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Hocking’s makes history as iconic ice cream firm unveils world first van

Devon Today
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Hocking’s makes history as iconic ice cream firm unveils world first van

A beloved Westcountry ice cream brand known to generations of holidaymakers and locals has become the first in the world to take delivery of a fully electric ice cream van.

Hocking’s of North Devon has received what is being described as the world’s first fully certified, purpose-built electric ice cream van, developed by manufacturer Whitby Morrison and built on a new Mercedes-Benz eSprinter chassis cab.

The landmark vehicle has been designed, engineered and built from the ground up as an electric ice cream van and approved through full Individual Vehicle Approval certification.

For the Hocking family, whose ice cream has become synonymous with summers across North Devon for generations, the launch marks another chapter in a long-standing relationship with Whitby Morrison.

Whitby Morrison said the connection between the Hocking and Whitby families spans generations and that both families have witnessed the evolution of the modern ice cream van over many years.

The company said there could be “no better customer” to receive the vehicle, describing Hocking’s as one of Britain’s most respected ice cream brands.

The new van combines Whitby Morrison’s specialist ice cream van manufacturing expertise with electric vehicle technology from Mercedes-Benz.

According to the company, the vehicle offers lower-emission operation and quieter running while maintaining the features expected from a traditional ice cream van.

Announcing the launch, Whitby Morrison said: “This is not a conversion.

“It is not a retrofit.

“It is not a compromise.

“This is a true next-generation ice cream van, designed, engineered and built from the ground up by Whitby Morrison and registered as a brand-new vehicle.”

The company added: “Most importantly, it proves that the transition to electric is no longer a concept. It is here.”

Whitby Morrison described the launch as “the first step along a greener pathway” and “the start of a new era” for the ice cream van industry.

Congratulating the North Devon business, the company said: “Congratulations to the entire Hocking family, whose vision and commitment have helped make this historic vehicle a reality.”

The manufacturer said the vehicle demonstrates how the future of mobile ice cream retailing could evolve while preserving the traditions associated with Britain’s best-known ice cream brands.

DEVON VOICES: “By the end, it was hard to know what Labour actually believed”

Rebecca Smith
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DEVON VOICES: “By the end, it was hard to know what Labour actually believed”

Keir Starmer’s resignation brings to an end a Government that has failed to deliver on the promises it made to the British people.

He came into office promising change, stability and competence. Instead, his premiership became defined by damaging decisions, public backlash and a series of humiliating U-turns forced by the Conservative Party.

Farmers were targeted with the Family Farm Tax. Pensioners lost Winter Fuel Payments. Businesses were hit with Labour’s Jobs Tax. Working families faced higher costs whilst welfare spending continued to rise.

Time and again, it was the Conservative Party forcing Labour back to the drawing board. We led the opposition to cuts to Winter Fuel Payments, exposed the damage the Family Farm Tax would inflict on rural communities, forced Labour to abandon mandatory Digital ID, and pushed the Government into a series of other embarrassing climbdowns.

By the end, it was hard to know what Labour actually believed. Ministers would announce a policy, Conservatives would expose the flaws, the public would push back and Labour would quietly abandon or water down its plans. It became a pattern that defined Keir Starmer’s premiership.

But Labour should not imagine that replacing the Prime Minister will solve its problems.

The Conservative Party has been honest about the mistakes it made in government and is changing as a result. Labour, by contrast, remains trapped by the same divisions that have plagued it since taking office.

Whoever becomes the next Labour leader will face exactly the same problem. Remember when Labour MPs were calling for higher taxes to spend more on welfare? Well, the Labour Party is still full of those same MPs demanding higher spending, opposing welfare reform and calling for higher taxes to fund an ever-growing benefits bill.

The problem is not who Labour chooses to lead it. The problem is that too many Labour MPs still believe the answer to every challenge is more spending, more borrowing and more tax.

Britain needs a government that rewards work, backs business, supports our rural communities, controls welfare spending and takes the difficult decisions needed to secure the country’s future. Labour has shown it is incapable of providing that leadership.

Plymouth pupils earn standing ovation after taking body image fight to MPs

Devon Today
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Plymouth pupils earn standing ovation after taking body image fight to MPs

Students from All Saints Academy Plymouth have taken their campaign promoting body confidence and inclusion to Parliament after a year of work aimed at tackling body shame and encouraging positive change among young people.

The group visited the Houses of Parliament to discuss their involvement with Molly Forbes and the Body Happy Organisation, which has focused on delivering a whole-school programme centred on body respect, wellbeing and inclusion.

The Body Happy Organisation is an award-winning organisation that works with schools, families and communities to address body shame and promote lasting cultural change.

Recognising that meaningful change requires engagement from both staff and pupils, the academy has introduced a range of initiatives including staff training, student workshops and a peer advocacy programme designed to empower young people to lead positive change. The work has also extended into the wider community through the creation of a group at Burrington Community Hub, bringing together students and families.

Students Sam and Megan arrive at the Houses of Parliament
The All Saints Academy Plymouth group at the Houses of Parliament
Students Sam and Megan at the Houses of Parliament

Following the programme, staff and students from All Saints Academy were invited to attend an education roundtable hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Eating Disorders at the Houses of Parliament.

The session was chaired by Wera Hobhouse MP and brought together politicians, clinicians, charity leaders, researchers, educators and young people to discuss issues surrounding eating disorders and body image.

Representing the academy were pastoral and inclusion manager Sam Smith, Year 8 lead Sophie Messenger and students Sam C-W and Megan E.

The group shared insights into the challenges faced by young people around body confidence and appearance-related stigma, along with the steps the school has taken to promote respect and inclusion.

Sophie delivered an address during the event before Year 11 student Sam received a standing ovation from attendees following his contribution.

The roundtable forms part of ongoing work by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Eating Disorders to campaign for improved care and earlier intervention for people affected by eating disorders.

The visit marks a significant milestone for All Saints Academy, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, and reflects its commitment to promoting student voice, inclusion and wellbeing.

Scott Simpson-Horne, headteacher at All Saints Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students and staff for the leadership they have shown in promoting a culture of body respect and inclusion.

“This work goes beyond the classroom and is already making a real difference to how our young people see themselves and each other.

“To have their voices heard in Parliament is a powerful reminder of the impact schools can have in shaping a more compassionate and understanding society.”

Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “This is a fantastic example of the values we champion across the Ted Wragg Trust in action.

“Empowering young people to lead change, speak confidently about important issues and influence national conversations is at the heart of what we do.

“We are incredibly proud of the students from All Saints Academy for representing their community so thoughtfully and powerfully on such an important stage.”

Plymouth students join global nutrition challenge

Devon Today
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Plymouth students join global nutrition challenge

Plymouth students have taken part in a global initiative designed to deepen their understanding of nutrition and hydration as they prepare for the demands of exam season.

A total of 74 students at OneSchool Global Plymouth joined 8,000 of their global peers for Mission Nutrition, a full-day immersive learning experience exploring how food and water can support sustained focus, energy and wellbeing.

The initiative took place as temperatures soared to record May highs across the country, with pupils across OSG campuses also taking part in a hydration challenge to highlight the importance of drinking enough water during warmer weather and periods of intense concentration.

Students set water intake goals, monitored use of drinking stations and explored how staying hydrated can support focus and help them feel ready for the school day.

Mission Nutrition took place at 120 OneSchool Global campuses across 20 countries, including all 23 campuses in the UK.

Pupils at OneSchool Global Plymouth completed a programme of sessions exploring food groups and how different foods can support their energy, focus and wellbeing throughout the school day. 

They looked at the role of slow-release energy foods, the link between nutrition and mental wellbeing and how making informed choices can help them prepare them for demands of lessons, revision and exams.

The experience was tailored for three age groups, Years 3 to 6, Years 7 to 9 and Years 10 to 12, and finished with a Final Mission using what they learned in a real-world context.

Kirsty Matthews, Campus Principal at OneSchool Global Plymouth, said: “As Campus Principal in Plymouth, I see every day how closely a child’s wellbeing is tied to their ability to learn. When children understand why food matters, they’re far more likely to make choices that support their learning and their growth.

“The children have been brilliantly engaged in the Mission Nutrition initiative interacting with our “fruit and veg” sticker board and our “Water tracker” board.

“Looking ahead, I hope to see stronger links with local growers or students bringing in homegrown ingredients as I know so many of them enjoy gardening as well as more hands‑on food education, like cooking, to make nutrition memorable.”

Mission Nutrition was tailor-made for OneSchool Global with the guidance of Caitlin Edmonds, an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Nutritionist. Ms Edmonds has previously been involved in the delivery of nutrition programs for elite sporting teams major professional Australian sports leagues, include football, netball and Australian rules football. 

She said: “Mission Nutrition is a wonderful initiative to help students explore food, energy and wellbeing, and I am delighted to have worked with OneSchool Global on an initiative of this scale to create this shared learning journey.”

Giles Bennett, Regional Director of Education in the UK for OneSchool Global, said: “We wanted to really engage the attention of all of our students in the UK and across the globe, so we dedicated a full day of learning to Mission Nutrition, and enlisted the expertise of Caitlin.

“It was especially important with exam season underway and the country experiencing unusually high temperatures, meaning that understanding how hydration can support focus, energy and wellbeing is more important than ever.

“OneSchool Global’s entire learning framework is founded on teaching our students the skills they need to set them up for their whole lives, and Mission Nutrition is a great example of that philosophy in action.

“We want to empower students with knowledge around nutrition, health and wellbeing, so they can apply it to their everyday lives in simple, achievable ways.”

Plymouth pupils and parents race ahead to fund new school buddy bench

Devon Today
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Plymouth pupils and parents race ahead to fund new school buddy bench

A school community has gone the extra mile to help create a new outdoor space where children can learn, talk and support one another.

Pupils, parents and staff from Marine Academy Primary took part in a series of running challenges to raise money for improvements to the school’s outdoor learning environment, including a new compassionate buddy bench.

Dozens of people took part in the Plymouth Half Marathon and 10K, alongside other events including the Final Mile, with funds going towards the project.

The new bench is intended to enhance outdoor learning while also providing a dedicated space where pupils can sit together and support one another.

Marine Academy Primary places a strong emphasis on outdoor learning, with children regularly caring for rabbits, chickens and guinea pigs, growing fruit and vegetables, and taking part in activities designed to connect them with nature.

Alongside supporting these activities outside the classroom, the buddy bench will offer a welcoming place for children to talk and spend time together.

The school, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, said it plans to use the money raised to further enhance its outdoor area and continue developing opportunities for pupils to learn and play in nature. The fundraising page remains open for those wishing to support the appeal.

Headteacher Georgina Reid said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils, families and staff for coming together to support this cause.

“It’s been fantastic to see such enthusiasm and community spirit in action.”

Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said: “This is a brilliant example of school communities working together to make a real difference for children.

“Well done to everyone at Marine Academy Primary.”

The fundraising page can be found at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/compassionate-buddy-bench.

Tributes paid to youth club founder whose legacy will live on in Ilfracombe

Devon Today
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Tributes paid to youth club founder whose legacy will live on in Ilfracombe

A community has paid tribute to a youth volunteer described as the driving force behind a thriving youth club following his death.

Ali Hogg, who became involved with Ilfracombe Futures after moving to the town in 2024, has been remembered as a passionate advocate for young people whose work helped create opportunities and a sense of belonging for teenagers in the area.

In a statement shared by Ilfracombe Futures, colleagues Cerys and Charmain reflected on the impact Ali had on both the organisation and the young people he supported.

They said: “Ali was a brilliant advocate for young people and was incredibly passionate about supporting teenagers to access opportunities and build strong community relationships to create a sense of belonging.

“Without his drive and passion, we would not have our youth club.

“He continually showed up for young people and put their needs first, demonstrating the kind of youth worker that our team will always aspire to be.

“Whilst we cannot replace Ali’s dart skills or infinite knowledge of card games – or his questionable love for a Monster Munch cheese toastie(!) – Ilfracombe Youth Club is committed to continuing his incredible work.

“We will show up for young people, always, will value openness and honesty and not shy away from tough conversations particularly as we support each other and the young people of the youth club as we navigate the loss of this wonderful human being.

“We will miss him deeply as a team and as a community.”

The organisation said Ali was instrumental in establishing the youth club and had become a valued member of Ilfracombe Futures since arriving in the town.

Youth workers are continuing to support one another following his death and are working directly with schools and parents to ensure young people who had built relationships with Ali receive appropriate support.

Ilfracombe Futures said its thoughts were with Ali’s friends, family and colleagues.

The charity has encouraged anyone affected by the news to seek support from Pete’s Dragons. Information and resources are available at www.petesdragons.org.uk.

Ilfracombe Youth Club will remain open as usual on Wednesday.

Tiny yachts make a big splash as sailing club seeks new recruits

Devon Today
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Tiny yachts make a big splash as sailing club seeks new recruits

Model yachts may be small in size, but the competition, skill and enjoyment involved are anything but, according to members of North Devon Radio Sailing Club, who are encouraging more people to get involved in the sport.

The club is made up of model yacht enthusiasts who meet regularly at Tamar Lakes, near Kilkhampton on the Devon and Cornwall border, to sail and race radio-controlled yachts.

Members race International One Metre (IOM) and Dragon Force 65 (DF65) yachts, with competitions held under Model Yachting Association rules, which are broadly adapted from those used in full-sized yacht racing.

International One Metre yachts are raced around the world at local, regional, national and world championship level. Measuring one metre in length, they can be fitted with one of three rigs to suit different wind strengths and are designed to provide both a challenge and a rewarding sailing experience.

Dragon Force 65 yachts are smaller at 0.65 metres in length and are raced as a one-design class, meaning all boats are built to the same specification.

North Devon Radio Sailing Club describes itself as a small and friendly group catering for sailors of all abilities. Members are keen to attract newcomers and can offer practical help, advice, tuition and access to a club boat.

The club believes the sport can appeal to a wide range of people, particularly former dinghy sailors and yachtsmen who no longer sail full-sized boats.

For more information, contact Nigel Davis on 07785 733162.

More than 80 affordable homes planned for Torridge

Devon County Council
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More than 80 affordable homes planned for Torridge

More than 80 new affordable homes in Torridge are being delivered with the help of investment through the Devon Pension Fund.

This investment, through Octopus Capital, is supporting the delivery of new affordable housing locally.

The scheme is delivering new homes in Northam and Bideford for social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership, helping to meet local housing need.

It forms part of a £40 million commitment through the Devon Pension Fund’s “local impact portfolio”, established in 2023/24 to support projects that benefit communities across the county, including helping to increase the supply of affordable housing.

The homes will be advertised through Devon Home Choice, prioritising people with a connection to the area.

Cllr Steve Lodge, Chair of the Devon Pension Fund Committee, said: “We want our investments to deliver strong, stable returns for our members while also making a positive difference here in Devon. Supporting the delivery of affordable homes like these means we are investing in both the long-term future of the fund and the wellbeing of our communities.”

Councillor Rosie Dawson, Chair of Devon County Council, said: “It’s great to see these new affordable homes being delivered in North Devon, helping to meet local need and support our communities. It’s particularly encouraging to see investment from the Devon Pension Fund making a difference locally, supporting schemes like this and benefiting people across the county.”

Ellie Vlavianou, Investment Director at Octopus Capital, said: “These are two fantastic sites that will create real opportunities for people and families to put down roots in their local community. We’re very proud to be working with trusted partners to deliver high-quality, sustainable homes where they’re needed most. We’re also excited about the potential to grow our partnership with housebuilders in the region as we look forward to delivering more schemes like this across the country.”

Cllr Robin Julian, local county councillor for Bideford West and Hartland, said: “These homes will make a real difference for local people who are struggling to find somewhere affordable to live. In Bideford, the delivery of new homes – including social rent, affordable rent and shared ownership – will help more people stay close to their families, jobs and support networks.”

Cllr Dermot McGeough, local county councillor for Northam, said: “I am extremely pleased that the Devon Pension Fund has continued to support the delivery of the schemes and commitment of 80 dwellings within my Northam division, as I expressed the urgency of local needs provision being a priority.”

The homes are being delivered in partnership with Vistry, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders. The scheme has also received grant funding from Homes England, the government’s housing agency.

Construction is already underway, with all homes expected to be completed by summer 2027.

Plymouth shocks Devon as jam-first fans win great cream tea debate

Devon Today
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Plymouth shocks Devon as jam-first fans win great cream tea debate

Plymouth has emerged as the UK’s strongest supporter of putting jam on a scone before clotted cream, despite sitting at the heart of Devon, where the opposite approach has long been regarded as tradition. The finding has added a fresh twist to one of the South West’s most enduring food rivalries.

Research commissioned by Tiptree and Rodda’s ahead of National Cream Tea Day found that 68 per cent of Plymouth residents favour spreading jam before cream – the highest proportion recorded in any UK city.

The survey of 2,000 UK adults found that, nationally, 53 per cent of people believe jam should be spread onto a scone before clotted cream, compared with those who favour the cream-first approach.

The result contrasts with the traditional Devonshire method, which sees cream spread onto the scone before jam. Researchers said Plymouth’s preference more closely aligns with the Cornish approach to serving a cream tea.

At the other end of the scale, London was among the strongest supporters of cream-first cream teas, with 52 per cent of residents favouring that method.

The research also examined opinions on what belongs in a traditional cream tea. One-third of respondents said using chocolate spread instead of jam was the biggest cream tea “crime”, while 32 per cent said whipped or squirty cream should not be used. However, eight per cent said salted caramel spread was their preferred topping.

Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed said a cream tea without both jam and clotted cream could not be considered a proper cream tea. Strawberry jam was named the nation’s favourite preserve by 62 per cent of respondents, while the same proportion said clotted cream was the only acceptable cream option.

The survey also found that more than a quarter of Britons had argued about whether jam or cream should go on first.

Commenting on the findings, James Procter-Blain, head of marketing at Tiptree, said: “This is a travesty.

“Clearly jam is the hero within the Cream Tea, and deserves to go on top.

“Even the late Queen agreed with us on this one.

“We will be demanding a recount – these figures are clearly incorrect. This is Fake News.”

Daniele Cole-Brown, head of marketing at Rodda’s, added: “We’ve always said the cream tea debate brings out strong opinions, but even we were surprised by quite how passionate people are.

“Whether it’s jam first or cream first, for us at Rodda’s, it’s about enjoying the special cream tea moment.”

National Cream Tea Day takes place on Friday, June 26 and was established by Tiptree and Rodda’s to celebrate the traditional combination of scones, jam and clotted cream.

Research methodology: Censuswide surveyed 2,000 UK adults on behalf of Tiptree and Rodda’s between June 5 and June 8, 2026.

Historic Tedburn St Mary pub saved from redevelopment and reopened

Devon Today
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Historic Tedburn St Mary pub saved from redevelopment and reopened

A much-loved village pub is set to reopen its doors on Wednesday 17th June following an extensive refurbishment. With deep roots in the community, its closure in 2022 came as a devastating blow to the village of Tedburn St Mary. There were real fears that the historic building could be lost altogether after plans were submitted to demolish the premises and replace it with flats, particularly after community efforts to raise funds to save the pub were ultimately unsuccessful.

Now, in a remarkable turnaround, the pub has been purchased, carefully restored, and brought back to life by local investment company EGN Services, whose two founders share a personal connection to it. The couple first met at The Red Lion during its previous heyday and have long held a vision of seeing it reinstated as a thriving hub at the heart of the village.

“This pub holds very special memories for both of us,” they said. “It has always been more than just a building, it’s part of our story. Seeing it closed was incredibly sad and bringing it back to life is something we’ve dreamed of for years.”

For generations, The Red Lion has been at the heart of the Tedburn St Mary community. It has been a place of connection, where friendships were formed, celebrations were shared, and village life unfolded.

The reopening follows a significant investment and a comprehensive renovation, with a strong focus on preserving the character and heritage of the building while introducing thoughtful updates to enhance the experience for today’s guests. Wherever possible, local tradespeople from Tedburn St Mary and the surrounding areas have played a key role in the restoration.

The result is a traditional village pub that honours its past while offering something fresh and exciting for the future, a warm, welcoming space where both familiar faces and new visitors can come together to enjoy quality food, great drinks, and genuine hospitality.

The Red Lion will initially open from Wednesday 17th to Friday 19th June from 12pm on a walk-in basis, alongside the launch of its new grab & go breakfast offering available from 8am to 10:30am, Monday to Saturday. This will be followed by a special reopening celebration on Saturday 20th June, before regular service and opening hours commence from Sunday 21st June.

On Sunday 21st June, guests will be able to pre-book to enjoy a traditional Sunday roast or choose from the full main menu, making it the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day.

The reopening celebration on Saturday promises to be a true community event, featuring:

  • A ribbon cutting ceremony with former owners Les and Di at 12pm
  • A performance from the Tedburn Community Choir at 12:30pm
  • BBQ and full menu service from 1pm
  • Live music throughout the afternoon
  • A DJ into the evening

Whether visiting for food, drinks, or simply to see the transformation, the team at The Red Lion is inviting everyone to be part of this special moment. “Our vision is simple,” the owners added. “To bring back The Red Lion as a warm, welcoming and thriving village pub, a place where everyone feels comfortable, where friendships are made, and where new memories can be created, just as they were for so many years before.”

The reopening marks not just the return of a pub, but the revival of an important part of village life.

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