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Major works completed as Dawlish gets boost to water quality

South West Water
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Major works completed as Dawlish gets boost to water quality

South West Water has completed a number of major works in Dawlish as part of a multi-million pound investment to improve water quality by reducing the use of storm overflows in the area.

Two new storm storage tanks have now been installed at The Lawn and Sandy Lane which can hold up to 2.2 million litres of stormwater each.

These huge tanks will capture excess flows in the sewer network during periods of heavy rainfall and store them until there is capacity in the treatment works for full treatment.

Further work has been completed across the town to help improve the performance of the network, including surface water separation works at West Cliff and Exeter Road, which will reduce the amount of rainwater entering the sewer system.

A new pump chamber and control systems for the storm tanks have also been installed, along with a new sewer connection to the tank at The Lawn.

Dawlish Storm Overflow

And work to address groundwater entering existing pipework in Dawlish, which can place additional pressure on the network, has also now been completed.

With the main construction phase of the Dawlish project nearing completion, work is now focused on reinstating the sites, including laying turf, removing hoardings, and rebuilding affected areas to give them back to the community by the summer.

Chris Bradford, South West Water’s Project Manager for Dawlish, said: “We’re really pleased to have reached these key milestones in Dawlish. Installing the storm tanks and completing the surface water overflows in the future. As we move into the final stages of this project, our focus is on reinstating the areas we’ve worked in and ensuring the community can enjoy them again as we head into the summer.”

Councillor Anthony James, Mayor of Dawlish , added: “This has been a really positive project for the town. Communication from the teams on site has been clear, consistent and proactive throughout, and its been of this work will be significant for our community. It’s great to see the storm tanks now in place and the teams working to get the final works completed so this area can be returned back to the town.”

South West Water’s scheme in Dawlish is being delivered as part of its record £760 million Turning the Tide programme, which aims to reduce the use of storm overflows across the region over the next four years.

View more information and updates on South West Water’s work in Dawlish

Exmoor businesses head to Westminster for major food showcase

Devon Today
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Exmoor businesses head to Westminster for major food showcase

Businesses from across Exmoor are in Westminster as part of a special showcase event in the House of Commons, hosted by local MP Rachel Gilmour.

The Flavours from Exmoor event, taking place today in the Jubilee Room, brings together a small number of producers and organisations to represent the strength and diversity of Exmoor’s food and drink offer on a national stage.

Attending organisations include Visit Exmoor, Exmoor National Park, Exmoor Distillery, Black Bear Brewery, Exmoor Game School, Wellhayes Vineyard, the Hill Farming Network and Exmoor Tea. In addition, two finalists from the 2025 Exmoor Young Chef competition will be in attendance, celebrating their success and highlighting the work being done by Visit Exmoor and partners to promote career opportunities within the hospitality sector.

Rachel Gilmour MP said: “It has been my privilege to work with Visit Exmoor to plan this incredible event. I am delighted to be bringing food and drink manufacturers from across Exmoor to the House of Commons, to showcase some of their incredible products, as well as the stunning scenery included within the ‘Exmoor Farms: A Year on the Moor’ book, through the Exmoor Hill Farming Network.

“I hope that many Parliamentarians will attend, to truly get a flavour of Exmoor, and hear directly from my constituents about the critical role they play in the visitor economy on Exmoor, which is a major driver of employment in my constituency. Having these fantastic local businesses in the House of Commons is going to be really special for me.

“I am very much looking forward to the conversations which will flow from this event, across all parties, to really show that Exmoor is a part of the South West’s past, present and future, whether it is through agriculture, tourism, or the wider Exmoor economy. I hope that this will be a timely reminder that the rural economy is its own powerhouse and deserves to be treated as such.”

The event provides an opportunity for parliamentarians, advisers and industry stakeholders to engage directly with businesses that play a central role in Exmoor’s visitor economy.

Tourism and the wider visitor economy generate over £630 million of economic activity each year across Exmoor, with food and drink forming a critical part of the overall offer that attracts visitors to the area. The businesses attending the showcase represent a key part of that experience, from local producers through to visitor experiences.

Visit Exmoor, the official organisation supporting the visitor economy for the Exmoor area and part of the Somerset and Exmoor Local Visitor Economy Partnership aligned with VisitEngland, has worked with partners to bring together businesses from across the area to ensure strong representation of Exmoor’s food and drink sector at the event.

Emma Thomasson, Chief Executive of Visit Exmoor, said: “This is a valuable opportunity to represent Exmoor at a national level and to highlight the role that our businesses play within the visitor economy. Local provenance, food and drink are a vital part of what attracts people to Exmoor, and the businesses attending are a core part of that offer.

It also gives us a platform to highlight both the challenges and the opportunities to grow our rural visitor economy, and the importance of supporting the small businesses at the heart of it, where the visitor economy underpins jobs, investment and long term sustainability.”

The showcase builds on previous successful events in Parliament, which generated strong media coverage and raised the profile of Exmoor businesses both locally and nationally.

Community rows beyond limits as Tiverton event smashes 100km goal

Devon Today
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Community rows beyond limits as Tiverton event smashes 100km goal

An Olympic return with a community twist saw a former athlete revisit his roots — helping power a fundraising effort that brought a town together.

Five-time Olympian Chris Maddocks joined young people, youth workers and local supporters at Tiverton Youth Centre’s Row-A-Thon, where participants collectively rowed more than 100km to raise money for a summer activities programme.

The event, held on Thursday, April 16, saw the community attempt to row the distance to “outer space” using rowing machines set up outside the town’s police station between 12pm and 6pm.

Participants take part in Tiverton Youth Centre’s Row-A-Thon fundraiser
(Credit : Submitted)
Devon County Council member Steve Lodge takes part
(Credit : Submitted)
Chris Maddocks takes part in Tiverton Youth Centre’s Row-A-Thon fundraiser
(Credit : Submitted)
Participants take part in Tiverton Youth Centre’s Row-A-Thon fundraiser
(Credit : Submitted)

Chris, who competed at five Olympic Games between 1984 and 2000, took part after reconnecting with the youth centre following a post he shared about his teenage years. He had previously taken part in the centre’s historic 50-mile fundraising run, first competing aged 14 before going on to complete it five more times — winning the final two events, including one in a record time of six hours and 15 minutes at the age of 18.

After a chance meeting outside the leisure centre, Chris was invited back to the youth centre by lead youth work practitioner Jenni Surridge, who encouraged him to get involved in the latest fundraiser.

The Row-A-Thon saw young people aim to reach a 100km target, supported by members of the public who were invited to take part, donate or cheer on those rowing. A bake sale was also held alongside the challenge to help boost funds.

Money raised from the event will go towards Tiverton Youth Centre’s summer youth activity programme, which offers subsidised trips and activities to ensure all young people can take part regardless of their circumstances.

Jenni said the programme includes organised outings to venues such as Woodlands and Ultimate Adventure, alongside activities hosted at the centre and in local parks during school holidays.

Organisers also confirmed that donations remain open via https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/rowtospace.

Row erupts as historic villa parking plan approved despite protests

Lewis Clarke
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Row erupts as historic villa parking plan approved despite protests

A bitter row over heritage, safety and modern living has ended with councillors backing a controversial plan to carve out parking at a historic villa.

Members of South Hams District Council’s planning committee approved a retrospective application to create an off-street parking space at Duncombe Villa in Kingsbridge, despite strong objections from town councillors and local representatives.

The scheme involves excavating part of the front garden, rebuilding a section of boundary wall and creating access to a new parking area within the property, which sits in the Kingsbridge conservation area.

Planning officer Joanna Noble told the committee the proposal included reinstating the historic stone wall using salvaged materials and matching railings, alongside a three-metre access opening.

Ms Noble said: “The stone boundary wall is a key feature that needs to be preserved and contributes to the heritage value of the conservation area.”

She added that while some works had already taken place without permission, the revised plans would “remediate that harm” and were considered acceptable, subject to conditions.

Concerns had been raised over drainage, traffic safety and the impact on heritage. However, the council’s drainage and highways officers concluded the scheme would not create significant issues, with measures proposed to manage surface water and prevent loose material from entering the road.

Ms Noble said reverse parking into the space from the one-way street was “not uncommon” and had been deemed acceptable by highways officers.

Applicant Adrian Witherspoon, who bought the property with his wife Lisa in 2022, said the house had been in need of major restoration and that the wall had been unsafe.

Mr Witherspoon said: “We are a hundred percent committed to restoring the house back to its former grandeur.”

He told councillors part of the wall had been leaning dangerously over the pavement for decades and that works had been discussed with county council representatives before being carried out.

Mr Witherspoon added: “A scheme has been drawn and submitted… sympathetic to the property and surrounding areas.”

But Kingsbridge Town Council objected strongly, arguing the development would harm one of the town’s identified heritage assets.

Cllr Martina Edmonds said: “Kingsbridge Town Council strongly disagree with the heritage officer’s assertion, that the harm done to the conservation area will be magically fixed.”

Children’s parade on VE Day outside the house

She also criticised the appearance of new elements.

Cllr Edmonds said: “These appear to have nothing in common with the many stone walls that surround the property.”

Ward member Cllr Denise O’Callaghan echoed those concerns, highlighting both heritage and safety risks.

Cllr O’Callaghan said: “I would say that this causes harm to this historic setting.”

She added that the location, near a zebra crossing on a downhill one-way street, raised concerns about vehicles reversing into the space.

Cllr O’Callaghan said: “If you’ve got someone reversing in that context almost on the zebra crossing, then I think that is a concern.”

Cllr Jacqi Hodgson also spoke against the plans, warning about the broader impact of prioritising cars over historic environments.

Cllr Hodgson said: “We allow damage to our heritage areas… and if we’re not careful, we can allow cars to be the new architects.”

She proposed refusal, arguing the loss of the garden setting represented “a pretty big loss to the area”.

Planning officers maintained the proposal would restore the street-facing wall and have a neutral overall impact on the conservation area.

The application was approved with conditions, including requirements for drainage works and the use of appropriate stone materials to match the original boundary wall.

Tribute tournament set to unite teams and raise funds after tragic loss

Devon Today
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Tribute tournament set to unite teams and raise funds after tragic loss

A grassroots rugby festival born from heartbreak is set to bring teams together in a powerful tribute to a much-loved mother, while raising awareness of a devastating illness that changed her family’s life.

The Julie Owen 10’s Festival will take place at Tiverton Rugby Club on Saturday, August 22, bringing together 16 teams to compete in a one-day tournament aimed at celebrating Julie Owen’s life and legacy.

Julie was described by her family as “the heart of her family and her rugby community” — a devoted mother and constant presence on the sidelines. Following her death after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, organisers say the event has been created to honour her memory while raising awareness and funds.

The festival, organised in collaboration with The Brain Tumour Charity, will feature rugby matches, live music, food and drink, as well as charity events including an auction.

Entry for teams is set at £300, with squads of up to 15 players taking part in the 10-a-side format. The deadline for entries is Sunday, June 29.

In a statement shared by her family, they said: “This is not just a rugby tournament. This is something far bigger. This is about love, legacy, and purpose.

“This is Julie Owen’s story and the fight to make sure no other family has to go through what we did.”

They added: “Our mam was not just a rugby supporter. She was the kind of person who showed up for everyone.

“Rugby was a huge part of our lives but her impact went far beyond the pitch. Whether you played, watched, or just walked through our front door, you felt it.”

The family described how Julie and her husband travelled the country together supporting rugby, standing on the sidelines in all weather and supporting not just their son Michael, but many others.

They said: “It was never just about the game. It was about family, community, and showing up for people together.”

Julie was later diagnosed with glioblastoma after suffering headaches, memory lapses and a seizure.

The family said: “What started as headaches and small lapses in memory quickly became something far more serious.

“A seizure led to a diagnosis that we were simply not prepared for. Glioblastoma. Grade 4. Inoperable. Untreatable. Terminal.”

They said Julie chose to decline treatment in order to make the most of the time she had left, with her family caring for her at home.

They added: “We laughed, we cried, and we made every single moment count.

“Those months were the hardest of our lives, but they also showed us exactly who she was – strong, selfless, and full of love.”

The family said her death has left a lasting impact but has also given them purpose.

They said: “No family should have to face this disease the way we did.

“Glioblastoma is aggressive, relentless and devastating. Survival rates remain desperately low, with less than 10% surviving longer than five years. Research is severely underfunded and prevention is unknown.

“That has to change.”

Organisers are also seeking sponsorship support, with packages available ranging from £500 to £8,000, offering branding opportunities and event-day visibility.

Those wishing to enter a team or discuss sponsorship opportunities can contact Michael Owen on 07805 063949 or Sarah-Jayne Bray on 07791 103549. Entries can also be made via email at michaelowen511@hotmail.com.

A QR code has also been provided by organisers for donations to a GoFundMe page supporting the cause.

Devon firefighters face triple emergency during exhausting night shift

Devon Today
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Devon firefighters face triple emergency during exhausting night shift

Fire crews tackling an urgent underground rescue were suddenly diverted to a blazing car on a major Devon road – before being called out yet again in a demanding overnight shift.

Firefighters from Newton Abbot were initially mobilised during the night to assist colleagues in Plymouth with an underground rescue. However, while en route, the crew received an urgent update from the control room redirecting them to reports of a vehicle fire on the A38 near Ivybridge.

The crew arrived on scene just 21 seconds after being informed of the incident, where they found an internal combustion engine vehicle well alight, with flames and smoke issuing from all areas.

The incident commander instructed the appliance driver to block both lanes and close the highway to ensure safety. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were then committed to tackle the blaze.

Crews used a hose reel jet to extinguish the fire and deployed battery-operated spreaders to force open the bonnet and doors, ensuring no remaining flames or hot spots.

Firefighters from Ivybridge also attended, providing additional water supplies and assisting in managing water run-off to minimise environmental impact.

Despite the lengthy operation, the night was not over.

While returning to station, the crew was mobilised to a third incident as they approached Newton Abbot. This time, firefighters were required to assist an occupant trapped inside a bedroom after a door mechanism failed.

To avoid damaging the front door, crews used a 13.5-metre ladder to access the fourth-floor window. A firefighter then used small tools to open the bedroom door from inside, allowing the occupant to be safely released.

After returning to the station, crews cleaned equipment and replenished supplies before finally finishing at around 0430, leaving only a short window for rest before the next shift.

Crews tackle fierce library roof fire after dozens of emergency calls

Devon Today
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Crews tackle fierce library roof fire after dozens of emergency calls

A library avoided major damage after a fire broke out on its roof, triggering dozens of emergency calls and a large-scale response.

Firefighters were called to Teignmouth Library in Devon at about 1.25pm today after fire control received multiple reports of flames coming from the roof.

Crews from Dawlish, Torquay, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth attended the scene, alongside an aerial ladder platform from Torquay. On arrival, firefighters gained entry to the building and confirmed flames were issuing from the roof.

Four appliances were mobilised in total, with crews isolating solar panels before using water jets to tackle the blaze. Firefighters used three hose reel jets and one 45mm jet to extinguish the fire.

Devon and Cornwall Police attended to assist with traffic and crowd control while emergency services dealt with the incident.

The fire was brought under control at about 2.25pm and the incident was later confirmed closed at 7.46pm.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze caused around ten per cent damage to the roof, but did not spread inside the building.

A library spokesperson said: “Unfortunately there was a fire on the roof of Teignmouth Library earlier today which looks like it was caused by a battery on the solar panels. We are incredibly grateful to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service who promptly put out the fire. Luckily the fire did not penetrate the building and was isolated to the roof.

“As we were closed today we are also very grateful to members of the public for alerting the emergency services. We’re currently assessing the damage to see what works need to be carried out before we can reopen. Please keep an eye on socials for any updates.

“In the meantime you can use any other Libraries Unlimited library in Devon or Torbay and any loans from Teignmouth will not be subject to late fees. You can also access ebooks and audiobooks for free online from BorrowBox with your library card.

“Fire brigade had 61 calls and were there very quickly.”

Fire crews later confirmed the cause of the blaze was accidental.

Building collapse risk forces evacuations and road closures in Plymouth

Devon Today
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Building collapse risk forces evacuations and road closures in Plymouth

Fears a residential building could collapse have triggered emergency measures, forcing people from their homes and bringing major disruption to roads and public transport.

An exclusion zone has been put in place around the Evolution Cove block in Stonehouse after concerns were raised about the structural integrity of the building.

The move has led to road closures, diversions and the suspension of bus services in the area, particularly affecting routes towards Royal William Yard. Plymouth City Council said traffic conditions are difficult, with longer journey times and restricted access through the area.

The council said it is working with Citybus to find a “safe and workable solution”, but warned that buses will not be able to operate through the affected area in the meantime. People have been advised to consider alternative travel arrangements.

In a statement, the council said it recognised “the disruption that the road closures and diversions… are causing” and acknowledged the impact on residents, visitors and local businesses.

Officials said the restrictions are necessary due to a “serious risk to life” and stressed that public safety remains the priority.

On Friday, April 17, an exclusion zone of 27 metres was established around the building in Durnford Street as a precaution against a potential collapse.

Residents living in nearby properties in Emma Place Ope have been informed of the risk and encouraged to temporarily leave their homes if possible. The council said support will be available for those who have nowhere else to stay.

Several roads and pavements have been closed, including parts of Emma Place Ope, Emma Place, Barrack Place and Durnford Street. A temporary signal-controlled diversion route has been introduced, while pedestrians can still access the wider Stonehouse peninsula via the western footway along Durnford Street.

The building had already been vacated on March 20 by its management company, Centrick, after cracking was identified in the concrete frame within the car park. Residents were warned at the time of a potential collapse risk until structural supports could be installed.

Although the propping work was initially expected to begin immediately, delays have occurred due to the complexity of the work. Authorities now believe the condition of the building may have deteriorated further.

A prohibition order was issued by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service on Thursday, April 16, preventing all access to the block, which has since been secured.

Agencies including Plymouth City Council and the fire service have been working with the building’s managers to assess the extent of the structural issues and the level of risk.

The council said the decision to introduce the exclusion zone followed an assessment of the potential danger to nearby residents, pedestrians and road users.

Gary Walbridge, strategic director for adults, health and communities at Plymouth City Council, said: “Decisions about asking residents to leave their homes and closing roads are not taken lightly.

“The information we have is that there is a potential serious risk to the public if we keep the area open. The safety of residents, pedestrians and drivers must come first.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and will work with the building’s managers and our partners to reopen the roads and nearby properties once there is assurance that the building has been made safe.”

The council said it will continue to provide updates and will remove restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.

Playzone future in doubt as rising costs force council rethink

Lewis Clarke
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Playzone future in doubt as rising costs force council rethink

Ambitious plans to transform outdoor sports spaces across the district are facing a financial hurdle, with rising costs forcing councillors to consider scaling back the project.

A report presented to Torridge District Council outlines a funding shortfall of up to £98,006 for three proposed “Playzone” sites, prompting discussions over whether one location should be dropped to make the scheme viable.

The Playzones are designed as safe, inclusive and accessible outdoor facilities aimed at encouraging football and other sports, particularly among groups facing barriers to participation.

Councillors had previously approved £105,000 towards developing three sites in Holsworthy, Bideford and Great Torrington, with additional backing from town councils, charities and a £715,551 contribution from the Football Foundation.

However, updated figures show construction costs have increased significantly over the past 12 months, leaving gaps in funding across all locations. The total shortfall could reach £98,006 if all three sites proceed, or £73,006 under a reduced option at one site.

If the council decides to focus on just two sites, the funding gap would drop to around £38,000.

The Bideford site at Pollyfield has become a particular point of contention, with objections raised by the local community centre and residents. Concerns include the loss of open green space and increased pressure on parking.

Cllr Huw Thomas said: “While I support providing additional facilities for the people of ETW and Bideford, I do not believe this is the right place for such a facility.

“The proposed site is the only area of flat land at the Pollyfield with unrestricted access and is regularly used by many people, young and old, for games, dog walking and general leisure.

“The loss of this public open space would be very unpopular and would create a lot of resentment towards the council.”

He added that the development would “inevitably add to pressure on the car park”, which is already heavily used.

Cllr Jude Gubb also raised concerns following feedback from residents.

“I have had a couple of emails not supporting the play zone, mainly because of the space that it will be taking up and loss of free area for the public to use,” she said.

“For the Pollyfield Centre, the big issue will be parking, in an already crowded car park. I do not think the parking was considered at all.”

She added that, while she initially supported the idea, the views of the community and the centre meant the site was no longer considered suitable.

In contrast, lead member for leisure Cllr Lyndon Piper backed the wider scheme, describing it as “a wonderful opportunity to improve sport and play facilities”.

He said: “A decision needs to be made on the quantum of facilities to be provided, balancing risks and prioritising facilities where the need and community support is strongest.”

All three proposals are currently within the planning process and are expected to be considered by planning committees in May and June.

The report recommends that councillors consider using council reserves to cover the funding gap and review whether the Pollyfield application should be withdrawn if it is no longer viable or supported.

Digital grave maps on the way as Torridge eyes cemetery system upgrade

Lewis Clarke
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Digital grave maps on the way as Torridge eyes cemetery system upgrade

A long-serving cemetery records system could soon be laid to rest as councillors consider a digital overhaul aimed at improving accuracy and access for bereaved families.

Torridge District Council is being asked to approve plans to replace its existing CemeteryPro system with a cloud-based alternative, PlotBox PRO, amid concerns the current platform is outdated and no longer fit for purpose.

The council manages four cemeteries across the district and handles between 80 and 100 burial or ashes interment applications each year. Alongside this, the cemeteries team is responsible for granting burial rights, processing memorial applications, managing exhumations, and maintaining health and safety standards.

Despite generating limited income, the service fulfils statutory duties and plays a key role in supporting families during sensitive periods, with accurate and accessible records described as critical to its operation.

The report, dated Monday, April 27, outlines how the current system relies heavily on manual processes, lacks public-facing access, and carries risks linked to data inaccuracies. These issues could increase the likelihood of errors, including the misallocation of burial plots, and place additional strain on staff.

Under the proposal, PlotBox PRO would introduce a single digital system of record, including mapped burial plots and online access for staff, funeral directors, memorial masons, and the public.

The system is already in use at several councils in the South West, including Somerset, Bristol and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, and is intended to modernise operations while improving efficiency and reliability.

The report states the new platform would reduce operational errors, improve service delivery, and support digital transformation. It would also allow for better data sharing and continuity as part of Local Government Reorganisation, with a scalable system that is independent of local infrastructure.

Financially, the first year of implementation and subscription is expected to cost £37,298 plus VAT, followed by an annual fee of £4,500 plus VAT, funded from council reserves.

The report highlights legal and reputational risks if the current system remains in place, warning that inaccurate records could lead to disputes, compensation claims, and a loss of public confidence in bereavement services.

It also points to wider benefits, including reduced paper use, improved accessibility through online services, and enhanced data security through modern authentication systems.

Councillors are being asked to approve funding for the new system, with the report concluding that replacing the existing software is essential to maintain and improve the service while ensuring resilience for the future.

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