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Evil rapist jailed after decades of abuse against women and children

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Evil rapist jailed after decades of abuse against women and children

A rapist has been jailed for 26 years for despicable crimes relating to women and children spanning three decades.

Christopher Welch, aged 66 of Westlands, Wrafton in Braunton, was convicted at Exeter Crown Court on 25th February of four counts of rape, one count of assault by penetration and one count of indecent assault against a woman.

Welch was also convicted of four counts of indecent assault against children, two counts of indecency with a child, and one count of assault of a child under 13 by penetration. He was also found guilty of indecent assault against another woman.

He appeared before court again today, Thursday 2 April, where he was handed a 26-year sentence, with three years on licence. As part of the sentence, Welch has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

The court heard how the offences were committed against three children and two women on multiple occasions in the 80s, 90s and 00s in Devon.

Police praised the victims for their courage in coming forward and supporting the investigation. Their powerful victim personal statements were read out at court, with one victim stating: “The impact this man has had is irreversible and I carry the weight of what he did to me every day in the life not lived… Take as many years from him as he did from me. I thank the police that gathered the case, my support worker, the court, the jury and the judge, for their work and in finding what I believe is a just outcome, albeit bittersweet.”

Detective Constable Kerry Mitchell said: “Welch is a vile human being and a dangerous sexual predator and I welcome today’s sentence.

“All of the victims showed immense courage in coming forward and telling someone about the offences.

“I hope that they, and the wider public, are reassured that Welch is now behind bars.

“If anyone has been victim of child sex abuse, whether recently or in the past, there are specialist units within Devon and Cornwall Police who will listen and investigate thoroughly.”

Support available

If you have been affected by this article there is support available.

You can visit victimcare-dc.org to access support services and information on your rights and how to navigate the criminal justice system.

You can also call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.

Advice and support can also be found at:

National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999

Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626

For more information please visit: www.dc.police.uk/Rape-SexualAssault

If you suspect a child is in immediate danger from sexual abuse or exploitation call 999 now. If it’s not an emergency please use the “Report” button on our website www.devon-cornwall.police.uk or call 101. You can report child sexual abuse anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online https://crimestoppers-uk.org/

DEVON VOICES: “Strong communities, hard work, and a real determination to get through challenging times”

Rebecca Smith
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DEVON VOICES: “Strong communities, hard work, and a real determination to get through challenging times”

Easter can feel like a bit of a reset. For me, as a Christian, it is an important moment in the year. It is about hope, not in a vague sense, but in the belief that things can change, even when they feel difficult. A lot of the conversations I have been having across South West Devon recently have been about just that. Things feeling difficult.

Increasing fuel prices over recent weeks have been coming up pretty frequently. Whether you are in Plymouth, the South Hams or West Devon, people rely on their cars every day. Getting to work, doing the school run, seeing family. It is not optional. When costs keep rising, it puts real pressure on household budgets. That is why I have been and will continue to push the government to do more, so residents across South West Devon are properly supported.

I have been hearing the same difficulties from local businesses. Just this week I visited both the Plymstock Inn and the Boringdon Arms. They are great local pubs and it was good to spend time with the teams there. They were very open about the challenges they are facing. Costs are rising across the board. Energy, supplies, wages and taxes. Like many small businesses, they are having to work harder than ever just to keep things going. That story is not unique to them. It is something I am hearing from businesses of all sectors right across South West Devon.

Alongside that, I also see a huge amount of resilience. People getting on with things, businesses adapting, and communities continuing to support one another. That matters, because Easter, at its heart, is a message of renewal. It is about not losing sight of the fact that things can improve, and that we all have a part to play in that. In my role as your MP, that means focusing on the practical issues people raise with me every week: the cost of living; the pressure on local businesses; making sure that areas like ours are not overlooked. It also means being honest about the challenges, while staying focused on solutions.

People here are not asking for the world. They want to be able to get to work without worrying about the cost of fuel, to run a business that is viable, and to feel a bit of stability again. Those are reasonable asks. Easter is a chance to pause, but it is also a moment to look ahead. Across South West Devon, I see strong communities, hard work, and a real determination to get through challenging times. My job is to keep holding the Government to account and making sure that you are supported and these pressures that many of you are facing is eased.

I hope you all have a restful Easter and a chance to reset, recharge those batteries and look forward to the warmer months ahead. A huge thank you to everyone who will be working over Easter and the bank holiday. Our emergency services, NHS and care workers, Armed Forces, those in shops and hospitality, farmers and carers, keeping things going for the rest of us.

War of words over libraries as councillors dispute £1m funding pot

Lewis Clarke
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War of words over libraries as councillors dispute £1m funding pot

A heated clash over library funding has erupted between councillors, with claims of “completely untrue” statements and questions over how public consultation responses were handled.

The disagreement unfolded during a Tiverton Town Council meeting on Monday, March 23, where councillors debated the county’s budget decisions and future of library services.

Cllr Tim Bridger challenged the council’s position, questioning claims that no libraries would close and that funding had been restored.

He said: “The Devon County report, the claim no libraries are going to be closed and they reversed the cuts and there’s £1million for some improvements is interesting because that’s not actually what the budget itself says.”

Cllr Bridger continued: “I know you were handed a massive lifeline by the government who suddenly worked out an election was coming, but you haven’t actually put £650,000 back into the budget for libraries.”

He added: “You closed your budget before the consultation on libraries was finished, 25,000 people responded and the next day you decided what they’d said and I didn’t hear a single person who said that wanted anything to happen in terms of open access, but apparently you’ve put £1million into it.”

Cllr Bridger also questioned how conclusions were reached so quickly following the consultation.

He said: “Can you explain to anybody how you know what 25,000 people said the day after the consultation closed?”

Responding, Cllr Steve Lodge, a Devon County councillor for Tiverton West, rejected the claims outright.

He said: “Pretty much everything you’ve just said is completely untrue. It really is completely untrue.”

Cllr Lodge added: “Councillor Bridger your attitude is awful. I shall make no additional comment and I will respond to Councillor Bridger in writing through the clerk, and I shall explain as I did previously last month why Councillor Bridger’s assertions are incorrect.”

Devon County Council reaffirmed in its 2026 budget that no libraries will close as part of its £839 million budget.

Plans include restoring the book fund to £500,000 by adding £225,000, alongside £425,000 to support general library services during a transition period.

An additional £1 million reserve has also been identified for libraries and rural hubs, intended to support transformation and community-led improvements.

Prior to these changes, libraries had been expected to find £650,000 in efficiency savings, but this requirement has now been reversed. The overall budget for libraries, which was set to fall from £7 million to around £6.5 million, will now remain above the higher figure.

Drivers blasted over ‘atrocious’ speeds and one-way chaos in town

Lewis Clarke
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Drivers blasted over ‘atrocious’ speeds and one-way chaos in town

Concerns over dangerous driving have intensified after reports of speeding, racing and rule-breaking prompted calls for stronger enforcement across local roads.

Speaking at a meeting of Tiverton Town Council on Monday, March 23, councillors and police highlighted growing frustration among residents over worsening driving standards.

Cllr Tim Bridger said the issue was being raised frequently by people in his area.

He said: “Driving standards is one thing we are getting a lot of feedback on. I live in Moorhayes, and anything after 7pm the speeds on those roads are atrocious.

“People driving constantly driving up and down the wrong way on a one-way system and I am getting to the age where I am getting a bit old, but the speeds on roads and racing, in particular on the North Devon Link Road, there is a lot of it going on.”

Inspector Mark Arthurs, area inspector for Mid Devon, said he had witnessed poor driving standards first-hand.

He said: “I have driven ten minutes from Cullompton to Tiverton and I must admit I was wincing a bit at some of the driving standards I have seen tonight.

“Sadly, we do see that decrease in driving standards when there is a lack of policing visibility.”

Mr Arthurs added that increased reporting from the public had already led to action being taken.

He said: “When I get those reports, I am able to task other departments so I do not have to rely on my division. I can task out to roads policing and as a result of some of the enquiries people have made, I have had the speed camera vans increased presence in Tiverton whether you love or despise them, they are effective in what they set out to achieve.

“The more reports I get, the more specific they are, the more I can target those locations. Please report it, and I will target those resources.”

He also pointed to ongoing issues with drivers ignoring ‘no entry’ signs in the town centre.

He said: “The difficulties are the police cannot be everywhere all the time. While we can catch a few people occasionally, there is devolved powers to local councils to look at enforcement cameras.

“That is something for consideration with discussion with Devon County in having a camera at either end of Fore Street for enforcement.”

New head lays out bold plan to transform Tiverton High School future

Lewis Clarke
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New head lays out bold plan to transform Tiverton High School future

A new era is taking shape at Tiverton High School as its recently appointed headteacher sets out an ambitious plan to transform standards, culture and opportunity for pupils.

Nicky Lewis, who took up the role in September 2025, said the school is on a “journey” to improve outcomes, with a focus on attendance, teaching quality and a stronger sense of belonging among students.

Nicky said she had previously worked at West Exe School in Exeter, where she progressed from a PE teacher through pastoral roles to senior leadership.

She said: “What actually attracted me to Tiverton High School was partly to do with my background and where my main career has been.”

Nicky added that the school reminded her of West Exe in 2016, before its improvement journey.

She said: “That is what attracted me because I could really see the potential at Tiverton.”

Since her appointment, the school has undergone a monitoring inspection by Ofsted to assess leadership capacity. Nicky said the inspection confirmed the school has the ability to move forward.

She said: “We have got a school improvement plan we are working towards as part of our school improvement journey.”

The school’s three main priorities are improving attendance, strengthening character and culture, and ensuring high-quality teaching in every classroom.

Nicky said: “All of that together will ultimately improve the progress and outcomes for our young people.”

She added that the goal is for pupils to leave as “well rounded young people” able to pursue their chosen paths.

The school has also recently joined the Blackdown Education Partnership, a trust of 13 schools. Nicky said this would allow greater collaboration and access to expertise.

She said: “It is a really exciting time for Tiverton High School.”

Nicky confirmed she is working with Exeter College to address transport barriers for students accessing post-16 education, but said she could not comment on whether there are plans for a sixth form provision locally.

She said: “Students tend to either go into the city or go to Exeter or Richard Huish.”

On facilities, Nicky said investment is already being made to improve the school environment, including upgrades to fire safety systems, new fire doors and lockdown bells. Plans are also in place to resurface the car park.

While there has been long-standing discussion about a potential new school building, Nicky said there are no confirmed updates.

She said: “What we need to be doing is our core business for our young people at the High School and we need to work with what we have got at the moment as best we can.”

She added that collaboration with local primary schools is a key priority, with a shared aim of ensuring families actively choose Tiverton High School.

She said: “We are all serving the same community and therefore it is important we all work together.”

Sunshine and stillness help St Andrew’s pupils find awe and wonder

Devon Today
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Sunshine and stillness help St Andrew’s pupils find awe and wonder

Sunshine, sculpture and quiet reflection took centre stage as pupils at St Andrew’s CofE Academy embraced a week of creativity, mindfulness and community spirit.

Children at the school in Buckland Monachorum, which is part of the Learning Academy Partnership, took part in a series of activities during Spirituality Week aimed at encouraging them to reflect, explore and connect with the world around them.

Making the most of the recent sunny weather, pupils headed outdoors to create spiral artwork inspired by Andy Goldsworthy, using natural materials to experiment with patterns and textures.

Alongside the artwork, children spent time reflecting on the things they are grateful for, expressing their thoughts through drawings.

The week began with a worship session led by Reverend Andy, who explored the theme of awe and wonder with pupils while linking it to the school’s wider vision: “I have come that they may have life, and live it to the full.”

Throughout the week, activities encouraged children to “look in, out and up”, helping them develop curiosity, reflection and a deeper understanding of themselves and the wider world.

A visit to Buckfast Abbey was among the highlights, giving pupils the chance to spend time in what the school described as a peaceful and inspiring setting for further reflection.

Pupils also ran a tuck shop to raise money for the Mary Budding Trust, a local charity which supports children in the area.

Debbie Nunn, headteacher at St Andrew’s CofE Academy, said: “Spirituality Week has been a truly special experience for our pupils.

“It has been wonderful to see them embrace moments of quiet reflection alongside such creativity and joy, particularly through their outdoor artwork and thoughtful expressions of gratitude.

“Opportunities like this help children to slow down, appreciate the world around them, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others.”

Tracey Cleverly, CEO of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “It is inspiring to see St Andrew’s creating such meaningful opportunities for pupils to reflect, explore, and connect.

“Spirituality Week beautifully captures the importance of nurturing the whole child, supporting not only academic growth but also wellbeing, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

“These experiences help children build strong foundations for life.”

Kingsbridge students get fresh insight into care careers at school fair

Devon Today
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Kingsbridge students get fresh insight into care careers at school fair

A careers fair visit gave students a close-up look at life in the care sector as a South Devon team set out to show the breadth of opportunities on offer.

CareYourWay South Devon attended a careers event at Kingsbridge Community College, part of Education South West, where pupils from Years 7 to 13 were able to speak with local organisations about possible future careers.

In-house trainer Rob Gidley and head of brand and marketing Anna Potgieter represented the care provider at the event, speaking to students about training, standards and technology used in the sector. The team also demonstrated Whzan Digital Health monitoring equipment.

Rob Gidley from CareYourWay at the organisation’s stand with training equipment and mannequin Doris at Kingsbridge Community College.

They were joined by the team’s training mannequin, Doris, which was used to help with practical demonstrations.

Students were also told about the organisation’s wider community work, including its “Present for a Pensioner” scheme, which it said has helped tackle loneliness at Christmas since 2016. The company also highlighted its “Outstanding”-rated service for clients.

As a Friend of the College, CareYourWay said it wanted to support the local community and help young people understand the range of roles available in care. The team said it hoped to take part in future careers events across the region.

Tina Graham, principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: “It was fantastic to welcome CareYourWay to our careers fair. Our students gained real insight into the care sector, saw the impact of technology in supporting communities, and left inspired by the passion and dedication of the team. Events like this are invaluable in helping young people explore future career options.”

Anna Potgieter, head of brand and marketing at CareYourWay, said: “As a former student of the College, it was a genuine pleasure and privilege to return and support current students in exploring the wide range of opportunities available to them. As a leading local provider, we’re committed to engaging and inspiring the next generation – highlighting just how rewarding this line of work can be, with multiple pathways to suit different ambitions, whether as a long-term career or a stepping stone to other ventures. As proud Friends of KCC, we’re excited about what the future holds.”

Fears grow over Duchy land sale as council eyes community buyback

Lewis Clarke
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Fears grow over Duchy land sale as council eyes community buyback

Concerns are mounting over the future of key community spaces after plans emerged to sell off land and property, with reassurances offered that efforts are under way to keep valued areas in local hands.

Bradninch Town Council said it had met with a representative from the Duchy of Cornwall to discuss proposals to sell land and property within the town.

In a statement, the council said it welcomed what it described as a more open and constructive dialogue following recent communications that had caused concern among residents.

The Duchy has confirmed it intends to sell its Bradninch assets over the coming months, with current tenants to be contacted directly about their individual options.

The council said it had been reassured it would have the opportunity to purchase key community assets, including the allotments, Charwell Wetlands and the football field.

It added that it had been encouraged by indications the Duchy is willing to work with the authority to help ensure these spaces remain in community use.

The statement continued: “While there are still many details to understand, we want to reassure residents that we are actively exploring all available options, including funding routes, to secure the best possible outcomes for Bradninch.

“We are committed to keeping the community informed as more information becomes available.”

Bradninch Town Council said it now looks forward to working positively with the Duchy of Cornwall and will support any residents who may be affected by the changes.

It added: “If you have concerns or require support, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.”

Housebuilder spreads Easter joy with growing charity donation drive

Devon Today
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Housebuilder spreads Easter joy with growing charity donation drive

A box of chocolate treats is helping to deliver more than just sweetness this Easter, as a housebuilder steps in to support families facing hardship.

Allison Homes South West has donated Easter eggs to Churches Housing Action Team (CHAT) for the third consecutive year, supporting individuals and families in need across Mid Devon.

Staff collected the eggs before delivering them to the charity’s Tiverton food bank ahead of the Easter period, with this year’s donation exceeding previous efforts.

Holly Reid, fundraising manager at CHAT, said: “We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone at Allison Homes South West for their continued support. Easter eggs go a long way in bringing a little joy to children and families who need it the most.”

The initiative forms part of the company’s ongoing support for the charity, which provides assistance to people experiencing hunger and housing difficulties.

Glyn Mabey, managing director of Allison Homes South West, said: “We’re proud to support CHAT again this year, and the important work they do to help people across Mid Devon facing difficult circumstances.

“Donating Easter eggs is a simple way for our team to come together and help local families over the Easter period.”

CHAT, which is based in Tiverton, also carries out outreach work in Crediton, Cullompton and Uffculme. The charity offers free advice on housing, debt and money management, alongside practical support through its food bank, pantry and provision of essential household items.

Allison Homes South West is currently building new homes at Tarka Coombe in Landkey, Barnstaple, and High Moor View in Winkleigh. The company is also delivering affordable homes at partnership sites in Tiverton and Witheridge.

More information about the housebuilder is available at www.allison-homes.co.uk.

New Plymouth home offers lifeline to people sleeping on streets

Devon Today
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New Plymouth home offers lifeline to people sleeping on streets

A new supported home is offering a fresh start to some of the city’s most vulnerable residents, providing not just a roof over their heads but a pathway away from life on the streets.

A homelessness charity has opened a specialist property designed for people who have been sleeping rough, marking a further step in efforts to tackle rising homelessness.

The house, run by Path, is the third Multi-Agency Rough Sleeper (MARS) property in Plymouth. It was purchased in December 2025 and has been adapted to provide private en-suite rooms for residents who have experienced long-term homelessness, often alongside health issues, trauma and complex needs.

The project has been commissioned by Plymouth City Council and funded through the Government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme, alongside the charity’s own funds. The building has undergone safety and accessibility improvements and has been furnished to prepare it for residents.

Each person living at the property will receive support from a dedicated worker to help them move towards independence and longer-term housing.

Becky Saxton, head of housing at Path, said: “For many residents of our new house, this will be the first time in years that they have had a place of their own.

“Somewhere they can begin to feel secure and rebuild their lives.

“This project reflects Path’s commitment to working alongside partners to create genuinely life-changing housing opportunities for some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”

The accommodation is reserved for people who have been sleeping rough and are referred through Path’s outreach team. Facilities include private bedrooms with a kitchenette and television, a shared kitchen-diner, laundry facilities and a courtyard.

Staff are present throughout the day, with structured activities such as cooking, gardening and budgeting sessions aimed at rebuilding confidence and practical skills.

The service is designed as a first step away from homelessness, with residents supported to move into less supported housing or private rented accommodation when they are ready.

One resident, Paul, described the impact of the support as life-changing. After becoming homeless following a relationship breakdown and later struggling with drug use, he said moving into the property marked a turning point.

Paul said: “If it was not for them and this house, I would probably be back on the streets living that life again.

“I do not think I would be where I am today.”

Path supported 421 people sleeping rough in Plymouth last year and now provides accommodation for 20 people across its three MARS houses. The charity said the city is facing a growing housing crisis, with rough sleeping having doubled since 2023.

In 2024, the organisation helped almost 1,700 people experiencing homelessness.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, cabinet member for housing, communities and cooperative development, said: “Solving the problem of rough sleeping takes more than just providing a door, a roof and a bed for people.

“To break the cycle of rough sleeping, people need the time and support necessary to help them maintain accommodation and thrive.

“I have had the privilege of meeting some of Path’s residents and team and have seen for myself the difference that is made in transforming lives.”

More information about the charity’s work is available at www.pathdevon.org.

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