The Liberal Democrats have today set out a plan to cut energy bills by £100 for the average household in North Devon, helping to tackle the cost of living crisis.
Lib Dem MP, Ian Roome, has backed the party’s plans for an “Essential Energy Guarantee.”
It would see every household receive a basic energy allowance, equivalent to 50% of average energy consumption, at a discounted rate, helping with the cost of everyday essential energy needs like heating, lighting, and running medical equipment.
This is the newest part of a package of common sense policies put forward by the Liberal Democrats: ensuring all new homes are zero carbon, a new home insulation upgrade programme, breaking the link between electricity and gas prices, and removing the renewables obligation levy. Overall, the party’s plans would halve energy bills for families in the next decade.
According to House of Commons Library data, an estimated 12% of local households in North Devon were in fuel poverty in 2023, struggling to afford their most basic energy needs. This is higher than both the average in the South West and nationally.
This intervention would save the average household £100 a year, while the poorest 20% would save an average of £140.
Families would receive extra allowances for children, and the most vulnerable – such as people with disabilities or on the lowest incomes would receive the discounted rate on all their energy use.
The scheme will be funded by clawing back £5 billion in unexpected windfall profits from monopoly energy network operators.
North Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP, Ian Roome, said:
“Across North Devon, too many families are still having to make difficult choices just to keep their homes warm and the lights on. In rural areas like ours, it’s already more expensive to heat homes and we have many households relying on heating oil who are not protected in the same way as those on the gas grid.
“I wrote directly to the Energy Minister about just how exposed people in North Devon are to sudden price rises. But it’s not just households feeling the pressure, farmers and rural businesses face rising costs of energy, red diesel and fertiliser, and they’re in need of urgent government support.
“The Essential Energy Guarantee would give households proper, long-term help and would force energy network monopolies to use their windfall profits to support it. I challenge Labour’s leadership contenders to back our proposal and finally give families in North Devon the long-term energy security they deserve.”
North Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP, Ian Roome, secured a place for Barum Brewery’s ‘Original’ pint on tap in the Houses of Parliament and has called on the government for more support for North Devon’s pubs and hospitality sector.
North Devon’s MP, Ian Roome, was joined behind the bar by Barum Brewery’s Tim Webster to pull a pint, describing it as “a taste of home”, as part of a push for more support for pubs and the hospitality sector.
Barum Brewery has been producing real ale behind The Reform Inn in Pilton, Barnstaple, since 1996. The pub remains the brewery’s tap, with its beer distributed across Devon.
Ian Roome MP used the occasion to highlight the pressure facing pubs, breweries and other hospitality businesses across North Devon, saying that rising energy bills, business rates and employer National Insurance costs have left many places struggling to remain viable.
The Liberal Democrats are calling for an emergency cut in VAT for hospitality businesses, proper reform of the business-rates system and an end to the Government’s damaging “jobs tax” on employers.
North Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP, Ian Roome, said:
“I was so pleased to be able to secure a place from Barum Brewery’s pint in Parliament and bring a proper taste of North Devon to Westminster.
“Pubs and the hospitality sector are so important to North Devon; they support local jobs, bring people together and are a huge part of our visitor economy. But pubs, breweries and hospitality venues are being badly let down by the government and squeezed from every direction. I’ve spoken to many locally that are genuinely worried about whether they can keep going.
“If we want our local pubs and businesses to survive, we have to support them. And in Parliament, I’m calling for emergency VAT relief, fairer business rates and ending the unfair jobs tax. The Liberal Democrats will keep pushing for that support in Parliament, because once a village pub or independent brewery is lost, it is very difficult to bring it back.”
Residents in the rural South Hams village of East Allington turned out in force this week (Thursday, 11 June) for a public meeting to discuss how to stop a property developer despoiling an open field on the edge of the village with an unwanted, oversized housing estate. Devon CPRE, the local charity that campaigns to protect Devon’s countryside from inappropriate development, supports their view that the proposed development will damage the distinct and irreplaceable character of the historic settlement that nestles within lush rolling countryside and is celebrated for its rich agricultural heritage and 13th-century church.
South Hams District Council has already granted outline planning permission for residential development on farmland south of Dartmouth Road, adjacent to the village recreation ground. Baker Estates has now submitted a Reserved Matters application for a fairly dense layout of 40 new houses, ten more homes than in the original outline plans and with a ‘green buffer’ around the development reduced from 20 metres to less than 2 metres.
Residents examine how the plans have changed
Members of the recently formed East Allington Residents Action Group (EARAG) are up in arms about the latest proposals and organised the meeting in the village hall to warn the local community that the village’s identity and everyday life are under threat if South Hams District Council approves the current plans. Time is of the essence because the deadline for comments and objections is Thursday, 25th June.
Devon CPRE has already submitted its objection on South Ham’s planning portal, highlighting heritage and landscape concerns, including the impact on the setting and views of the Grade II*-listed church, significant changes to the character of a public right of way footpath that runs around the field, and the overall design and density of the development. Devon CPRE’s objection concludes that the Reserved Matters application should be refused, amongst other reasons, because it would replace ‘an open rural field contributing to the church’s wider landscape setting with a more conventional suburban edge’.
Members of the Action Group took it in turns to address the meeting, covering a comprehensive list of “reasonable questions that deserve to be answered”. Their concerns include the impact of the proposed site entrance and the heightened risk to children using the recreation area; drainage, sewage and surface water issues for existing and future residents; infrastructure and environmental issues; the lack of provision for any new services including a village shop; the unnecessary loss of established hawthorn and ash trees along the site boundaries and the overall impact on the health and wellbeing of residents.
Andy Murray told the meeting, “I’d like to make it absolutely clear that our group is not opposed to development simply for the sake of opposing the development. We recognise that housing is needed, we recognise that communities evolve, and we recognise that East Allington, like many villages across the country, will continue to grow over time. Our role is not to determine whether the development should happen. Our role is to ensure that if it does happen, it is supported by adequate infrastructure to be sustainable for the long term and it does not leave existing or future residents dealing with problems for years down the line.”
The well-attended meeting in East Allington
Annette Zaffiro spoke about social issues: “I feel we are standing at a crossroads. The Reserved Matters application by Baker Estates is not just a debate about bricks and mortar. It is a fundamental question about the social fabric, survival and the future of our community. As it stands, this proposal ignores the reality of life in East Allington. The Joint Local Plan explicitly demands sustainable development. Yet, our village currently has no local shop, no meaningful public transport links and no local employment hub. If the development goes ahead in its current form, it will create severe social issues in our community… By building a housing estate without any supporting infrastructure, Baker Estates is creating an isolated pocket of houses; this is not community building. It is a car-dependent sprawl. Surely, we need better for our community. ”
Sarah-Jane Glanville, who edits The East Allington Village Voice magazine, added, “Baker Estates’ current plan misses the heart of what makes our village special… Writing a cheque does nothing to protect our local environment. We need a living, breathing community allotment where new and existing residents can grow food, connect and thrive together. Traditional community allotments serve as vibrant, ecological stepping stones, creating rich microhabitats of pollinators to keep the Devon landscape alive.”
She added, “Our village has already stepped up and done its bit. We have fulfilled and surpassed our local housing obligations. Look around our village today. We have multiple homes, sitting on the market right now, unsold for months on end. There is absolutely no proof of unmet local demand.”
Concluding the meeting, Phil Forgham urged everyone to make their voice heard and submit their individual comments to South Hams District Council before 25 June.
Devon CPRE Director Penny Mills commented, “CPRE is celebrating its centenary this year. For 100 years our charity has steadfastly fought inappropriate development in our countryside. Here in Devon, we have so many precious landscapes and productive farmland that should be protected for future generations because there are plenty of other sites for new homes, including previously developed brownfield land. We support communities across the county with such applications and have recently helped residents in Westleigh in North Devon fight off plans for new homes on the edge of their village. We would urge people in South Devon to join us as members to support our fighting funds.”
Captain Beany Marks 40 Years Since His 100-Hour Bath of Beans World Record With New Charity Challenge.
New world record attempt will see a bath of beans paddled nine miles from Barnstaple to Bideford in support of Children’s Holiday Foundation North Devon.
Captain Beany is preparing to mark 40 years since his famous world record of spending 100 hours in a bath of baked beans by taking on a brand-new challenge, setting a new world record for the furthest paddled bath of beans.
The charity challenge will see Captain Beany and the event team attempt to paddle a specially prepared raft carrying a bath filled with beans approximately nine miles along the River Taw and River Torridge, starting at Barnstaple Bridge and finishing at Bideford Bridge.
The event is raising funds for Children’s Holiday Foundation North Devon, a local charity that provides holidays of a lifetime to Florida for children with critical, life-affecting or life-limiting illnesses and disabilities.
Captain Beany said: “Forty years ago, I sat in a bath of beans for 100 hours, and I never imagined that all these years later I’d be getting back into a bath of beans. It’s going to be fun, it’s going to be challenging, and most importantly, it’s all for a great cause. I can’t wait to bring some smiles, beans and world record spirit to North Devon.”
The finish line of the challenge will be marked by Brunswick Wharf, the headline sponsor of the event. The waterfront finish at Bideford Bridge will provide a fitting end point for the nine-mile record attempt.
Andrew Bowers of Peak Online, who is helping organise the event, said: “Captain Beany is a true character and this is exactly the kind of positive, memorable event that can bring people together. Marking 40 years since his 100-hour bath of beans record with a new world record attempt feels very special. Paddling a bath of beans from Barnstaple to Bideford is no small challenge, but it will create a brilliant story for North Devon while raising money for Children’s Holiday Foundation North Devon.”
The event clothing also features support from local companies, including Braddicks Leisure, Lean Projects, HWH Insurance, Affinity Devon Shopping Centre and Simpkins Edwards.
Organisers hope the challenge will attract public support along the route and at the finish line.
A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the disappearance of teenager Taylor Charlton in Barnstaple, after new information was reported to detectives.
The arrest was made at an address in the North Devon area on Friday 12 June and the suspect has been released on police bail until September pending further enquiries
Enquiries are taking place at a number of locations as part of the investigation.
Taylor, 15, pictured, remains missing. He was last seen on the night of Friday 8 May.
Senior Investigation Officer Detective Inspector Charlotte Heath said: “Devon and Cornwall Police, supported by specialists from neighbouring forces, have committed extensive resources to finding Taylor over the last five weeks.
“Sadly, despite this, his whereabouts remain unknown. Much of the information we have gathered does not indicate the involvement of a third-party.
“This week, we have received new information that someone may have been involved in harming Taylor and, as a result, we have taken action to fully understand this.
“That has included the arrest today of a male and his subsequent police interview. Taylor’s family have been informed of this development.
“This remains one line of enquiry, amid many, and we will leave no stone unturned.
“Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Sector Inspector Andy Wills added: “We remain committed to find answers for Taylor’s loved-ones and fully assessing and acting upon any new intelligence that comes to light as part of this.
“We remain open-minded and all lines of enquiry will be thoroughly reviewed in order to ensure we understand, as far as we are able, what has happened to Taylor.
“Our officers are working tirelessly to ensure this, and all, relevant lines of enquiry are fully investigated.
“We know how upsetting and concerning this news will be for Taylor’s family, friends, and the wider community.
“Taylor’s family continue to be updated and supported by specialist officers.
“We are asking members of the public to help us by avoiding speculation, especially sharing any unconfirmed information online, and allowing detectives to continue our investigation.”
The last confirmed sighting of Taylor is on CCTV near a footpath close to Tarka Leisure Centre and the Seven Brethren car park, Barnstaple, at 10.41pm on Friday 8 May. He is seen heading in the direction of the River Taw.
We would still like to hear from anyone who was in that immediate area at or around that time and thinks they may have seen Taylor.
Anyone in possession of any CCTV or digital recording from the immediate area at the relevant time, who has not already contacted police, is also asked to get in touch.
If you have information that is urgent, please phone 999, or in less pressing circumstances please consider using 101, quoting reference number 50260117084.
Tyler Wilkey, 32 from Barnstaple was sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on 28 May to two years and two months in prison.
A fourteen-year restraining order not to contact the victim was also put in place.
The court heard how the victim was in constant fear of Wilkey, who displayed behaviours such as making threats to harm including to harm her family.
Officer in the case, PC Hunt said: “The victim in this case has shown great bravery in coming forward to report Wilkey for the abuse he has inflicted upon her.
“The psychological harm will take time to heal but we hope that she feels that justice has been served”.
“Anybody who has suffered abuse within a relationship – whether that be physical abuse or controlling behaviour – is asked to report it to us.
“Each report will be investigated, and you will be supported throughout the process. Please report via 101 or our website or call 999 if in immediate danger.”
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.
Local discussions about shop theft and anti-social behaviour in Ilfracombe have prompted Devon & Cornwall Police to address misinformation about the safety of the seaside town.
In a recent letter sent to the Commissioner, councillors raised concerns about shoplifting, street violence and intimidation in the popular seaside town.
As a result, a series of articles have been circulating online, suggesting that Ilfracombe is an unsafe place to live or visit, causing concern for people living in and planning to visit the area.
Inspector Joey Lester leads teams in South Molton, Lynton, Ilfracombe and Braunton. She said “We recognise that recent online commentary may have raised concerns within our community and amongst people planning to visit the town over the summer months.
“It is important to balance individual incidents and online commentary with the data, and I want to stress that Ilfracombe remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work and visit.
“Over the last week, officers in Ilfracombe have arrested two young people and will be making additional arrests in relation to criminal damage offences, assaults and theft. Final written warnings have also been issued to four individuals causing persistent anti-social behaviour issues in the town and the team are working closely with North Devon Council and Ilfracombe College to put prevention measures in place.
“The latest available data shows positive progress in the town, with violence and sexual offences in Ilfracombe reducing by around 6% in the past year.
“Longer-term trends are also reassuring, with data indicating that overall crime in parts of Ilfracombe has fallen by more than 50% over the past decade.
“These figures demonstrate that targeted policing and strong partnership working are making a difference locally and I hope this provides some reassurance to anyone who may have been affected by the recent publications.”
Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “I was sorry to hear about the issues being raised by Ilfracombe Town Council and I am pleased to learn of the actions the police have been taking.
“Everyone should be able to go about their lives without the threat of violence and theft. That is why I would encourage anyone to report crimes and anti-social behaviour to the police. This can be done in person at the town’s excellent police enquiry office, by calling 101, or using the contact form on the police website.
“I would also encourage people to sign up for the DC Alert service which helps improve communication between the police and the communities they serve. Reporting crime is vitally important because this information is used by the police to make decisions about where officers and staff are based.”
The Ilfracombe Neighbourhood team are committed to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour and their efforts were demonstrated earlier this month when a prolific offender was arrested after causing persistent disruption in the town.
Kevin Trigg, aged 39, of no fixed abode was due to appear at North & East Devon Magistrates’ Court on Friday 8 May, where he was made the subject of Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) to prevent any future offending. Despite failing to attend the hearing, the CBO was granted and will be in place for two years.
The Criminal Behaviour Order prevents Trigg from:
Littering
Defecating or urinating in a public place
Leaving any drug paraphernalia in a public place
Consuming alcohol or being in possession of any unsealed or open containers of alcohol in a public place with Public Space Protection Orders within Barnstaple, Ilfracombe or Bideford
Act in a manner which is threatening or intimidating in a public place, including shouting and swearing, being in an intoxicated state or being in a state of undress
Enter areas of Barnstaple, Ilfracombe or Bideford where Public Space Protection Orders are in place
Entering Rapparee Cove or Hele Bay, Ilfracombe
The Criminal Behaviour Order was secured with support from North Devon Council. North Devon Council Leader, Councillor David Clayton, said: “North Devon Council continues to work closely with Devon & Cornwall Police and our local partners to respond quickly to concerns and ensure our communities remain safe, welcoming, and well supported for residents and visitors alike.”
Trigg has since been arrested and charged with being in possession of class B drugs, a public order offence and breaching a Criminal Behaviour Order. He is currently remanded in prison, awaiting sentencing.
With support from North Devon Homes, the Ilfracombe Neighbourhood team have also been successful in securing a closure order for a property in Oak Tree Gardens which had become a hotspot for antisocial behaviour, causing relentless disruption to neighbours for 12 months.
The tenant has now been barred from accessing North Devon Homes services in a bid to protect the community.
Inspector Lester added, “I know many people will welcome the news of Kevin Trigg who caused widespread concern and frustration for people living locally.
“This is a great example of how working together with our communities and partner organisations can achieve positive outcomes that make a real difference.
“We really do rely on support and valuable information from the public. If you have concerns or have noticed something suspicious, please report it to us. I promise we will listen and we will take action.
“In the meantime, we will continue to provide a visible policing presence, carry out proactive patrols, and work closely with residents, businesses and partner agencies to keep Ilfracombe safe for everyone to enjoy.”
If you have concerns or information about antisocial behaviour should report it to police online using the reporting tool on the force website or by calling 101.
Always call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.
The family of a 63-year-old husband, father and grandfather who died following a motorbike collision near Barnstaple have paid a loving tribute to their ‘BFG – Big Friendly Giant’.
Tony Brown, of Swimbridge, was airlifted to hospital on 22 May after the Honda motorcycle he was riding was involved in a single-vehicle collision on an unnamed road between Filleigh and Swimbridge at around 8.20am.
Sadly, Tony’s injuries were not survivable and he passed away on 26 May at Derriford Hospital, Plymouth.
In a statement, his family said: “We are heartbroken to share the loss of our much-loved dad, Tony, who sadly passed away following a bike accident near Swimbridge on 22 May.
“Tony was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Lin, a cherished dad, and a proud grandfather to his 14 grandchildren, all of who meant the world to him. He loved nothing more than spending time with his children and grandchildren; family time was truly his happiest place.
“Known affectionately by his family as ‘the BFG’ – our Big Friendly Giant – Tony was exactly that: a larger-than-life character with a gentle, kind heart. He had a passion for motorbikes and enjoyed the freedom and joy they brought him, but it was the simple moments with family that meant the most.
“Tony was the most loving and loyal man, who touched the hearts of everyone he met. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and at ease, and his warmth and generosity will never be forgotten.
“He will be deeply missed by his wife Lin, his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“We kindly ask for privacy at this difficult time as we come to terms with our loss.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information or dash-cam footage, is asked to contact Devon & Cornwall Police via its website here or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50260129430.
A man has been arrested and two dogs seized after police executed an animal welfare warrant at a property in Mid Devon.
Officers carried out the warrant at a property in Clayhanger, on the Devon/Somerset border, at around 7am on Monday 11 May, following concerns reported to Mid Devon District Council.
A man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of firearms and animal welfare offences. He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
Neighbourhood Beat Manager PC Neil Minehan, who led the operation, said: “Animal welfare is something we take seriously, and the results of this warrant demonstrate the value of information provided by the public and partner organisations.
“If you are worried about an animal’s welfare, please don’t hesitate to report it. Speaking up can help protect vulnerable animals and ensure they receive the care they need.”
The Neighbourhood Policing Team was supported by Mid Devon District Council’s Licensing Team and the RSPCA.
Two dogs – a terrier suffering from injuries and infection, and a heavily pregnant beagle – were seized under Section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act. Both are now in the care of the RSPCA, which is leading enquiries into potential animal welfare offences.
Mid Devon District Council also issued improvement notices relating to the welfare of other animals at the property.
Amy Sully, Regulatory Officer at Mid Devon District Council added: “Everyone has a responsibility to protect animal welfare, and there is no excuse for animals to be left to suffer.
“We urge anyone aware of potential welfare offences to report them to the relevant authorities, including the Council’s Licensing Team, the Police or the RSPCA. As the licensing authority for animal activities, we take all concerns seriously and encourage the public to contact us so we can take appropriate action.”
Anyone concerned about animal welfare is encouraged to contact the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 or visit: https://www.rspca.org.uk/reportaconcern or report to your local council.
If an incident requires immediate intervention or involves animal fighting, always call police on 999.
A surprise appearance on ITV’s This Morning left a Torquay school chef celebrating national recognition after years of helping young people develop confidence, practical skills and pathways into employment.
Arthur Hawkesworth, 33, hospitality and catering lead at Combe Pafford School, was revealed as the winner of the Food Educator Award at the 2026 Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards during a live segment on the programme. He was surprised by television presenter Mark Wright before learning he had won the national accolade.
Arthur Hawesworth and Mark Wright
The award recognises Arthur’s work supporting pupils with special educational needs and disabilities through food education, helping them build employability skills and gain real-world hospitality experience.
Since joining Combe Pafford School in 2023, Arthur has developed the school’s purpose-built café, The Yellow Frog, into a vocational learning environment where pupils work towards recognised qualifications while learning hospitality skills in a setting designed to reflect professional standards.
Staff at the school say pupils are gaining confidence, independence and practical experience through their involvement in the café. Arthur also works with young people who have been out of education due to anxiety or social, emotional and mental health needs, using the café as a route back into learning.
Arthur Hawesworth and school
Former pupils have progressed into catering apprenticeships and hospitality roles, with Arthur helping them prepare for interviews and supporting their transition into employment.
Sustainability is also a key part of the project, with produce grown by pupils and donated by staff used in the café. Students are involved in planning, preparing and serving food, while healthy takeaway meals for staff provide additional learning opportunities.
Jenny McVeigh, deputy head teacher at Combe Pafford School, said: “Arthur is an exceptional teacher and a genuinely caring person who wants the very best for every young person he works with.
“Our pupils often describe him as positive, encouraging and someone who always puts a smile on their face.
“We see the impact he has every day and are delighted to see his dedication and commitment recognised with this award.”
Big Has, one of the award judges, said: “Arthur’s story really stayed with me because this goes way beyond teaching cooking skills.
“He’s created an environment where young people are gaining confidence, learning practical life skills and getting real experience that opens doors beyond school.
“What stood out most was the belief he has in his pupils and the standards he holds them to.
“Through food, he’s helping young people see what they’re capable of and giving them opportunities that can genuinely change futures.”
Arthur Hawkesworth with pupilArthur Hawkesworth with pupil 2Arthur Hawkesworth Coombe Pafford PupilsArthur Hawesworth and schoolArthur Hawesworth with awardArthur Hawesworth and Mark Wright
The Jamie Oliver Good School Food Awards, supported by Wonde, celebrate schools and individuals promoting food education across the UK. Winners receive a Golden Spoon trophy along with equipment, resources and experiences designed to support their work.
