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Tiverton by-election turns bitter after leaflet claim over candidate address

Lewis Clarke
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Tiverton by-election turns bitter after leaflet claim over candidate address

A by-election battle has turned personal after a council hopeful hit back at claims made about where he lives.

Conservative candidate Luis Richard Alun James Gordon has criticised a Reform UK campaign leaflet which he says claimed he lives in Wellington.

The Conservatives have referred the matter to the Mid Devon returning officer, saying Luis has lived in Tiverton for 20 years and would be ineligible to stand if the Reform UK claim were true.

Luis said: “It is disappointing to see these false statements being circulated.

“I am a Tiverton resident, through and through. My focus remains on being a strong voice for Cranmore Ward. Voting take place on May 14.”

Goff Welchman, who is standing for Reform UK, said the address information was taken from the imprint on the Conservative candidate’s own campaign leaflet.

He said: “The address information of the Conservative candidate was taken from the imprint on his own campaign leaflet, which clearly states that he resides in the Wellington area.

“His leaflet is very open to criticism, which we are taking up with the returning officer.

“I would also add, that if the candidate is so involved with and knowledgeable about Cranmore Ward, why are his team canvassing in Lowman Ward?

“His credentials in supporting Cranmore cannot compare with mine, so he is clutching at straws, knowing that he is staring defeat in the face.”

Mr Gordon added that the legal address on Reform’s leaflets was London, questioning “does that mean he lives in London? I don’t think so.”

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats have also challenged leaflets.

Steve Lodge, Liberal Democrat County Councillor for Tiverton West, challenged figures which state an incorrect figure for the voting stats in the chart – Lib Dems got 29.6%.

He adds a prior leaflet makes a claim about money spent on community projects in Tiverton added: “All 60 Devon county councillors – Liberal Democrat, Conservative, Labour, Green and Independent – received the same £8,000 annual allocation to support community projects in their area. The funding comes from council taxpayers, not from any political party.

“I understand thar concerns have been raised that the leaflet’s wording could give voters the false impression that the funding is connected to the Reform party, or that electing Reform candidates at town council level would help secure similar funding.

“The town council by-election is for a different tier of local government. Town councillors have no control over county council Locality Budgets.

“It’s disappointing to see campaign material that could leave voters thinking this is something unique to Reform when it simply isn’t. Every county councillor in Devon gets the same Locality Budget to support their community – and it’s public money, not political party money.  I’ve had the same locality budget and spent every penny of it on worthwhile community projects.

“The wording is very misleading. Town councillors don’t control county council budgets, and public funds shouldn’t be dressed up as party achievements. It feels like they’re deliberately blurring the message.

“Voters should be able to trust what they read during elections.

“”Devon County Council’s Monitoring Officer is responsible for councillor conduct and the Members’ Code of Conduct.”

A poll for Tiverton Town Council’s Cranmore Ward will be held on Thursday, May 14, between 7am and 10pm. One councillor will be elected.

The candidates are Luis Richard Alun James Gordon, Conservative; Claudette Harrower, Liberal Democrats; Ana Luisa Hendy, Local Independents for Tiverton; and Goff Welchman, Reform UK.

The polling station will be Sunningmead Community Centre, Lazenby Road.

Crediton takeaway faces backlash over plans for 5am late-night licence

Lewis Clarke
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Crediton takeaway faces backlash over plans for 5am late-night licence

A bid by a Chinese takeaway to serve late-night customers until 5am has sparked concerns from nearby residents and environmental health officials over fears of noise and disturbance.

An application has been submitted for a new premises licence for 113 High Street in Crediton, trading as Yummy Tummy Chinese. The application will be considered by Mid Devon District Council’s Licensing Sub Committee on Friday, May 15.

Applicant Sami Chakmakchi has applied for permission to provide recorded music indoors between 10am and midnight every day, late-night refreshment between 11pm and 5am, and the sale of alcohol between 11am and 11pm.

In the application, the business is described as “a Chinese restaurant, that does delivery, takeaway, collection and sitting in”.

Council papers state the premises previously operated as the Cornerhouse Pub before later becoming a Thai restaurant. The former licence lapsed after the previous company entered voluntary liquidation in June 2023 and was dissolved earlier this year.

Mid Devon District Council received one objection from Public Health Services and six further representations from members of the public opposing the application.

Environmental health officers raised concerns about the proposed late-night refreshment hours and their potential impact on nearby homes.

In the report, Public Health Services said: “Due to the quietness of the surrounding area and the proximity of residential premises to the Restaurant location, I feel that a Late-night refreshment licence until 5 am is too late and will result in public nuisance by the emitting noise affecting nearby residential properties.”

According to council documents, objections also included concerns over possible increases in crime and disorder, noise from music, and disruption caused by vehicles arriving and leaving the premises late at night.

One issue raised regarding a lack of parking was deemed not directly relevant under licensing laws by council officers.

The report also revealed licensing officers visited the premises on Monday, April 20 after reports alcohol was still being advertised for sale on food delivery websites before a new licence had been granted.

Council documents state alcohol was “being exposed for unauthorised sale” during the visit, contrary to the Licensing Act 2003. Officers said the alcohol was removed from display and a formal written warning was issued.

The report notes the applicant later reached an agreed position with Devon and Cornwall Police over a number of additional licence conditions.

Members of the Licensing Sub Committee will decide whether to grant the licence as submitted, modify the application, remove certain licensable activities or reject the application entirely.

Plain clothes officers target shoplifters in Totnes day of action

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Plain clothes officers target shoplifters in Totnes day of action

Police in Totnes carried out a high visibility day of action recently to disrupt criminals and deter offenders from committing further incidents.

Officers from the neighbourhood team, along with roads policing unit officers, worked with partner agencies including South Hams District Council and the Probation Service to keep the community safe. 

The proactive day included officers making crime prevention visits to stores in the town centre to speak to retailers about shoplifting and give advice. Police also liaised with South Hams District Council in relation to ‘designing out crime’ initiatives on Vire Island to find ways to prevent anti-social behaviour and other issues in the area. Engagement officers also worked with other agencies to helped those who are homeless and need somewhere to live.

As well as uniformed officers a number of plain clothes officers took part on the day to help spot shoplifters and other offenders around the town.  

Sergeant Stuart White is a Neighbourhood Team Leader in the Totnes team and took part in the day of action. He said: “This was a successful operation and we would like to thank the public for their support and understanding as we carry out our duties in the Totnes area. We appreciate information passed to us and this allows us to tackle issues in the community. We will continue to plan operations of this kind to reassure residents that we are here to help them.” 

If you wish to report incidents or information to police please dial 101 or visit the Devon & Cornwall Police website Home | Devon & Cornwall Police

The local Totnes neighbourhood team hold a ‘coffee with cops’ event every Friday morning from 10am to 11.30am at Totnes Methodist Church on Fore Street. This is a chance for residents to speak with officers face to face about any issues or concerns they may have. People are encouraged to come along and pick up some crime prevention advice and have a chat. 

Police also encourage residents to sign up to Devon & Cornwall Police Community Messaging. This two-way system provides local updates on incidents, crime trends and local events and campaigns. Updates come via email and you can opt out at any time. For more information please go to the website Home Page – Devon and Cornwall Community Messaging

For more updates from local police teams please follow Totnes Police on Facebook.

Sewage fury spills over as protesters paddle out on Devon coast

Devon Today
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Sewage fury spills over as protesters paddle out on Devon coast

Campaigners angry over sewage pollution are set to take to the water in Teignmouth as part of a weekend of protests and events aimed at raising awareness of the issue.

Protesters will gather at Teignmouth Pier on Saturday, May 16 for a “Paddle Out” demonstration organised by Surfers Against Sewage before water users head into the sea.

Martin Wrigley MP and Stuart Reynolds, chair of Friends of the River Teign, are expected to address the gathering.

Penny Lloyd, a Teignmouth town councillor helping to organise the event, said: “We hope as many sea swimmers, paddle boarders, surfers, rowers, kayakers and anglers will join us to demand faster action to prevent sewage dumping on local beaches.”

Campaigners say the action follows concerns over pollution affecting the area, including a recent incident at Gales Hill during the Easter holidays.

Pollution concerns at Gales Hill in Teignmouth.

Stuart Reynolds said: “Teignmouth has recently been affected by a significant pollution event at Gales Hill over the recent Easter holidays.

“We want to send a clear message that sewage pollution is no longer acceptable.”

A second event will take place on Sunday, May 17 when Exmouth campaigner Jo Bateman visits the town for a screening of documentary Jo in the Water at Pavilions Teignmouth.

The film follows Ms Bateman’s journey from lone campaigner to speaking before crowds in Parliament Square while challenging sewage pollution and South West Water.

The screening has been organised by Friends of the River Teign and will be followed by a question-and-answer session with Ms Bateman and the film’s director Pip Piper.

Tickets and information about the screening are available from https://www.pavilionsteignmouth.org.uk/events/jo-in-the-water

Friends of the River Teign campaigns for the health and biodiversity of the River Teign, its estuary and surrounding coastline.

Sunshine and steam bring pirate joy to Lynton and Lynmouth streets

Lewis Clarke
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Sunshine and steam bring pirate joy to Lynton and Lynmouth streets

Steam, sunshine and a splash of pirate mischief helped turn a seaside gathering into a colourful celebration of costume, music and imagination.

The twin villages of Lynton and Lynmouth were filled with crowds on Saturday May 9 for the annual Lynton and Lynmouth Steampunk and Pirate Gathering.

Despite forecasts of rain, visitors were greeted by sunshine and warm spring temperatures as the event brought together steampunk fans, pirates, families and performers.

From early morning, the streets were filled with people in Victorian-inspired costumes, including brass goggles, elaborate hats, gears, corsets and handmade inventions.

Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)
Lynton and Lynmouth Steam Punk 2026 (Credit : Simon Ellery)

A steampunk market proved popular throughout the day, with traders selling handmade crafts, jewellery, clothing and curiosities. Two cocktail bars were also busy as visitors enjoyed the atmosphere.

Entertainment ran throughout the day, with performances from Soulcraft, the Dynamix Steampunk Choir, South Molton Town Band, Borderline Morris Men, Switchframe and Major Blunder among others.

One of the more unusual attractions was a steampunk dog show, where dogs in costume took part in front of spectators lining the streets.

The Grand Steampunk Parade was among the main highlights, led by Steampunk Horses as a long procession of costumed participants made its way through Lynmouth to applause from the crowds.

Live steam engines were also operating at both the top and bottom stations of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway, with staff joining in the spirit of the event.

As the sun set on the gathering, many visitors were already looking ahead to next year’s event in 2027.

Shoppers set to bag bargains as Cotton Traders moves into town

Devon Today
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Shoppers set to bag bargains as Cotton Traders moves into town

Shoppers will have the chance to hunt for hidden vouchers and claim opening day discounts as fashion retailer Cotton Traders prepares to unveil its new-look town centre store.

The British heritage fashion brand is relocating its Newton Abbot branch from Newton Road Retail Park to a new unit at 2 High Street, with the store officially opening on Saturday, May 9.

Mayor Cllr Colin Parker is due to attend the opening and will officially welcome customers to the new store at 10am.

To mark the launch, customers spending £40 or more in store will be able to receive up to £10 off selected purchases.

Five customers will also have the opportunity to find hidden £50 vouchers placed around the store, which can be redeemed either in store or online. Free gifts will also be available during the opening event.

The new branch will stock a range of men’s and women’s summer clothing, including shirts, blouses and lightweight layers from the retailer’s SS26 collection.

Cotton Traders said the new c.1,000 sq ft store had been designed to provide customers with a “seamless” shopping experience supported by in-store staff.

Nick Hamblin, chief executive at Cotton Traders, said: “We’re delighted to be relocating in Newton Abbot and to mark the occasion with a visit from the local Mayor.

“We pride ourselves on producing high-quality clothing that is both affordable and timeless and look forward to welcoming the local community to shop our latest collections.”

The new Cotton Traders store will open at 2 High Street on Saturday, May 9.

Terms and conditions for the launch offer state the discount is only valid at the Newton Abbot store and cannot be used online, by phone or by post. The offer applies to full-price merchandise only and excludes sale, promotional and multibuy items.

New KEVICC autism unit could change support for Devon families

Devon Today
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New KEVICC autism unit could change support for Devon families

A new specialist education unit designed to support children with autism has been hailed as a major step towards keeping more young people in mainstream education closer to home.

King Edward VI Community College (KEVICC), part of Education South West, welcomed local MP Caroline Voaden for a tour of the school’s new special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) provision, which is currently under development.

The new unit has been created to support children and young people with autism through a structured and nurturing environment with personalised support.

School leaders said the provision would operate as a small specialist space with high levels of adult support, while still allowing pupils access to the wider school community.

Leadership of the unit will sit within KEVICC’s existing structure, with additional support from the Special Partnership Trust on curriculum development and staff training.

Places within the unit will be allocated through Devon County Council’s SEN Statutory Team. Pupils will need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) before being considered for a placement.

The school said places in the unit would be additional to existing admissions numbers and would not affect mainstream places at the school.

Caroline Voaden MP said: “I really enjoyed my visit to KEVICC recently to see the progress they are making on a new unit for children with SEND.

“KEVICC’s approach is genuinely exciting, ensuring needs are met locally, without children having to travel far away for support or public funds being used on private providers.

“Given the government’s renewed push for inclusion, requiring more SEND children to be educated in mainstream settings, I expect more schools to explore similar options and follow KEVICC’s lead.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive of Education South West, said the project had taken more than two years to develop.

Matthew said: “Welcoming Caroline Voaden to KEVICC was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the progress we’ve made in developing this important provision.

“This has been the result of over two years of dedicated work, bringing together expertise from across our schools and partners to create something that will make a real difference for young people and their families.

“At Education South West, we are committed not only to delivering high-quality SEND provision in our own communities, but also to working collaboratively with other trusts to support the development of similar models in their local areas.

“This new unit at KEVICC is a strong example of that vision in action, creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where students with additional needs can thrive and achieve their full potential.”

Education South West is made up of nine primary schools, four secondary schools, one all-through school and a university technical college across Devon.

Dartmouth development opens as first homeowners settle into new homes

Devon Today
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Dartmouth development opens as first homeowners settle into new homes

A new retirement community has opened its doors in Dartmouth, with the first homeowners now settling into apartments designed to support independent living and community connection.

Mewstone Place, a new development by McCarthy Stone, has officially opened in the town, with the Mayor of Dartmouth, Cllr Andrea Cates, joining residents, family members and staff to mark the occasion.

The development includes one and two-bedroom apartments and is located close to local amenities including supermarkets, Dartmouth Health and Wellbeing Centre and Dartmouth Leisure Centre. Dartmouth town centre and harbour are around two miles away, with public transport links connecting residents to the wider area.

Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes
Copyright2024DominicParkes

Shared facilities at the site includea communal lounge, bistro restaurant and landscaped outdoor areas aimed at encouraging social interaction while allowing residents to maintain their independence and privacy.

Rebecca Johnson, sales director at McCarthy Stone, said: “Mewstone Place has been thoughtfully planned to complement the character and charm of Dartmouth, creating a community that feels both welcoming and well-established.

“It provides an opportunity for people to embrace independent living in one of Devon’s most picturesque locations, without losing the everyday connections that mean so much.

“We are proud to see the development come to fruition and to begin welcoming residents into what promises to be a thriving and supportive community.”

The development also includes an on-site House Manager during office hours, alongside a 24-hour emergency call system and camera entry system in each apartment.

McCarthy Stone said regional contractors and suppliers had been used during the development, with ongoing roles supporting the long-term management of the site.

Further information about Mewstone Place is available at McCarthy Stone or by calling 0800 153 3076.

Lifton pupils wheel away with £1,000 Tesco boost for playground fun

Devon Today
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Lifton pupils wheel away with £1,000 Tesco boost for playground fun

Playtimes have shifted up a gear for youngsters after a school secured funding for new bikes and playground equipment through a supermarket community scheme.

Pupils at Lifton Community Academy have been enjoying new balance bikes, helmets and play equipment after the school received £1,000 through Tesco’s Stronger Starts programme.

The funding has allowed the school, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, to buy a set of balance bikes and safety helmets for younger children.

Pupils have been using the bikes during playtimes to help develop confidence, coordination and early cycling skills. The funding has also paid for fine motor skill tables on the playground to support dexterity and hand-eye coordination through play.

The grant was awarded through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, which supports local projects chosen through customer votes using tokens in stores.

Adam Hill, headteacher at Lifton Community Academy, said: “The children are absolutely loving the new bikes and play equipment, and playtimes have been buzzing with excitement since they arrived.

“We’re very grateful to our school community for their support in helping us secure this funding through Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme. It’s made a real difference to the children’s play experiences.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of the Learning Academy Partnership, said: “This is a brilliant example of how community support can have a direct impact on children’s experiences in school.

“The funding is helping pupils stay active, build confidence and develop important skills through play.”

Lifton Community Academy became an academy in 2022. Before converting, the former Lifton Community Primary School was rated “Good” during its last Ofsted inspection in March 2017.

More information about the school can be found at Lifton Community Academy.

Dartmouth students make their mark on vital youth mental health study

Devon Today
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Dartmouth students make their mark on vital youth mental health study

Young voices are helping shape the future of mental health research as pupils from Dartmouth Academy teamed up with researchers working to improve support for young people.

Students from the academy have continued their collaboration with the University of Exeter Medical School through the Young Persons Advisory Group (YPAG), which works with researchers on projects linked to young people’s health and wellbeing.

The group has been working alongside researchers for several years, helping to shape studies by offering feedback on materials, contributing to research design and sharing perspectives intended to make projects more accessible and relevant to young people.

This month, pupils helped develop and refine a booklet explaining findings from a review into digital interventions for young people considered at risk of mental health problems. The completed booklet has now been published online.

The Young Persons Advisory Group aims to bridge the gap between researchers and young people by ensuring studies are informed by the experiences and perspectives of those they are designed to support.

The booklet can be viewed online at https://heyzine.com/flip-book/326d1a27e9.html#page/2.

Nicola Perrott, assistant principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “Our pupils have shown incredible commitment and insight through their work with the University of Exeter.

“Being part of the Young Persons Advisory Group allows them to see how their voices can make a real difference in research that affects young people’s health.

“It’s inspiring to see their confidence, curiosity and empathy growing as they contribute to such important projects.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive at Education South West, said: “It’s fantastic to see our students actively shaping research that impacts young people across the country.

“The Young Persons Advisory Group gives them a real voice in projects that matter, helping researchers understand what is important to young people.

“Their input not only improves the quality of the research but also builds the pupils’ confidence, teamwork and leadership skills.

“This kind of meaningful engagement demonstrates the power of student voice in making a difference.”

Education South West said all of its schools hold UNICEF Rights Respecting accreditation. Dartmouth Academy is rated Good by Ofsted across all inspected categories.

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