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Prolific shoplifter stole £7,500 of booze and goods across South Devon

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Prolific shoplifter stole £7,500 of booze and goods across South Devon

A prolific shoplifter who stole booze and other items valued at more than £7,500 has admitted 18 theft offences at court.  

Davidde Martin Dale aged 47, of Dower Road, Torquay was charged with the offences on 4 March and appeared at Exeter Magistrates Court on 5 March.

He stole alcohol and laundry products in shops across Torquay, Paignton, Teignmouth and Totnes between 1 January and 3 March this year. The total value of items stolen was £7663.15.

After admitting the thefts at court he was remanded in custody. His sentencing hearing is due to take place on 2 April 2026 at Plymouth Crown Court.  

Sergeant Sharon Unsworth, of the Torquay neighbourhood police team, said: “We are satisfied that this prolific shoplifter has been convicted in connection with a large number of retail thefts. He was stealing alcohol to sell on and was not someone who was struggling to feed himself, for example. There is always help available, such as local food banks, for those in genuine need.

“Theft and retail losses can have a very negative effect on businesses and shoplifters can be intimidating towards shop staff. Local police teams work with retailers to improve security measures to prevent crime, as well as catching offenders and bringing them to justice.”

Retailers in Torbay can take advantage of the UK Partners Against Crime system (UKPAC) by signing up to the online portal to share information.  

The UKPAC system is available as a smartphone app, that enables businesses to easily report crimes such as shoplifting and share intelligence, empowering communities to work together against persistent and repeat offenders.

Police can then access this information to build stronger evidence files, increasing the chances of successful prosecutions and reducing crime on the high street. To find out more please visit uk-pac.com

For updates from your police teams why not follow Torquay Police or Paignton Police on Facebook. We also have accounts for Totnes Police and Teignmouth & Dawlish Police.

Stories of inspiring Barnstaple women showcased at Guildhall event

Devon Today
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Stories of inspiring Barnstaple women showcased at Guildhall event

An exhibition celebrating the lives and achievements of women connected to Barnstaple brought together stories of prisoners, business leaders and community changemakers under one roof at the weekend.

Barnstaple Town Council hosted the Breaking Boundaries: An International Women’s Day Exhibition at the Guildhall on Saturday, March 7, welcoming residents to explore the often-overlooked contributions women have made to the town and the wider North Devon area.

Running from 11am to 3pm with free entry, the exhibition highlighted the diverse experiences of local women across history. Displays explored the lives of women from a range of backgrounds, including those involved in charity work, community leadership and even stories of prisoners whose experiences form part of the area’s social history.

International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)
International Women’s Day in Barnstaple (Credit : Simon Ellery)

Organisers said the annual event aimed to showcase how the actions and achievements of women have shaped Barnstaple and influenced the development of the wider community over time.

Mayor of Barnstaple, Councillor Janet Coates, said International Women’s Day provided an opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact women have had on the town.

She said: “International Women’s Day is a chance to recognise the extraordinary contribution women have made to our town. The exhibition honours those achievements and inspires future generations.”

Lucy Scarrott, heritage and cultural manager, said sharing these stories allowed people to see local history in a broader and more inclusive way.

She said: “Sharing these stories helps us see our local history in a richer and more inclusive way. This exhibition shines a light on women whose lives shaped our community and have often been forgotten by history.”

The exhibition formed part of a wider programme of International Women’s Day activities taking place across Barnstaple, organised by several local groups to celebrate the achievements of women and encourage reflection on their role in shaping the community.

Students grill MP on assisted dying and climate during school visit

Devon Today
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Students grill MP on assisted dying and climate during school visit

Students quizzed their local MP on issues ranging from assisted dying to climate change during a visit designed to bring national politics into the classroom.

Pupils at Teign School were given the opportunity to question MP Martin Wrigley during a visit that included classroom discussions, a tour of key student support facilities and meetings with the school’s student council.

The visit also marked a return to the school for Rebecca Jones, a member of Mr Wrigley’s staff and a former pupil whose interest in politics first developed while studying at the school.

Students take part in a discussion session during the MP’s visit to the school.
(Credit : Submitted)
MP Martin Wrigley during his visit to Teign School alongside staff and pupils.
(Credit : Submitted)
Teign School pupils with a member of staff during the visit by MP Martin Wrigley.
(Credit : Submitted)

During the visit, Mr Wrigley toured areas including the school’s nurture rooms, REACH and The Nest, before observing lessons including GCSE citizenship.

Students later took part in a question-and-answer session with the MP, raising topics such as assisted dying, violence against women and girls, lowering the voting age and climate change.

The discussions formed part of a wider programme designed to help pupils connect their academic studies with real-world civic engagement.

Mr Wrigley also visited A-level criminology and sociology lessons before finishing the visit in the school’s careers centre, where students explored university pathways and potential career opportunities.

Lucie Wagner, head of school at Teign School, said: “We are thrilled to have hosted Martin Wrigley and to see our students engaging so confidently with important social and political issues.”

Lucie added: “Visits like this bring learning to life and inspire our young people to think critically about the world around them.”

Matthew Shanks, chief executive officer of Education South West, said: “It is fantastic to see students connecting classroom learning with real-world politics.”

Matthew added: “Teign School continues to provide opportunities for pupils to explore their interests and develop the skills they need to make a positive impact in their communities.”

Major £4.2m restoration transforms Devon’s Stover Country Park

Devon County Council
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Major £4.2m restoration transforms Devon’s Stover Country Park

A major three‑year restoration project at Stover Country Park has now been completed, and the public are invited to help celebrate this weekend, (Sunday 8 March).

The Restoring Stover Park Project has seen more than £4.2 million invested in the park. Half of the funding came from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remainder provided by Devon County Council and a range of partners.

The project has transformed the park for wildlife, heritage and visitors. It marks the biggest programme of improvement at Stover for generations.

Over the three years, volunteers have played a vital role in the project, contributing more than 5,500 hours caring for Stover’s wildlife and heritage.

The project has delivered new and improved facilities, restored historic features, improved paths and trails, and carried out major work to improve Stover Lake and its wildlife.

It has also helped more people enjoy the park through education, volunteering and community activities.

Earlier this week, invited guests attended a celebration event at the park.

Guests, including funders, contractors, community partners and volunteers, marked the occasion by unveiling a commemorative granite plinth, planting trees in a new woodland and celebrating Stover’s history.

Devon County Council’s Vice Chair, Councillor Rosie Dawson, said:

“Stover is more than just a beautiful landscape. It is an extraordinary asset to our county — a place where people of all ages can walk, learn, breathe, and reconnect with nature.

“It supports wildlife, wellbeing, and community in equal measure. In a busy and often noisy world, spaces like this matter more than ever.

“What makes today particularly special is not just this incredible project, but what it represents.

“This park is a shining example of what can be achieved when agencies, authorities, volunteers and communities work together with shared purpose. Local government, partners, funders, environmental specialists, and dedicated volunteers have all played their part. No single organisation could have delivered this alone — it is true collaboration in action.”

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Environment and Transport, said: “This project shows what can be achieved when people and experts come together to care for a special place. Stover Country Park is now better protected for the future and even more welcoming for visitors. It’s an extraordinary achievement for our heritage and wildlife in this wonderful location and a moment to celebrate as Stover opens up for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Stover Country Park has undergone a truly transformational journey and its positive impact will be felt for generations to come. Thanks to National Lottery players, this project has opened up new ways for people to explore the park, celebrate its rich heritage and nurture its remarkable wildlife and biodiversity. Congratulations to everyone involved – what an amazing legacy to leave for the project.”

Ian Ellis, South West Programme Delivery Manager for National Highways, said:

“We’re proud to have played a part in this significant restoration project, a truly collaborative effort which will ultimately benefit communities living alongside our road network and improve the experience for the many people who visit and use the Stover Country Park site.

“Through our Designated Funds programme, we’ve enabled work to improve water quality and enhance biodiversity within Stover Country Park, funded the restoration of the historic granite Gatehouse directly facing the A38, and our teams have also carried out voluntary clearance and tree planting work.

“As part of the Community Trees Programme, a partnership between National Highways, The Tree Council and Greenwood Plants to donate native trees to communities across England, we have also provided over 2,000 trees for planting at the Stover Country Park site.”

Daphne Watts, Chair of Trustees, Friends of Stover Country Park, said: “The Restoring Stover Project has demonstrated what can be achieved when partners come together with a shared vision, and Friends of Stover Country Park are delighted to have been part of the Project. The Friends will continue to do all that we can to support this special place.”

Bill Horner, Project Sponsor for Devon Remembers, said: “The Devon Remembers project aimed to make sure that the stories and sacrifices of the First World War are remembered in ways people can still connect with today.

“At Stover, the creation of the Canadian War Memorial Trail and the improved access through the parkland and woodland are a lasting tribute to the ‘Sawdust Fusiliers’ of the Canadian Forestry Corps, whose skills and hard work were so vital in Britain’s hour of need.

“It’s fitting that, now the restoration work is complete, people can walk these paths and remember their contribution in such a positive and accessible way.”

Councillor Gary Taylor,  Executive Member for Planning and Building Control at Teignbridge District Council, said: “The restoration work that has been successfully delivered at Stover Country Park will provide significant, ongoing benefits for visitors to the site and for nature at the site.

“The restored pathways provide an enhanced network that includes opportunities to re-discover historic views and learn more about the heritage of the site.

“The efforts from many volunteers, Devon County Council staff and others involved in the project, can now be appreciated to the full by local residents and visitors from further afield.

“This is a great achievement, which Teignbridge District Council have fully supported.”

Michelle Lewis-Clarke, Town Clerk for Kingsteignton Town Council, said: “Kingsteignton Town Council was pleased to support the Restoring Stover Park Project through a financial contribution towards this important initiative. Stover Country Park is a much-valued natural space for our residents and the wider community, and this restoration will help protect its wildlife and heritage while improving facilities for visitors. We encourage our community to take the opportunity to visit the park, enjoy the improvements, and make the most of this wonderful local resource.”

The Mayor of Bovey Tracey, Councillor Sheila Brook, said: “It  was a pleasure to be involved in this project from its inception. The diverse community engagement generated by the project team was outstanding. It benefited many groups, and the project will leave a lasting legacy for years to come.”

Celebrations continue this Sunday 8 March, with a free public event at Stover Country Park. Everyone is welcome to drop in between 10am and 3pm to explore the improvements and enjoy family‑friendly activities.

For more information, email restoringstoverpark@devon.gov.uk

Torridge council marks Commonwealth Day with flag raising event

Torridge District Council
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Torridge council marks Commonwealth Day with flag raising event

Commonwealth Day marks the beginning of a week-long series of events and activities around the globe. On Monday 9th March, Torridge Councillors and Officers gathered at Riverbank House to raise the Commonwealth Flag with Councillor Doug Bushby, Chair of Torridge District Council leading the event.

The Commonwealth represents over 2.7 billion people or about a third of the world’s population, and almost a quarter of the world in size. It remains a voluntary association of independent and equal sovereign states constituted by the London Declaration of 1949 as the Commonwealth of Nations but continues to be open for any country to join.

Commonwealth Day is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to the principles of unity, peace, and equality. This year’s theme, ‘Unlocking opportunities together for a prosperous commonwealth,’ highlights how as a network of nations we work together to develop and deliver transformative, equitable and high impact opportunities across the Commonwealth.

Councillor Doug Bushby – Chair of Torridge District Council said: “Commonwealth Day is an opportunity for us to reflect on the strength of our connection and reminds us that we are stronger when united.  This year, Commonwealth Day calls us to action, to rally together to face today’s challenges and unlock opportunities that can deliver shared and lasting prosperity for all our people – a sentiment that we fully support at Torridge District Council. 

The Commonwealth has evolved over the years, but its foundations are firmly rooted in shared values such as prosperity, democracy, peace, and mutual respect. This core principle of the Commonwealth is especially relevant today, as conflicts continue to occur around the world.”

Devon woodland kindergarten praised as children thrive outdoors

Lewis Clarke
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Devon woodland kindergarten praised as children thrive outdoors

Children at a woodland kindergarten in Devon are making “rapid progress across all areas of the curriculum” and are “extremely happy and settled” in what inspectors describe as an “inspiring and stimulating setting”.

Wildlings Forest Kindergarten, based at Grammarcombe Woods on the Ashcombe Estate near Exeter, has been judged to be operating at a strong standard following an inspection on 5 December 2025. The childcare setting, which is registered on the Early Years Register, caters for children aged two to four and has 16 places a day.

In a glowing assessment of achievement, inspectors found: “Children make rapid progress across all areas of the curriculum, especially in communication and language. Staff work closely with parents to identify starting points and plan next steps. They skilfully support children to develop the knowledge and skills they need for future learning.”

The report continues: “Staff know the key milestones and prepare children effectively for school, particularly in the prime areas. Children grow in confidence and independence, ready to make the most of their skills and interests.”

Inspectors highlighted the personalised support offered to youngsters, stating: “Staff are highly effective in recognising when children need extra help and respond quickly to build resilience and perseverance. Children receive targeted support through small groups or one-to-one sessions when required. This personalised approach ensures that all children overcome barriers and achieve well from their starting points, leaving them well prepared for their next stage of learning.”

Behaviour and attitudes were also praised. “Leaders have been rigorous in establishing a positive environment where everyone has high expectations and always acts in the best interests of the children. Behaviour is good, and children learn the skills they need to become good citizens,” the report states.

It adds: “Relationships between staff and children are warm and respectful, giving children a strong sense of belonging… Clear routines help children feel secure and confident, while collaborative activities teach them how to share and work together. This approach ensures that children develop positive attitudes, respect for others and independence in a calm and supportive setting.”

Safeguarding arrangements were found to be effective, with inspectors concluding that “the safeguarding standards are met. This means that leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, children are made safer and feel safe.”

The curriculum was described as both ambitious and carefully tailored. “Leaders have high aspirations for the children attending this inspiring and stimulating setting. Staff have developed a bespoke and broad curriculum that is focused on developing children’s resilience, independence and ability to be together.”

Inspectors noted a “sharp focus on developing children’s communication and language skills”, adding: “Staff are skilled at narrating play and supporting children to interact with each other. Children develop a love of books while at the setting. Stories are shared throughout the day and are carefully selected to make links to learning.”

Mathematics is woven through daily activities. “Children develop mathematical language effectively, as staff thread this through many activities. For example, children are encouraged to count how many children are sat at the fire circle and sing number songs. Staff introduce mathematical language, such as ‘tall’ and ‘long’, as children build models together.”

Inclusion was another strength. “Staff know the children well and plan highly effective activities to support their learning. They consistently adapt teaching to meet a wide range of needs and provide sensitive support to promote inclusion and participation.”

Leadership has brought fresh momentum, according to inspectors. “The recent change in leadership has brought a positive and exciting impact to the setting. Leaders are highly passionate about their roles and have high aspirations for every child. They know what they do well and are clear about the areas they want to improve next.”

The report concludes with a vivid picture of daily life for the children: “Children are extremely happy and settled in the care of attentive and nurturing staff at this warm and nurturing kindergarten. Children have established secure attachments with their key persons, who give the children practical and emotional support. This helps children to build trusting bonds with the staff and to consistently feel safe and secure.”

Nursery praised for helping Plymouth children feel safe and confident

Lewis Clarke
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Nursery praised for helping Plymouth children feel safe and confident

A nursery in Plymouth has been praised for creating “a welcoming environment” where children “feel emotionally secure” and develop a love of learning from an early age.

Bambinos at Frogmore Montessori, based at Frogmore House, 58 Frogmore Avenue, Plymouth, was inspected on 12 January 2026.

The childcare setting, which is registered to provide 55 places for children aged from 0 to 4, was found to be meeting the expected standard across all areas, with safeguarding arrangements confirmed as effective.

Inspectors reported that “the safeguarding standards are met. This means that leaders and/or those responsible for governance and oversight fulfil their specific responsibilities and have established an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and concerns are actively identified, acted upon and managed. As a result, children are made safer and feel safe.”

The report highlights the strong progress children make from their starting points. Inspectors found: “Children, including those who are disadvantaged or have other barriers to their learning, progress well from their starting points. They gain the key skills needed for future learning.

“Typically, children are confident to express themselves and ask for help when needed, although staff’s support for children’s communication and language development is inconsistent.”

From a young age, children are encouraged to become independent. “Pre-school children pour their drinks, spread butter onto crackers and put away their used dishes after mealtimes,” the report states, while two-year-olds develop coordination and strength through activities such as using pipettes to transport water and digging in sand.

Behaviour and attitudes were also praised. “Leaders and staff create a warm and calm environment and give clear and consistent expectations for children’s behaviour, taking account of children’s age and stage of development. Children behave well, showing respect for each other and staff.”

Inspectors noted that relationships between staff and babies are “sensitive and nurturing”, adding: “Parents share extremely positive views about the bonds their children have formed with their key persons.”

Children’s welfare and wellbeing are central to the nursery’s approach. “Relationships between staff and children are respectful and warm and promote children’s wellbeing. Staff are kind, sensitive, patient. They know the children well and support children’s individual needs. All children have a strong sense of belonging, including disadvantaged children and those who may face other barriers to their learning and/or wellbeing.”

Settling-in arrangements are adapted to suit individual children, and “new children feel comfortable to go to their key person for cuddles when they are upset, unsure or need help”. However, inspectors noted that “staff do not always share detailed information with parents about their children’s day and who is looking after them, to promote consistency in children’s experiences.”

The curriculum was described as “broad and balanced”, with a particular focus on physical, personal, social and emotional development. Staff assess children accurately and plan activities to build on what they already know. Children show “curiosity, creativity, imagination and enthusiasm” in their learning.

The inspection also found strong leadership. “Leaders reflect accurately on the nursery. They identify areas for improvement that will directly impact children’s education.” Staff morale is high, with leaders said to prioritise staff wellbeing and provide effective support and coaching.

In a section titled What it’s like to be a child at this setting, inspectors painted a vivid picture of daily life. “Children enjoy their learning and play with creativity and curiosity. Adult-led activities are planned around children’s interests, such as learning about birds after children observed some while looking out of the nursery windows.”

The report concludes that children “develop a love of books”, eagerly gathering to listen to stories, while “children behave well and play cooperatively”, inventing games and even “spontaneously cuddle their friends.”

Northam Burrows toll charges to return as new season tickets go on sale

Torridge District Council
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Northam Burrows toll charges to return as new season tickets go on sale

Toll charges on Northam Burrows are set to resume on Friday 3 April 2026, and season tickets will be available to purchase from Monday 9 March. Tickets cost £70 (plus an additional £3 postage charge if buying online or over the phone) and provide unlimited access for one vehicle, with the option to register a second vehicle on the same ticket – although only one may enter the park at a time.

To buy a season ticket, visitors should have their vehicle registration details ready before they begin. You can buy a season ticket in three simple ways:

  • Online at torridge.gov.uk/northamburrows.
  • By calling Torridge District Council’s Customer Services team on 01237 428700 and selecting option 9.
  • In person at the Toll Kiosk from 3 April, where payment can be made by card (including contactless) or cash.

Tickets bought online or by phone will be posted directly to the purchaser’s home address.

⇒ TICKETS PURCHASED ONLINE OR OVER THE PHONE ARE DELIVERED BY RECORDED DELIVERY AND MUST BE SIGNED FOR. 

Northam Burrows Country Park spans approximately 253 hectares and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Its mix of salt marsh, sand dunes, grassland, and coastal plain provides a rich habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including rare plants, birds, and other animals. The Burrows also offers direct access to the award‑winning Blue Flag beach at Westward Ho!, making it a popular starting point for visitors.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Lead Member for Culture & Community Engagement at Torridge District Council, said: “A season ticket means you can come and go as often as you like, whether it’s for a leisurely walk in the fresh air, a family beach day or an evening enjoying the beautiful sunsets from the pebble ridge. It is a great way to make the most of the coastline throughout the season.

Northam Burrows is such a special place, full of history, wildlife and wide-open space. It is perfect for children, with plenty of room to explore and a safe lifeguarded beach for paddling and playing. The Ranger team also run friendly events and activities for all ages.

After all the rain we’ve had, we are really hoping for a warm sunny summer! We all deserve it after a long winter, and there is nowhere better to enjoy it than down on the Burrows!”

Motorcyclist in his 70s seriously hurt in A35 crash near Axminster

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Motorcyclist in his 70s seriously hurt in A35 crash near Axminster

We are appealing for witnesses and information following a serious road traffic collision on A35, at Axminster, on Wednesday 4 March.

Emergency services were called at around 3.30pm to the A35 at the junction with Lyme Road near Axminster, where it was reported that a collision had occurred involving a red Kia Nero car and a grey Triumph Bonneville motorcycle.

The motorbike rider, a man in his 70s, sustained potentially life-changing injuries and was taken to Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital for treatment.

The A35 was closed while emergency services safely attended to the casualty. It reopened around 6.30pm.

Officers from the Roads Policing team would like to thank the public for their patience whilst the road was closed.

Anyone with any relevant information or dash-cam footage which may assist the investigation is asked to contact police via our website or by calling 101 quoting log 396 of 04/03/26.

Police hunt witnesses after Plymouth hit and run leaves man hurt

Devon and Cornwall Police
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Police hunt witnesses after Plymouth hit and run leaves man hurt

Officers investigating a serious injury collision in Plymouth are appealing to locate and speak to the occupants of a car who may have witnessed the incident.

We are trying to locate and speak to the occupants of a dark coloured car which we believe is a Mk5 (02-08 plate) Ford Fiesta, or similar.

The car was seen driving in the area of Tothill Avenue at around 9.48pm on Wednesday 4 February and we believe the occupants may have information that could assist our investigation.

The car was seen driving from Cattedown roundabout, along Tothill Road and then Tothill Avenue in the direction of Greenbank.

We wish to speak to those who were in the car as possible witnesses to the following collision.

Police were called to a serious collision on Tothill Avenue, Plymouth, at around 10pm on Wednesday 4 February, which involved a pedestrian and white Audi car, which left the scene.

The pedestrian, a local man in his 60s, suffered serious, potentially life-changing injuries.

The road was closed while an investigation was carried out at the scene. Following enquiries, the car was located nearby.

A 21-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene and driving a vehicle while unfit through drugs. He has been released under investigation while the investigation is ongoing.

If you can assist in identifying the car, were an occupant of the car, or have any information that could help us, please contact us via our website here or by calling 101 quoting  reference 50260030150.

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