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Young voices rise as pupils lead climate change call to action in assembly

Devon Today
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Young voices rise as pupils lead climate change call to action in assembly

Pupils stepped into the spotlight to deliver a powerful message on climate change, taking charge of a school-wide assembly designed to inform and inspire their peers.

Students at Dartmouth Academy, part of Education South West, led the event themselves, highlighting the causes and impacts of climate change while encouraging practical steps towards more sustainable living. The assembly focused on raising awareness and prompting everyday action among the wider school community.

The presentations explored environmental challenges and offered guidance on how individuals can make a difference through small but meaningful changes. Staff said the initiative demonstrated teamwork, creativity and leadership among the pupils involved.

Paul Girardot, principal at Dartmouth Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for taking the initiative to lead this assembly. Their passion and commitment to environmental issues is inspiring, and it demonstrates the positive impact young people can have when given the platform to lead.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: “It’s fantastic to see student leadership in action. The assembly not only raised awareness about climate change but also empowered pupils to take responsibility for their communities and the planet. This is exactly the kind of proactive citizenship we aim to nurture across all our schools.”

Staff added that giving pupils the opportunity to lead discussions on global issues forms part of the school’s wider commitment to encouraging environmental responsibility and active citizenship.

Fury as plans to dump waste in Devon countryside face backlash

CPRE Devon
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Fury as plans to dump waste in Devon countryside face backlash

Devon CPRE has made a scathing objection to a proposal for a waste import site at Rackenford in North Devon, which residents have fiercely opposed, gaining over 900 signatures on an online petition site. A Devon councillor has also spoken out strongly against the proposed development because of the negative impact it will have on the environment, wildlife and road safety.

With the backing of Devon CPRE and County Councillor Richard Hopley, residents are calling on Devon County Council to refuse a planning application for what’s described by the applicant as an ‘inert waste import and land-raising’ operation at East Nutcott Farm, Rackenford (planning application number DCC/4451/2025).

The proposed facility would bring 444,000 cubic meters (663,000 tonnes) of building waste into a peaceful rural landscape. The site lies close to the Little Dart River, within a “high sensitivity” landscape, due to its proximity to the North Devon Coast National Landscape, Culm Grassland Special Area of Conservation, Rackenford Moor Site of Special Scientific Interest, and its location within the North Devon Biosphere Reserve.

Devon CPRE’s objection says, ‘Despite being described as “landscape-led”, the development is a large-scale waste importation and land engineering operation. The scheme is fundamentally waste-led.’

The proposal is described as being delivered in phases. Devon CPRE points out that no clear phasing strategy is provided within the submitted documentation, and that this lack of detail further undermines confidence in the proposal and its potential impacts: “There is no clearly defined or enforceable phasing plan. It is not evident how much of the site would be worked at any one time, and there is no phasing strategy supported by robust information on vehicle movements, soil handling, or restoration methodology. This undermines the conclusions of the Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA), and conflicts with the requirements of [several] Policies, which require clear and demonstrable enhancement of landscape character.”

The village of Rackenford is surrounded by narrow country lanes, which Devon CPRE and residents say are wholly unsuitable for the sustained heavy goods vehicle traffic the development would necessitate.

Devon CPRE concludes that the site is completely unsuitable for the type of activities proposed and that they would harm the landscape and road safety:

“Residents raise significant concerns regarding the adequacy of the evidence base and the environmental and highway impacts of the proposal. They argue that the development would result in long-term disruption, safety risks, and environmental harm, with no clear or proportionate community benefit.

“The proposal would involve substantial landform alteration and prolonged construction activity within a high-value landscape. Any claimed benefits are uncertain, insufficiently defined, and not secured through the application. The supporting technical assessments contain limitations and rely on assumptions rather than robust, site-specific evidence.

“On this basis, the application is considered contrary to a number of policies, including the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan Policies, ST14 and  DM08/8A, and the Devon Waste Local Plan Policies W3, W11 and W12, as it fails to adequately demonstrate conservation and enhancement of landscape character and tranquillity. It is a waste-led development supported by insufficient technical evidence, and the application should be refused.”

Devon County Councillor Richard Hopley, South Molton, which covers the parish of Rackenford, says, “This application will be absolutely devastating for local communities. An average of 66 HGVs a day travelling along our country lanes and through local villages for four years will see the further decline of our roads and verges, and impact wildlife, the environment, people’s lives and health and pose a danger to other road users, especially walkers and cyclists.

“Why is it necessary to deposit 660,000 tons of soil to re-landscape? I would question what materials will be contained within that ‘soil’. Will there be invasive plants? Will the ground become contaminated? What would happen in four years if the company went into liquidation, leaving a complete mess of the surrounding environment? This application should be refused. It is of benefit to no one other than the applicant.” 

The petition site set up by residents is continuing to gain signatures:Petition · Oppose the waste import site at East Nutcott Farm, Rackenford DCC/4451/2025 – United Kingdom · Change.org

Devon fundraiser praised after raising cash for end of life care

Devon Today
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Devon fundraiser praised after raising cash for end of life care

A Devon woman who went back to her fundraising roots is among the more than 200 people across the county being thanked by leading end of life charity Marie Curie for collecting donations during its biggest annual fundraiser.  

Kathy Beauchamp, 72, from Westward Ho! North Devon first supported the charity back in her school days, and this year signed up for a supermarket collection during the charity’s Great Daffodil Appeal, which marked its 40th year this March.  

Looking back at her start in fundraising, she said: “I was at Hurlingham School for Girls in Parsons Green, London and I was in the Marie Curie house. 

“Every Christmas we had the little like stamps and the gift tag stickers we used to have to sell, you know, and I remember particularly one year – 1964 to 1971 I was in this school – one year I actually raised five pounds, which in those days was a lot of money.” 

She said through the years since her schooling, she continued to get the stickers until she moved but would continue to donate each time she saw a Marie Curie tin. 
 
When she spotted a call requesting collector volunteers this year for the charity’s biggest annual fundraiser, she immediately signed up to collect at Morrisons in Bideford, raising £83.81. 
 
She said collecting made her think of family, but also those people who would get support from Marie Curie due to her fundraising. 
 
“For some people, it might be the only help they get because they perhaps haven’t got family or family live too far away,” she said. 

“It’s something that’s dear to my heart.  I would like to continue to collect for the charity.” 

Kathy was among 217 collector volunteers across Devon who have so far raised £14,000 for the charity during this year’s Great Daffodil Appeal.  In Plymouth, more than £5,500 has been raised across several collections, while a Lions group in Budleigh Salterton raised around £500.  Volunteers in Tiverton Morrisons raised £2660, with thousands raised by other volunteers across the county. 

The Great Daffodil Appeal encourages everyone to wear their daffodil pins and donate through the month of February and March to help Marie Curie bring expert end of life care to more people. 

Paul Chuckle on the charity tour

The charity’s flagship fundraiser helps raise much needed funds so that Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare professionals can provide expert support and hospice care in the comfort of home.  The charity also provides support via its information and support services, including a Support Line.   

Riona Houghton, Marie Curie Community Fundraiser for Devon, said: ““We believe everyone deserves expert end of life care, no matter the illness, no matter where they live.  
 
“Without supporters like Kathy helping us collect during our 40th Great Daffodil Appeal we cannot continue to fundraise for the cause. 

“Volunteering is so rewarding and a great way to give back to your local community.  I’d like to thank all those who have given their time to support something amazing and help Marie Curie continue to provide expert end of life care and support for people with any illness they are likely to die from, and their loved ones.”  

There’s only one chance to give someone the best possible end of life. This Great Daffodil Appeal help give people the care they need. To donate visit: Mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil    

Local milk revival as Southwest dairy expands into Devon retailers

Devon Today
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Local milk revival as Southwest dairy expands into Devon retailers

A growing appetite for fresh, locally sourced milk is reshaping what shoppers pick up in stores, as a Southwest dairy expands its reach into more independent outlets across Devon.

Somerset-based Tom Parker Creamery is increasing its presence across the county, with its range of milk and cream products now being stocked in petrol stations, retail forecourts, farm shops, delis and cafés.

The move comes through a partnership with Hunts Foodservice, allowing the creamery to supply a wider network of independent businesses that serve local communities.

The company said the expansion reflects strong demand from both retailers and customers for fresh whole milk, rather than long-life alternatives.

Rob Yates, managing director of Tom Parker Creamery, said: “Across the Southwest we are seeing a real appetite for proper, fresh whole milk.

“UHT milk simply is not what many local customers want to buy, and independent retailers tell us the same thing.

“People here care about provenance, freshness and supporting local producers.”

The creamery produces its milk using traditional methods designed to preserve its natural qualities. Products are sold in glass bottles with paper labels, reflecting what the business describes as a commitment to sustainability and its heritage.

Milk is sourced from farms within a 90-mile radius, with the company employing 25 people locally and keeping its supply chain close to home.

Rob added: “Getting our milk into Southwest shops, cafés and businesses just feels right.

“These are businesses run by people who care about quality and about supporting their local economy.

“That is exactly what we care about too.”

The products are now appearing in a range of outlets where customers actively seek out regional food and drink, including roadside forecourts and village shops across Devon.

The creamery said the region is well suited to its approach, as demand for minimally processed and locally produced food continues to grow.

Alongside its retail expansion, the business is also supporting grassroots sport across the Southwest. This includes sponsoring Wincanton under-12s and working with Yeovil Town Football Club, where players will be supplied with products from next season.

The company said the partnership reflects its commitment to investing in local communities while expanding its presence across the region.

Huge plan to bring thousands of homes to Plymouth city centre

Plymouth City Council
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Huge plan to bring thousands of homes to Plymouth city centre

A major new phase in shaping Plymouth’s future is about to begin, with residents now being invited to sign up and be part of the conversation about how the city centre could evolve into a vibrant place to live.  

Engagement on the City Living Framework will begin shortly after the local election in May, but the groundwork is already being laid to ensure that people across Plymouth are ready, informed and able to get involved from day one. 

This next step follows the appointment of global placemaking specialists WSP, who are leading work on a new development framework and masterplan that will explore how underused areas of the city centre could be transformed into sustainable neighbourhoods with thousands of new homes, green streets and lively public spaces. Their role includes launching a new digital engagement site – the starting point for a platform that will grow and evolve as the project develops, offering updates, event information and opportunities for residents to have their say.  

The engagement approach is designed to be active, visible and connected to the communities it serves. Instead of traditional consultation confined to meeting rooms, the masterplanning team will be out across the city, speaking with people directly – from long-standing neighbourhood groups to first time renters, businesses, students, families and organisations representing Plymouth’s diverse communities. This reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring residents are at the heart of shaping the vision and have many opportunities to contribute throughout the process. A formal public consultation on the draft vision and masterplan is also planned for Autumn 2026. 

Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said:  “This is a game-changing moment for Plymouth. We’ve made huge strides improving our city centre, but the missing piece has always been housing – homes that bring life, energy and people back into the heart of our city. 

“It is really important that local Plymouth people have the ability to live in the city centre again, after an 80‑year gap. So we want to hear from people who might be buying or renting in the city centre in the future, because their voices will shape what this looks like. 

“What excites me most is the way we’re doing this. This isn’t a plan written behind closed doors. The masterplanning team will be out across Plymouth meeting people, hearing different voices and making sure our communities shape what comes next. 

“I want everyone who cares about Plymouth’s future to sign up, get involved, and help us build a city centre that truly works for everyone. 

“Since their appointment, the team have been working through the ‘discover phase’ to make sure that they properly understand the city and its strengths, weaknesses and opportunities. Rest assured, no plans for development will be prepared until engagement commences and the project moves to the ‘define’ stage. We are committed to a co‑design process, and that means understanding what people want before plans are drafted.” 

Jim Coleman, WSP Chief Economist, said: “It is an immense pleasure to be leading the expert team developing Plymouth’s City Living Framework. This unique city is critical to the UK’s future defence, and this evolving role provides  the much sought-after opportunity to reimagine Plymouth city centre, making it an attractive and enjoyable place for those who have spent their entire lives here, and those who are yet to come.” 

Glenn Howells, Howells Architects, said: ‘’I strongly believe Plymouth is at a pivotal point in its history and I am excited and privileged to be part of the team to help unlock its huge potential to be one of Europe’s most thriving and liveable cities.’’  

Alex Ely, Mae Architects, added: “We are excited by opportunity to reimagine the city centre as a desirable place to live. Through design we can enhance the parts that work and repair and remake the places that don’t.’’  

The City Living Framework is part of a wider ambition, supported by Homes England, to deliver up to 10,000 new homes in and around the city centre and bring forward a bold new chapter for Plymouth. As the engagement platform goes live, residents, businesses and stakeholders are encouraged to sign up now so they can follow progress, join events and help shape proposals as they emerge.  

To sign up to find out more, go to: https://plymouthcityliving.commonplace.is/  

Ilfracombe pupils become citizen scientists to safeguard rivers

Devon Today
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Ilfracombe pupils become citizen scientists to safeguard rivers

Young people have stepped into the role of environmental guardians after completing specialist training to help monitor the health of local rivers.

Students from The Ilfracombe Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, have been recognised for their work assessing water quality as part of a wider initiative aimed at protecting North Devon’s waterways.

The group took part in Earth Action North Devon’s Ocean Explorer Academy programme, where they received training delivered by the Westcountry Rivers Trust. The charity focuses on restoring and protecting freshwater habitats across the region.

Through the programme, pupils learned how to assess and record water quality in rivers and streams. The training means they are now able to contribute as “citizen scientists”, gathering data to help build a clearer picture of the condition of local waterways.

Earth Action North Devon highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that 84 per cent of water bodies in the area are currently classified as being in poor or moderate ecological condition, according to the latest assessments.

The Ilfracombe Academy has been expanding opportunities for students to engage with environmental issues, including the launch of an Eco Club in partnership with Earth Action North Devon last year.

The Ocean Explorer Academy works with young people across North Devon, aiming to deepen understanding of environmental challenges while encouraging participation in conservation work and future careers linked to the natural environment.

Headteacher Steve Rogers said: “We’re really proud of our students for completing this training and becoming citizen scientists.

“It’s a great opportunity for them to contribute to something that really matters locally, while developing valuable skills and knowledge about the environment.”

Major £1bn plan promises jobs and training for struggling young people

Devon County Council
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Major £1bn plan promises jobs and training for struggling young people

We welcomed a major new government announcement this week that will help young people find jobs and training.

The government has confirmed £1 billion of funding to support jobs, apprenticeships and work experience.

The aim is to help young people who are not in education, employment or training.

Businesses will be offered grants to take on young people. There is also extra support for apprenticeships and guaranteed jobs.

We already works with local businesses, colleges and training providers to help people gain skills and find work.

But the council says that this new funding will open more doors for young people across the county.

Councillor Simon Clist, our Cabinet Member for Training and Skills, said: “We’ll need to see the detail behind this announcement, but on the face of it, this sounds like good news for young people and for local businesses.

“Many employers want to recruit but need support to bring someone new into the workforce.

“This funding helps remove that barrier.

“It gives young people a real chance to earn, learn and move into long‑term work.

“I want to make sure that Devon businesses and Devon young people benefit from this as much as possible.”

Barnstaple mayor to bow out with 80s bingo night for two charities

Devon Today
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Barnstaple mayor to bow out with 80s bingo night for two charities

An 80s throwback night is set to bring the curtain down on Barnstaple’s mayoral fundraising year, with music, bingo and a buffet all lined up in aid of two local charities.

Mayor of Barnstaple Cllr Janet Coates is inviting residents and visitors to an 80s-themed musical bingo evening in support of Barum Boxing Club and Man Down.

The event is due to take place at Barnstaple Rugby Club on Friday, April 10 at 7pm. Guests are being encouraged to wear 80s-inspired clothing for the evening.

Tickets cost £10 and include entry and a hot buffet. Proceeds will go to the mayor’s chosen charities, Barum Boxing Club and Man Down.

The fundraiser will also mark Cllr Coates’s final fundraising engagement as mayor ahead of the appointment of a new mayor in May.

Cllr Coates said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Mayor of Barnstaple, and I am pleased to conclude my Mayoral year with an event that combines community spirit with fundraising for two very important causes.

“I look forward to welcoming everyone for what promises to be a fun evening.” Tickets are available online from www.barnstapletowncouncil.gov.uk/mayors-ball/

Alarm as Devon schools battle growing mental health pressures

Devon County Council
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Alarm as Devon schools battle growing mental health pressures

Schools are seeing growing pressures around children’s mental health, behaviour and inclusion.

The Mentally Healthy Schools Conference 2026 brought education professionals together to share practical approaches that can support children who are struggling and help to create more inclusive classrooms.

A key focus of the day was understanding what makes the biggest difference to children’s experiences at school. Attendees heard from Dr Cora Sargeant, Chartered Educational Psychologist and host of Classroom Psychology, on how strong relationships and human connection support learning.

Sessions also explored how schools can tackle misogyny and gender‑based violence, and how everyday school culture can influence a child’s body image and self‑esteem.

Attendees considered the challenges children and young people are facing and what helps them feel safe, settled and ready to learn.

Councillor Denise Bickley, Cabinet Member for SEND, said: “It was inspiring and exciting to see so many colleagues come together with such genuine care for children and young people in Devon.

What really came through was the honesty in the room – people reflecting openly, sharing what’s working, and looking at how we can support children to feel included and able to learn.

Creating mentally healthy, inclusive school environments is something we can only do together, and this event showed just how committed our school communities are.”

Jo Lewitt, Public Health Specialist at Devon County Council, added: “Three professional and articulate speakers set the scene that children and young people are facing a ‘poly-crisis’ and are struggling right now.

They explored the evidence base and shared practical ways to create emotionally safe schools and classrooms. They built understanding of the science of belonging and thriving, offered strategies for tackling gender based violence, and highlighted the importance of body respect for all.

It was an inspiring day that created space for staff to reflect on their sphere of influence and offered schools clear, usable tools to take away.“

This conference forms part of ongoing work to support mentally healthy, relational and inclusive school environments across Devon.

Students swap classrooms for ski slopes on memorable Italy adventure trip

Devon Today
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Students swap classrooms for ski slopes on memorable Italy adventure trip

They hit the slopes and did not look back. Students from two North Devon schools returned from an Italian ski trip after making rapid progress in skiing and snowboarding, with staff praising their determination, confidence and support for one another.

Students from Bideford College and Atlantic Academy, both part of Athena Learning Trust, travelled to Monte Bondone in Italy for the week-long visit. During the trip, all groups progressed beyond the nursery slopes and were able to make their way down the mountain by the end of the stay.

The schools said the trip gave pupils the chance to challenge themselves while learning in a new environment. Monte Bondone, in Trentino in northern Italy, was described as a suitable base for the group because of its facilities and compact layout, which helped students spend as much time as possible on the slopes while feeling safe and supported.

Staff also praised the group’s attitude throughout the visit, particularly the way students responded to challenges and encouraged each other. The trip was supported by school staff, whose planning and organisation helped ensure the week ran smoothly.

Dr Claire Ankers, principal at Bideford College and Atlantic Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students and the way they embraced every aspect of this experience. It was fantastic to see their confidence grow so quickly on the slopes. Opportunities like this create lifelong memories and help our young people develop skills that will serve them well in the future.”

The visit marked another overseas trip for the schools and gave students what the trust described as valuable life experiences and lasting memories.

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