! beach has once again secured both the Blue Flag and Seaside Award for the 2026 summer season. This marks an outstanding 23 consecutive years of achieving Blue Flag status.

The Blue Flag is a globally recognised award given only to beaches with ‘excellent’ bathing water quality under the EU Bathing Water Directive. To retain the status, beaches must also meet a wide set of requirements, including providing environmental education, strong environmental management, high safety standards, and well-maintained visitor facilities.

Examples of key assessed areas include:

  • Clean, safe water which meets the highest classification standards
  • Effective beach management, including waste and habitat protection
  • Clear public information about the environment and water quality
  • Safety measures such as lifeguards, first aid provision and emergency planning

The Seaside Award also recognises beaches that meet important standards for cleanliness, safety and visitor experience.

Achieving these awards for over two decades is a testament to the ongoing dedication of the Northam Burrows Rangers and Torridge District Council officers as well as the strong community spirit that exists locally. Residents, volunteers and partners all play their part, working together throughout the year to protect the natural environment, support wildlife and help ensure visitors can enjoy the beach safely and responsibly.

From maintaining facilities and monitoring the coastline to engaging with visitors and delivering educational activities, the Northam Burrows Rangers play a vital role in upholding the high standards these awards recognise. Residents and visitors are encouraged to get involved in the wide range of activities and events they organise. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, joining a beach clean, or taking part in family-friendly events, you can find upcoming opportunities at: www.torridge.gov.uk/northamburrowsevents

Councillor Lyndon Piper, Lead Member for Leisure at Torridge District Council, said: “Achieving Blue Flag status for 23 consecutive years is a significant milestone and reflects the long-term commitment to caring for our coastline. Thanks to this dedication, Westward Ho! is not only a beautiful place to visit, but also a clean, safe and well-managed beach that supports both the community and local businesses.

“We are incredibly fortunate in Torridge to have such a special coastal environment on our doorstep. Together with Northam Burrows, it forms part of North Devon’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest. Protecting this landscape is vital, and we are proud to be flying the Blue Flag at Westward Ho! for the 23rd year running.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said: “England is fortunate to boast some of the world’s finest beaches, and it’s encouraging to see this reflected in the award to Westward Ho! signalling its high standards to all who visit or live nearby. “Everybody involved in these achievements should feel proud of their ongoing work to care for and enhance these important local blue spaces.”

Tree huggers unite as Devon County Show unveils woodland experience

Devon Today
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Tree huggers unite as Devon County Show unveils woodland experience

Devon County Show 2026 is joyfully embracing the natural world with its first‑ever Tree Hugging experience, set in the beautiful Woodlands Area of the Showground. Visitors will be invited to wrap their arms around an established Beech Tree — hand‑selected by Kenny Raybould, the Show’s very own Doctor of Tree Hugging, whose ability to “feel” the right tree makes him the perfect woodland matchmaker.

Guests can enjoy their moment of connection (a seven‑second hug is recommended for full effect), and those wanting a keepsake can have their photo taken between 12:00 and 13:00 on Saturday 23rd May, complete with hashtags to help spread the joy of reconnecting with nature.

Kenny said: “Tree hugging should feel good for people and for the tree. We’ll be putting simple protections in place — like soft matting to protect the tree’s roots — to make sure everyone, including the tree can enjoy the moment. It’s all about connection, care and leaving the tree as happy, if not happier, than we found it.”

Quirky, wholesome and quintessentially Devon County Show, this new feature invites visitors to slow down, breathe deeply and rediscover the simple pleasure of being close to nature.

HSBC’s historic High Street bank could get new entrance doors

Lewis Clarke
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HSBC’s historic High Street bank could get new entrance doors

A familiar bank frontage could be set for a small but significant change as plans are submitted to alter a historic town centre building.

HSBC’s branch at 10 High Street, Barnstaple, could have its principal entrance doors replaced under proposals submitted by Real Estate Services.

The application says the work would involve replacing the existing entrance doors on a “like-for-like basis”.

Planning documents say the bank is aiming to improve security and accessibility at the branch.

The building forms part of 9-12 High Street, a grade II listed property dating from around 1865 to 1875. It is also within Barnstaple Town Centre conservation area.

A heritage statement says the building has “significant” architectural and historical interest and occupies a prominent site in the High Street.

The proposed work would retain the existing timber-framed top lights, with new timber-coloured aluminium doors and frame installed below the first timber transom.

No internal works are proposed.

The design statement says the scale, layout, landscape treatment and access arrangements would remain unchanged.

Historic village pub faces new future as holiday stay under planning bid

Lewis Clarke
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Historic village pub faces new future as holiday stay under planning bid

A village pub could be calling last orders as plans are considered to turn it into holiday accommodation.

An application has been submitted to North Devon Council for The Castle Inn, at George Nympton, South Molton, Devon.

The proposal seeks a change of use from a public house to holiday accommodation. The application is currently pending.

The applicant is named as Ian Trott.

A letter from Christie & Co says The Castle Inn was first advertised on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at a price of £575,000. It says the site was advertised on Rightmove Commercial and Christie.com.

The letter adds that the price was reduced to £525,000 on Monday, September 1, 2025.

Ryan Bassett, business agent for pubs and restaurants at Christie & Co, said: “Through out the last 12 months we have had 0 viewings and no real interested parties.”

North Devon Council’s heritage and conservation officer has commented on the application, saying no harm is expected to nearby heritage assets.

The officer said: “It does not appear that any changes are proposed to the elevations or the surroundings of the building, which stands close to various listed buildings in the village.

“Therefore I do not consider that this proposal will cause harm to the significance of the heritage assets through changes in their settings.”

Schoolchildren stunned as Downing Street responds to democracy project

Devon Today
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Schoolchildren stunned as Downing Street responds to democracy project

A group of Devon schoolchildren were left celebrating after receiving an official response from Downing Street following a class project exploring democracy and government decision-making.

Year 6 pupils at St Andrew’s CofE Academy in Buckland Monachorum wrote letters to government departments after learning how decisions are made in the UK as part of a classroom project earlier this year.

Children in Pendragon Class discussed issues they felt strongly about before sending thoughtful letters sharing their views and ideas with ministers. Topics included the future affordability of electric vehicles, improving accessibility on public transport for disabled people, animal welfare and the environmental impact of fast fashion.

The pupils later received replies from the Transport and Environment departments, as well as a formal response from Downing Street recognising the children’s work and engagement with national issues.

Debbie Nunn, headteacher at St Andrew’s CofE Academy, said: “This has been a truly exciting and meaningful experience for our Year 6 pupils.

“They showed great maturity in thinking about important issues and expressing their ideas clearly and thoughtfully.

“Receiving a response from Downing Street has helped bring their learning about democracy to life in a powerful and memorable way.”

Tracey Cleverly, trust lead at Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Opportunities like this are invaluable in helping children understand how democracy works and how their voices can make a difference.

“We are incredibly proud of the curiosity, engagement and enthusiasm shown by the pupils.

“Experiences such as this help inspire active, informed citizens of the future.”

The Learning Academy Partnership includes 18 schools across Cornwall, Devon and Torbay. St Andrew’s CofE Academy is rated Good by Ofsted.

Young sailors take to the water in hands-on Wind Project adventure

Devon Today
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Young sailors take to the water in hands-on Wind Project adventure

Pupils at a Devon primary school took to the water as part of a sailing project designed to build confidence and teamwork through outdoor learning.

Year 4 children from West Alvington CofE Academy joined instructors from Salcombe Dinghy Sailing Association for a hands-on session as part of the Wind Project, which gives young people practical experiences outside the classroom.

The pupils learned sailing techniques while developing their understanding of wind, water and navigation in real-world conditions. Staff said the children showed strong teamwork and concentration during the session as they learned how to handle dinghies on the water.

The activity formed part of the wider Wind Project, which aims to help children build confidence, independence and curiosity through outdoor education experiences.

Hannah Ruston, headteacher at West Alvington CofE Academy, said: “Our Year 4 pupils had an absolutely fantastic experience on the water.

“They showed great enthusiasm as they learned new sailing skills. Opportunities like this help children develop confidence, independence and a real sense of achievement.”

Tracey Cleverly, trust lead at the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “The Wind Project is a wonderful example of how outdoor learning can inspire and engage children in powerful ways.

“We are incredibly proud of the pupils for embracing this experience so positively, and grateful to Salcombe Dinghy Sailing for providing such a memorable and enriching opportunity.”

West Alvington CofE Academy is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, a trust made up of 18 schools across Cornwall, Devon and Torbay. The trust said its aim is to provide “Flourishing Futures” for children through exceptional education and community-focused learning opportunities.

More information about the school can be found at West Alvington CofE Academy and the trust at Learning Academy Partnership.

Family-run Devon childcare group expands with major new education hub

Aaron James
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Family-run Devon childcare group expands with major new education hub

Blue Elephant Childcare, a family-run residential childcare organisation based in Chivenor, North Devon, has marked an important new chapter in its journey with the official opening of its new Head Office and Education Engagement Hub, formally opened last week by local MP, Ian Roome.

Founded in 2017 by Keith and Chris Burley, Blue Elephant Childcare has grown significantly over the past nine years, evolving from a small family-run provider into a thriving organisation supporting children across North Devon and Somerset. Today, it operates 10 children’s homes, with a further two homes currently in development.

Keith Burley, Managing Director, explains, “The opening of the new Head Office and Education Engagement Hub reflects not just the physical growth of Blue Elephant Childcare, but our commitment to building sustainable, child-centred services deeply rooted within the local community.

“Blue Elephant Childcare was built on a clear ethos,’ continues Keith, ‘To provide safe, therapeutic and relationship-led care that places children at the heart of everything the organisation does. The team works tirelessly to support the safety, aspirations and personal growth of the young people in our care, many of whom have experienced trauma and disruption earlier in life. The growth of the organisation means we can support more children locally, allowing them to remain closer to their communities, schools, families and support networks, wherever possible.”

The new premises include expanded office space alongside an additional training room to support staff learning and development. An employee hangout and wellbeing area has also been created to encourage reflection, connection and support alongside improved meeting and collaboration facilities.

Alongside the Head Office, Blue Elephant unveiled its new Education Engagement Hub, which has been created to support children who may struggle within traditional education settings. Operations Director, Abi Milton adds, “The Hub offers a calm, welcoming and low-stimulation environment, recognising the impact trauma can have on learning, emotional regulation, and relationships. It provides a range of alternative and therapeutic education opportunities, including one-to-one and small group learning, outdoor education and life skills, emotional wellbeing and regulation support and creative, practical, and vocational activities. The Hub is designed to help children rebuild confidence, re-engage with learning, and, where appropriate, gradually return to mainstream education.”

As Blue Elephant Childcare continues to grow, so too does its workforce, which includes residential care staff, managers, education professionals, operational leaders and support teams working collaboratively to deliver trauma-informed, child-centred care. Ongoing investment in staff training, wellbeing initiatives and professional development remains central to the organisation’s commitment to providing stable homes and positive, long-term outcomes for children.

For more information on Blue Elephant and its current vacancies, please visit bluelephant.org.uk or email recruitment@bluelephant.org.uk

Five Devon beaches handed top awards ahead of summer rush

Teignbridge District Council
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Five Devon beaches handed top awards ahead of summer rush

Five beaches in Teignbridge have been recognised for their quality in the prestigious Blue Flag and Seaside Awards for summer 2026.

Dawlish Warren achieved the highest award with the internationally recognised Blue Flag Award while Dawlish Town beach, Coryton Cove, Teignmouth and Ness Cove were all awarded the coveted Seaside Award.

The Blue Flag and Seaside Awards are designed to raise standards across England’s coastline and inland waters while shining a spotlight on the country’s top beaches. They inform the public about which beaches offer a safe, clean and well-managed space for them to enjoy.

Beaches are assessed on safety, sustainable tourism and environmental education. To achieve an award they must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria including:

  • Safety and services such as first aid and lifeguards, where necessary
  • Environmental information including displaying details about local ecosystems
  • Environmental management including litter and waste
  • Water quality: blue flag beaches must meet the ‘excellent’ water quality standard as set out in the EU Bathing Water Directive while Seaside Awards for designated bathing waters must meet, as a minimum, the ‘sufficient’ standard.

A Teignbridge District Council spokesperson said: “Achieving the Blue Flag Award for Dawlish Warren and the Seaside Awards for Coryton Cove, Dawlish Town, Ness Cove and Teignmouth reflect our commitment to maintaining clean, safe beaches that meet environmental and water quality standards. We hope that by flying these flags we will encourage residents and visitors to enjoy a day on the beach at our resorts.”

Blue Flag, the world’s most recognised award for beaches and marinas, is an environmental education programme managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. 

Keep Britain Tidy’s Chief Executive, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, said: “England is fortunate to boast some of the world’s finest beaches, and it’s encouraging to see this reflected in the awards to Teignmouth, Ness Cove, Coryton Cove, Dawlish and Dawlish Warren signalling its high standards to all who visit or live nearby.

“Everybody involved in these achievements should feel proud of their ongoing work to care for and enhance these important local blue spaces.” Teignbridge is very grateful to Dawlish Town Council, for funding the Blue Flag Award for Dawlish Warren and the Seaside Awards for Dawlish Town beach and Coryton Cove, Teignmouth Town Council, for funding the Seaside award for Teignmouth beach, and Shaldon Parish Council, for funding the Seaside award for the Ness beach.

Historic tree planted by Prince Philip faces heartbreaking end

Torridge District Council
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Historic tree planted by Prince Philip faces heartbreaking end

Tomorrow we will sadly be removing the Lombardy Poplar tree at Victoria Park, next to the bowling club.

Unfortunately, despite our best efforts over the past two years to save it, the tree has developed a fungal disease and it has now reached a point where removal is necessary for safety reasons.

This tree was originally planted by Prince Philip on 15 October 1952 to commemorate the opening of the King George V Playing Field. At 74 years old, it is recorded as a notable tree on the Veteran Tree Register.

While it’s sad to see such a prominent landmark go, we want to honour its history. Rather than removing it completely, we’ll be carving a seat from the remaining stump so the tree can continue to be part of the park in a new way.

We are also planning to plant a suitable replacement tree and will keep you updated on our page – so please keep an eye out!

Thank you for your understanding.

South Hams celebrates community wins in bumper annual council report

South Hams District Council
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South Hams celebrates community wins in bumper annual council report

We have been celebrating our work with local communities at our Annual Council today.

As well as appointing our new Chair, the 2025-26 Annual Report, ‘Working for our communities’ was endorsed. This highlights some of the work that has been done with local communities across the district over the past 12 months.

The publication, which can be found here, includes examples of how we have been achieving our ambitions such as delivering healthy, warm and affordable homes across the district. It also highlights how we have supported communities to do more for the environment through rewilding projects and the ongoing mission to plant a tree for every resident.

During the Leader’s annual statement, Cllr Dan Thomas introduced the report, which also outlines initiatives to increase footfall in local towns, invest in community facilities, and continue delivering good quality services.

Cllr Jacqi Hodgson was elected as the new Chair for the coming year at the meeting.

The Ward Member for Dartington and Staverton accepted the chain of office from outgoing Chairman, Cllr Bernard Taylor. Cllr Guy Pannell was re-appointed as our Vice-Chair.

Cllr Jacqi Hodgson said: “I would like to thank all our Members for electing me to the role of Chair for the year ahead. I look forward to working with fellow Members to make a positive impact on our community. I would also like to congratulate Cllr Bernard Taylor for the role he has played over the past two years as I aim to build on that progress.”

Outgoing Chairman Cllr Bernard Taylor also presented £1,446 to the Chestnut Appeal – which was the designated Chairman’s Charity for the past year – to support the work it does for men’s health.

Cllr Bernard Taylor said: “As I depart my role as Chairman, I’m proud to present the Chestnut Appeal with these funds. I chose this charity because several people in my ward have suffered with prostate cancer, some of which have sadly passed away. I hope the donation will help support the important work the charity does.”

The following committee positions were also confirmed during the Council meeting.

Executive

  • Cllr Dan Thomas – Leader
  • Cllr Simon Rake – Deputy Leader
  • Cllr Victor Abbott
  • Cllr John Birch
  • Cllr Julian Brazil
  • Cllr Nadine Dommett
  • Cllr David Hancock
  • Cllr Nicky Hopwood
  • Cllr John McKay
  • Cllr Denise O’Callaghan

Audit and Governance Committee

  • Cllr Lee Bonham – Chairman
  • Cllr Matt Steele – Vice Chair

Development Management Committee

  • Cllr Mark Long – Chairman
  • Cllr Bernard Taylor – Vice Chair

Licensing Committee

  • Cllr Sam Penfold – Chairman
  • Cllr Anna Presswell – Vice Chair

Overview and Scrutiny Committee

  • Cllr Alison Nix – Chairman
  • Cllr Ben Cooper – Vice Chair

Council Tax Setting Committee

  • Cllr Dan Thomas – Chairman
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