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Rapist jailed after horrific attack on woman in Exeter case

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Rapist jailed after horrific attack on woman in Exeter case

An Exeter man has been sentenced to a total of eight-and-a-half years in prison for rape and other offences.

Colby Hill, 22, of no fixed abode in Exeter, also known as Colby Seatherton, was found guilty at a trial at Exeter Crown Court on Tuesday 3 February on two counts of rape of a woman, charges he denied.

Appearing before the court for sentencing on Monday 30 March, he was imprisoned for eight-and-a-half years, plus one year’s extended licence and made subject of an indefinite restraining order as a result.

Hill was also jailed for intentional strangulation and two other non-sexual charges, to which he pled guilty at the start of the trial.

Detective Constable Jay McGhie, who led the investigation said: “We welcome the sentence that he has been given which follows Hill’s conviction following a thorough investigation.

“Today’s positive outcome is a testimony to the strength shown by the victim in this case, not only in coming forward to report this but also for showing great resilience throughout the judicial process.

“We take all such incidents seriously and would encourage victims to come forward – you will be listened to, you will be believed and your reports will be investigated.

“Devon & Cornwall Police is committed to working the criminal justice system to make our communities safer.”

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

Nightlife safety boost as Plymouth safe bus helps hundreds

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Nightlife safety boost as Plymouth safe bus helps hundreds

A static bus set up for partygoers in Plymouth has welcomed over 1,300 people onboard since it was first launched in April 2024, providing a friendly drop-in service for anyone in need of support or medical care whilst on a night out.

Over half of the people who visited the Safe Bus received treatment from on-board paramedics, which is estimated to have saved over 400 calls for ambulances, and around 500 people visited the bus for general support from the team, including help in getting home, a place to charge their phone, or simply a safe place to take a break from the night-life environment.

PC Deb Hart, who supports with the running of the Safe Bus, said: “The numbers alone show just how important and well-used this service is, helping hundreds of people every year.

“From urgent medical care to something as simple as needing some water, the bus and staff are here to help anyone who needs it.

“The safety of everyone in the city – especially during the late night and early hours – is vital.

“We will continue to work alongside our partners to make sure the Safe Bus fits with the needs of our community, providing the best possible service to anyone who needs it.”

The Safe Bus is located at Derry’s Cross roundabout (outside TimberVault) every Saturday between 10pm – 4am and is staffed by a team of paramedics, security guards and nearby taxi marshalls.

It is charged using solar panels and set up to provide a general safe space, medical provision and phone charging facilities. The bus also has an on-board toilet and facilities available to provide people with spare clothes.

The service was set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and a number of local partners including Plymouth City Council.

Plymouth Citybus supported the police in acquiring the bus. The partners involved in funding the initiative include University of Plymouth, Safer Streets 4, Victim Support and Plymouth City Council.

Partners involved in the weekly running of the bus include Best Bar None, the NHS and Western Medical Services.

Cllr Sally Haydon said: “The Plymouth Safe Bus represents a strong, collaborative commitment to making our night‑time environment safer for everyone. Working closely with our partners, we provide immediate support, reassurance, and a safe space for individuals who need assistance.

“This approach not only helps reduce demand on emergency services but ensures people can access the right help at the right time. As part of our wider commitment to preventing Violence Against Women and Girls, the Safe Bus strengthens visibility, offers early intervention, and contributes to a safer, more inclusive city.

“We remain dedicated to working together to put community safety and wellbeing at the heart of Plymouth’s night‑time economy and are very proud to support this excellent initiative.”

Cat MacDonald, Co-ordinator Best Bar None Plymouth, said: “The Safe Bus is a valuable resource for everyone visiting Plymouth’s night-time economy. It not only provides medical assistance but also a safe space if you get separated from friends, need to charge your phone, or feel overwhelmed on a night out.

“Having it available on extra busy nights is a huge support for the city. The service adds to the work venues already do in keeping customers safe, including Ask for Angela, drink spiking awareness, and safer socialising initiatives.

“It’s fantastic that we work together in partnership to provide such a well-used, essential and vital service.”

Will Price from Western Medical Services said: “The Safe Bus is about more than medical care, it’s about providing a safe, visible place for people to go when they need help on a night out.

“Whether that’s clinical treatment, support, or simply somewhere to take a moment, our teams are there to make sure people stay safe and are looked after. It’s a great example of partners working together to support the community.”

Lynton policing team boosted as new PCSO earns top honour

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Lynton policing team boosted as new PCSO earns top honour

Last week, Alison Mercer joined the Lynton Neighbourhood Policing team as a fully qualified Police Community Support Officer, having recently been awarded ‘highest professional standard’.

Police Community Support Officers support the work of other policing teams across Devon & Cornwall Police by providing a visible presence on the streets. They build valuable relationships within the community and work to prevent crime, and to tackle disorder and anti-social behaviour; improving the quality of life for people living in local communities.

Alison joined Devon & Cornwall Police as an Enquiry Officer back in 2023 and moved across to a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) role on 5 January 2026, completing her training on 27 March.

PCSO Mercer said, “I moved to Lynton around eight years ago and spent the last two years working in the Public Enquiry Office in Ilfracombe.

“Over time, I learnt more about policing and found myself wanting a more active role, where I could make a real difference in my community.

“The experience I gained working as an Enquiry Officer undoubtedly helped me to build a strong understanding of the varied nature of policing and has allowed me to step into my new role with confidence and compassion.

“It means a lot to me that I can be the friendly, reassuring face that people living in Lynton can come and speak to about any concerns they have, and I look forward to building stronger relationships with people living in and working in the area.”

PCSO Alison Mercer was recently recognised for her dedication and professionalism, which was observed by tutors as she completed her 12-week training course and led to an award for ‘highest professionalism standard’.

The award was presented by Chief Constable James Vaughan, Inspector Joey Lester and Sergeant Robert Brown at the Devon & Cornwall Police passing out ceremony on 27 March.

Insp. Lester added, “It’s great to have Alison on board and I’m so proud of her dedication to her role which has shone through from the very start of her career in policing.

“Most officers and staff members working in North Devon also live on the patch, which creates a strong ‘team’ dynamic that demonstrates how passionate we all are about serving and protecting our communities.

“I’d like to remind our communities that your local policing teams are here to help. Please stop and have a chat with our officers and discuss any concerns you may have. The more we know, the better we can deal with problems that affect you and the area you live in.”

People living in Lynton and Lynmouth are encouraged to report concerns to police by speaking to officers, filling in a form on the force website or by calling 101.

For the latest updates and crime prevention advice, follow the Lynton team on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LyntonPolice.

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.”

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