[email protected]SPREAD THE NEWS A 51-year-old Kingsteington man has been jailed for his involvement in a criminal conspiracy, which included bribery, money laundering and fraud, linked to the Cranbrook housing development near Exeter. Matthew Hayward was jailed for 30 months and disqualified from being a company director for seven years after pleading guilty to charges of bribery and being involved with a money laundering arrangement. Hayward was one of six people to be sentenced for their involvement in the conspiracy where crooked construction bosses bribed energy officials to the tune of around £2million to secure lucrative contracts and other favours linked to the development of the new Cranbrook community in East Devon and at other locations around the UK. Hayward, a quantity surveyor for E.ON, and colleague Mark Baker, who was E.ON’s head of projects and later head of build for the project, were responsible for signing off works at the Cranbrook development. Baker was found to have accepted bribes from individuals from construction contractors Priddy Engineering and RK Civil Engineering who were keen to cement commercial relationships with E.ON. Hayward, who played a key role in authorising the payment of contractors’ invoices, also received illegal payments. The bribes started in 2011 and continued until the end of 2015 when E.ON discovered and reported the activity. Hayward received around £40,000 in bribes from Andrew Blunsdon of Priddy Engineering between 2011 and 2012 relating to Priddy’s ongoing contract with E.ON at Cranbrook. Heywood also signed off an invoice for the installation of an air conditioning unit at Blunsdon’s wife’s florist shop. Heyward also accepted £1.4million from Leicester-based RK Civil Engineering, which were covered up by false invoices that were submitted to RK Civil Engineering by two companies associated with Hayward. The Kingsteignton man also received cash, hotel rooms and an Audi car. Hayward had what was described as a ‘raging gambling habit’, a habit he shared with RK Civil Engineering partner Timothy Patterson. Heyward ‘kicked back’ some of the money he received from RK Civil Engineering to Patterson, who then spent it. E.ON discovered the wrongdoing after Hayward and his colleague Baker moved on. Former E.ON employee Mark Baker and his wife Angela Baker from Goole in Yorkshire, Timothy Patterson from Derby, a partner in R K Civil Engineering, Richard King from Husbands Bosworth in South Leicestershire, who controlled R K Civil Engineering, and Andrew Blunsdon from Winscombe in Somerset, who controlled Priddy Engineering, appeared at Winchester Crown Court on April 30 and May 1 for sentencing after pleading guilty to various offences. Detective inspector Dan Parkinson from the Devon and Cornwall Police complex fraud team said: ‘These individuals believed corrupt practice was widespread in the construction industry and the method by which business was done.’ ‘This was a complex and time-consuming investigation, but we are happy to have worked alongside E.ON and secured convictions against the six defendants who believed the rules did not apply to them and they could do whatever they wanted to reach their desired goal,’ he added. An E.ON UK spokesperson said: ‘Our internal processes enabled us to identify this case and take decisive action. Reflecting our zero-tolerance approach to bribery, we reported the matter to police and have fully supported their investigation. Comments Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 IT WAS a tale of twos at The Rec with Waldon Athletic scoring twice as well as having two players sent off en route to Herald Cup glory. Both Waldon and Kingsteignton Athletic advanced through their semi-finals via penalty shootouts, overcoming East Allington United and Bovey Tracey 2nds respectively, and there was plenty of action from the spot once again. A bumper crowd in excess of 500 people bunched around the pitch in Newton Abbot on the evening of Friday, May 2, creating an electric atmosphere which was reflected in the game. The early stages were frenetic with both sides displaying plenty of attacking intent. Ellis Rattue, in the Kingsteignton goal, made a great stop to deny Jacob Knapman only for the Waldon forward to follow up, hammering home the opener after 15 minutes. The first card of the game went the way of the Rams for a late challenge in the middle of the park and this certainly wasn’t going to be the last. With the break nearing, one very half-hearted shout for a Kingsteignton penalty was quickly succeeded by one with much more vigour and referee Steve Pearce obliged on the latter, pointing to the spot. Captain Kelsey Leech took on the responsibility, no stranger to The Rec having previously played for Newton Spurs. Waldon shot-stopper Kyle Doughty was level to the attempt, saving the initial effort before Leech headed the rebound over the crossbar. It was a real contrast of emotions in the immediate aftermath with Waldon players crowding the hero Doughty, just yards away from Leech down on his haunches. If the temperature wasn’t hot enough on that Friday night, the man in the middle brought out a hotly contested red card to turn it up a notch or two. Ashley Grimes didn’t appear to see the Kingsteignton player with whose head his high boot connected and so the general consensus around the ground was that a yellow would be fair, but Grimes was given his marching orders all the same, much to the dismay of all in Waldon colours. Leech was then the second Kingsteignton player to be booked in a very heated affair and this was the final act of note in the first 45 minutes. As was the case in the first half, Waldon added a goal and lost a man in the second. The Rams enjoyed some early chances on Doughty’s goal but their number seven was unable to trouble him. A seemingly innocuous moment resulted in a red card for Liam McKendrick with the Waldon man accused of biting an opponent- referee Pearce speaking to his linesman before brandishing a second red of the day. As was to be expected, the Kingsteignton pressure continued to pile on but to no avail, with an effort from 70 yards causing their keeper a quick panic at the other end, only for it to bounce over the bar. It went from bad to worse for Leech as he was teased into a challenge in the area and gave away a penalty this time. Goal scorer Knapman was the man for the big moment, coolly converting before sprinting to the Waldon bench for his celebration. There were a couple more chances for Kingsteignton but it just wasn’t to be their day and the nine men of Waldon had the unity needed to hang on in there. A pitch invasion followed the final whistle and Waldon Athletic were the worthy victors of this year’s Herald Cup, the 100th edition of the competition. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Further Links BRITISH bakery chain Greggs is looking to open a store in Kingsteignton Planning application 25/00313/FUL is seeking to widen the permitted use of Unit A2 at Kingsteignton Trading Estate to include Use Class E(a) and Use Class E(b) which will allow for the sale of food and drink from the premises so long as the application gets the green-light from Teignbridge District Council it is bakery chain Greggs that will occupy the unit Planning permission is also being sought for external alterations This comes after coffee-house chain Starbucks recently opened in Unit A1 of the trading estate The proposal will generate employment for the local area with 15 new jobs, a mix of full time and part time positions, the statement adds. It will have a ‘positive impact on the local economy through providing direct and indirect jobs’ and will deliver a ‘high-quality development that complements the local and surrounding context’, according to the statement, submitted on behalf of Maybrook Developments Ltd by Alder King Planning Consultants. Kingsteignton Town Council raised no objection to the application. A target date of May 8 has been given for a decision to be made on the application by Teignbridge District Council. Greggs specialises in savoury products such as baked goods, sausage rolls, sandwiches and sweet items, including doughnuts and vanilla slices. It is headquartered in Newcastle upon Tyne and is listed on the London Stock Exchange. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Further Links On the evening of Friday, May 2, the pair went to battle at the Newton Abbot Rec and Waldon won 2-0, despite going down to nine men. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us IT is looking likely that coffee-house chain Starbucks will open in Kingsteignton An application submitted by a Starbucks franchisee for signage to Unit A1 at Kingsteignton Trading Estate has been approved The unit was once the home of Baymoor Interiors Application 24/01267/ADV for three fascia signs a freestanding directional sign and an addition to an existing totem sign was submitted by Cobra Coffee a Starbucks franchised partner that has several sites across the South West No changes are proposed to the existing car parking or the access arrangements to the site However, a further application seeking to discharge conditions five and six of 24/00791/FUL which require approval of a Construction Management Plan and the design of the bin store enclosure is still pending consideration by Teignbridge Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Further Links A PARTIAL closure order has been granted against a property in Kingsteignton after complaints about drug dealing. It is now an offence for anyone to enter the Homers Crescent address for a three-month period, expect for those that reside there. On Monday, April 28, Newton Abbot’s Neighbourhood Policing Team conducted a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant at the property, locating a quantity of class B drugs and other paraphernalia. Enquiries into the suspected drug offences are ongoing, police say. On Wednesday, April 30, a Partial Closure Order was obtained from Newton Abbot Magistrates Court and served to the property. Police had received reports of suspected drug dealing and drug taking happening across all hours of the day at the address. Concerns for the occupant’s wellbeing, as well as instances of anti-social behaviour were also reported. Police Constable Will Heather, who supported with the activity, said: ‘We had received reports from the public of suspected drug dealing, drug taking and antisocial behaviour (ASB) happening across all hours of the day at the address. ‘There were also concerns raised for the occupant’s wellbeing. ‘All of this was having an overwhelming impact on the local resident’s wellbeing and livelihoods. ‘It was important we took swift action in the interest of keeping everyone safe from further harm. ‘Thank you to everyone who came forward - we listened to your reports and took action. ‘No one should be made to feel uncomfortable or worried in the area they live. ‘I hope this shows people in the community that we are toughening our response to drugs and ASB in response to their concerns.’ Police are urging anyone experiencing similar problems or are experiencing any behaviour that causes distress or has a negative impact on the safety of the community to report it. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us CLOSURE orders have been granted on two properties in Kingsteignton following reports of ongoing nuisance behaviour. Suspected drug dealing, anti-social behaviour, violence and general disorder were reported both inside and outside the properties and were causing concern to neighbours. The neighbourhood policing team in Kingsteignton worked with partners to obtain the orders which were granted last week at Newton Abbot Magistrates Court on both properties in Mandarin Way. Closure orders aim to prevent anti-social behaviour and crime from taking place within and around specific addresses. One property was served with a partial closure order, allowing only named residents to enter the property. The other address received a full closure order, preventing anyone from entering the property. Both orders will remain in place for three months. Tenants affected have been sent to partner agencies while the order is in place and ‘supportive intervention provided to ensure future safeguarding and crime prevention’. Police Inspector James Johnson from Devon and Cornwall Police, said: ‘Granting closure orders is not a decision that is taken lightly. ‘The first thing we do is engage with residents to stop criminal behaviour from happening in the first place. ‘If this isn’t successful, we have to look at other options to tackle the issue, such as closure orders. ‘We know this isn’t a long-term solution, but it’s an effective step in the right direction. ‘To prevent disorder from reoccurring, our officers and partner agencies will continue to engage with the tenants to address the long-term issues surrounding the properties. ‘Thank you to everyone who came forward to report information to us. ‘We would also like to reassure local residents who may be experiencing similar problems, that any behaviour which causes alarm, distress or has a detrimental impact on the safety of our community will not be tolerated. ‘We are taking action against people who are causing harm within our community.’ The police worked with local partners including Teignbridge Council, Environmental Health, Teign Housing, Social Services, RSPCA and educational services. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us FRIDAY night’s Herald Cup final was the flagship fixture of the weekend with Waldon Athletic beating Kingsteignton Athletic 2-0 (full report on the back page and more pictures available on the Mid-Devon Advertiser website) but there was plenty more South Devon Football League action taking place elsewhere. At the top of the Premier Division, Ilsington Villa stretched their lead with a midweek win at the aforementioned Waldon, reports Alastair Muirden. The 8–1 scoreline was achieved with hat tricks for Dan Langford and James Karvalla and this may flatter the Moorlanders due to the fielding of several 2nd team players by the hosts, in preparation for their big day out. Villa’s lead at the top is eight points and Spurs have three games in hand. Villa have one game to play which is at Beesands Rovers on May 10. Saturday’s fixtures were all about the relegation places. Whilst Elburton Villa 2nds have already claimed one spot in Division One next season, the other spot has for some time been between Chudleigh Athletic and Beesands Rovers but an upturn in form for both teams has made it interesting. Chudleigh Ath lost 1-nil at East Allington Utd to a late header by Ben Tapper, who puts the Pirates up to the heady heights of sixth place after flirting with the bottom two places as recently as Easter. The prospects for Chudleigh Ath surviving may actually lie in the hands of East Allington Utd who have to play Beesands Rovers twice this month. Should Beesands win one of those games then Chudleigh will need to beat Waldon or Newton Spurs in their final two games. Beesands Rovers on the other hand had a great win at home to Paignton Saints by four goals to three, thanks to a Louis Brace hat-trick and a Jack Eades single. This leaves Rovers second from bottom with four games to play and just two points behind Chudleigh. It was Saints’ last game so they will have to watch this space to find out if Rovers can make up the 6-point gap to send them back to Division One after one season. Division One has caused the league officers some problems this season- from what was a very strong league at the start of the season it has become clear that not all clubs can win the support of players when times get tough or the sun shines. Watcombe Wanderers could not raise a team from 84 registered players to travel to Bovey Tracey so the home team pick up the points and will probably finish their season in fourth place. What gets lost is the time and effort spent by the hosts to prepare the pitch and the ground to welcome the public, not to mention the food purchase and preparation only to be let down on a Saturday morning. Buckland Athletic 2nds finished their season with a 2-nil home win against Brixham Town and should be pleased with a top-six season. Town were already safe from the drop but the pending points deduction heading Watcombe’s way will allow them to enjoy their final two fixtures versus Phoenix and Bovey. WBB also had a good result, a 4-nil win against already relegated Ivybridge Town sends them into mid-table in what has been a difficult season for the Claymen. The top-of-the-table game was played on Friday evening under lights at Parkway Social Club and what a game it was. Whilst it may not affect the end result of this division, it certainly shook some feathers, Windmill moved to within two points of Phoenix with a fine 4–1 win and became the first team this season to beat the favourites. Not only was it the first time Phoenix have lost in the SDFL it was the first time they had lost in any league competition for 2 years and the two teams meet on Friday, May 9 at Buckfastleigh next, in the Dartmouth Cup at 7pm. Windmill will also be hoping that their neighbours True Blues can help them by taking points from Phoenix in their upcoming league fixtures. In Division Two, Mount Gould must be wondering if they made the correct decision to join the South Devon League. This week they were let down for the fourth time in the league and pick up the points for Upton Athletic not travelling to play. They have also had two cup games where the opposition have failed to honour a fixture. The gap at the top is six points as Barton Athletic won their final game 2-nil at Paignton Villa 2nds thanks to an own goal and a Zach Norton strike, that has secured at least the runners up place and a place in Division One next season. Liverton Utd needed Barton to drop points to catch them, so as a result of Barton’s win they can get to third place if they win four of their final six games. At the bottom, both of the reserve teams from Ipplepen Athletic and Buckfastleigh Rangers will go into Division Three next term. On Friday, May 9, at Buckfastleigh Rangers FC, is the Division One Dartmouth Cup Final between Plymouth Phoenix and The Windmill with a 7pm KO. This is a first for the SDFL as two Plymouth-based teams will contest a cup final. The two teams met in the league last week and as reported above, Windmill won by four goals to one and have no doubt put a dent in the ambitions of the Phoenix club. This is predicted to be a great game with two quality teams that could and should be playing at a higher level of football. On to the following day and the Division Three title could be won or lost at Ashburton, where 3rd placed Elburton Villa 3rds are the visitors. A win or draw for Ashes gives them the title; a win for Villa and they could catch them. The young man found dead in Kingsteignton on Sunday (September 22) has been named as Ryan Gooding. An inquest into the 27-year-old’s death was opened yesterday (September 24). Area coroner Alison Longhorn reported that a member of the public who was driving along Greenhill Way had seen a young man lying injured and unresponsive in a bus stop. Emergency services were called and found Ryan Gooding, who was of no fixed abode, deceased at the scene. Alison Longhorn confirmed that were no suspicious circumstances and that the inquest into his death has been adjourned to a date yet to be fixed in the future. Greenhill Way was closed near the junction for Priscott Way for around two hours on Sunday while police officers and emergency services attended the scene. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us HAVE you got that Friday feeling yet? No? You will tomorrow when The Range’s Newton Abbot store opens. The home and leisure retailer opens its doors at 9am sharp tomorrow, Friday, January 24. While technically located in Kingsteignton, the Newton Abbot store, listed as such by The Range on its website, is one among several new stores to be opened in a former Homebase. The Range bought around 70 of Homebase’s stores after the company went into administration; Homebase has not disappeared completely, however. The Range’s new Newton Abbot superstore features a Homebase garden centre, for example. And it will continue in some capacity on-line. The Greenhill Way store offers everything The Range shoppers have come to expect: kitchen and dining; textiles; lighting; arts and crafts; furniture and much more. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us CONCERNS that a Teignbridge primary school playing field may be sold off have been denied. It had been suggested that the field at Kingsteignton Primary School, donated by clay company Sibelco, was to have been sold. However, head teacher Lee Goodenough, confirmed there was ‘no plans’ to sell the land. He explained: ‘Although previously an under-used resource, this academic year we have formed strong links with WBB Football Club, a local grassroots side who have generously donated their time and resources to help us transform the space into a new football pitch, which has been used to host our Year 5/6 Teignbridge and District League Primary Schools' Football League fixtures. ‘We recognise what a valuable asset the field is to the school and, now the drier months are upon us, will be utilising it consistently for our PE lessons and sporting events - something we know the children will be very pleased about. Meanwhile, Ofsted inspectors who visited in November last year, commented on ‘substantials’ changes to the leadership and said evidence suggested aspects of the school’s work may not be as ‘strong’ as at a previous inspection. Its report said: ‘Since the previous inspection, there have been substantial changes to the leadership and organisation of the school. ‘The school transferred into a new trust, which has guided it well through a period of change. ‘The school is now in a more stable position.’ Mr Goodenough, who took over at the start of the academic year, said: ‘I was delighted to become headteacher at Kingsteignton School at the start of the academic year and Ofsted inspectors noted when they visited in November that since the school joined Education South West just over a year ago, the trust has guided the school well through a period of change. ‘Of course, every school has areas it wishes to strengthen further but I am confident that we have a committed team of staff who are all working hard to achieve the very best for our children and the wider community. ‘I look forward to Ofsted inspectors returning for a fully graded visit in the future, when we have had time to show how our new approaches, and the support from Education South West, have made a real positive difference. ‘In their last report, inspectors already had lots of commendatory comments about the school. ‘They stated our pupils are happy, enjoy coming to school and treat each other well and that their high attendance is evidence of their positive attitudes to learning. ‘Inspectors also noted that staff build warm relationships with pupils, which enables them to learn in a nurturing environment where they feel well supported. ‘I was particularly proud that Ofsted recognised the fact that teaching pupils to learn to read and to develop a love of reading is a high priority in our school. ‘I am always very happy to show visitors around and enjoy showing off our wonderful school community - a community I feel privileged to lead.’ Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us WE ARE at the business end of the season in both the cup and league campaigns in the South Devon Football League, reports Alistair Muirden. Kingskerswell got their hands on some silverware with a Les Bishop Cup final win with Newton Abbot Spurs 2nds and Kingsteignton Athletic 2nds also picking up important victories over the Easter weekend. In the Les Bishop Division Four Cup final, a goal apiece from Charlie, Bailey and Joshua Clarke gave Kingskerswell a league and cup double against their closest rivals Templar Way. The game was played at a frantic pace from the kick off to the final whistle and produced a great night of entertainment for the 250 spectators who must have been in disbelief that this was a Division Four football match. Match sponsors Torre Trophies judged Kerswell’s captain Shane Shobbrook to be the man of the match and presented him with a glass memento. At the top of the Premier Division, Newton Abbot Spurs moved to within 11 points of leaders Ilsington Villa with four games in hand and six to play after a hard fought 3–2 win at Chudleigh Athletic. Owen Green, Jack Mitchell and Callum Noyce struck for Spurs whilst Jack Salmons and Matt Cobbold scored the Chudleigh goals. East Allington Utd have had a good couple of weeks by having six points more than they had just a fortnight ago, a 3–2 win over Paignton Saints moves them 10 points clear of the drop zone and into seventh place with a Herald cup semifinal up next. Totnes and Dartington and Buckfastleigh Rangers shared a 2–2 draw in what was the last game of the season for Rangers and the point sees them end their season in fourth place at the moment. In Division One, Phoenix will be cursing the weather, yet another Saturday was lost as JC Park was under water and Brixham Town could not host the favourites so the Plymouth side will add yet another midweek game to their list of games in hand. In the games that were played, True Blues moved six points clear of Phoenix with a 4-1 win at Millbay Park against WBB and they of course still have two clashes with their Plymouth rivals to come. Bottom of the table Ivybridge Town had to share the points in an 8-goal fest against Watcombe Wanderers. The big scorers in Division Two were second-placed Mount Gould, who continue to work away at that gap, a 10-nil home win versus Buckfastleigh Rangers reserves thanks to goals from Bailey Mabin (4), Jack Stephens (3), Daniel Harris and Kingsley Potter. They now have just the seven games in hand. Liverton Utd 1sts had a close call in a 2–1 win at Coach Rd against Paignton Saints reserves, the result moves Livvy into fourth place, 19 points behind the leaders with six games in hand and seven still to play. Harbertonford enjoyed a good win over Upton Athletic by 5 goals to 1, goals from Seb Looker, David Hatch, Archie Mcwinnie and Sam Fenegan puts the Fords into a respectable mid-table berth. Just two games were played in Division Three and in the game between the top two, Ashburton came away from Drake FC with all three points following a 2–1 victory, Declan Gower hit the net for the home team but goals from Alan Savage and Derek Cartmill leaves the Ashes in a very healthy position. It was a game that Drake needed to win and as it was their final game, they will need to watch the results from Elburton Villa 3rds who have four games to play and six points to make up over the coming weeks. In the other game played, Kingsteignton Athletic 2nds beat the Fred Hewings Cup winners Liverton Utd 2nds by five goals to one with goals from Dan Rankin, Joe Long, Ryan Sanders and Sam Morgan. The Rams occupy fifth place and have three games to play in what has been a very good season for them. Starting with a cup game in the form of the Division Two Lidstone Cup final. This is between Liverton 1s and Watcombe Wanderers 2s at T&D on Friday, April 25, for a 6:30pm kick-off. Both of these teams are sitting comfortably in mid-table but Liverton still have an outside chance of a top two place if results go their way, they recently cancelled each other out in a 1–1 draw but in their other 16 league games, the teams have scored over 100 goals so they both know where the goals are. The league are expecting a big crowd at this game as both are well supported clubs. In the Premier Division, there are two games that stand out. Game of the day at the top there is a Newton Abbot Derby at Osborne Park where 66 host Spurs in a game that the visitors need to come away with something, if not all three points, whilst Sixes will want the town’s bragging rights for the summer and that top three place. At the other end of the table, there is a relegation six-pointer at Elburton where Villa host Chudleigh Athletic who could confirm relegation for the home team with a win or a draw. In Division One, there are two Dartmouth Cup semi-finals, one at South Devon College where Paignton Villa can forget about their league position for a week when they take on Phoenix for a place in the final and at Millennium pitches, where WBB travel west in search of a victory against Windmill, both of these games have a 2pm KO. In Division Two, there is a Paignton derby game at Coach Road, where Saints 2nds take on Villa 2nds who are both now safe from the drop and Division Three offers what could be a great game at Haye Road, where Stoke Gabriel TP travel to play Elburton Villa 3rds in the league cup semi-final, this also has a 2pm KO. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us POLICE are seeking to speak with the owner of a Bull Mastiff after reports of dog-on-dog incidents at a Kingsteignton nature reserve The dog in question is described as a tan coloured and the incidents took place at Hackey Marshes Nature Reserve Police would like to speak with the owner to provide ‘appropriate intervention to prevent further incidents in the future’ ‘Anyone with knowledge, please email the local Newton Abbot Neighbourhood Policing Team on: [email protected]’ a spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said. It is against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere. This could be in a public place; in a private place, a neighbour’s house or garden, for example, or in the owner’s home. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A KINGSTEIGNTON car dealership has closed suddenly following ‘unforeseen circumstances’. In a message to its customers, Swanson Motor Company announced it closure, citing ‘unforeseen circumstances’. The privately-owned Ford dealership, which is based at Newton Retail Park, apologised for any inconvenience caused by the closure. The company now faces liquidation as creditors of Newtabb Ltd, which trades as Swanson Motor Company, are set to meet on December 9, the Mid-Devon Advertiser understands. The Mid-Devon Advertiser has contacted the company for more details. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us FOOTBALLERS across South Devon would have been glad to be dusting off the cobwebs following the winter break, and the referee secretary was able to report a full complement of officials available for the games to be played, writes Alastair Muirden. There were only two games lost to the weather, at Buckfastleigh and Harbertonford, but more of a concern was that both Brixham AFC and WBB were unable to raise a team after a break. There were a few delayed Herald Cup games played that all went to form despite some lower ranked teams really upping their game to compete against higher opposition. Plymouth True Blues did not have an easy afternoon at Stoke Gabriel TP, the division three side gave as good as they got but the slick finishing by Kieron Bond, Chris Harvey and Lee Phillips was the main difference between the sides. The visitors will need to wait until 20th January for the draw for the next round whilst the home team are well placed in Division Three for a promotion challenge. Ivybridge Town are also through to the next round, a terrific 4-1 win at Brixham Town, which nobody saw coming, will be a big disappointment for Shaun Langdon’s team after knocking out Ilsington Villa in the previous round. Liverton Utd also won by four goals to 1one at Kingsbridge and Kellaton Utd who gave a good account of themselves, but four goals from the visitors were enough to see Livvy into the hat for the next round. In the Premier Division, bottom club Elburton Villa caused a major upset by beating Waldon Ath by three goals to two- the result is the home team’s first win of the season and prevents the Torquay team from opening up a gap at the top. Craig Duff and Les Afful were on target for Waldon whilst Charlie Patrick, Logan Felton and George Photiou were the scorers for Villa. There was a very entertaining game at East Allington Utd where the visitors Newton Abbot 66 scraped a 2-1 win to keep the in contention after a couple of blips. Finlay Bullen was on target for the Pirates but the single strike was not enough to stop the points returning to Newton Abbot. Kingsteignton Athletic remain in fourth place following a two-nil home win against Beesands Rovers, courtesy of goals from Daniel Rankin and Ryan Tovagliari. Beesands are in a relegation battle with Elburton and Chudleigh Athletic also, who managed to pick up a valuable point at Paignton Saints in a two-all draw. Harvey Veysey scored both goals for the Saints whilst Gavin Hammon did the same for the Clarets, who are just one point above the relegation zone having played two more games than Beesands Rovers. In the only league game played in Division One, Bovey Tracey remained on course for promotion and they continue to separate the two Plymouth teams at the top. They earned a hard fought 2-1 victory at Watcombe Wanderers, keeping themselves in second place, three points behind True Blues and one point ahead of Phoenix. In Division Two, Barton Athletic have moved nine points clear at the top thanks to a fine 4-2 home win versus East Allington Utd 2nds. Second-placed Mount Gould, who did not play, have five games in hand over the Torquay based team and they remain in the county cup, so a busy April and May could challenge the Plymouth team. Ipplepen Athletic won their first game of the season and they did it in style by beating a good Watcombe Wanderers 2nd team by four goals to three, the win does not move Pens off the bottom but does put them in touching distance. In Division Three, Elburton Villa 3rds and Kingsteignton Athletic 2nds cancelled each other out in a two-all draw and allowed Ashburton to take control at the top thanks to a great 4-2 derby win against Liverton Utd. Goals came from Tom Arnold, Alex Hambley, Derek Cartmill and James Parker. The Ashes are now four points clear of second-placed Drake with the cushion of two games in hand. In mid-table, there were big wins for Newton Abbot 66 2nds who scored 12 and Waldon Athletic 2nds, who notched up 10 goals in their fixtures. In Division Four, the top two teams Teign Village and Kingskerswell played out a six-pointer and it was the visitors who took the points and opened up a six-point lead at the top. In a highly entertaining game, Elliot Mills and Corey Finch were on target for Kerswell. Templar Way are now level on points with Teign Village following their one-nil win at Paignton Villa 3rds and Chudleigh Athletic 2nds remain in fourth thanks to a 4-3 win at Kate Brook against Waldon Athletic 3rds. Elsewhere in this division, Broadhempston Utd got back to winning ways with a 3-2 win versus Newton Rovers 2nds. The game to catch on Saturday, January 11 is at Osborne Park, where Newton Abbot 66 take on Ilsington Villa in a game that neither team will want to lose, plus, it could have a big say in who ends the season as champions. There are 24 other games being played and all details are on the full time website. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us POLICE have said they aim to increase patrols after reports of anti-social behaviour in Kingsteignton. The local policing team say the incident took place in the areas of Kingsteignton Retail Park and Homers Crescent. The reports included graffiti, criminal damage, loitering, excess noise, verbal abuse to members of the public and shoplifting. As such, The Neighbourhood Team are encouraging any persons who experience anti-social behaviour, and anyone with information, to report it. A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: ‘We aim to increase patrols where possible and are taking actions with those who have been identified as being involved. ‘The Neighbourhood Team encourage any persons who experience anti-social behaviour, and anyone with information, to report this via our website or phone 101 in a non-emergency. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Thanks to the arrival of Storm Bert trees have been toppled, rivers has burst their banks and vehicles, businesses and properties have been submerged in flood water. Both the Environment Agency and Met Office issued alert after alert over the 48 hour period - but the ferocity of the weather still caught a lot of people out across Teignbridge The River Teign breached its banks resulting in numerous vehicles being stranded near Teigngrace with the village itself being cut off. The A38 at Chudleigh Knighton was closed as one point due to floodwater which lead to severe traffic tailbacks and in Newton Abbot traffic was brought to a standstill after flooding at Kingsteignton saw both Newton Road and Kingsteignton Road closed. And on Monday morning the clean-up operation and damage assessment will begin... Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us IN THE Torbay Clearance Services Premier Division, Ilsington Villa returned to the top with a 2-nil home win against relegation-threatened Chudleigh Athletic, reports Alastair Muirden. Myles Caldwell and Jack Dixon were on target for the Villa who were no doubt assisted in their return to pole position by Kingsteignton Athletic’s 4–1 home win versus Newton Abbot 66. Goals from Luke Manuell (2) Callum Leach and Ryan Togvaliari have brought Sixes back down to earth after their great result last week. Kingsteignton on the other hand, are in fourth place just four points behind 66 and are now the highest scorers in the division. Buckfastleigh Rangers are also in the same boat as the Rams but with a game in hand- they had a comfortable 4–1 win against Beesands Rovers who were close to not putting out a team as a result of a norovirus outbreak in the Kingsbridge area. Steve Sutton added to his goal tally for Rangers who make up the top five. Newton Abbot Spurs remain in sixth place with three games in hand and with a big squad to pick from and will be challenging come May. A tough 4–2 win at Elburton Villa, who themselves are improving without getting the wins, was enough to bring the points up the A38. Waldon Athletic’s woes continue, a 2-2 stalemate against East Allington Utd who twice held the lead through Finlay Bullen and Ben Tapper have put yet another dent in the ambitions of the Torquay-based team and moves the Pirates eight points clear of the bottom three. Division One is still very tight for the top four and True Blues and Phoenix remain unbeaten. True Blues had an impressive 8-nil win at relegation-threatened Ivybridge Town and with seven players getting on the scoresheet, this just proves they have talent all over the team and could well be playing Premier League football next season. Phoenix had a trip to the seaside to visit Paignton Villa and came away with a 5-nil win to keep them very much favourites for this division. Villa remain one of six teams in mid-table and separated by six points and have games in hand over each other. Bovey Tracey were on cup business, which gave Windmill the opportunity to close the gap in a tricky game at Brixham Town. A Brodie Simpson hat trick and singles from Louis Godwin and Myles Hunt completed a 5-nil victory at JC Park to keep up the pressure on their Plymouth neighbours. Also, a word of congratulations to Shaun Langdon and his band of volunteers who have turned a horse compound and stable into a very good football pitch with pitch side parking, which is a fantastic facility for the community so well done to all at Brixham Town. In the two other midtable fixtures in Division One, Buckland Athletic won 2-nil at Newton Abbot Spurs 3rds and Watcombe beat WBB 3 nil with goals from Laurence Macloud, Jack White and Zac Steele. In Division Two, the top two of Barton Athletic and Mount Gould were on cup duty, which gave the chasing pack of four a chance to close the gap and East Allington Utd 2nds, Liverton Utd and Paignton Villa 2nds duly obliged. East Allington were the big scorers of the day with an 11-nil thumping of bottom club Ipplepen Athletic and Paignton Villa had a very impressive 5–1 win at White Rock versus Watcombe Wanderers 2nds. Liverton Utd also hit the net five times to overcome Upton Athletic at Armada Park. Babbacombe Corries could not find the points that would have put them into second place at Harbertonford where they lost 1-nil to a Luke Collens strike that moves Fords up four places and well away from the relegation battle that they have endured in recent seasons. The big game in Division Three went the way of Elburton Villa 3rds, a 3-nil win over Stoke Gabriel TP closes the gap to just one point between 3rd and 4th place. Second-placed Drake FC also dropped points at improving Newton Abbot 66 2nds, the Plymouth team had to settle for a 1–1 draw and finished the game with ten players at Osbourne Park. Kingsteignton Athletic 2nds also remain well placed for a challenge, a 3-nil win at South Brent thanks to goals from Ashton Hogarth and a double from Harry Bannister keeps the young rams in 5th place 4 points off 2nd with a game in hand. South Brent remain in the bottom three but have three games in hand on the teams above them and just need to find a win. As expected in Division Four, Kingskerswell move further clear at the top and as the only team in all the divisions with a 100% league record. This week’s 7-nil win over Kingsbridge and Kellaton with a hat-trick from the league’s top striker Joshua Clarke and his brother Oliver with Shane Shobbrook rolling back the years with a single goal. Templar Way remain in 2nd place but eight points behind the leaders with a 4–3 home win in an ill-tempered game against Waldon Athletic 3rds, Chris Bennett scored a hat trick and Nick Osbourne was also on target for Templar in a game that produced 7 yellows and 2 reds- lots of paperwork for the referee and lots of fines and suspensions for the players. Teign Village make up the top three with a 3–2 win over Paignton Villa 3rds and Chudleigh Athletic 2nds are 4th, just a tad off the pace, thanks to a 3–1 home win versus bottom team Barton Athletic 2nds. There were two delayed cup games played this week. In the Herald Cup, Bovey Tracey of Division One dispatched Barton Athletic of Division Two by three goals to one. Alister Chuchuk, John Agpoon and Ben Goble scored the goals in front of a decent crowd that put Bovey in the hat for the next round. Ashburton are also still in the cup following their trip to Mount Gould in Plymouth, the game was level at 2–2 and with no extra time goals or replays, the dreaded penalty shootout was on and it was the Ashes who held their nerve by scoring four of the spot kicks when Mount Gould missed two. The full draw for the next round will be published in next week’s edition and will be available on the full-time website. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us We use some essential cookies to make this website work We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK remember your settings and improve government services We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time Freedom of Information releases and corporate reports Devon man Christopher Garrett has been jailed for 32 months after he dumped thousands of tonnes of waste in a floodplain near Kingsteignton in Devon He was also ordered to pay a Proceeds of Crime Act confiscation sum of over £200,000 Garrett is thought to be the worst offender the Environment Agency has seen in Devon and Cornwall for the quantity of asbestos he illegally disposed of despite being prosecuted previously and receiving multiple warnings from the Environment Agency Following yesterday’s hearing he was sentenced to a total of 32 months in prison after pleading guilty to charges of running a waste facility without a permit in a manner likely to harm the environment or human health The Court heard that between July 2018 and May 2022 around 12,000 tonnes of controlled waste - mixed construction and demolition waste - was deposited on land designated as a floodplain at Garrett’s home He burnt some of it and buried large quantities of Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) posing a risk to the environment and to human health The investigation established that Garrett had received hundreds of thousands of pounds for the illegal tipping and that it would cost at least £2.5M to remediate the site His combined financial benefit from the offending was put at £2.88M He was ordered to pay back the value of his available assets of £200,885 In 2016 Garrett had received a two-year suspended prison sentence for allowing asbestos waste to be disposed at the site without a permit the Environment Agency heard that he was again importing waste to his land Despite multiple warnings and an enforcement notice Garrett ignored all instructions to stop his illegal activities including on one occasion with a police escort due the hostile nature of the defendant towards Environment Agency staff Garrett was prosecuted in early 2022 for an offence under the Public Order Act for his behaviour towards Environment Agency officers The Environment Agency then carried out a surveillance operation to establish the true scale of his illegal activities In May 2022 a warrant was obtained allowing a search of Garrett’s property and extensive site investigations using heavy machinery Bags containing asbestos were found buried in the ground and the site was riddled with smaller fragments of this hazardous waste Records and documents obtained by Enforcement Officers established that Garrett had imported waste to his land during the period of his suspended sentence and that he had made thousands of pounds from his illegal activities He was arrested and interviewed by Environment Agency officers but answered “no comment” to all questions Judge Adkin told Garrett: “You were unable to resist the lure of significant sums of money” and described the offences as “industrial scale environmental contamination committed by an individual.” an Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Garrett is a repeat offender who showed no care for the environment or human health He took no notice of the previous warnings given by the courts and the Environment Agency and imported hazardous waste “We are extremely pleased that he has now been brought to book and are working with our partners to establish what will happen to the site going forward We would like to remind everyone who produces transports or disposes of waste that they have a duty of care to ensure it doesn’t end up at a site like this.” Anyone who suspects illegal waste activity can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details SPECIALIST detection dog Ken has helped local police execute a drugs raid in Kingsteignton. A collation of local units, including Ken, actioned some drug intelligence on Wednesday, January 8, that saw amounts of Class C and Class B drugs recovered from the Kingsteignton area. A spokesperson for Newton Abbot Police said: ‘We will continued to action on drug intelligence and mitigate the impacts this has on our local communities. ‘You can report suspicious activity to us on our website or anonymously via CrimeStoppers.’ Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A school in Kingsteignton has closed today after students and staff were struck down by a diarrhoea and vomiting bug. St Michael’s Church of England Primary school has closed for one day to enable a deep clean to take place to prevent the illness spreading further. Public Health England advises that anyone with a stomach bug should remain at home until 48 hours after the last episode any vomiting and diarrhoea. Anyone suffering with sickness and diarrhoea should rest and drink plenty of fluids. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us WITH leaders Waldon Athletic on cup duty, the chasing five squeezed the gap at the top of the South Devon Football League Premier Division, reports Alastair Muirden. Ilsington Villa remain in second place thanks to a routine 4–1 home win versus Totnes and Dartington, Matt Warman bagged a brace with Jack Langford and Jamie Soper scoring singles for the Villa. In the big Newton Abbot derby, Spurs and 66 fought out a 1–1 draw in a very entertaining game at The Rec. Jamie Micklewright was the target man for the home team with Carl Foskett hitting a Beckham-like free kick to get on the scoresheet for sixes. Kingsteignton Athletic moved menacingly into fourth place following a great 4–2 home win against fellow challengers East Allington Utd, who stay in the bottom half of the table but with three games in hand. Elsewhere in the top division, Buckfastleigh Rangers are still not far off the pace and a 4–1 win versus the bottom team Elburton Villa, whilst Paignton Saints made a statement with a fine 4–2 win at strugglers Chudleigh Athletic. Gavin Lake and Mathew Cobbold were on target for the Clarets but they could not stop Saints taking home the points. Division One opens up just slightly thanks to a True Blues 1-nil victory at South Devon College against Paignton Villa- the win moves the Plymouth team 10 points clear of Villa in fourth place. Watcombe Wanderers managed to hold Windmill to a 2–2 draw in a feisty affair that keeps both teams in the hunt and capable of beating any of the top three. Newton Abbot Spurs 3rds had a good day at the office, a 5-nil win over fellow mid-tablers WBB just shows they also will have a say in how this division ends up. In Division Two, it was business as usual for the top four teams. Barton Athletic seem to have found their mojo again after a recent stutter, a 4-3 win at East Allington Utd 2nds is a good result by any standard and keeps them at the top for now. Just behind them are Mount Gould, who are also pulling one-goal wins out of the hat. Upton Athletic are the latest team to make the Plymouth team work for the points, a 4–3 win at Armada Park with goals from Bentley Alcantara, Joshua Bance, Joe Jasper and Sub Marcisse Campbell sent them back down the A38 with all three points. Babbacombe Corries stay in third place with a tight 2–1 win at Paignton Villa 2nds. The big winners in this division were Liverton Utd, who brushed aside Buckfastleigh Rangers 2nds 9-1. There were double strikes for Jaimie Passmore, Marco Lekkas and Lewis Teasher whilst Thomas Tayler, Danny Grant and Joshua Passmore Tarpey added singles to keep Livvy nine points off the lead with four games in hand. Unfortunately, the game between Paignton Saints 2nds and Watcombe Wanderers 2nds had to be abandoned following a leg break to a Saints player sustained in a challenge. A paramedic was present to keep the player as comfortable as possible until the ambulance arrived at Coach Road. We all wish Jack a speedy recovery. The big game in Division Three went the way of Stoke Gabriel TP in a 5–1 home win versus Kingsteignton Athletic 2nds. Goals from Russell Cooper, Martin Luker, Max Prestwood, Daniel Trezese and Alexander Mckerrell move the Bees into third place and five points clear of Elburton Villa 3rds, who did not have a game. Plymouth-based Drake FC were the big hitters this week in division three, they scored 11 goals without reply against the bottom team in the league Brixham Town 2nds. There were two other games played in Division Three that produced no less than 19 goals between them. Waldon Athletic 2nds and Newton Abbot 66 2nds shared 10 goals in their mid-table game and Liverton Utd 2nds came out on top in a 9-goal thriller at Totnes and Dartington 2nds to move away from the wrong end of the table. Kingskerswell remain on top of Division Four and are the only member club with a 100% record still intact, this time an 8-1 home win against a decent Chudleigh Athletic 2nd team sets them up nicely for their Herald Cup tie at Premier Division club East Allington Utd. Teign Village remain in second place without playing but Templar Way closed the gap in third to six points with a fine 8-nil win over Barton Athletic 2nds, there are some prolific goal scorers in this division, Chris Bennett scored another four goals to add to his impressive tally and George Minty added two for Templar Way who must be enjoying their first season in Saturday football. Newton Rovers 2nds are also having a better season and a 4-nil home win at Bakers Park versus Waldon Athletic 3rds sees them tucked up in mid-table. The final game in Division Four was at Loddiswell where Kingsbridge and Kellaton Utd and Broadhempston fought out an entertaining 2–2 draw, the result takes the South Hams team out of the bottom two on goal difference and allowed Broads to put a point on the board following a run of defeats. Everybody is up for the cup this week with some classic ties that kick off at 2pm and just a reminder, that extra time is played prior to the dreaded penalty shootout if needed. There are some potential banana skin games that catch the eye. Premier Division East Allington Utd will need to be at their best to beat Division Four high-flyers Kingskerswell, who have not lost yet in the league and are clearly punching below their weight in the bottom division. Also from Division Four, Teign Village will be preparing a village welcome for Premier Division heavyweights Buckfastleigh Rangers in what could be an interesting game and Harbertonford, from Division Two, are capable of an upset at Premier Division strugglers Chudleigh Athletic. There are a couple of interesting games in Plymouth, Mount Gould currently 2nd in Division Two, host Ashburton, who top Division Three and Drake FC will welcome Watcombe Wanderers to test themselves against higher league opposition. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us WITH the South Devon Football League management issuing a wet weather protocol for only the third time this season, the signs for any games being played on grass pitches looked ominous, reports Alistair Muirden. Three clubs that were exceptions to this were Buckfastleigh Rangers, Barton Athletic and Kingstiegnton Athletic, where somehow the ground staff managed to beat the weather and prepare their pitches for play. A massive well done goes to them however, on the flip side, those teams that play on artificial pitches are left wondering what all the fuss is about. One of those teams are Division One outfit Plymouth Phoenix and despite being behind with their league fixtures, mainly caused by away postponements and county cup progress, they were able to host Bovey Tracey in a top-of-the-table fixture at Devonport High School. In a game that would not have been out of place at a higher level of football, it has to be said that the visitors came close to removing the unbeaten tag that Phoenix hold. Goals from JJ Honeywell and Jamie Grinrod were enough to move the home team into second place in the table though, three points behind the leaders True Blues with three games in hand. Bovey drop to fourth place, level on points with Windmill who had a fairly comfortable afternoon winning 6 – 2 against Brixham Town. Brodie Simpson scored a brace and there were singles for Jack Briscoe, Louis Godwin, Miles Hunt and Ethen Jones. It is very tight at the top of Division One with the top four still having to play each other so there are some great games to look forward to. In Division Two, it was top versus third at Barton Downs and it was the home team Barton Athletic who dispatched Babbacombe Corries 6-nil thanks to a hat trick from Oakley Hunt and goals from James Thomas and Zach Norton. Barton were also helped by an own goal but one of their players could not help himself and they had to see out the game with ten players. As previously reported, this division is unusual in that Barton are 12 points clear at the top with four games left to play, Mount Gould have seven games in hand, both East Allington Utd 2nds & Liverton Utd have six games in hand plus Watcombe Wanderers 2nds are 18 points behind with 5 games in hand. Barton, who have led the division all season, could end up missing out once those midweek games get played. The only other game played in Division Two was at Coach Road where the supporters watched in comfort as Newton Rovers got an unexpected win against Paignton Saints reserves to move themselves away from the danger zone. Jordan Bastow, Corey Luscombe and Owen Clausen were on target in a 3-2 victory as the Newton Abbot side secured an important three points. In Division Three, only one game was played and that was at South Devon College where Totnes and Dartington continued to move up the table with a 7–1 win over Paignton Saints 3rds courtesy of a Jordan Baxter hat trick and a brace from Nick Warren, with singles from Charlie Raggett and Jamie Easton. The result leaves the visitors eight points behind second-placed Drake with two games in hand in what is another tight division. There were no games that survived in Division Four but all the teams are way ahead of their fixtures and most should complete the season by the end of March. In the Torbay Clearance Services Herald Cup, there were two games that not only survived the weather but they were even played on grass. The amazing work done by the ground staff at Buckfastleigh Rangers and Kingsteignton Athletic ensured that they passed inspections and both were glad as the home duo prevailed. Rangers won a tight all-Premier Division clash versus Paignton Saints by two goals to nil to set themselves up for a quarter-final against South Brent or Waldon Athletic. The Rams had a more comfortable afternoon against division two side Liverton Utd, an 8–2 scoreline with goals from Matt Williams and Nick Garett who both scored twice and there were singles from Dan Rankin, Tom Reeves, Nas Alfaresi and Mark Voisey to set them up for the quarter-final tie of the round away to Plymouth Phoenix. Wet weather in the last two weeks is causing the fixture secretary some cup worries as cup final season is approaching fast but these outstanding cup games do take priority over league games, so at the third attempt of playing them, I can recommend some good cup football. South Brent who welcome Waldon Athletic, Beesands Rovers versus Chudleigh Athletic and there’s a local derby at Teign Village against Chudleigh Athletic 2nds. These cup games kick off at 2pm. However, my game of the day is the Premier League clash at The Rec between Newton Abbot Spurs 2nds and league leaders Ilsington Villa which has a 2:30pm kick off. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us DEVON boxer Jamie Speight is finding ‘pleasure, satisfaction and fulfilment’ running a boxing gym in Thailand having had an eleven-year professional career of his own, writes James Bovington. The pinnacle of his time in the ring was defeating Martin Hillman in 2017 to win British Boxing’s southern area featherweight title. “I’m proud to have carried the tag of a ‘professional boxer,” said Speight, “I was a dedicated athlete and sacrificed much of my youth to become the best I could be. “Some viewed it as odd, but the training gave me unmatched discipline coupled with a hunger and passion for the sport that made me. I’m lucky, indeed privileged to be passing my knowledge and experience on to the next generation as I help my fighters build the bridges to cross the rivers where I had to swim. “I was proud to win an area title but the highlight of my career also in 2017 was boxing live on Sky Sports from the O2 arena in London in front of twenty thousand people and seeing my name up in lights above the big stage as I walked out. I boxed Reece Bellotti from Watford for a vacant WBC title. Although I didn’t win the experience was amazing for this young man from Devon living out his dreams. “I’m also proud to have fought Leeds boxer Josh Warrington back in 2013 before he became a world champion. “As you do in boxing, we became friends. That surprises only those who don’t know the sport. I found Josh to be a lovely, down-to-earth kid at heart and I’m so very thankful to his dad Sean for all he taught me during my time in Leeds. He’s a wonderful man and a brilliant coach who improved my boxing immensely.” Thirty-six-year-old Speight grew up in Kingsteignton, ‘a lovely little village,’ and hasn’t ruled out returning to Devon, “which will always be my home. At present I’m happy and content in Thailand. Boxing has had such a positive influence on my life helping me to become disciplined, well-mannered, articulate and caring.” “Boxing changes lives for the better and I won’t let up from promoting the sport I love and reminding parents that boxing isn’t for thugs, bullies or idiots. It’s for young people who can show commitment and determination to prove what they’re made of, so why not offer your son or daughter at least the opportunity to try out training at one of the many gyms or boxing clubs in Devon? Adults can try too, it’s never too late to try out new skills.” Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us EVERY year, Kingsteignton Bowls Club hold their Bonner Rose Bowl competition. Back in 1989, Ray and Sylvia Bonner, who were landlord & lady of the Bell Inn in Kingsteignton, donated a rose bowl to the club members, thanking them for their regular custom. The annual Bonner Rose Bowl competition was born. On September 12, with mixed weather, the men and women played separate round robins of six ends with the winners advancing to the final. As the Rose Bowl was donated by both landlord & landlady, it was decided that the final playoff would be between the winning gent and the winning lady. For the final, the sun decided to shine and the match of eight ends proved to be quite tense with good bowling from Margaret Hawkins and Ken Johns. With Margaret prevailing, this is now the second consecutive year that a lady has won the Rose Bowl- girl power is alive and well at KBC! Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us DAVID Brown, a coach at Kingsteignton Swimming Pool, has recently returned from Australia where he was competing at the Multisport World Championships. Duathlon is his specialty and it is the event in which he represents Great Britain, finishing sixth in the 40-45 age category. In total, there were roughly 300 people involved in the race in Townsville, Queensland and it is made more intriguing because “You race altogether and you don’t know who is in your category.” The event begins with a 5k run, followed by a 20k cycle and then it is rounded out by a 2.5k run, so despite being a swimming coach, there is no action in the pool involved in David’s primary event. He labelled the duathlon as more difficult than the triathlon due to the fact that “You’re getting on the bike and going as hard as you can after smashing yourself on that 5k run- the run is on your PB pace or not far off- it’s a little bit more brutal.” Between having a hernia operation back in April and getting covid since returning from Australia, it has been a disrupted schedule. Brown was “Against the clock in terms of trying to get ready”, first he “wasn’t sure if [he] was going to make it” and then he didn’t have particularly high hopes, making a sixth-place finish all the more impressive. Next year’s event is in Pontevedra, Spain, which David now automatically qualifies for due to finishing in the top ten of his category, and top three of all Brits. David spoke of owing a lot of his success to coach Phil Wylie. Wylie began coaching him in 2020, just before lockdown, and under his tutelage, he has risen from a non-GB athlete to 6th in the world. “I bumped into him at a race in Exeter and he offered to coach me with the aim of getting into the GB team” which is exactly what has happened, last month’s trip to Australia being his fourth GB event (two World Championships and two European Championships). Talking of the European Championships and the Kingsteignton local has a qualifier at Hever Castle in Kent later this month, for next year’s event in Poland in April. As well as that, David told us that he will be doing Dawlish triathlon soon, “As I like to do a few local ones”, even joking that “there’s pressure with everyone trying to beat him” as he has won the last couple of years. Finally to his experience down under and it was a first trip to Australia to remember. “It was an effort to get there but it was definitely worth it” and the people “were so friendly and happy” as well as “really well organized.” Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A TEIGNBRIDGE couple who recently celebrated 60 years of marriage have said that give and take goes a long way toward a happy marriage. Colin and Audrey Squirrell celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary last week on Thursday, August 29. The couple were surprised to have received a card marking the occasion from His Majesty King Charles III, and Her Majesty The Queen. ‘We didn't how this came about, but later the family mentioned they had organised it all’ the couple said. ‘We don’t know how they did it, but it was such a lovely surprise!’ they added. To celebrate the occasion Colin, 82, and Audrey, 81, had a party for family and friends the weekend before their anniversary; it was then off to Teignmouth’s premier Greek restaurant, Trade Winds, with the family on the actual date of the anniversary. But what is the secret to a long, happy marriage? The couple both agreed that give and take goes a long way! Colin moved to Teignmouth from Surrey in May of 1959 at the age of 17; a couple of months later he acquired employment on the railway as a Signalman at Starcross after training at Newton Abbot. One day Colin asked Audrey for a date and that, as they say, was that. And what were their first impressions of one another? ‘I though that Audrey was a great looking, smart girl’ Colin said. ‘Colin had a great sense of humour and he liked all sports’ Audrey said. The couple married on August 29, 1964 at St James Church. And it was off to Jersey for their honeymoon, before setting up home in Teignmouth. Colin and Audrey have two children, Andrew and Tina, six grandchildren and step grandchildren, together with daughter-in-law Emma. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A new project to build homes for local people in the centre of Newton Abbot has been given cash backing by Teignbridge Council Its executive committee pledged more than £142,000 for the next phase in building at Sherborne House In August the council gave itself permission to build a block of badly-needed apartments on the site of the town’s old bus station in Kingsteignton Road There will be 23 new social rent apartments in three and four-storey blocks Existing social housing tenants who want to downsize and free up much-needed larger family homes will be invited to apply for the one and two-bedroomed properties Priority will be given to applicants with a connection to Newton Abbot The money will prepare the project to go out to tender to a development partner who will do the building work Committee members were enthusiastic about the project. Cllr Gary Taylor (Lib Dem Kenton and Starcross) said: “This is a very well-designed building Dawlish NE) added: “I think this is a wonderful thing.” Bradley) said it would help meet Teignbridge’s high demand for single-bedroomed properties and may encourage some people living in larger properties to switch MAYOR of Kingsteignton Cllr Ron Peart hosted his annual Civic Service held at the town’s Community Hall. Fellow dignitaries from neighbouring towns and parishes, including the Mayor of Teignmouth Cllr Cate Williams and the Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Lin Goodman-Bradbury, joined other invited guests at the event. Town Crier Jackie Edwards officially opened proceedings followed by Cllr Peart’s welcome ahead of Reverend David Goddard of Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church lighting the Advent Candle. A group of 20 children from Rydon Primary School’s Choir sang their hearts out and brought Christmas cheer to everyone who attended. Cllr Peart gave his Mayoral Address and a presentation of events that had taken place throughout his Mayoral year. Soloist Paul Cobley entertained the crowd with his three hearty vocal performances which raised the roof. Readings at the event were given by Jackie Edwards, Liz Thompson, Father Mark Smith of St. Michael’s Church in Kingsteignton and members of Kingsteignton Baptist Church. Reverend Goddard had his audience mesmerised with his magic performance using a red cabbage, a blender and some chemicals, to produce the seven colours of the South African flag. These colours portray a rainbow which is the symbol of promise. Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church musicians performed the music for the carol singing. Some of the church’s team also served refreshments and assisted in the kitchen. A retiring collection was made for the Mayor’s Charity which is ‘Walking Alongside’ KingsCare Mental Health Support. Cllr Peart thanked everyone for attending and those who took part before wishing everyone a happy, healthy Christmas and his good wishes for the New Year. The evening concluded with all those in attendance enjoying a buffet and refreshments before leaving to go home. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us CHRISTMAS came to Kingsteignton with the town council’s annual festivities at the Community Hall. Welcomed by an elf upon arrival, residents enjoyed hot drinks, cakes and mince pies. A fairy, escorted children into Santa’s grotto where each child received a small gift. Lanterns were lit and the crowd gathered outside around the lit Christmas tree in the grounds for carol singing. Leading the event, Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church’s Reverend David Goddard delivered a reading. Reverend Iain McDonald of Dawlish played keyboard and everybody joining in the traditional carols. Readings were by Father Mark Smith of St. Michael’s Church and Reverend Jessica Ashcroft-Townsley of Kingsteignton United Reformed Church. The evening’s festivities concluded with Kingsteignton Mayor, Cllr Ron Peart, giving a poignant message to all. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Residents of Kingsteignton won’t have to trek into Newton Abbot for their Uglibun fix later this summer. The famed surfing bakers’ Shaldon Bakery has confirmed plans to open a fifth branch in Kingsteignton. The new shop will be housed within the bakery’s head office and bakery behind Homebase on Greenhill Way. ‘We’re currently converting a store room into a pop-up shop,’ a spokesperson confirmed. The new branch is due to open at the end of June or in early July. Shaldon Bakery currently has four shops in Shaldon, Teignmouth, Newton Abbot and Budleigh Salterton. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us IT TOOK more than a spot of rain to dampen the spirits of the hundreds who attended a Kingsteignton fair that can trace its beginnings back to medieval times. The annual King’s Teignton Ram Roasting Fair took place at the town’s Oakford Lawn on Whitsun Bank Holiday Monday and despite the occasional shower visitors flocked to the annual charity fundraising event. Town Crier Jackie Edwards officially opened the fair, and following the crowing of the  May Queen Ebony Bernard and her attendants  Maggie Jones and Ariyah Syms by Kingsteignton mayor Cllr Ron Peart, crowds were entertained by traditional maypole dancing from local youngsters. The day offered numerous attractions including the Tano Taiko drummers, a dog show, magic show and circus skills workshops plus a host of stalls and side shows, and of course a roasted ram, to keep visitors entertained. A 16-year-old girl who died in a fatal collision near Exeter has been named as Hanna Green from Kingsteignton Hanna died at the scene of the collision which happened on an unnamed road near Exeter Racecourse in the early hours of August 8 She was travelling as a passenger in a silver Peugeot 107 when the incident happened around 1.20am. Today her family paid tribute to her tragically died in a road traffic collision on Thursday 8 August.Hanna was a beloved daughter ‘The family are grateful for the comfort and support which they have received and experienced over the past few days and respectfully request that family and friends are allowed to grieve in private at this very difficult time.’ The 18-year-old male driver also died in the single-car collision while three other teenage passengers were injured A 16-year-old boy and 14-year-old girl were left in critical condition while another 16-year-old girl sustained less serious injuries Specialist officers from the Serious Collisions Investigation Team are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident They are appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the collision or anyone with relevant dashcam footage which may help with enquiries.Please provide information via our website here: https://orlo.uk/mbIc8 or by telephoning 101, quoting log 49 of 08/08/2024. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A 42-year-old man killed himself hours after he stabbed his father to death on the doorstep of his parents' home in Kingsteignton. Owen Chandler was caught on a ring doorbell camera seconds before he stabbed his father Peter Freeman to death - but the victim had not recognised the hooded figure. The day after the murder, Chandler was found dead in his locked car in a remote car park on the Devon coast. Coroner Ian Arrow recorded a suicide conclusion on 42 year old Chandler who died from a stab wound to his right arm and the toxic effects of a prescribed drug overdose of 100 anti-histamine tablets. Mr Arrow said Chandler had been under the care of the mental health services until he was discharged in November 2018 but said there had only been limited assessment of the risk he posed to himself and others. An inquest earlier this week into his father Peter Freeman's death, heard Chandler wanted revenge and to torture his parents but the main deterrent had been getting caught. Mr Freeman, 73, suffered fatal chest and neck wounds in the attack as he answered his front door in Chockland Road on the evening of Sunday June 9, 2019. Det Sgt Dan Ritson told the hearing at Plymouth Coroner's Court that police received a 999 call at 21.21pm from the victim's wife Linda saying a stranger had gone to their home in Kingsteignton, Devon, and rang the doorbell as the couple watched TV. DS Ritson said the killer, later identified as their son, asked if someone called Johnson lived at the bungalow or nearby and retired businessman Mr Freeman replied no. He said Chandler then pulled out a 17.5cm bladed Bowie style knife and attacked Mr Freeman before his wife locked the door and called police. The inquest heard the doorbell footage showed a man wearing a blue Lonsdale hoodie carrying a bag for life approach the house and within two minutes he closed the door and made off. DS Ritson said:"The male was unrecognisable to the Freeman family, a stranger who was not known at that time." The next day Chandler was discovered dead in a car at nearby Labrador Bay car park in Shaldon, Devon, and his description matched the man in the doorbell images. Blood on his jumper also matched Mr Freeman's DNA and a bag for life and a blood stained knife were found. A suicide letter addressed to the coroner was found in the glove box which made clear references to the attack the night before. The inquest heard that Mr Freeman died from chest and neck stab wounds which led to a huge blood loss. The coroner Ian Arrow was told that Chandler had been under the care of mental health services since his teenage years and was discharged in November 2018. A report said Chandler suffered with emotional unstable personality and PTSD and had a history of self-harm and tried to kill himself before. The inquest heard Chandler say he wanted revenge on his parents and to torture them. It was a long term preoccupation where he wanted to kill his parents and then himself because he had 'nothing to lose'. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us VOICES were raised in Kingsteignton last Saturday - but there were no unpleasantries.  The cause of the extreme vocals was the very first Kingsteignton Town Crier competition, held in the grounds of the Community Hall..  Organised by Kingsteignton Town Council, the inaugural competition has been secured in the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers official Guild Competitions calendar.  A total  of 16 criers from across the country headed in for the event, hosted by Kingsteignton’s own crier Jackie Edwards. Guild competition rules meant Jackie was not able to compete in her home time, but did perform a bench making cry at the start of the event  themed around her hime town. Crier of the day turned out to be Plymouth’s John Pitt whose vocal dexterity gained him the winner’s laurels and he also picked up the award for best-dressed crier too. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A FARMER made almost £3 million by allowing the illegal dumping of asbestos and other building waste on his land has been prosecuted successfully twice by the Environment Agency for polluting his land and is now facing a possible jail sentence and seizure of his assets under the Proceeds of Crime Act  He had been due to face a fact finding hearing at Exeter Crown Court later this month but has withdrawn a basis of plea which was not accepted by the prosecution Garrett had disputed the exact timings of offences how much money he made out the illegal dumping and whether he was using the waste as a legitimate means to reduce the risk of flooding admitted operating a regulated facility without a permit between July 19 He also pleaded guilty to treating or disposing of controlled waste in a manner likely to cause pollution by dumping waste containing asbestos between the same dates Judge James Adkin adjourned his sentence until July and has now ordered a probation pre-sentence report prosecuting for the Environment Agency (EA) said Garrett had withdrawn his basis of plea and will be sentenced on the full facts He said an agreement has also been reached on the confiscation proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act with the amount by which Garrett benefitted from crime calculated at £2,888,548.20 said the available assets are still being assessed The offences which Garrett has now admitted put him in breach of a suspended sentence of four months which was imposed in 2016 after he admitted allowing the disposal of controlled waste without a permit In that case he was also ordered to pay £3,221.78 costs to the EA and remove all the waste at his own expense within a year The EA were alerted to the pollution because neighbours living close to Little Lindridge which is between Kingsteignton and Teignmouth complained about the number of builders’ trucks using the narrow lanes that led to it Environment Agency inspectors issued an official warning in June 2014 but Garrett ignored it and allowed even more waste to be dumped over the next 13 months until he was raided for a second time Garrett had created a hard standing at the top of a hill and carried out illegal burning of building materials including plastics Other building waste had cascaded down a hill like an avalanche and engulfed trees in a copse at the bottom A path had been built down the hill which was found to include potentially lethal broken asbestos tiles told Garrett: ‘This was a deliberate course of conduct It goes without saying that if there was a further offence of unlawful dumping there would be immediate imprisonment Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us RESIDENTS have been unable to access their homes in a Kingsteignton road this afternoon following what was described as a ‘major’ police presence.  It was reported that armed officers and a police dog were seen at a residential address in the town.  Some living in the road were not allowed to drive in to access their properties although one resident was permitted to leave. The incident is said to be ongoing this afternoon.  The Mid Devon Advertiser has contacted Devon and Cornwall Police for a response.  Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us Kingsteignton Shuttles Junior Badminton Club has just held its annual end of season tournament for 2024 and as per previous years the players were split into two groups seven players took part with everyone playing each other twice with the top four going through to the semi-finals and Seth Kelly all making the semi-final line up all matches were played to a first of 15 points Just like previous years the handicapping system worked very well This resulted in some very close games which could have gone either way and with the league being determined on a points won system This was the way with Seth as he made the semi-finals by just one point at the expense of Cameron Davies and would play fellow newcomer Molly in the semi-finals Molly was too strong for Seth and easily won 15-7 to make the final The other semi-final though was a totally different affair with pre-tournament favourite Lauren coming up against a determined Tilly and with Tilly starting on four points due to the handicapping system came flying out of the blocks and opened up an eight point lead Lauren fought back well but it was Tilly who made the final by winning 15-13 The Final between Molly and Tilly was a little one-sided with nerves getting the better of Tilly She tried hard but it was Molly who kept her composure and easily won 15-4 and becoming the champion in her first season at the club ten players took part with the top four progressing to the semi-finals The four who made it through would be Alex Wonnacott with no real favourite the title was up for grabs for any one of the four semi-finalists Alex who got knocked out at this stage last year went one better and made the final by beating Theo 15-9 the other semi-final was a little closer with two evenly matched players but it was Sefa who overcame a determined Toby winning 15-11 to set up the final against Alex In the group match Alex narrowly beat Sefa 15-14 both players were certainly up for it and with some wonderful shot play and long rallies it made for one of the best finals we have had Sefa was a man on a mission and gave nothing away and made every shot count and in the end came away with a convincing 15-8 victory to get his name on the trophy for the first time Our sportsmanship award this year was given to a player who missed out on the semi-finals by just one point but had the right attitude throughout the tournament and never gave up to the very end The sportsmanship award this year went to a well-deserved Cameron Davies The Club would like to thank all the coaches and committee members who give their time voluntarily If you know someone who is interested in playing junior badminton, ages 8-18, then contact Club Secretary, Chloe Hambly at [email protected] A HOMELESS woman from Kingsteignton has been jailed for stabbing a man in the head after warning ‘someone’s getting hurt tonight’ Katie Rockett used the blade from a craft knife to slash victim James Clarke just above his ear and cause a 5cm cut She told him she wanted to cut his head off and put it on a spiked railing who felt a cut to the side of his head before Rockett and Dodd walked off They were filmed on CCTV congratulating each other The same CCTV had earlier recorded her saying ‘someone’s getting hurt’ and ‘see the blade’ of no fixed address but previously of Kingsteignton and possession of a blade and was jailed for three years by Judge Stephen Climie at Exeter Crown Court admitted battery and will be sentenced later The judge told Rockett the offence was aggravated by her abuse of drink and drugs and said: ‘On the evidence before me you were totally out of control that night.’ said the confrontation ended with Mr Clarke being stabbed twice once in the back and once in the head and it is accepted Rockett was responsible for the second injury She had been acting in an agitated manner from the moment she and Dodd left his flat and had made threats to hurt someone and to cut off Mr Clarke’s head and impale it on railings said Rockett acted out of a perverse loyalty to Dodd and as a result of being in such psychological turmoil she had been prevented from jumping from the top of a multi-storey car park shortly before the stabbing suicide attempts and self-harm linked to suffering sexual abuse in childhood and domestic abuse during adult relationships Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us attended the official opening of the new play area at Clifford Park with funding from Viridor Credits Environmental Cllr Peart gave sincere thanks to Viridor’s trustee Mr David Robertson accompanied by his wife Jill for attending on behalf of Viridor Credits the company who designed and installed the new play equipment and PCSO Vanessa Pike for her continued support in patrolling the local area Thanks were also given to all the families and friends who visited to play in the park some having picnics and enjoying ice creams from the ice cream van Cllr Peart and Cllr Martin Field presented the winners of the Kingsteignton Wild First prize was won by Toby Garnsworthy and runner up was Mia Bradley a DIY bird house kit and Toby as first prize winner received stickers as well Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us WITH its annoucement earlier in the year that it planned to close hundreds of its stores, the future of Boots outlets across Teignbridge was uncertain, but it can be confirmed the Gestridge Road store is to close. The store, which is one of two in the area, the other located at Kingsteignton Retail Park, is to close in February of next year. Boots announced in June it would close some 300 of its branches throughout the UK over the coming 12 months: the move is a part of the pharmacy chain’s plans to consolidate the business. Stores in close proximity to one another will be shut: Gestridge Road and Kingsteignton Retail Park, for example, are no more than two kilometres apart, hence the closure. It is understood team members effected by the closure will be offered alternate roles within the business - no redundancies are planned. ‘What with out of town parking and home delivery what do you expect? It’s the future’ said one resident. ‘Gutted they’re closing. The Boots by Next will never be able to cope!’ said another. ‘We have always found Boots Gestridge Road pharmacy to be excellent’ said another. A trawl through the Mid-Devon Advertiser archives THE road name Pottery Road still exists in Kingsteignton, although the infrastructure that once housed the pottery has sadly long gone. The demolition men arrived in 1968 to tear down the buildings and chimneys that had long loomed over Kingsteignton. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us THREE good causes received a welcome cash boost when community-conscious colleagues at Kingsteignton Tesco Superstore handed out grants worth £3,000. Adventure Therapy received a cheque for £1,500 to help fund services to improve the emotional and physical wellbeing of local children and adults with complex needs. Westcliff Academy in Dawlish was awarded £1,000 to create a Fun Play Project and Hollow Lane Club received £500 towards providing after school facilities for children and young people with complex disabilities. The funding came from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme, in partnership with the Groundwork charity, which supports Teignbridge community projects and good causes. Amy Weekes, project coordinator at Adventure Therapy, said: ‘It will make such a difference to the children we support in the local area. ‘The funds will provide supported outdoor and adventure-led activities such as bushcraft, archery, horse-riding, kayaking, paddle-boarding and climbing. ‘These will help to improve wellbeing for children and young people with mental health conditions, physical disability, learning disability, and life-threatening, life-shortening and life-changing conditions. ‘The activities will also strengthen the children’s resilience, improve vitality and self-esteem, providing a sense of accomplishment and aid rehabilitation, as well as help to improve social skills, form new friendships and connect with other children who could be going through similar struggles.' Janette Parker, community champion at Tesco Kingsteignton, said: ‘It is a real pleasure for us to present these grants to three groups that do such fantastic work in our communities. We really appreciate their tireless efforts to improve so many people’s lives.’ Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us TWO people from Kingsteignton have been arrested on suspicion of supplying drugs in the area. Police swooped on a house in the town yesterday morning, Wednesday, and seized ‘a significant amount of drugs.’ Later last night Newton Abbot police reported on their Facebook page: ‘This morning the occupants of a certain house in Kingsteignton may have been expecting their Amazon Prime Day bargains to be delivered ‘Instead it was us that turned up and let ourselves into the address and executed a warrant issued by the courts for a house that has been suspected of supplying drugs in the local area.  ‘Two people have been arrested on suspicion on being concerned in the supply of class a and class b along with money laundering. ‘A significant amount of Class A and Class B drugs destined for the streets were seized from the property along with a large amount of cash and high value goods that are believed to have been purchased using money obtained from the proceeds of crime.’ Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us A TEIGNBRIDGE secondary school has been acknowledged nationally for their unique approach to playing sports as inclusive as possible. Teign School in Kingsteignton was highly commended in the Outstanding Secondary Practice category at the Youth Sport Trust 2024 Conference Awards, sponsored by Sports Directory and The LEGO Group. The award, sponsored by Complete PE, recognised a secondary school that has used sport to build back healthier, happier, and more resilient young people. The Youth Sport Trust is the UK’s leading children’s charity improving every young person’s education and development through sport. Head of department Keira Wylie said: ‘It feels amazing to be highly commended, I can’t believe it really, I think we’re all still quite stunned. ‘We’ve been trying to make sure that every single student is engaged in some way in physical activity. ‘We’ve been to a few Youth Sport Trust events and done a lot of research. A lot our PE groups are now mixed ability, and they are grouped by choosing their friends to make them happy in PE. ‘We want every child to feel comfortable and safe so they can perform at their highest and enjoy sport as much as possible.’ Reigning heptathlon world champion Katarina Johnson-Thompson was also in attendance to recognise those who have gone above and beyond from across the country. The 31-year-old also sat down for a keynote speaker session and shared advice and anecdotes from her athlete career. She said: ‘It’s been a really great evening and event. ‘Sport is what I do and how I’ve been brought up through youth development and all the competitions that I did through this organisation as a kid. ‘It’s nice to be here and giving back and it’s great to hear so many inspiring stories. ‘I don’t know who I am without sport and that came from PE lessons doing high jump when I was younger. ‘From that young age, I found an identity through it where I was known for being good at something.’ More than 120 nominations were received from across the seven categories, and judging panels of experts reviewed the shortlisted entries to decide the finalists. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us WET weather did little to deter a group of residents in Kingsteignton from protesting the planned closure of their town’s branch of Boots. ‘Save our pharmacy’ was the rallying cry of half a dozen or more people who, with home-made placards in hand, gathered afront the Boots store on Gestridge Road to protest its closure. The branch is set to close in February of next year. Tracey, who was a driving force in getting the protest organised, said: ‘If they close this one then I will have to stop my mediciation because I can’t get to the other one. ‘They are so good in there [Gestridge Road], they text me every time my medication is ready. ‘My niece went to the Boots at the Retail Park the other day, and the queue was outside the door so she went back home.’ ‘I just think it is a shame’ said another protestor, who wished to remain anonymous. ‘This branch has been here for so long - it is a part of the community. ‘Post offices, banks, everything is closing!’ they went on to say. Several drivers travelling along Gestridge Road, in solidarity with the protestors, sounded the horn of their vehicle. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us KINGSTEIGNTON Mayor, Cllr Ron Peart recently held his Annual Civic Carol Service at the town’s Community Hall.   The event was opened by Town Crier Jackie Edwards who delivered her joyful seasonal message, followed by a warm welcome from Mayor Councillor Ron Peart to his fellow dignitaries from other local towns and parishes, invited guests, Kingsteignton Town Councillors and to the children of the Choir in Year 6 from St. Michael’s Primary School.  Reverend David Goddard of Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church lit the advent candle prior to the first carol – Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. Readings were delivered by Reverend Jessica Ashcroft-Townsley the recently appointed Reverend of Kingsteignton United Reformed Church, local resident Liz Thompson, Town Crier Jackie Edwards, Father Mark Smith of St. Michael’s Church and Bex Hooper of Kingsteignton Town Council.  The Year 6 Choir from St. Michael’s Primary School gave a beautiful performance of Christmas songs. A retiring collection was made during the service for the Mayor’s Charity, ‘Walking Alongside – KingsCare Mental Health Support’ which raised over £130.00. Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us BUS company Stagecoach has announced timetable changes across the region which start from May 26.  It says the timetables are ‘enhanced’ to reflect seasonal demand and improve punctuality. A spokesman said: ‘As we move into the summer, some areas will see timetables benefit from enhancements to better reflect the seasonal demand. ‘Some timetables will also see intermediate running times revised on all days of operation to improve reliability and punctuality.’ Service 2, which operates between Exeter, Newton Abbot and Dawlish, sees times revised each day. Some departure times at Monday to Friday peak time journeys are changed to better suit school and college movements.  There are some minor changes to the Saturday morning timetable, with a small number of journeys removed from the timetable. Service 7 from Exeter to Totnes via Newton Abbot is also seeing revised times with additional buses scheduled at peak times.  Service 39 between Bovey Tracey and  Newton Abbot also has revised timings as does Service 53 from Kingsteignton to Torbay Hospital. The popular 12 service between Brixham and Newton Abbot is being ‘significantly’ changed.  Stagecoach says: ‘Following a comprehensive review of our popular Service 12, there will be a number of significant changes to the timetable designed to better match passenger demand. ’Monday to Friday daytimes buses will run every 15 minutes between Newton Abbot and Brixham. ‘This will also be the case on Saturday daytimes, with buses every 20 minutes between Newton Abbot and Brixham. ‘There will be no changes to the frequency on Sundays and Public Holidays, with buses continuing to operate every 20 minutes during the main part of the day. ‘We have undergone a review of demand for travel during the evening and overnight on the service.  ‘As a result, the frequency daily after 1900 until the end of service will be reduced from every 20 minutes to every 30 minutes.  ‘Night journeys introduced last May on a trial basis will be withdrawn as they have not proved to be commercially viable.’ Service 22 between Dawlish Warren via St Marychurch in Torquay to South Devon College is also seeing revisions to its timings.  Tel: 01626 336600[email protected]Follow us