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Leaders back Bideford revival plan but warn change will take effort

Lewis Clarke
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Leaders back Bideford revival plan but warn change will take effort

A bold blueprint to reshape a town’s future has been laid bare, with optimism, scepticism and long-standing frustrations surfacing in equal measure as leaders debated how to bring new life to Bideford.

Members of Torridge District Council’s community and resources committee heard from those behind the Bideford Regeneration Strategy and Masterplan, with speakers stressing the plan is both ambitious and achievable.

Claire Coghill, chair of the Bideford Regeneration Board, said the strategy had been built on “goodwill” from businesses, residents and partners, and focused on realistic outcomes.

Claire said: “It is all very doable. It is all very deliverable. It is no pie in the sky plans.”

She added that the work had been driven by volunteers committed to the town’s future.

Claire said: “We do it because we love our town and we see a fantastic future… we owe it to the young people of the town to make a real difference.”

The strategy, which centres on five key pillars including the quay, business growth and community vibrancy, has already been published for public feedback.

Chris Fuller, economic development manager at Torridge District Council, stressed the document is not a council-led plan alone but a collaborative effort.

Chris said: “It is not per se a Torridge District Council strategy. It has very much been a collaborative piece of work.”

He added that widening participation had been a priority, including involving students from Bideford College in meetings.

Chris said: “It is critically a way of trying to find new voices… not just the same people having the same conversations that lead to the same outcomes.”

More than 120 people attended the public launch, including young people and representatives from regional bodies expected to play a role in securing future investment.

However, councillors made clear that delivering the vision will require significant effort and cooperation.

Cllr Jane Whittaker welcomed the plan but warned challenges lie ahead.

Cllr Whittaker said: “It is time to do this to the town, but it will need a huge amount of effort and a lot of cooperation from our local authority.”

She also suggested more radical changes to the town’s layout, including removing parking along the quay.

Cllr David Brenton raised concerns about the absence of a chamber of commerce, asking whether steps were being taken to re-establish one.

Mr Fuller said previous attempts had struggled due to limited engagement and impact.

He said: “The Chamber of Commerce very much became a self-enclosed talking shop… with no actual route to any of those things being delivered.”

He added that new networking opportunities would test whether there is demand for a replacement.

Members also discussed wider issues including traffic, heritage and town identity.

Cllr Philip Pennington questioned whether the plan adequately addresses congestion and called for ideas such as park and ride schemes to be considered.

He also highlighted the town’s literary and cultural heritage, including connections to author Henry Williamson and the character Tarka the Otter.

Cllr Pennington said: “There is a fantastic heritage there, but we are not celebrating it.”

Mr Fuller confirmed that Devon Highways had been involved in shaping transport elements within the plan and that improving links between the town centre and quay was a key objective.

Councillors also emphasised the need to ensure regeneration benefits the whole town, not just the waterfront.

Jon Walter, from Torridge District Council, said the real success of the strategy would be in building confidence and momentum.

He said: “The big win is that the town is starting to back its own improvement, once it has the belief, it will do more.”

Cllr Teresa Tinsley, a member of the regeneration board, said the strategy strikes a balance between ambition and realism.

Cllr Tinsley said: “What you need is a balance… economic, leisure, cultural and social, and getting the gears in motion so that things follow through.”

She added that public understanding of ongoing work needs to improve.

Cllr Tinsley said: “There are things happening already, but it is very slow and quite difficult to turn things around.”

The meeting concluded with agreement that while the strategy offers a clear direction, its success will depend on continued partnership, community involvement and securing investment.

The committee noted the report and ongoing progress of the strategy, which aims to guide development in the town through to 2031.

Major funding to transform Bideford library for young people

Libraries Unlimited
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Major funding to transform Bideford library for young people

Today, Libraries Unlimited and dBs Pro are announcing a £176,351 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for Bideford Retold, a 12-month project to revitalise the Chope Collection held in Bideford Library and bring its stories to life for young people across North Devon. 

The Chope Collection is a regionally significant archive of around 500 books bequeathed to the people of Bideford by local historian and folklorist Richard Pearse Chope. Chope’s passion for North Devon was captured in a favourite line by Hilaire Belloc: “One’s native place is the shell of one’s soul.” Without this funding, the collection would remain largely unknown, and its fascinating local stories and histories would be unheard by the communities they belong to. 

Bideford Retold will empower young people aged 12–21 to discover and reinterpret their heritage, building pride and belonging. The project will breathe new life into the collection through new displays, interpretation panels and an inclusive, co-created digital experience developed by dBs Pro, the in-house creative studio of dBs Institute of Music. Using creative technology, dBs Pro will design an interactive space within Bideford Library where new audiences can encounter local stories in immersive and unexpected ways, beyond the page and into something they can experience first-hand. 

Over 12 months, the project will deliver a programme shaped and driven by local young people. From the outset, they will have opportunities to share ideas and influence the direction of the work, with creative practitioners and advisors brought in to demonstrate how history and local knowledge can spark new and original creative work. 

The project is a partnership between Libraries Unlimited and dBs Pro, working in collaboration with Space Youth Services, Bideford College and University of Plymouth. Together, they aim to increase the number of young people engaging with Bideford Library and generate insights into how libraries can remain relevant to young people’s lives. The project is also supported by The Bideford Bridge Trust who have contributed to funding the project.  

The project will also create opportunities for dBs Institute students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to delivery through a mix of placements and paid roles. The content created will continue to live on beyond the project, ensuring ongoing access and relevance for future audiences. 

Its lasting legacy will be a relaunched collection as a vibrant community asset, plus a toolkit offering a repeatable model for youth engagement across Libraries Unlimited’s 54 libraries in Devon and Torbay. 

Jay Auborn, Head of Creative of dBs Pro, said: “We are over the moon to have received support from the National Lottery to make this project a reality. R.P. Chope left an untapped resource of fascinating, unique and inspiring local stories, and it’s a privilege to be leading their rediscovery in partnership with Libraries Unlimited. We’ll be working with local young people to develop a unique digital experience within the library, using creative technology to bring the collection to life in immersive and unexpected ways: connecting local history with contemporary creative practice and opening up new ways for young people to imagine futures in the creative industries. As with all dBs Pro projects, Bideford Retold will create opportunities for dBs students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to delivery through a mix of placements and paid roles. The content created will continue to live on beyond the project, ensuring ongoing access and relevance for future audiences.”

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive Officer, Libraries Unlimited added: “It’s fantastic to have received this grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund – it shows how as a charity we can do more for the library service, allowing us to apply for funding like this to help engage more people and reach further into the community. We are delighted to be working again with dBs Pro – the Unlocking the Cage augmented reality installation we previously collaborated on was a huge success and we are looking forward to seeing what they do to bring this collection to life for young people and instill them with pride and passion for their town.”

Outrage after children target flag and pole at well-known local fort

Devon Today
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Outrage after children target flag and pole at well-known local fort

Damage to a flag and its pole at a well-known local landmark has sparked a police investigation, after children were seen targeting the site in the late afternoon.

Children were witnessed vandalising the flag and flagpole at Chudleigh Fort in East-the-Water, Bideford, at around 4.20pm on Monday, April 20.

Police attended the incident, and the flag was later recovered by a member of the public.

Torridge District Council said it is now working with contractors to repair the damage and reinstate the flag as soon as possible.

The authority has also urged anyone with information that could assist officers with their enquiries to come forward.

Members of the public are asked to quote the crime reference number 50260098693 when contacting police.

Hidden stash found as Barnstaple shop ordered to close for months

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Hidden stash found as Barnstaple shop ordered to close for months

A shop in Barnstaple has been ordered to close for three months after police and Trading Standards uncovered illegal cigarettes and tobacco stashed in an underground compartment.

On Tuesday 21 April, North and East Devon Magistrates Court granted a full three-month closure order on Dilan’s Market situated on the High Street in Barnstaple.

The order follows a joint operation by Devon & Cornwall Police and Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service, which led officers to find 5,000 illicit cigarettes and 120 pouches of tobacco.

Sergeant Laura Lloyd, who leads the team in Barnstaple, said: “This result highlights the impact of strong partnership working and the vital role our community plays in keeping neighbourhoods safe.

“Tackling the sale of illegal tobacco helps protect public health, supports legitimate businesses, and disrupts wider criminal activity.”

Officers outside Dilan’s Market after closing the shop on Tuesday

The closure is the latest example of Police and Heart of the South West Trading Standards Service working together to combat the illegal trade.

More than 20 shops across Devon have been closed by police and trading standards for selling illegal tobacco since last July.

Operations Manager for Trading Standards, Alex Fry, added “Selling illegal tobacco puts public health at risk, undermines legitimate businesses, and is often linked to wider criminal activity.

“We will continue to work closely with the police and act where this kind of behaviour is identified to protect local communities.”

To report concerns of counterfeit tobacco, use the dedicated reporting page on the Trading Standards website: https://www.devonsomersettradingstandards.gov.uk or phone 01392 383000.

Closure order notice on shutters of Dilan’s Market

To report concerns of businesses engaging in illegal activity or to log non-urgent crimes happening in your area, please visit the force website or call 101.

Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Police probe suspected arson after fire at Totnes college site

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Police probe suspected arson after fire at Totnes college site

Police are continuing to investigate a suspicious fire in Totnes and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Officers were called at 12.50am on Sunday 12 April by the fire service who were tackling a fire in a temporary classroom on playing fields at the King Edward VI College on Ashburton Road.

Damage was also caused to a cargo container nearby.

No injuries were reported.

Sector Inspector Ben Shardlow said: “We believe this fire was set deliberately and we are aware of footage of the incident being published on social media.

“It is likely that anyone who was present would have smelled of smoke.

“If anyone saw or heard anything suspicious or has any information, we ask they get in contact with us via the Force website or by telephone on 101, quoting crime reference 50260090917.

“Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.”

School rallies behind Torquay teacher chasing London Marathon dream

Devon Today
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School rallies behind Torquay teacher chasing London Marathon dream

A determined teacher is pounding the pavements for a cause close to her heart — inspired by the daily struggles and resilience she witnesses among her pupils.

Sarah Pappin, head of Brunel House at Torquay Academy, is preparing to take on the London Marathon in aid of The Children’s Society, after being moved by the challenges faced by young people she works with.

Pupils at the school have rallied behind Sarah, organising a series of fundraising events including bake sales, a Christmas concert and a three-night production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Their efforts have helped raise more than £2,700 so far.

Sarah said: “I see every day the challenges some young people are facing, and it can be tough.

“But I also see how resilient they are, and that is what pushed me to take this on.”

She added: “My goal in running the London Marathon is to be an inspiration for our children, showing them firsthand that with commitment and support, anything is possible.”

Charlie Bartlett, community mobilisation manager at The Children’s Society, said: “We are so grateful to Sarah for turning her determination and inspiration into real support for vulnerable children and young people.

“Every pound raised by Sarah and all our marathon runners will help The Children’s Society make a real difference to those facing some of life’s tough challenges.”

The charity supports young people across the UK who are facing abuse, exploitation and neglect.

Sarah will take on the 26.2-mile race on Sunday, April 26, and is calling on the local community to support her fundraising efforts.

Her online sponsorship page can be viewed online.

Cash boost helps Mid Devon charity tackle debt before crisis hits

Devon Today
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Cash boost helps Mid Devon charity tackle debt before crisis hits

A charity working to prevent homelessness has secured a funding boost aimed at stopping financial struggles from turning into full-blown crises.

Churches Housing Action Team (CHAT) has raised £13,000 through the Aviva Community Fund to expand its debt and money advice services across Mid Devon.

The organisation, which has supported residents for more than 30 years, secured the funding through a match scheme run by the Aviva Foundation, doubling public donations.

The additional funding will allow CHAT to increase adviser capacity and deliver nearly 300 advice sessions for people experiencing financial hardship.

Alison Padfield, chief executive of CHAT, said: “We are incredibly grateful to more than 80 people who donated, and to the Aviva Foundation for matching those gifts. This funding will make a real difference to families across Mid Devon, enabling more people to access support before financial difficulties escalate into housing emergencies.

“Many of the people we support are working but struggling to keep up with rising costs. Often by the time they reach us arrears have built up, letters are unopened and they fear losing their home. Our early intervention is vital. This funding means we can reach more people sooner – before a difficult situation becomes a crisis.

“Our approach is not about judgement or quick fixes. We help people understand their options, make plans and regain control. The first change we often see is relief – someone has listened and the next steps are clearer. From there, progress begins.”

A debt adviser at CHAT added: “Every week I sit with people who have been losing sleep over money worries. They often arrive expecting judgement but instead find someone ready to listen and help them work through the problem step by step.

“We review their finances, contact creditors on their behalf, check they are receiving the benefits they are entitled to and agree realistic repayment plans. For many people, just knowing there is a way forward transforms their situation. Debt becomes manageable, the threat of eviction lifts and confidence returns.”

The charity said demand for its services continues to grow, with many households facing ongoing financial pressure.

It added that people often delay seeking help when dealing with multiple smaller debts, only reaching out when the situation becomes unmanageable. By that stage, some face enforcement action, court proceedings or eviction.

Although the fundraising campaign has now closed, CHAT said it continues to rely on donations from the public, churches, businesses and grant funders.

Donations can be made via the charity’s website at www.chatmid.co.uk.

Alison added: “Support from our community makes this work possible. It allows us to respond before situations escalate and ensure that no one in Mid Devon faces hardship alone. We exist to prevent homelessness and help people live with stability, dignity and hope.”

Community support brings comfort boost to hospital patients

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
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Community support brings comfort boost to hospital patients

People on two wards at Torbay Hospital are benefiting from the continued generosity of the Torbay Hospital League of Friends, which has funded new equipment and improvements to ward environments.

On Cheetham Hill ward, which cares for older people, the League has funded new recliner chairs to support people to sit out of bed comfortably and safely. Sitting out of bed, where appropriate, helps people stay active during their hospital stay and supports recovery.

The League has also funded new vinyl wall coverings to refresh the day rooms on Cheetham Hill ward and George Earle ward, the hospital’s stroke ward. The updated spaces create brighter, more welcoming areas where people can spend time away from their bedside, either with visitors or simply for a change of scenery.

Samantha Seymour, Matron for Healthcare of the Older People, said: “The support from Torbay Hospital League of Friends makes a real difference for the people we care for. Helping people to sit out of bed and stay active is an important part of care, particularly for older people and the new chairs support that in a simple and practical way. The refreshed day rooms also create much nicer spaces for people and their families and we’re very grateful to the League for their continued support.”

The Torbay Hospital League of Friends has been supporting people and staff at the hospital for more than 70 years, funding equipment and improvements that go beyond NHS provision. The League was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in recognition of its contribution to the local community.

Martin Tucker, Chair of Torbay Hospital League of Friends, said: “We’re pleased to be able to support these improvements on the wards. We exist to help make a positive difference for people cared for at Torbay Hospital and we hope these changes help make people’s time in hospital a little easier and more comfortable.”

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

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

Classroom star Louise Kendall makes national teaching awards shortlist

Devon Today
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Classroom star Louise Kendall makes national teaching awards shortlist

A Plymouth teacher whose pupils say she makes “every moment count” has been recognised on a national stage, with her work now in the spotlight as awards season approaches.

Louise Kendall, a teacher and maths lead at Marlborough Primary School, has been shortlisted for the Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School at the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2026.

The recognition highlights her approach to teaching, which focuses on making learning accessible, engaging and appropriately challenging for all pupils. Alongside her classroom work, she supports colleagues through professional development, offering feedback aimed at strengthening teaching practice across the school.

In the classroom, Louise is described as creating an inclusive and supportive environment where pupils feel encouraged to learn and develop. Children at the school praised her teaching, with one pupil saying: “There is never a moment in the day I am not learning.”

Another added: “Mrs Kendall makes me excited to come to school.”

Beyond lessons, Louise also leads lunchtime clubs and a school marathon initiative designed to promote physical activity and wellbeing. Under her guidance, 15 pupils have trained for the Plymouth schools marathon.

Charlotte Parry, head of school at Marlborough Primary School, said: “Louise Kendall is an exceptional teacher whose dedication, skill, and warmth positively impact every child she teaches.

“Her influence goes far beyond the classroom, she inspires confidence, supports colleagues, and enriches the life of our school community.

“This recognition is a testament to her outstanding contribution to education.”

The Pearson National Teaching Awards were founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam and aim to recognise excellence in education across the UK. Winners are due to be announced on National Thank a Teacher Day in June.

Young voices invited as MP launches hands on politics summer school

Devon Today
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Young voices invited as MP launches hands on politics summer school

A new initiative promises to lift the lid on politics for young people, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how decisions are made and how voices can be heard.

Rebecca Smith, MP for South West Devon, has announced a three-day summer school aimed at young people living or studying in her constituency. The programme will run from Monday, July 27 to Wednesday, July 29.

The scheme is designed to help students better understand how politics works and how they can get involved, with opportunities to meet people working in politics and Parliament, take part in activities, and explore potential career paths.

Rebecca said: “I’m really excited to be running this summer school for young people across South West Devon. Politics can sometimes feel confusing or distant, but it affects all of our lives.

“I wanted to create something that gives young people the chance to see how it really works in a relaxed and open environment.”

Students will take part in interactive sessions aimed at building confidence, encouraging discussion, and offering practical insight into public life.

Rebecca added: “You do not need any experience to take part.

“Just an interest and a willingness to get involved. I’m looking forward hearing their views and helping them explore the different ways they can get involved in politics.”

Young people interested in attending are encouraged to register via the MP’s website. Further details will be shared in the coming weeks. Applications can be made at www.rebecca-smith.org.uk/news/summer-school-application.

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