Robots rolled into the classroom as pupils at Lifton Community Academy put their engineering skills to the test, building and coding their own creations from scratch.
Children worked together to design and construct Lego models before programming them to complete specific movements and actions, combining creativity with problem-solving and teamwork.
The STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) session was designed to strengthen pupils’ understanding of how technology works in the real world, while building confidence in logical thinking and digital skills.
Young Lifton Engineers Bring Lego Creations to LifeLifton pupils build their Lego model
The activity forms part of Lifton Community Academy’s wider approach to design technology and computing, encouraging pupils to become curious and critical thinkers who can solve real problems and understand how technology shapes everyday life.
Through sessions like this, pupils develop computational thinking and digital literacy, as well as learning how to use technology responsibly in preparation for an increasingly digital world.
Adam Hill, headteacher at Lifton Community Academy, said: “The children had such a brilliant time. They were completely absorbed in building their Lego models and then bringing them to life.
“It was lovely to see them working together, solving problems and celebrating when their creations worked. Sessions like this really help spark curiosity and confidence in STEM subjects.”
Young Lifton Engineers Bring Lego Creations to LifeA budding Lifton engineer at work
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive officer of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “It is always wonderful to see pupils enjoying their learning.
“Opportunities like this help children develop skills that will support them throughout their education and beyond, while showing them that subjects like science and computing can be exciting, creative and fun.”
One Ilfracombe’s focus on work and skills development in the town will continue this month with a free Jobs and Careers Fair.
More than 35 employers are due to attend the free event which will be held at the North Devon Resort, Marlborough Road, in Ilfracombe, on Wednesday 25 February from 10am-2pm.
It’s being organised by One Ilfracombe as part of a programme of training and work experience opportunities to support employers and jobseekers.
The not-for-profit organisation is working closely with local businesses to bridge skills gaps in the town. It’s teamed up with Learn Devon, local schools, and North Devon College adult education outreach, to provide help.
So far, over 200 people have engaged in basic skills training, and more than 60 businesses have been supported with advice and guidance.
The Jobs and Career Fair will be a good chance for local people to meet with employers to discover job and training opportunities, and to receive career support, including advice on building their CV.
Charmain Lovett, One Ilfracombe Project Officer, said: “One Ilfracombe is working with a number of partners to deliver a range of courses and training opportunities for people in the local community. This initiative could help employers fill a gap in their team or it could help someone looking to get back into work or education. Maybe you’re a parent looking to get back into employment after having some time off, or you could have a hobby that you want to turn into a business, or maybe you’re in a job that needs a certain qualification to take you to that next level. The free Jobs and Careers Fair is a great opportunity to find out what’s available or provide you with ideas of your next steps.”
Councillor Simon Clist, Cabinet Member for Assets and Resources, said: “Ilfracombe has enormous potential, and what One Ilfracombe is doing is turning that potential into opportunity. This Jobs and Careers Fair is not just a one-day event, it’s part of a wider commitment to connect local people with real jobs, real training and real progression pathways.
“We know that coastal towns can face particular challenges around access to skills and employment. By bringing employers, training providers and support services together in one place, we are making it easier for residents to take that next step, whether that’s returning to work, gaining new qualifications or progressing in their current role.
“Through Learn Devon, and our partnership with local businesses and education providers, we are building a stronger local workforce that meets the needs of employers while opening up brighter futures for individuals and families in Ilfracombe.”
Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, said: “Ilfracombe is full of talented, hardworking people, and events like this Jobs and Careers Fair really help bring that potential to life, giving people the confidence, support and encouragement to take that next step, whatever stage they’re at. The fair will provide direct access to employers looking to recruit now but also give advice on volunteering options and life-skills to help those moving back to employment.
“Our local employers want to see their communities thrive, and One Ilfracombe is helping make those connections that can genuinely change someone’s direction. Whether you’re returning to work, switching careers or just exploring what’s out there, this is a friendly and welcoming place to start.”
In response to feedback from employers, a range of training courses and workshops are being offered in Ilfracombe, many of which are free. Courses are available in a variety of subjects, including digital business skills, customer care, food safety and hygiene, as well as Maths and English.
The National Trust recently helped with a hands-on Countryside Skills workshop, building bird boxes. Around 15 people took part, learning to work with tools to discover new skills and confidence and inspire their creativity.
Fraser Goodfellow, North Devon National Trust Ranger, said: “We’re incredibly proud to play a part in opening doors for young people at the National Trust. Seeing their enthusiasm and talent shine through reminds us why these partnerships matter. We look forward to welcoming them for work experience and hopefully, nurturing future National Trust Rangers.”
For more details contact Ilfracombe Employment Hub, at 11 Belgrave Promenade, which is open 9:30am – 4:30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays. To make an appointment at any of Devon’s employment hubs, visit our website where you can fill out the form or email employmenthub@devon.gov.uk
Devon County Council has welcomed a Government u-turn on plans to postpone local elections.
The decision marks a significant reversal of the Government’s earlier proposal to cancel 30 elections in areas undergoing local government reorganisation – a decision Devon County Council had strongly challenged.
Devon County Council was the only council which held a special meeting at which councillors from all political persuasions condemned the cancellation as undemocratic and dangerous.
At that meeting, Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council, criticised the proposal as a “blatant and undemocratic attempt to retain power for longer,” emphasising that elections are a fundamental part of a healthy democracy.
The County Council played a leading role nationally in scrutinising the original proposal, with its public stance highlighting potential risks to democratic accountability across Exeter, where a third of seats are due to be contested.
Councillors argued that cancelling elections was unnecessary, would undermine public confidence, and would create further uncertainty at a time when major structural reforms were already in progress.
Councillor Julian Brazil, Leader of Devon County Council, said: “We are pleased the Government has listened and reversed its decision. You should not mess with democracy. The people of Devon have a right to decide who represents them. We took a clear, principled stance. Today’s decision is a victory for democracy. I am proud to be part of a council which opposed the cancellation unanimously.”
The council has confirmed it will continue engaging constructively with Government departments on reorganisation matters but will maintain its firm position that any administrative reform must not come at the expense of voters’ democratic rights.
Proposals to make permanent changes to street lighting across the county have been approved by Cabinet, following a year‑long trial that responded to community needs while cutting costs, reducing carbon emissions and delivering environmental benefits.
The decision, on Tuesday 17 February, means earlier switch‑off times and further dimming of streetlights will continue in residential areas, market towns and rural locations, while lighting on main roads will remain unchanged.
The approach builds on Devon’s long‑standing policy of part‑night lighting and takes advantage of new smart technology that allows lights to be adjusted remotely and quickly if safety concerns arise.
Since the trial began in April last year, the Council has reduced the amount of electricity used for street lighting by more than one million kilowatt hours a year.
At current energy prices, this equates to savings of around £270,000 annually, money that can be redirected to other frontline services. The reduction in energy use is also expected to save around 200 tonnes of carbon emissions a year, supporting the Council’s climate change commitments.
The changes follow a major investment in LED lighting and a Central Management System, which now connects more than 66,000 streetlights across Devon. This technology allows lighting levels to be tailored to the needs of different areas.
Environmental benefits have also been a key factor in the decision. Dimming lights and switching them off earlier reduces light pollution, helping protect nocturnal wildlife and support biodiversity in both urban and rural areas.
Councillor Dan Thomas, Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This decision strikes the right balance between being responsible with public money, tackling climate change and continuing to keep people safe. The trial has shown we can significantly reduce energy use and carbon emissions while still responding quickly to local concerns.
“Street lighting is not a one‑size‑fits‑all service. With the technology we now have, we can tailor lighting to different communities and make changes where they’re needed, including increasing lighting levels if safety issues are identified.”
The Council worked closely with Devon and Cornwall Police throughout the trial, including specialist crime prevention teams. Police raised no objections in principle, and in areas where concerns were identified, changes were made.
In Ilfracombe, for example, feedback from shift workers highlighted worries about earlier switch‑off times on routes used late at night. Following discussions with the police and the town council, lighting times on key routes were adjusted to provide reassurance for people travelling to and from work.
Areas such as pedestrian crossings will remain fully lit, and lighting can be altered quickly through the Central Management System if new concerns are raised.
Cllr Thomas added: “Using smarter street lighting enables us to cut costs, reduce emissions and lessen environmental impact, while retaining the ability to prioritise safety where it matters most.
“This is a flexible approach and we will continue to listen to communities and respond where there are genuine risks.”
Work is underway to prepare the site for the development of the Cullompton Relief Road.
The scheme is vital to Cullompton’s future and has been designed to reduce congestion, improve air quality and support the town’s long-term growth.
Although the main construction work of the 1.3km road is due to start this summer, ecological and archaeological work has been timed to go ahead on site now ahead of the bird nesting season and to meet strict ecological requirements.
Specialist ecologists will oversee site clearance to ensure wildlife is safeguarded, and that dormouse habitats are protected and managed.
Good progress has been made on securing the majority of the land needed for the project. As part of the scheme, new public land for the Cullompton Community Association (CCA) is being created and replacement facilities are being provided for sports clubs impacted by the construction of the road.
Work is underway to provide replacement facilities for the football club, the new junior pitches are installed and the grass is establishing, and work to form the new training pitch will start in May.
Some sections of the CCA land will be temporarily affected, as access is needed for both the early works and future construction. This will include new pathways and bridge connections to ensure the community retains safe, high quality access across the area.
Archaeological investigations are being carried out across the site, including areas accessed through CCA land, to preserve local heritage and meet planning requirements.
Councillor Steve Keable, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Regeneration at Mid Devon District District Council, said: “This is another positive milestone for residents and businesses in Cullompton, where everyone is waiting for shovel work to start on site. While the major work on the road begins later this year, preparatory work has been well under way for many months including the completion of the new cricket field in Cullompton, which is part of the wider investment in community facilities associated with the relief road.”
Councillor Dan Thomas, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “This new relief road is vital for Cullompton’s future growth. It will help to ease traffic congestion in the town which will benefit the environment and local businesses. It’s encouraging that preliminary work has started. This has to be carried out now and teams are working hard to progress towards getting the main scheme underway this summer.”
To minimise disruption for residents, some improvements will be made in the coming months in advance of the major work.
With the roundabout at Station Road / Millennium Way due to be upgraded to eventually provide access to the relief road, traffic flow will be eased with the development of a new layby bus stop opposite the Weary Traveller pub. This will enable buses to pull-in off of the carriageway when passengers are getting on and off, reducing traffic delays.
At the other end of the route, improvements at the Exeter Road junction will also be delivered early to enhance safety and traffic flow ahead of the main construction phase.
The main scheme contractor is expected to be appointed in the spring. Subject to this appointment, work is due to start in the summer.
Work on the Dinan Way extension in Exmouth is being hampered by the ongoing heavy rain, but progress is continuing to be made.
The new Hulham Road roundabout, developed as part of the scheme, was surfaced last week. Road markings and high friction surfacing are still to be added.
From Monday 16 February to Tuesday 24 February, there will be overnight closures on the A376 between the Summer Lane junction and Pitts Farm junction to carry out highway drainage improvements.
These closures will also be used for survey work to establish the exact location of services and structural foundations which could impact the surfacing work to tie-in with the construction of the A376 roundabout. This includes gas main diversion works on the A376, which is expected to be completed over the next couple of months. Devon County Council and contractor Octavius Infrastructure Limited are currently discussing dates for this work.
Other extensive work to divert existing utility services has already been completed, including a water main diversion on Hulham Road, as well as BT and Virgin Media diversions on both the A376 and Hulham Road.
Unfortunately, the scheme is running behind schedule and is now expected to be completed in June.
Due to the volume of rainfall, Octavius Infrastructure Limited has had to seek approval from the Environment Agency for temporary drainage measures which will help to manage surface water run-off at the site while work continues.
The majority of the new kerbing and new highways drainage system on the new section of Dinan Way have been installed.
A signalised pedestrian crossing has been introduced across the A376 Exeter Road, near the Co-op store, and junction improvements to Pound Lane/Hulham Road have all been completed.
The upgrade of the existing informal crossing at Gorse Lane into a Toucan crossing with an island is scheduled to be completed next month, along with the informal crossing on Marley Road which is being converted into a Puffin crossing.
Work to introduce a bus layby at Kings Nursery on Hulham Road is due to get underway next month and is expected to be completed in April.
Summer Lane, which has been closed to vehicular through-traffic (apart from residents’ access) as part of the Dinan Way scheme, will be resurfaced in the coming weeks.
The scheme is being funded by UK Government, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council and Exmouth Town Council.
A rapist has been jailed for 20 years after using terrifying violence to carry out his attacks.
Peter Gilbert, 54, of Manor Street, Plymouth, appeared at Truro Crown Court for sentence on Wednesday 18 February after being found guilty at trial of three counts of rape.
Gilbert was also convicted by a jury of one non-sexual offence, as well as pleading guilty to breach of a court order and disclosing an intimate video with intent to cause distress.
Gilbert must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and a restraining order was put in place to protect the victim.
The offences took place in Newquay, Plymouth and Truro.
The court heard how in June 2022, Gilbert attended Charles Cross Police Station in relation to an unrelated matter.
While in the station he became flustered and started pacing the room before saying to officers that he had carried out a sexual offence.
The victim was spoken to while Gilbert was in custody and stated that Gilbert had raped her on several occasions – including after a night out in Newquay.
The victim described freezing during the attacks and Gilbert making a variety of threats against her.
A further attack took place at the victim’s home, in which Gilbert said he was twice the size of the victim and she had no choice but to do what he wanted.
Gilbert made additional threats of violence, including with weapons and showed footage of an oral rape to others. He carefully filmed the attack to make sure the victim was visible and not him.
Gilbert made no comment in interview.
During the sentencing hearing, Judge Simon Carr commented how Gilbert preyed upon his victim and such was the violence he demonstrated towards her, he even stubbed out cigarettes on her arms causing scarring.
Judge Carr added that Gilbert filmed the rapes and used the footage as a weapon.
Detective Sergeant Megan Cornish, said: “Peter Gilbert is an extremely dangerous rapist and sexual predator who used violence and threats in order to rape his victim.
“Gilbert showed no regard for her wellbeing in his evil pursuit for sexual gratification.
“I would like to praise the immense courage of the victim, who has remained engaged from when she was first spoken to, right through to the court process.
“It is her bravery that has enabled Gilbert to be brought to justice for his crimes.
“While I do not underestimate the psychological damage caused by Gilbert’s actions, I hope she is now able to feel some form of closure.
“We encourage anybody who has been the victim of rape or sexual abuse to report it to us via 101 or our website. Or by 999 if in immediate danger.
“All reports made will be investigated and you will be believed.”
Support available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information and crimes on our website.
Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
There are lots of organisations and support agencies available across Devon and Cornwall that can help provide support.
For more information on rape and serious sexual assault and the support services available, please visit our support pages by clicking here.
Advice and support are also offered by our partner agencies: • National Rape Crisis Helpline 0808 802 9999 • Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC) 0300 3034626
The Stop It Now charity provides an anonymous helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and can help if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or have any concerns about another adult or young person www.stopitnow.org.uk
Victim care
If you have been affected by crime, please visit Home – Victim Care Devon & Cornwall (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 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.
They swapped classrooms for campfires and exercise books for sea shanties as pupils from two primary schools joined forces for a day of music, art and outdoor adventure.
Children from Charleton CofE Academy and West Alvington Church of England Academy, both part of the Learning Academy Partnership, came together for a shared learning experience centred on creativity and friendship.
The day began with a visit from Mizzen Link, a local sea shanty singing group. The performers entertained pupils while teaching them about the history of shanty songs and the importance of keeping maritime traditions alive.
Pupils also sang shanties they had been practising during their singing assemblies.
Younger children later took part in Forest School sessions, where they created Andy Goldsworthy-inspired sculptures linked to their learning about the renowned British artist. The sessions encouraged pupils to explore natural materials and work collaboratively outdoors.
The day also included cooking ‘bonfire pizza’ over an open fire, giving children the opportunity to develop practical outdoor skills while working together.
Despite wet and windy conditions, pupils from both schools spent the day strengthening existing friendships and forming new ones. The event reflected the schools’ shared focus on friendship and encouraging children to support and include one another.
Hannah Ruston, headteacher at Charleton CofE Academy, said: “Bringing pupils together from the two schools gave them a great opportunity to learn from one another while having fun.
“The day combined creativity and outdoor learning, and it was wonderful to see the children enjoying their time together.”
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Events like this are a great way for pupils across our schools to learn from one another, be creative and try new things beyond the classroom.
“Most importantly, they also help children build friendships and enjoy learning together.”
Plans for a major new employment site on land north of Sowton Village have been formally submitted, with developers promising more than 1,000 jobs and significant investment just off the A30 near junction 29 of the M5.
The outline application, lodged on behalf of Waddeton Park Ltd, seeks permission for up to 28,300 square metres of commercial floorspace across a 19.3-hectare site at Venn Farm. All matters are reserved except for access.
According to the Planning Statement prepared by Greenslade Taylor Hunt, the proposal is for “the proposed commercial development of land north of Sowton” . The development would comprise a mix of B2 (general industrial), B8 (storage and distribution) and E(g) (office and ancillary) uses, with the potential for supporting facilities such as “indoor sports and recreation, café or crèche”.
The site lies immediately south of the A30, close to junction 29 of the M5, and around 200 metres south of Exeter Science Park. It currently consists of four agricultural fields totalling approximately 19.30 hectares. The land is wholly within Flood Zone 1, identified as the lowest risk of coastal and fluvial flooding .
Developers propose a new vehicular access from Sowton Lane at the eastern end of the site. The Design and Access Statement confirms a “singular point of vehicular access from Sowton Lane, with associated road widening to accommodate traffic movements” . A new priority junction would be constructed, alongside off-carriageway cycle infrastructure and a segregated footway and cycleway along Sowton Lane . Improvements are also proposed at the Honiton Road junction, including a signalised arrangement and enhanced pedestrian and cycle crossings.
Satellite image of the area alongside the road.
In total, around 10.09 hectares of the site would form the built development area, with the remaining 9.21 hectares allocated to formal and informal open space, drainage and infrastructure . Existing boundary hedgerows would be retained “as far as possible” and attenuation features are proposed in the southern part of the site . Provision is also made for biodiversity net gain and ecological buffers, including a tree belt to create a buffer to Sowton village.
The public right of way along the southern edge of the site would remain in place and “will not need to be diverted or obstructed as a result of the proposed development.”
An Environmental Impact Assessment screening opinion issued on 17 September 2024 confirmed the scheme constitutes EIA development and must be accompanied by an Environmental Statement . The council issued a subsequent scoping opinion in October 2024 setting out the required chapters .
The Economic Impact Assessment states that the development will deliver 28,300 sq m of commercial floorspace . During construction, the project is expected to create “an estimated 300 person-years of employment” . Once operational, it is projected to support “an estimated 1,040 jobs on site” , with the potential to generate around £29 million of Gross Value Added to the East Devon economy annually.
The Framework Travel Plan states that the overarching vision is “to provide new, high quality employment land at the site, which will form a key part of the wider development strategy for the area” . It also highlights that the scheme would help realise elements of the Clyst Valley Trail and wider cycling infrastructure earlier than might otherwise be delivered.
The site was previously identified in the Regulation 18 East Devon Local Plan draft as a potential mixed-use business park location, although a subsequent Site Selection Report concluded it should not be allocated for employment development.
In planning policy terms, the application argues that significant weight should be placed on the need to support economic growth and productivity, in line with the National Planning Policy Framework . The submitted Planning Statement concludes that the proposals “constitute a sustainable form of development.”
East Devon District Council will now consider the application, alongside the accompanying Environmental Statement and technical reports, before determining whether to grant outline permission. Public consultation and statutory consultation responses will form part of that process before a final decision is made.
A wardrobe door opened and a world of wonder stepped out for pupils from St Andrew’s CofE Academy as they watched a stage adaptation of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Children from the school, based in Buckland Monachorum and part of the Learning Academy Partnership, visited the Theatre Royal Plymouth to see C.S. Lewis’s classic fantasy brought to life.
The trip, supported by staff and volunteers, was made possible with transport funded by the school’s PTFA. All four classes attended the performance and were described as captivated from start to finish.
The visit forms part of the school’s wider approach to English, which aims to help children develop confidence as communicators, explore high-quality texts and practise their writing skills. School leaders said experiences outside the classroom help make learning more tangible for pupils.
In addition to its curriculum, St Andrew’s offers a range of creative clubs including library, art, music, drama, Shakespeare, tech, outdoor games and cooking. The activities are designed to give children opportunities to explore new interests and develop their talents in different settings.
Debbie Nunn, headteacher at St Andrew’s CofE Academy, said: “Watching our pupils step into the world of Narnia was truly magical.
“They were captivated and came away buzzing.
“Experiences like this bring our English curriculum to life and give children memories they will treasure.
“A huge thank you to Mrs Bucknell for organising the trip, to all staff and volunteers who supported the day, and to our PTFA for funding the transport.”
Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of Learning Academy Partnership, said: “Nothing beats the theatre for bringing a story to life.
“Children can explore new ideas, develop confidence, and discover passions they might never have known they had.
“It’s fantastic to see our pupils inspired, creative, and enjoying learning together.”
