The counting has started for the South Hams division of the County Council elections. Here are all the candidates hoping to win seats today: Comments Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 Totnes Town Council is inviting residents and business owners to come along to the Annual Town Meeting on Thursday May 15 at 6pm in The Guildhall and find out what’s been going on behind the scenes at the Town Council – from community grants to Christmas markets Cllr Emily Price explains: “This meeting is all about you – the people who live “We’ll be talking about what we’ve been working on there’s a lot happening and we want you to be in the know we’ll be revealing the winners of the 2025 Totnes Town Council Community Awards “It’s always a lovely moment to celebrate the people making a real difference in town.” Just send your questions in by Monday May 12 so they have got time to give you a proper answer on the day You can email them at: [email protected] or call: 01803 862147. The Town Meeting takes place at the historic Guildhall at Rampart’s Walk Totnes (just behind St Mary’s Church). If you can’t make it in person you can always catch up with what they are doing on the Facebook and Instagram pages or via their website: www.totnestowncouncil.gov.uk Cllr Price added: “We’re really looking forward to seeing lots of friendly faces on May 15 “Come along, get involved, and let’s talk Totnes!” All Council meetings are held in the Guildhall which is a listed building with limited access for those with accessibility problems. The Council is committed to ensuring that everyone is able to attend and take part in these meetings and will relocate from the upper Council Chamber to the main Guildhall if you would struggle with the steps and stairs. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us THE stage was set as Totnes proudly hosted the Devon Colts Finals 2025, sponsored by Ashburton Motorworks. Hundreds of spectators turned out in support in the glorious sunshine, with Kingsbridge taking on Totnes in pursuit of the Bowl, whilst Paignton & Torquay were to battle it out for the Shield. Totnes’ perseverance throughout a season full of setbacks is testament to their character and a convincing win in the semifinal against Teign Exe meant blushes were spared, keeping them at the top of the table alongside Kingsbridge. Both teams looked well drilled as they came flying out of the blocks at Borough Park, with gargantuan tackles and driving runs, getting the crowd whipped into a frenzy. Kingsbridge were close to scoring two tries in quick succession right in front of the home supporters but were kept out by some last-ditch tackles from the Totnes defence. Totnes Rams secured some possession and with their battering runs from forwards, Isak Williams, Henry Life and Alex Hayman, drove their way up the pitch to be awarded a penalty in front of the posts, which Josh Bond duly slotted for three points. A second penalty from Josh followed before Kingsbridge caught Totnes off-guard, running a penalty from near their own posts right to the other end for a well-deserved try. However, Totnes responded swiftly with their power game and after some quick ball from scrum-half Ayden Cutland, fly-half Tom Hart drove over the line after some well-worked forward plays to put Totnes in front at half-time. Kingsbridge were never going to roll over, and they scored again soon after the break. Totnes’ captain and centre, Toby Albano, became a man on a mission, blitzing through the Kingsbridge defence, only to have a disallowed try. This only seemed to fuel Toby's determination, as he went on to score two more tries before the game ended. Henry Larder was unfortunate not to score, despite repeatedly slicing through the Kingsbridge defence. Kings responded with some spectacular attacks, scoring one more try, but having more opportunities spurned by heroic tackling from Max Larder, Josh Bond and Jake Sarahs. In the end, the pure physicality of the Totnes ball carriers and a colossal defensive effort proved too much for Kingsbridge. The final few minutes felt like an eternity as The Rams held firm control of the ball, every second stretching the nerves of the supporters until the relief of the final whistle signaled a monumental win for the Rams, with a result of 28 to 24 in Totnes’ favour. An outpouring of emotion was immediate, with tears, cheers, and rejoicing erupting from the sidelines after a tense, hard-fought match. Heartfelt thanks to Kingsbridge Colts for an exciting contest, which could have swung either way. The post-match celebrations were electric and deeply moving, made all the more poignant by the fact this was the final game for The Rams, as they now step into the next chapters of their lives, but this victory will undoubtedly remain a cherished memory of their time together on the pitch! Meanwhile, Torquay beat Paignton 26-12 in another tense battle, for the Plate. Any lads, aged 16 and 18, who are interested in playing rugby at a club, with a strong emphasis on friendship and having fun, please contact Totnes Rugby Club for more info. They train on Thursday evenings with matches on Saturday afternoons. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us A significant Conservative majority has been roundly overturned but the rise of the Liberal Democrats hasn’t been stratospheric enough to earn them outright control. Although the Lib Dems are now the largest party in Devon County Council with 27 of the 60 seats, they are likely to need the assistance of non-Lib Dem councillors to secure control. Reform UK, the second largest party with 18 seats having started the election with none, will no doubt provide a loud voice of opposition, which could be amplified by the seven Conservative members if those two parties form some kind of alliance. It was also a successful day for the Greens, who finished with six councillors – four more than they began the campaign with. But while the shift is clear, it hasn’t produced a unanimous result. Looking closely at the numbers, there were 12 seats where the margin of victory was only double digits – so less than 100 votes. How exactly power gets distributed could be vital in terms of which services are prioritised. What this means for the effective dissolution of the county council also remains unclear. This is likely to be the last administration of Devon County Council because the government wants to reorganise how local government works. Much of the political debate in recent months has involved the Conservative-led county council trying to create a raft of proposals for how Devon should be reshaped. The mostly Lib Dem-led districts have favoured turning Devon’s 11 councils into three unitary ones, but the county council offered a much wider range of possibilities. With the Lib Dems now the largest party at County Hall, they may well try to get the council to coalesce around the ideas being championed by the Lib Dem districts. That could be the most significant outcome of this election. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us The Lib Dems are celebrating in Devon after winning the most seats in the Devon County Council elections – but no party has overall control. Sixty seats in 58 council divisions were up for election in Devon – with two divisions, Exmouth and Broadclyst, having two elected councillors each. The Liberal Democrats (Lib Dems) won the majority of seats, 27, but they did not reach the threshold of more than 50 per cent – more than 31 – required to give the party overall control of the council. Reform UK also had a good night, winning 18 seats. It was, though, a disastrous day for the Conservative Party, which previously had overall control, but ended election day with seven councillors. The Green Party won six seats with two going to independent candidates. The Labour Party won no seats. There are an interesting few weeks ahead now as each grouping holds talks in a bid to agree a coalition. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Devon County Show has announced the addition of an irresistible feature to its 2025 lineup—its first-ever Alpaca Café this unique café experience will offer visitors a chance to socialise alongside four charming alpacas the ring will transform into a cafe complete with patio tables and chairs accommodating up to 24 lucky guests per session The stars of the show – Lakemoor Alpacas Ron Guests will be invited to feed them nuts and carrots while basking in their gentle company—and the experience can be captured on camera with alpaca selfies galore is thrilled to bring this novel concept to life: "We love coming to the Devon County Show each year with our alpacas This is a perfect chance to see how it goes Working with animals is always a challenge but these alpacas love people—and Hagrid will do just about anything for a carrot!" and only a handful of spots available per session Devon County Show expects the café to be a sell-out success Times: 11am & 3pm (Pre-booking required) Get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience that promises to be as endearing as it is unforgettable The event is free of charge but Devon County Show will be collecting donations for their charity of the year To find out more about Devon County Show and to book discounted tickets in advance, visit www.devoncountyshow.co.uk Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us FIREFIGHTERS from across Devon have been battling to contain a wildfire on Dartmoor for the past 18 hours. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue control took multiple calls reporting a large fire in the Cut Hill area of north-west Dartmoor yesterday (Sunday, May 4) at around 2.30pm. Three appliances were initially mobilised from Okehampton, Hatherleigh and North Tawton, along with a water bowser from Exeter’s Danes Castle station and a wildfire support officer. Okehampton also took the decision to deploy their All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and 4x4 unit. “While on route to the incident, the Hatherleigh crew confirmed large amounts of smoke issuing from the moor and a second ATV from Tavistock was mobilised,” said a spokesman from DSFRS. “Once the Hatherleigh appliance arrived at the rendezvous point crews proceeded towards fire using an ATV to gain better observations on the scene and confirmed a fire front measuring approximately one mile and requested a further two ATVs which were sent from Bovey Tracey and Middlemoor, along with a drone from our USAR station.” Due to the remote location fire crews has difficulty in accessing the scene and by 5.30pm the fire front was measuring nearly two miles. “Additional crews were mobilised through the early evening and liaised with Dartmoor rangers at the scene to observe the fire and ascertain current size of fire front,” continued the spokesman. “An incident command unit (ICU) was sent from Totnes with a crew from Buckfastleigh to support them along with a 4x4 from Princetown, a welfare unit from Ivybridge and two relief appliances from Chagford and Princetown. A helicopter from the National Police Air Service also attended to provide aerial support.” In the early hours of this morning (Monday, May 5) additional relief crews from Moretonhampstead and Yelverton were sent to the fire with crews carrying out a watching brief from two strategic locations. Two more relief fire appliances from Tavistock and Crediton arrived at the scene at 8am this morning and an incident command unit also in attendance to relieve the ICU from Totnes. “Crews have confirmed the fire is still burning and in the predicted direction,” added the spokesman. “The 4x4 from Princetown has been remobilised to assist with access on the moor and following a multi-agency meeting early this morning two ATVs from Tavistock and Bovey Tracey have also been remobilised to access and extinguish the fire.” By 1.30pm this afternoon all fire fronts were extinguished and a drone overflew the area to check for any hotspots and at just after 5pm, more than 24 hours since the alarm was raised the fire, the fire was out. Approximately 12,500 acres of moorland were destroyed by fire. Firefighters were assisted by Dartmoor rangers and Commoners using firefighting equipment. Crews used five Argo Cat vehicles, fogging units, leaf blowers and a drone for environmental protection. The Liberal Democrats are celebrating their resounding success at the Devon County Council elections after winning 18 seats from the Conservatives and bringing their total number of seats to 27.  Since being in power from 2009, the Conservatives have cut budgets, mismanaged services and neglected local infrastructure. In Devon, many roads are in a shocking state of disrepair, with the highway maintenance budget currently standing at an eye-watering £200 million.  In addition, children’s services have been rated inadequate or requiring improvement by Ofsted for over a decade, leaving many children in Devon waiting months or even years for vital support.  After winning 27 seats, the Devon Liberal Democrats have said their councillors “will work hard from day one to deliver on the change Devon needs.  Commenting on their electoral success, Caroline Voaden MP said:  “For sixteen years, the Conservative administration has been asleep at the wheel, with local services falling to the wayside. This week, voters have sent a clear message that this simply is not good enough and it's time for change.  “We are humbled that so many people have decided to put their faith in the Liberal Democrats. It's clear voters wanted new leadership at Devon, and that is what we will bring. We are ready to lead the council with tolerant, efficient and positive politics and I look forward to working with our new team at County Hall. Our councillors will work hard from day one to push for the change that Devon needs.” The Liberal Democrats won the largest number of seats, taking 27, but fell short of the 31-seat threshold (more than 50 per cent) required for overall control of the council. Reform UK won 18 seats. The Conservative Party, which previously held overall control, ended election day with seven councillors. The Green Party secured six seats, with two going to independent candidates. The Labour Party failed to win any seats. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Long-serving coach departs Sandy Park in wake of catastrophic 79-17 loss to Gloucester EXETER Chiefs have axed long-serving coach Rob Hunter in the wake of their catastrophic 79-17 loss to Gloucester - the worst defeat in the club’s Premiership Rugby history and a brutal low in an already faltering season. Hunter’s 13-year stint at Sandy Park ended with the club announcing his departure by “mutual consent” on Friday. However, behind the polite phrasing lies a clear message: standards have slipped, and heads are rolling. The loss to Gloucester wasn’t just a defeat - it was a humiliation. Eleven tries conceded, a defence in shambles, and a team that looked unrecognisable from the title-winning juggernaut of just a few seasons ago. The fallout was swift. Hunter and fellow coach Ali Hepher were both suspended while the club launched a full internal review. Hunter is now the first casualty. In a statement released by the club, it read: “On behalf of everyone at Exeter Rugby Club, I would like to express our gratitude to Rob for his dedication and the impact he has had during his time with us. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.” Director of Rugby Rob Baxter added: “Rob has been an integral part of our coaching team across multiple seasons. I want to personally thank him for his hard work, loyalty, and the positive influence he has had on the squad. “Although it is never easy to part ways with someone who has contributed so much, we look forward with confidence and enthusiasm as we continue to build on the strong foundations Rob has helped to establish.” Hunter is the second coach to depart this season, Omar Mouniemne left in similar circumstances back in October. As for the future for Hepher at Sandy Park, that remains unknown at this stage. In another blow for the Devonians, the club have confirmed that Greg Fisilau (shoulder), Joe Hawkins (ankle), Ben Hammersley (knee) and Max Norey (shoulder) will all miss the remainder of the season. The Chiefs are next in action this Sunday when they play host to Northampton Saints, who at the weekend booked their place in the final of the Investec Champions Cup with victory over Leinster at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us PINTS of the finest Hawkstone Cider & Lager will be available at the Devon County Show as Kaleb Cooper of Clarkson’s Farm is set to bring his very own bar to this year’s show Best known for appearing on the farming documentary show Kaleb will be visiting the Devon County Show on Friday in addition to helping Jeremy Tat Diddly Squat has written several books and embarked on a tour of live shows will be bringing his beautifully converted horse box bar well-crafted pint of the finest Hawkstone Cider & Lager As a passionate farmer and advocate for British agriculture Kaleb champions local produce—including top-quality cider and lager Visitors can find his bar in the agricultural and machinery area throughout the show’s three-day run Kaleb’s bar is just one of many places for visitors to unwind with a drink The Welly Bar in the new Family Fun Zone offers seating for up to 80 and even a dog-friendly drinking station so four-legged friends can refresh alongside their owners the Countrylife & Woodland Area debuts its own bar Advance tickets are available now at discounted prices from the show’s website. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Sixty seats across 58 council divisions were up for election in Devon. Two divisions, Exmouth and Broadclyst, elected two councillors each. At Totnes Leisure Centre, as the Devon County Council election results began to take shape, it quickly became clear it was a strong showing for the Liberal Democrats across the South Hams. Early declarations saw the party gain ground in several key wards. Julian Brazil was among the first confirmed winners, taking the Kingsbridge seat for the Lib Dems. Shortly afterwards, Loise Wainwright secured Salcombe, also for the party, with 1,534 votes. The Kingsbridge ward results showed Brazil polling 2,040 votes, with Goncalo De Sousa of Reform UK in second with 1,018. The Conservative Party’s Helena Penfold received 695 votes, Anna Presswell of the Green Party polled 254, and Labour’s Wayne Grills received 176 votes. Turnout in the ward was 38.76 per cent, with 4,187 ballot papers issued. Elsewhere, Jacqi Hodson took the Totnes and Dartington seat for the Green Party with 2,350 votes, the first non-Lib Dem win of the day. The Liberal Democrats continued their momentum, with Dan Thomas winning South Brent and Yealmpton with 2,397 votes, and Victor Abbott securing Ivybridge with 1,210 votes. By mid afternoon, Simon Rake had added another Liberal Democrat victory, winning Dartmouth and Marldon with 1,234 votes. A buoyant mood took hold among Liberal Democrat supporters gathered at the count, with members posing for a group photo following their string of victories. The sense of confidence continued to build as party representatives awaited the remaining declarations due later in the afternoon. Tony Carson, the Conservative Party candidate for Bickleigh and Wembury, secured his seat with 1,289 votes. However, there was little in it between Mr Carson and Reform UK candidate Peter Gold, who received 1,258 votes out of the 3,682 ballots issued. Despite not taking the seat for the Lib Dems, candidate Laurel Lawford secured an impressive 798 votes, placing her 469 votes ahead of Labour’s Denis Parsons, who received 329. Those elected must now sign their acceptance of office before they can act as county councillors, but this typically happens quickly so they can begin their roles as soon as possible. The first meeting of the new Devon County Council is scheduled for Thursday, 22 May, when appointments to committees, chair positions and cabinet roles will be confirmed. Devon County Council will now update its website with the contact details of the new councillors, along with information on how to reach them. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Totnes businesses and organisations are being invited to have their say on how to shape the town’s economic future with the launch of a new consultation As part of its priority to grow the economy and job opportunities South Hams District Council is developing Community Economic Plans (CEP) across the District Totnes is the third town to take part in the project with CEPs currently being developed in Ivybridge and Salcombe Feedback from local business owners and organisations through the consultation and other engagement activity will be used to develop a CEP for Totnes building on the town’s existing Neighbourhood Plan With tackling climate change a top priority for South Hams District Council the project will look at ways local businesses can thrive while reducing their carbon emissions and adapting to the changing environment The project is being supported by a local steering group made up of business owners The group has been set up to make sure all voices of the business community are heard a bustling market and so many local food and drink places to enjoy so it makes perfect sense to build on its economic success “Totnes like so many of our towns is a place where people want to work live and visit so we want to help local business thrive as well as attract visitors to the area.” All businesses and organisations across the town are invited to have their say on what they want and need by taking part in an online survey available until 31 July at www.mytotnes.commonplace.is There will also be opportunities to join business breakfast events and local focus groups over the next three months. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us A little further around the Ley’s edge, I stopped to watch the grebes. There were two pairs now, their splendid crests standing out against the pale water. As if by some silent signal, both would suddenly dip down and dive out of sight. Emerging closer inshore, I could admire their strikingly elegant plumage through binoculars, reflected and shimmered by ripples and interference patterns on the water’s surface. Scrambling up a steep wooded path, the hyacinth scent of bluebells grew stronger and stronger, mingling with the earthy fragrance of rain-soaked soil. Suddenly, amidst the intense blues and greens, a snow white bluebell stood out in glorious contrast; one of nature’s surprises! Approaching Ireland Bay, another solitary white inhabitant caught my eye and this time the sun was on my side. A great white egret with yellow dagger-bill let out a harsh cry, spreading its wings and soaring away, its black-toed feet clearly visible, tucked up against its streamlined body. Close behind, a grey heron rose up and followed. The rest of my walk was filled with little wonders; a glade resounding with the thrice-repeated phrases of a song thrush, golden backlit sedge flowers, and an amorous moorhen chasing another around a willow tree half-submerged in water, soup-thick with duckweed. Finally, as I reached my car, the distinctive call of a cirl bunting; a conservation success story for our beautiful South Hams. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Explore Dartmouth celebrated its first birthday on Wednesday, April 30 Laura Campbell is Director & Tourism Lead for Dartmouth Tourism & Business Hub- Explore Dartmouth and explained a bit of the history: "There's been a visitor centre here for several years, and it's gone through various incarnations. "In 2023, things were struggling a little, and a group of us businesswomen decided to try and see what we could do to put together a solution that we could keep the visitor centre open, keep it thriving, keep it growing, so that we can look after all of our visitors that are coming into town, but also support our business community who provide the tourism product and all the different products that make up the tourism offering that Dartmouth has. "We evolved the visitor centre into a tourism and business hub. "Half of the centre is now a classic visitor centre, so it has merchandise and gifts that are produced locally with local photographers, local businesses, and their products that they sort of produce, we retail here and then we've got a lot of our local partners who promote and advertise their products, their hotels, their restaurants, et cetera, with us, their experiences. "We link up with many local organisations to showcase everything that Dartmouth has got to offer including on the River Dart. Explore Dartmouth has also been collaborating with other similar operations in the South Hams as Laura outlines: "We've recently teamed up with Visit Totnes for a campaign as well to promote both areas and all the amazing events that we do through the year because that brings people into the area and then we can showcase everything else and keep them here and get them staying longer, et cetera. “So it's become a real community asset, a real hub of collaboration. “We are also now working with Kingsbridge and Salcombe, so it's all coming together." On the business side, it's a place where businesses can meet with a team of volunteers with professional skills who can help and support. Explore Dartmouth is also a conduit for many of the independent businesses in town that offer professional skills so they can get people together. If somebody needs marketing or a graphic designer or an accountant or whatever, they can find them. Laura then explained how Explore Dartmouth differs from what went before: "We did a fresh brand, a fresh take, we wanted to draw a line on all the history that's gone before and move forward with a collaborative vision, working with the Chamber, South Hams and Dartmouth Town Councils. "So it's everyone pulling together for the good of the town, to showcase this amazing town. "We've got a great team, we're always on the lookout for more professionals who want to come in and help us out. "We're very fortunate with a really strong, capable board, a lot of knowledge, we've got a lot of connections with the industry, so we've got a lot to offer, a lot for people to get involved in. So there are always opportunities, so that's the vision forward." Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us a significant day for fans to celebrate the sci-fi franchise Originating from the pun "May the Fourth be with you", it began in 1977 and has since been embraced by Disney and by Lucasfilm the production company founded by Star Wars creator George Lucas While the day is celebrated by fans of all stripes some Star Wars enthusiasts once took their fandom a step further – by identifying as Jedi Knights on the national census the movement took off as both a cultural in-joke and a tongue-in-cheek nod to the spiritual weight fans saw in the Jedi philosophy What started as a grassroots internet campaign soon turned into a surprisingly widespread response across the UK A forceful 390,100 people in England and Wales wrote in "Jedi" as their religion in the 2001 census but this more than halved to 176,600 in the 2011 survey The most recent census for 2021 showed less than 1,600 people said they were Jedi Knights across the two nations – wiping out the Jedi Order Due to the dramatic decline and the cohort not meeting the minimum threshold the Office for National Statistics did not publish figures for Jedi Knights in the latest survey The group is instead lumped into the "No Religion: no religion" subcategory alongside people who claimed "Heavy Metal" was their religion At a local level, 2011 Census data showed 297 people in South Hams wrote in Jedi as their religion Imitating the most optimistic national scenario – where 1,599 people identified as a Jedi – it would mean the estimated number of Jedi Knights in the area fell to just three people in 2021 While the trend of identifying as a Jedi began in the 2001 Census as a joke for many there are others who believe in the philosophy even sought charitable status in the UK in 2015 the Charity Commission ruled it did not meet the criteria under UK charity law The commission said in its report that Jediism lacked the "necessary spiritual or non-secular element" Despite the census figures turning to the Dark Side the Star Wars franchise is still expanding The second season of Andor on Disney+ – a critically acclaimed prequel to the movie Rogue One – has generated rave reviews since its release last month And Marvel’s eagerly awaited Star Wars comic book series will be released on May 7 and Han and show fans what happened after the Return of the Jedi With the franchise continuing to grow 48 years on from the first film there is a new hope the 2031 Census will see the return of the Jedi Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us The astrologer looks to the stars for your horoscope for the week beginning Saturday, 3 May If a task you’ve taken on doesn’t go as well as you were hoping it would, don’t hesitate to request another chance at it. If you’re new to this type of work, keep in mind the saying: if at first you don’t succeed, try again. Stay positive and give it another go. You’re ready to leave a disappointing situation behind. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself, you are looking for the next opportunity to improve your life. You expected a partner to be sceptical about our plans especially when these aren’t something they are normally interested in. A team effort brings out the best in you. Activities shared with others will be fun and stimulating. New people you are meeting now will bring excitement into your world. Just remember to keep in touch with old friends, too. The flow of your days will gradually improve as you strive for an important goal. Your ability to keep everything organised and calm will foster teamwork among everyone involved. The outcomes will surpass all expectations. You’ve always had a flair for the dramatic. Why not welcome a little extra give-and-take with your friends and loved ones? When they notice how open you are to compromise and not just focused on yourself, they will start treating you with a new respect. A younger relative will look to you for support in getting through a tricky situation. You may not be able to solve all their problems but you will be more than willing to lend an ear and offer comfort. There’s a genuine desire to help those nearby. Stay alert and keep your eyes open when dealing with legal and financial matters. If you miss something early on, there could be hidden issues that will lead to complications in the future. You have been unsure about ideas being discussed in the household. You’re getting on so well with a work or romantic partner that it’s almost as if you can read each other’s thoughts. This closeness will help you predict their responses and enable you to make suggestions that meet their needs and expectations. Get involved in a group project. Not only will you enjoy the challenges this brings, you will be making new friends along the way. Most people you meet will be friendly and supportive. This makes it a good week for accomplishing tasks as a team. It’s hard to overstate the magnitude of discussions going on in the workplace. You wonder how mistakes happened and how it went on so long before they have been revealed. Now that everything is out in the open you will stand up for those who need support. A household matter will not be easy to settle. You might think you've made your final decision regarding future plans, but others don’t agree. One of your housemates will want to revisit the conversation, hoping to persuade you to reconsider. A friend or neighbour will ask you to do them a small favour. This will open the door to even more requests and before you know it they will seem to expect you to be at their beck and call. Remember, you aren’t obligated to say yes every time they ask for help. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Kingsbridge Cookworthy Museum has undergone something of a transformation and has reopened for the season Chair of the museum Philip Cole explained the rationale: "We're very keen to increase the footfall into the museum but we believe that what we've got here is worth coming to see It's not just the collections that are historic as Philip recounted: "It was built as a grammar school for the poor boys of the parish "Crispin was a wool merchant and was based in Exeter up to what is now Scholars Walk at the top of town and then from there over to where Kingsbridge Community College is "The museum and the school building languished for many years until English china clays were looking for somewhere to have exhibitions for Cookworthy porcelain "They eventually decided to close it and have an exhibition museum space nearer to where they're based in Cornwall.' There was a formidable lady called Evelyn Northcott as Philip explained: "She bludgeoned and badgered Lord Aberconway "We're very lucky to own the freehold of this building Fast forward to 1999 and the museum as we now know it was created as Philip told us: "We've started this project here in the entrance hall." “We're showcasing our collection of 30,000 photographs which everyone can access via the kiosk in the upstairs room and we also wanted to introduce the history of Kingsbridge hence the maps in the map lobby "There's the history of the building itself here "We have a wonderful pub sign from the King's Arms Hotel which we've used as the basis for the colour scheme in the museum "We've got a lovely dark terracotta plus a steward's desk and we want people to know that we're open as a shop and honey as well as other stuff all from local suppliers "For people who may not have money to enter the museum "We certainly encourage people who want to come and just maybe bring some lunch and sit in the garden.” "It's a community space and we would like people to feel they can come in and use it if they want to buy something on the way out the museum they has also added a brand new kiosk allowing visitors to access all of their comprehensive collection of photographs throughout the history of the town which can be printed and purchased The Museum’s Six Weeks To Go exhibition is now open and is just one in a masterfully curated collection of Kingsbridge history For more information visit: https://kingsbridgemuseum.org.uk/ Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Known for its indie high street and music scene Open in Google Maps 11 local spa days we're lusting after this winter Where to eat, shop & stay in Bideford Personal styling and other free services at John Lewis Exeter Heritage Open Days: go behind the scenes at Devon's hidden gems Hoe down! 10 reasons to hotfoot it to Toby's Garden Festival Sole sister! Muddy makes shoes in a day on Dartmoor Walk this way for the best local spring gardens Where to spot snowdrops around Devon Don't already know how splendiferous we are? Read the Muddy Stilettos story We love to connect with like-minded brands and clients. If you’re interested in working with us click here for national and regional contacts. Whether you want to leave your feedback, ask a question or need help - click here to get in touch with us Reader Treats Terms & ConditionsRead our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions here Nearly 1,300 public chargepoints have been added to the South West network since April 2024 with now more than 5,500 public chargers across the region The Government is investing more than £2.3 billion to back British carmakers power growth and protect jobs as part of the Plan for Change Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood said: “We want to make sure that drivers in the South West are always close to an electric vehicle charging device That’s’ why it’s great to see the number of public charging devices in the region growing by 30% since April last year.” The Department for Transport claims drivers can save up to £1,100 a year compared to petrol by charging at home the average range of a new EV is 290 miles - approximately London to Newcastle new Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles will no longer be sold in the UK forcing the move to electric vehicles in an attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions EV’s emit just 1/3 of greenhouse gases compared to petrol cars The total greenhouse gas emissions from an EV are known as its “lifecycle emissions” These combine the emissions from manufacturing the vehicle - which tend to be higher than manufacturing internal-combustion vehicles Powering the vehicle through its life and decommissioning the batteries at the end of their life The Government is investing £200m to help rollout rapid chargepoints all over the country on top of £381m through the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund to roll out tens of thousands of on-street chargers overnight charging for those without a driveway You can find national information about chargepoints from websites such as Zap-Map or National Grid. These words were on one of the home-made placards seen as the TV cameras scanned the crowds in St Peter’s Square for the funeral of Pope Francis: “Thank you Francis!”. Among standout comments during the TV coverage were that the Pope was ‘a huge global figure’, and ‘touched minds and hearts’. Among his own statements quoted was that ‘diversity is of God’; and ‘we should build bridges, not walls’. The tributes both from the Catholic faithful and from others the world over have been fulsome in their praise of this extraordinary man. Born in Argentina to an Italian migrant family, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was a simple and humble man, devoting his pastoral care to the poor and marginalised as a Jesuit priest and then as bishop in Buenos Aires. When, much to his surprise, he was elected Pope in 2013, he asked the crowds in St Peter’s Square to pray for him. Even more surprising was his choice of ‘Francis’ as his papal name. St Francis of Assisi was known for his humility and self-imposed poverty - he gave away his riches to work among the poor - and for his love and care for nature and the environment. Inspired by his example, Pope Francis lived in a hostel in the Vatican instead of the papal apartments and used public transport rather than the papal limousine. He went out of his way to spend time with the poor, the marginalised, minorities and migrants. Confronted by a reporter on how would deal with a gay person, his answer was: “Who am I to judge?”, indicating his own humility and his belief in inclusiveness: all people are children of God. He was a man of action who would not take no for an answer when responding to urgent need. When he expressed the wish to visit migrants in Lampedusa among the thousands arriving there, often in a desperate state, Vatican officials responded “it will take weeks to organise”. Pope Francis took matters into his own hands: a few days later the same officials discovered that someone called Jorge Bergoglio had booked a flight to Lampedusa! Right to the end he demonstrated true Christian charity: despite his frailty after very recent illness, on Maundy Thursday he visited the inmates of a Roman prison. He imparted his Easter blessing in St Peter’s Square less than 24 hours before his death. Only then did he respond to the call of his maker… having done his pastoral duty to the end. Perhaps his greatest achievement was to provide moral leadership - not just to Catholics, but to the world. He was not afraid to speak out about the injustice of poverty and oppression, against war and violence. Certain world leaders were unhappy about his criticism, particularly those who profess to be Christian but whose political decisions are the very antithesis of the true Christian principles by which Francis lived. He published two very significant encyclical letters to guide his Church: ‘Fratelli tutti’ encouraged solidarity and fraternity among all people, and rejection of war. ‘Laudato si’ focused on our need to “take care of our common home".  Pope Francis criticised consumerism and irresponsible economic development, lamenting damage to the environment and global warming: a huge contribution to the fight against climate change. Even in death Pope Francis continues to provide a message of hope and to have an impact: world leaders gathered for his funeral held impromptu meetings… which we hope might lead to a peaceful end to conflict. His legacy will, no doubt, influence the choice of his successor. I for one hope for more attention to young people, the future of the Church. Whoever is the next pope, many will hope that he will continue Francis’s good work in making the Church more inclusive, closer to the people, and offering a voice of moral authority for a world in turmoil. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Majority of Devon and Cornwall Police officers struggling financially with nearly a quarter eyeing the exit MORE than three-quarters of police officers in Devon and Cornwall say they are worse off financially than five years ago — with nearly one in five unable to afford basic essentials — according to a damning new report released. The 2024 Police Federation Pay and Morale Report reveals a deepening crisis within the force, as soaring living costs and stagnant wages fuel growing dissatisfaction, so much so that nearly a quarter of officers are now considering leaving the job entirely. Despite a 4.75 per cent pay rise this year, real-terms police pay has plummeted by 20 per cent since 2010, leaving many questioning how much longer they can afford to serve. Worryingly, the survey — which is based on 1024 responses received from Devon and Cornwall Police officers — revealed 23 per cent of officers said they intend to resign from the police service either ‘within the next two years’ or ‘as soon as [they] can’. Rob Greening, secretary of Devon and Cornwall Police Federation, said: “The pay and morale survey for Devon and Cornwall Police makes stark reading and unfortunately, when compared to previous years, the situation does not seem to be improving. “Our members work in extremely stressful and dangerous situations, to afford the public the safety and protection they expect and deserve. Governments, over the years, do not seem to have provided the Police service with the same level of commitment and have allowed Police officer pay to reduce in real terms by over 20 per cent. “Our members are aware public finances over the past 15 years have been pushed and that they should bear some responsibility for cuts that have to be made. However, 15 years of cutbacks and low funding by governments have brought us to the position we now find ourselves in.” He added: “We cannot afford to lose the experience within the front line of policing. The protection of the public depends on officers knowing their job and being able to pick up on the small clues, which may indicate a member of the public is in danger. “Workloads for officers are unmanageable and this is when mistakes are made and tell-tale signs are missed. “Officer numbers have risen since 2010 by about 4,000 yet the UK population has increased by 5.5-million. Investigations have become far more complex as technology advances and the case files officers produce, to ensure offenders are charged to court, have become unnecessarily complicated and timely to complete. “There has been a perfect storm brewing for the last 15 years and it has now hit land. Officers are not willing to put up with the continued increasing expectations and heavy workloads, lack of perceived respect from the government, constant pay awards that are below the rate of inflation and they are voting with their feet. Our members join the police to serve the public and keep them safe, but currently feel that they are not able to do this to the best of their ability. “If the government wants a police service they can be proud of then we need to retain the experienced officers, to enable them to impart their wisdom to those with less experience. “To do this there are many changes that need to be made, however a quick win for the Government is to sit up and listen to the officers. What the police take home is criminal. Officers have copped enough. Things need to change.” In response to the report, Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable James Vaughan, said: “The pay and morale survey from the Police Federation of England and Wales is always important to us and I want officers to be assured that we will be taking time to scrutinise the report and to discuss the issues in detail with Federation representatives in Devon & Cornwall. “Policing remains a very challenging and difficult job, and despite increased demand and limited resources, our dedicated officers continue to fight crime and protect the public every day to make Devon and Cornwall safe. “Since my appointment in December 2024, I have met over 2000 officers and staff in stations across the force area, to understand their roles and listen to their views, challenges and ideas. I will continue to spend time with staff and officers, to understand where support is needed to protect our workforce and improve morale. “I’m also nearly at the end of a series of roadshows that have allowed me to meet with all Sergeants and Inspectors, to understand the challenges they are facing, as well as to set out Force priorities and expectations – with a particular emphasis on improving our standards, behaviour and culture. “It is clear from the survey officers across the country, not just in Devon and Cornwall, see workloads as an issue. The number of officers we have on the frontline is an important factor in this and a key priority for me has been to return officers to the frontline through a review of our senior ranks – starting with the chief officer team. “We now have record numbers of officers after a very successful Uplift programme and these are supported by professional and capable enabling departments and a strong cadre of volunteers. “Officer numbers will continue to be boosted through the government’s Neighbourhood Policing Guarantee, an investment into neighbourhood policing which will support the increase of neighbourhood officers in years to come and alleviating the pressure on our frontline. “I want every member of the organisation to feel confident that their wellbeing is taken seriously and that they are being properly supported. I am committed to ensuring officers know that we are listening and feel valued and supported. "While some factors in the survey such as pay are outside of our control, we will continue to make advice and support on topics, including financial assistance, available to everyone in Devon and Cornwall Police, including signposting to those who can help. “Devon and Cornwall Police is made up of amazing officers and staff and we are committed to continuing to make improvements for all those who work so hard to keep our counties safe.” Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us The latest news as it happens in Dartmoor covering Okehampton important updates and local opinions from across Okehampton Cycling and more local Dartmoor Sports News property sales & property of the week including Okehampton house prices and opinions on Dartmoor's property market including Okehampton Local area spotlights & features across Dartmoor Dartmoor national park is 368 miles of beautiful English countryside find out what green issues are affecting Dartmoor here at The Moorlander Get local news & council updates for across Dartmoor including Okehampton Showcasing and celebrating the incredible independent businesses of Dartmoor Ashburton & Surrounding areas from the local community & our reporters Get your local Dartmoor traffic & travel reports Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter Support our mission and join our community now you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism A radical new fusion of live cello performance and sound therapy is set to resonate through Totnes as virtuoso cellist Ben Roberts and facilitator Stephanie Lisa Kelly launch SONIC RITUAL — a monthly immersive experience of vibrational healing and improvised music at Angel Hall the next session takes place on May 6th at 7:30pm Set in the opulent surroundings of Angel Hall’s baroque interior SONIC RITUAL promises to be more than just a concert sensory journey designed to transmute dissonant energies and awaken deeper awareness through sound SONIC RITUAL invites guests to recline on mats and cushions and surrender to a deep listening experience guided by Roberts’ electric cello and Kelly’s gentle facilitation The format includes an opening circle to set intentions and a closing circle to consciously integrate the experience “The last session left everyone feeling grounded and peaceful,” says Roberts “Some said they felt time stretch and dissolve One person described it as sonic surgery — a truly transformative experience.” SONIC RITUAL is rooted in the concept of co-creation where the audience becomes a conscious participant in the music “I’m not just playing at people,” Roberts explains “I’m channeling the energy in the room and turning it into sound The duo behind SONIC RITUAL - collectively known as Mystical Punk - bring distinct but complementary energies to their work a classically trained cellist turned musical innovator has performed on some of the world’s greatest stages particularly the acclaimed Vibrator performance at St Mary’s Church last year have earned him praise for pioneering a new paradigm in musical and spiritual performance CLASH Magazine called the show “an uncanny spiritual awakening” Roberts shifted gears after realising that raising human consciousness was key to tackling global crises Stephanie Lisa Kelly is a Totnes-based writer artist and facilitator known for her work exploring spirituality in secular culture A certified coach and Way of Council practitioner she previously led international retreats and now focuses on serving her Devon community Her poetic work and deep listening practice bring a sacred intentionality to each Sonic Ritual session and consciousness in a shared ritual that invites participants to tune in May 6thDoors open 7:00pm | Event 7:30pm–8:45pmMats and cushions provided – bring anything that makes you feel cosy For more information or to book, visit: bencello.com " + $(".testo_articolo").html().replace(//g please subscribe and support local journalism Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles To continue reading this article for FREE,please kindly register and/or log in Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news captured at the Bath Festival by Steven Haywood is set to perform at the Exeter Comedy Festival after winning the US Eddie-Folio award for best comedy Catherine Leeves with the real-life ‘Mischievous Mabel’ the border terrier who inspired her debut children’s book series © Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Facebook page Reach out for help: How drug and alcohol recovery services could work for you or a loved one Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm South Brent Amateur Dramatic Society are delighted to present a comedy for the second production of their Centenary year. Running from May 15 to 17 in South Brent Village Hall, “A Bunch of Amateurs” has been written by masters of comedy Ian Hislop and Nick Newman. The play features a washed-up Hollywood action hero mistakenly taking a big role with a small am-dram society in a Stratford that definitely isn’t upon Avon, with plenty of comic consequences. Keen to boost his flagging career, fading Hollywood star Jefferson Steel arrives in England to play King Lear in Stratford — only to find that this is not the birthplace of the Bard, but a sleepy Suffolk village. Instead of Sir Kenneth Branagh and Dame Judi Dench, the cast are a bunch of amateurs trying to save their theatre from developers. Jefferson’s monstrous ego, vanity and insecurity are tested to the limit by the enthusiastic am-dram thespians. As acting worlds collide and Jefferson’s career implodes, he discovers some truths about himself — along with his inner Lear! Directed by SBADS' Chairman Robin Willoughby, the cast includes Tim McGill as Jefferson Steel and SBADS' regulars Alan Prince, Nat Cook and Kim Kidney. The play is at 7.30pm from Thursday May 15 to Saturday May 17 at 7.30pm with a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. Doors open 30 minutes before the show, with refreshments available from the bar. Tickets are on sale at the Village Shop in South Brent or through the SBADS website. SBADS members range from 8 to 80+, come from a wide range of backgrounds, do all sorts of day jobs and not all are from South Brent itself. They usually stage two or three productions a year in South Brent Village Hall on the edge of Dartmoor. Full information is available at www.sbads.show/amateurs Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us The hit BBC One show Sort Your Life Out is back and looking for families or shared households in Devon to participate in the next series focuses on helping families declutter and reorganise their homes Solomon and a team of makeover experts assist participants in evaluating their possessions encouraging them to let go of items they no longer need and transform their living spaces into more functional and harmonious environments The series combines elements of home makeover humour and personal storytelling to highlight the emotional and practical aspects of decluttering Would you like your home totally transformed by Stacey and her expert team Imagine if the entire contents of your house were laid out before you so you could decide what to keep and what to lose supersize spring clean and ingenious carpentry solutions this process will bring joy back into your home Stacey and her team of organising fanatics - made up of Dilly Carter Rob Bent and Iwan Carrington - can help you let go of the things you don’t need Plus they’ll create space-saving storage and put systems in place to save you time and money in the future A spokesperson said: “Whether you have a new baby on the way find it hard to let go of sentimental items or just want to create calm in the chaos the Sort Your Life Out team would love to hear from you.” For more information email [email protected] or apply online, visit: www.optomen.com/sort-your-life-out or the BBC Take Part website. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Tracey is proud to be raising money for Rowcroft Hospice By NOTICEBOARD · 3 May 2025 Rowcroft Hospice is thrilled to announce that Tracey Kennedy, Deputy Manager at Rowcroft’s Totnes charity shop (pictured above), will be swapping retail for rhythm as she takes to the stage in this year’s Strictly Rowcroft event at The Princess Theatre, Torquay Combining her childhood love of dance with her passion for supporting the hospice Tracey is one of 12 brave and brilliant local contestants who are taking on this courageous challenge The contestants (pictured below) are learning two show-stopping routines - a fiery Latin number and an elegant ballroom dance - guided by their own experienced dance partners As Tracey prepares to gear up for the big night she’s looking forward to inspiring her family and community to follow their dreams She said: “I did lots of dancing as a child and always dreamed of becoming a dancer “That’s one of the reasons I was so excited to take part in Strictly Rowcroft - it felt like a chance to tick that box “I’m also really proud to be raising money for Rowcroft and I hope to shine a light on the amazing work of our retail team too.” While Tracey’s training for Strictly Rowcroft is well underway she knows that the performance will be an incredible challenge She continued: “I’m trying not to overthink the performance and instead just focus on learning the routine and practicing my steps and I’m lucky to be partnered with Simon Gilboy “It’s fabulous to dust off my dancing shoes and get back into it Tracey is a much-loved face in the Totnes community where she plays a key supporting role in running the town’s Rowcroft shop She helps to create a warm and welcoming space while managing donations Tracey explained: “No two days are the same and I’m passionate about making sure the shop always looks its best “One of the things I love most is chatting with our customers they share their personal stories and connection to Rowcroft “It’s incredibly heartwarming to hear how the hospice has helped so many in our community.” Tracey is keen to shine a spotlight on Rowcroft’s shops across South Devon - from the unique character of each shop to the wide range of treasures to be found She added: “Our shops are really special places - each one is unique and carefully tailored to the local community “We handpick and sort stock so that every shop has its own distinct identity; our Totnes shop is fun and a little bit quirky “Across our shops - and through our digital marketplace Ella’s Vintage - you’ll find a wide range of beautiful clothing and household items “I’m really passionate about raising as much as I can for the hospice through my fundraising in Strictly Rowcroft the hospice staff and volunteers are incredibly kind and caring - there’s such a strong sense of compassion and consideration for one another “It’s genuinely rewarding to be part of something so meaningful.  “I want to show my kids that it’s important to follow your dreams - whatever they may be - and that with heart and determination “I’m so grateful for any support people can give - every donation makes a difference “Please pop into the Rowcroft shop to say hello - the team and I love seeing a friendly face.” The Strictly Rowcroft event promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment with dazzling routines sparkling costumes and heartfelt stories - all to raise crucial funds for Rowcroft Hospice Every donation will support patients living with life-limiting illnesses in the community and will ensure that Rowcroft can continue delivering specialist care when it’s needed most Don’t miss your chance to cheer Tracey on, tickets for the show are available at www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/strictly priced at £20 Please also show your support by sponsoring Tracey LoadingDaily Email Updates {{contentTitle}} South West Water has been praised at Westminster for its role in making a Devon ‘missing link’ cycle path possible The company is planning to build a solar farm on the outskirts of Totnes and is seeking planning permission for the scheme to begin a cycle path will be laid through the site completing a National Cycle Network route and linking the village of Littlehempston to Totnes with a traffic-free path Local campaigners have been pushing for the path for decades and there were cheers and applause when a recent South Hams council meeting came out in favour of the new path Now South Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden has raised it during a debate on road safety and active travel to school She told fellow MPs: “Imagine being 14 15 or 16 and being stuck in a rural village We have to make it easier to create cycle paths alongside dangerous rural roads so that kids can have the freedom to travel independently I would like—surprisingly—to do a shout-out for South West Water After 20 years of campaigning by local councillors and a very committed group of activists South West Water has finally agreed to put a cycle path through that solar farm “We have not quite got it over the line yet but I am putting on the record today that we really want to see it become a reality It will link to Totnes a village that is just a few miles away giving people there the ability to cycle into town safely thereby cutting down on the amount of traffic coming into our small rural town.” Mrs Voaden said such cycle routes are vital in rural areas where roads are dangerous She went on: “They connect communities allow people to avoid dangerous roads and provide a safe option for healthy active travel which is so important for health and wellbeing as well as the environment.” During the debate she also praised the work of local cycling champion and youth mentor Jon Oliverio “We need more people like Jon,” she said Local makers and producers are being asked to sign up now if they would like to have a stall at the 2025 Totnes Christmas Markets and Late Night Shopping events. Run by Miss Ivy Events on behalf of Totnes Town Council, the evenings are a town-wide celebration of festive family-friendly fun with live music and entertainment, street food and craft stalls. The events take place on the first three Tuesdays of December 2, 9 and 16 from 3pm to 9pm, and will also feature the extra special Totnes Carnival Lantern Parade on the final market night. Totnes Carnival Mayor of Totnes Cllr Emily Price said: “It might feel early to be thinking about Christmas – but the festive spirit is already stirring here in Totnes. “We’ve already had eager enquiries from people wanting stalls, so if you’re thinking about joining in the magic, don’t delay – get your application in nice and early. “Last year’s Christmas Markets were a real winter wonderland, with incredible feedback from traders, locals and visitors alike. "This year, we’re going even bigger – with twinkling lights, joyful music, delicious festive food, and plenty of Christmas cheer. "It’s all about creating that unique Totnes festive experience – and we’d love for you to be part of it. “Our Christmas Markets and Late Night Shopping events aren’t just about the sparkle (although there’s plenty of that!) – they’re about bringing the community together. “They’re a chance to meet up with friends, chat with friendly stallholders, and soak up the seasonal joy. “And of course, they’re a fantastic boost for our brilliant local businesses – from long-standing shops and talented market traders to brand new local start-ups. “These events bring new faces into town, help people discover what makes Totnes so special, and make it easier than ever to shop small and local this festive season." For more information - http://www.totnestowncouncil.gov.uk/book-your-space-now.../ To book a stall - www.missivyevents.co.uk/book-a-stall Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Pilgrims are undone at the death as Leeds United are confirmed winners of the Championship PLYMOUTH Argyle head coach Miron Muslic refused to be drawn on his future as his side ended their Sky Bet Championship season with a 2-1 loss at home to champions Leeds United at Home Park. In what has been a testing campaign for the Pilgrims, they were unable to avoid the drop back into League One, an outcome which has left a bitter pill for many of the Green Army to swallow. Muslic - who only arrived in January following the departure of Wayne Rooney - has overseen a marked improvement in both performances and results since his arrival, but it was all in vain as Argyle joined Cardiff City and Luton Town in being relegated. “We are relegated now for seven, eight days. Believe me, I’m empty,” said Muslic, whose side took the lead against Leeds only for the Yorkshire giants to hit back and secure the win with an injury-time winner from Manor Solomon. “I don’t have the power right now to think about the potential future because that takes a lot of focus, a lot of concentration, a lot of energy. I don’t have this energy right now. I need to go back to my family to see them, to recharge, to breathe and then again we have enough time to think about the future.” Although the season ultimately ended in disappointment, Muslic was quick to reflect on his time so far in Devon.“I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to work in a fantastic club, a fantastic organisation,” he said. “So when I look back over the last four months I’m proud, but also very disappointed because in the end we could not make it. “I have nothing but true love and respect for the Green Army, I feel very fortunate to represent Plymouth Argyle as the head coach. Their effort over the last four months was just mind-blowing for me.” Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us 51st edition of this stage race promoted by the Mid Devon CC The race’s origins go back to 1973 when the Mid-Devon Road Club first promoted a two-day event to mark the twinning of Totnes and Vire in Normandy STARTLIST: TOTNES-VIRE – The 2025 promotion of the race is the 51st edition of this stage race promoted by the Mid Devon CC This classic race has led to some immense battles in the past with previous winners including; Darrel Webster Cornish legend Steve Lampier and our own Mike Parker To honour the 3 greats of the club that we have lost over the past years we have named each stage in memory of them Send your results as well as club, team & event news here Powered by WordPress. Designed by Local sustainability charity, Transition Town Totnes (TTT) is running a Green Match Fund campaign to raise a total of £4250, where every pound will then be generously matched by The Big Give Trust. What started as an experimental approach to empower people to take action in their own communities as a positive response to the crises of our time; Transition Town Totnes has become the inspiration for a global movement and is celebrating 20 years of grassroots activity this year. Sometimes described as ‘hope with its sleeves rolled up’, TTT continues pushing towards more resilient, caring, and connected ways of co-existing. Projects that come under the Transition Town Totnes umbrella include the Climate Hub; Transition Streets; Incredible Edible Totnes, their 30x30 initiative and, most recently, Totnes Grows Flax. "Your donations will support us to continue offering resources, skills, and connections, and grow initiatives that drive positive change, fostering economic, environmental, and social shifts that build local resilience, in connection with the wider world. Thank you so much for any donation you feel able to make - every £1 counts this week as it will help us unlock match funding up to a combined total of £8500 which will make a huge difference." Visit: bit.ly/GreenMatchFund and make a donation of any amount when the campaign page is live between midday on Tuesday, April 22 and midday on Tuesday, April 29. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us The latest news as it happens across Torquay Find out what is happening & the latest breaking news in Torbay important updates and local opinions from Torquay Paignton & Brixham at the Torbay Weekly News Torquay United FC match reports & opinions and other Local sports news days out for the kids and amazing holiday ideas in Torquay Your source of news from beyond the bay covering Devon News and UK News The Torbay Weekly Business awards celebrates the accomplishments of Torbay based Businesses and brings together the Torbay Business community Paignton & Brixham from the local community & our Torbay based reporters property sales & property of the week in Torquay Get your local Torbay traffic & travel reports and airport departures in and around Torquay It has never been invaded or besieged in the 900 years or so that it has been standing guard over the town but now Totnes Castle faces what local councillors say is one of the biggest battles it has ever seen English Heritage wants to close the gates of the castle through the winter to cut costs  But councillors say that will deny locals access to their beloved castle as well as increasing the risk of vandalism Now South Hams Council is being asked to lobby English Heritage in a bid to get it to change its mind The classic motte and bailey castle – originally built by Judhael of Totnes shortly after the Norman Conquest – is one of 21 English Heritage sites around the country which could be closed in winter as part of a review which manages more than 400 historic sites across England says only 11 people visited Totnes Castle last November not enough to offset the cost of keeping it open When the full South Hams Council meets on Thursday next week, members will be asked to back a motion from Totnes councillors John Birch (Lib Dem) and Georgina Allen (Green) They say: “Totnes was never invaded or besieged so the castle didn’t have to be used for defence “There are many local people who are English Heritage members just so that they can access the areas surrounding the castle and the bailey as a leisure facility.  Any day of the week in summer and on weekends in winter people pop in to walk their dogs or just sit and enjoy the beautiful peaceful space “Totnes is an all-year-round tourist destination The castle is a must on any visitor’s list and plenty of locals enjoy taking their own weekend winter visitors to the castle such a great place to climb up to the top of the walls and marvel at the spectacular views of the town “Closing the castle permanently for the winter months will compromise the integrity of the building.  There will be no staff checking on maintenance problems and the threat of vandalism will increase without a regular weekly presence there to act as a deterrent.” Totnes Town Council has also made representations to English Heritage against the proposed winter weekend closure Ella when she tried her hand at radio for the first time Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez Image: Al Macphee / Miracle PR and Event Photography A Devon music venue is hosting a get-together for local renewable energy firms and rural businesses on May 1 to explore how farmers can exploit renewable technology and innovative peer-to-peer energy networking to grow their bottom line. In May, The Barrel House Ballroom Totnes – a music venue that routinely hosts local and international touring acts – will welcome local solar, wind, heat pump and other sustainable energy providers to talk about BREN with local business owners, farmers and curious members of the public over drinks and nibbles. Event chief and local businessman Mark Bloomfield hopes the event will demonstrate how farmers can diversify income streams through renewable energy without sacrificing productivity, addressing the critical challenge of rural economic resilience while supporting climate goals. “There are so many worthwhile initiatives happening with solar and wind,” says Mark. “We can show ways that energy generated on farmland can be used to lower energy bills and generate higher returns for farmers than if their power was just sold back to the grid. “This event is a chance to have a chat about what’s possible, over a pint, in a warm and convivial environment. It’s not just about ‘saving the world’. It’s about sharing opportunities for businesses to make smart commercial decisions.” Totnes solar energy company Bloom Renewables, a solar PV & battery supplier in Totnes of which Mark is founder and CEO, will chair the event. “We’re excited at the chance to meet folks from the farming and local business community, listen to their perspective, and maybe help them with some products or services they weren’t fully aware of before,” says Mark. Sustainable businesses represented will include: Bloom Renewables, Torbay Renewables, The Apricot Centre and Naturesave Insurance. Guests will enjoy a bar and free locally farmed food, with guest DJs providing background musical accompaniment. Virtuoso cellist Ben Roberts and facilitator Steph Kelly are behind Sonic Ritual a radical new fusion of live music and groundbreaking sound therapy set against the beautiful baroque backdrop of Angel Hall Bowden House in Totnes on the first Tuesday of every month Cellist and composer Ben Roberts – alongside his life partner and facilitator Steph Kelly collectively known as Mystical Punk – present something truly unique and profoundly moving spellbinding sessions of live cello performance and profound vibrational healing in the gorgeous English Baroque setting of Angel Hall “The last Sonic Ritual session went incredibly well,” says Ben “Everybody present told me they felt a deep sense of peace and grounding.” Other attendees reported they “sensed the elasticity of time – and felt as if they’d drifted into infinity during Ben’s intense moving performance.” Another said Sonic Ritual was “...an utterly transformative experience Sonic Ritual is a unique experience of vibrational healing integrated into musical performance An invitation to attune to our inner reality in the moment and allow any dissonant energies to transmute through the frequencies of the electric cello The audience plays an active role in consciously co-creating the music; each participant is a conduit contributing to the sound being channeled by Ben who processes the energy in the room through his playing In this way we'll be experiencing our inner realities as well as the collective field via music transition into the energy of the evening and share any intentions you might have 7.45pm Music: improvised sound journey featuring live electric cello 8.30pm Closing circle: a return to the group space and conscious integration of the sound journey You're asked to arrive by 7.20pm at the latest Visit: https://tinyurl.com/y5h8b8jb Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team advises hikers to use traditional navigation tools alongside phones to prevent rescue callouts North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team has urged hikers not to place total reliance on mobile phones to navigate the moors as social media and map apps are blamed for a national rise in rescue callouts According to The Guardian, Mountain Rescue England and Wales attended 3,842 callouts in 2024, which has jumped by 24 per cent since 2019. Hikers aged between 18 and 24 were the most in need of mountain rescues, which the Okehampton-based organisation has put down to younger people relying less on paper maps and more on apps that lack detail or do not work offline. On Facebook North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team said: “Using your mobile phone to navigate is going nowhere; it has a lot of advantages and disadvantages. Paper maps and compasses also have a lot of advantages and disadvantages too. The answer is education and not being reliant on one source. Also, packing a power bank and the correct charging cables can be a great help.” Despite digital navigation being faster and easier to understand it requires signal, battery life drains quickly and hikers can be led down routes that are unsafe or do not exist. “We, as a team, have experienced many times where digital navigation has gone wrong, but we have also experienced a lot of times where digital navigation, the fast-thinking of the casualty and the use of a mobile phone have helped us pinpoint the location to a few metres. This has saved a lot of stress on the casualty or lost persons and rescue hours.” The volunteer-run group recommend Ordnance Survey OS Maps to navigate on a phone as it provides digital maps which can be accessed with no service. They urge hikers to do their research before going out, telling a friend or family member their plans and timings, packing a paper map and compass and downloading the route on a phone beforehand. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Head coach Rob Hunter and his predecessor Ali Hepher have both been stood down after just four games THE hammer blow of a 79-17 humiliation at Kingsholm on Sunday triggered a seismic shift at Sandy Park, but already the fightback has begun. In the wake of Exeter Chiefs’ heaviest-ever Premiership defeat, CEO and chairman Tony Rowe has acted decisively, turning to the man who helped build the club's golden era: Rob Baxter. The long-serving Director of Rugby is stepping back into a front-line coaching role, charged with restoring pride, purpose and performance to a side that has clearly lost its way. Rowe, who stormed into the changing room after Sunday’s collapse against Gloucester, made no attempt to sugar-coat the situation. “There has been a clear disconnect between the playing squad and the coaching staff, and it is something we simply cannot allow to continue,” said Rowe. “Exeter Rugby Club is built on togetherness, hard work and shared standards, and right now, those foundations need reinforcing. “Rob is the right person to bring everyone back onto the same page to ensure that every player and coach is working towards the same goals. His understanding of what it takes to build a winning culture, foster unity, and develop players to their full potential is unrivalled in the club’s history..” Recently-appointed head coach Rob Hunter and his predecessor Ali Hepher have both been stood down after just four games into the new era. With Baxter now returning to the coalface, the message is clear: Exeter is circling the wagons, rediscovering its soul, and preparing for a resurgence. As part of the club’s long-term strategy, a comprehensive review of the current coaching team is also underway. This process will ensure that Exeter Chiefs are equipped with the right people, skills and energy to meet the demands of the 2025/26 season and beyond. “This is about more than just responding to results,” Rowe added. “It’s about re-establishing who we are and where we’re going. We’ve faced challenges before and each time we’ve come back stronger. With Rob playing a more active coaching role again, we are confident this is the first step in writing the next successful chapter of the Exeter Chiefs story. “I would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to supporters for their unwavering loyalty and passion throughout the season. The bond between the team and the fans has always been a cornerstone of the club’s success, and that unity will be more important than ever as the Chiefs look to build momentum heading into the future.” Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Recently the Totnes Neighbourhood Team, part of Devon and Cornwall Police supported by officers from Totnes Response and the professional development unit attended a makeshift camp to arrest a man wanted on warrant. The man was successfully arrested, having been found inside a caravan. Two other people within the caravan, were later arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug. A further search of the caravan and camp produced a number of items that were seized: £5,500 cocaine, a quantity of cannabis, a curved sword, a Talaria e-Motorbike, chainsaws, a leaf-blower, hand-tools, a Kawasaki motorbike (No Tax) a BMW car (No Tax) and a Proton car (No Tax) All three people were further arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply cocaine. The two men were also further arrested on suspicion of burglary. On Wednesday October 30, the man at first only wanted on warrant, was charged with possession with intent to supply cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cocaine, being concerned in the supply of cannabis and possession of an offensive weapon in a private place. On Monday December 2, the man plead guilty to all four charges at Plymouth Crown Court. He was remanded to prison and will be sentenced in due course. This has been a very busy couple of months for Totnes Neighbourhood Team - who have cancelled rest days and annual leave in order to gain a successful prosecution, as well as balancing normal duties. Local policing teams are groups of officers dedicated to serving the community. Teams are made up of officers based in the area, supported by additional officers from the wider area. Teams work closely with local authorities, organisations, partners and residents to decide policing priorities. This helps teams find long-term solutions to local problems. South West Water has been praised at Westminster for its role in making a Devon ‘missing link’ cycle path possible. The company is planning to build a solar farm on the outskirts of Totnes and is seeking planning permission for the scheme to begin. As part of the project, a cycle path will be laid through the site, completing a National Cycle Network route and linking the village of Littlehempston to Totnes with a traffic-free path. Local campaigners have been pushing for the path for decades, and there were cheers and applause when a recent South Hams council meeting came out in favour of the new path. Now South Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden has raised it during a debate on road safety and active travel to school. She told fellow MPs: “Imagine being 14, 15 or 16 and being stuck in a rural village. For rural kids, bikes mean freedom. We have to make it easier to create cycle paths alongside dangerous rural roads, so that kids can have the freedom to travel independently. “On that note, I would like—surprisingly—to do a shout-out for South West Water. After 20 years of campaigning by local councillors and a very committed group of activists, South West Water has finally agreed to put a cycle path through that solar farm. “We have not quite got it over the line yet, but I am putting on the record today that we really want to see it become a reality. It will link to Totnes a village that is just a few miles away, giving people there the ability to cycle into town safely, thereby cutting down on the amount of traffic coming into our small rural town.” Mrs Voaden said such cycle routes are vital in rural areas where roads are dangerous. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Cutting Totnes Castle’s opening hours would harm the town’s economy, councillors have been told. South Hams Council has voted to ask English Heritage to re-think its plans to shut the castle gates in the winter to save money, the Local Democracy Reporting service said. “There is a deep concern about this,” said Cllr Anna Presswell (Green, Totnes). “The castle is completely integral to life in Totnes.” Councillors say closing the castle in winter would increase the risk of vandalism as well as denying local people access to one of their favourite spots. It would also deny visitors using the busy all-year-round Caravan Club site in the middle of town the chance to visit. The castle is one of 21 English Heritage attractions around the country, and it could be closed in winter. The charity says only 11 people visited Totnes Castle last November, not enough to offset the cost of keeping it open. Apart from one abstention, the council was united in urging English Heritage to re-assess its plans. Cllr John Birch (Lib Dem, Totnes) said: “Totnes is an all-year-round tourist destination, and the castle is clearly one of the items on the visitors’ list. “This will have a detrimental effect on the local economy, and that is just one of several reasons for opposing the closure.” Cllr Presswell said the savings for English Heritage by closing the castle in winter would be ‘minimal’. And, she added: “It is neither economically prudent nor in the best interests of the town or its residents.” Totnes Castle is one of the best-preserved examples of a Norman motte and bailey castle in England. It is situated in the town of Totnes on the River Dart in Devon. The surviving stone keep and curtain wall date from around the 14th century. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us From Sunday January 12 , you’ll need to use the PaybyPhone parking app if you want to pay for parking through your phone at South Hams District Council owned car parks. Currently RingGo is used but this is about to change. You can still pay by cash at their machines in the car park if you prefer. If you haven't yet downloaded the PayByPhone app, you can download it on the App Store Parking has been a hot topic recently with a hike in parking charges on the cards at SHDC car parks coupled with proposals for a discount for residents. There have been concerns raised over the increases hitting the visitor economy and there being no proposed discount for workers in the district. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Oddicombe Hill time-trial moves to Saturday afternoon The first two stages of this weekend’s Totnes-Vire Two-Day cycling stage race have been switched with the spectacular time-trial up Torquay’s Oddicombe Hill now taking place on Saturday afternoon It was originally intended to hold the lung-bursting four-hairpin test from Oddicombe Beach as Stage One in the morning But a double-booking at Paignton’s Torbay Velopark has prompted a swap so the first stage of the 51-year-old race will now be a 42-mile ‘Criterium’ at the Velopark The action will then move to Oddicombe Hill for the threequarters of a mile climb against the clock The hill will be closed to traffic for the duration of the event The Totnes-Vire’s third and final stage will still be held over a gruelling 70-mile road race course between Hatherleigh Okehampton and Jacobstowe on Sunday (10.30am) A short while ago the Totnes Heritage Trust was successful in its application to the South Hams District Council to have the oldest pub in Totnes Such a listing provides a local community group with an opportunity to buy The Kingsbridge Inn for use as a pub should it come on the market for sale reports that the owner of The Kingsbridge Inn has decided to sell the pub and this has triggered a procedure that enables a local community group to bid for the purchase of the property to the exclusion of others for a period of six months up to June 16 John says: “The Totnes Heritage Trust will over the next few weeks be organising a meeting of those interested in saving the pub to plan the way forward The situation presents an opportunity for a local community group to work together to save The Kingsbridge Inn and turn it into a community run pub The trust is reaching out to those interested in setting up a Community Benefit Society that will put together a plan to purchase and run the pub Those interested in being involved in such a project are being ask to contact the trust at [email protected] The Kingsbridge Inn proudly standing at the top of Totnes town was first recorded as a pub around 1684 and has served the local community for over 330 years. Unfortunately the pub was suddenly closed in December 2016. There is now an opportunity to reopen it as a community run pub. The Kingsbridge Inn is one ot the few pubs in the area with a function room. Prior to its closure it was in regular use for community events such as meetings, gatherings, wedding reception, Christmas parties and birthdays because of its size and location. The function room would be of real interest to community groups, clubs and organisations looking for meeting place for community activities. This would bring in further revenue and custom during the day and in quieter periods. Should the community group be successful in its bid, the running of the pub would follow the model of many other successful community purchases, such as the Tally Ho! (Littlehempston), and the Cornwood Inn (Cornwood), raising funds through a mix of share offer, loans and grants.” Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Fire crews were called to reports of a milk tanker on fire on private farmland in Totnes. It happened just after 12.30pm on Wednesday April 9 and crews attended from Paignton, Buckfastleigh and Torquay. Two breathing apparatus were used along with one hose reel jet, one safety jet, a thermal imaging camera and small tools to tackle the fire. At the time of writing in the past seven days Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service had attended 123 incidents, 11 rescues, 98 false alarms making a total of 329 total incidents, In the past year there were 3738 fires, 1197 rescues, 7099 false alarms and a total of 17830 incidents. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us For best viewing experience of this website Please enter a place name in the search bar After provisionally the warmest May Day on record in the UK higher than average temperatures will subside over the weekend Environment Agency Updated: 11:01 (UTC+1) on Tue 6 May 2025 Fine and settled under the influence of high pressure A chilly start but with plenty of clear skies bringing long spells of sunshine Cloud thickening from the west later in the afternoon but remaining dry for all with light winds Evening cloud gradually clears away leaving a dry night with clear spells Wednesday brings a mixture of sunny spells and cloudy skies A few spots of rain may be felt in the far southwest Widely dry and settled with high pressure dominating this week Dry across the vast majority of the UK with clear or sunny spells but also some patchy cloud Cloud will likely thicken across the far north and northwest during the weekend with some outbreaks of rain for a time There is also a small risk of some heavy showers in the far south or southwest high pressure will be dominant across the UK This will bring predominantly fine and dry weather for the majority of places Temperatures are likely to be slightly above normal for the time of year although there is a chance of some cold nights Fairly typical weather for the time of year is most likely through this period fine and dry weather is more likely to dominate although this will be interspersed with occasional spells of rain and showers with a risk of heavy rain and thunderstorms in places temperatures will most likely be near to or slightly above average If you’d like to shape the future of South Devon National Landscape The Management Plan Review public survey being carried out South Devon National Landscape is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and one of 46 National Landscapes in England and Wales Overseeing the care and management of the National Landscape is a partnership of organisations and community representatives The partnership takes a strategic view of the area publishes the National Landscape Management Plan and guides the work of the National Landscape Team Your views will help us focus efforts to care for the landscape and address current and future challenges https://forms.office.com/e/6jvyuRxH74 South Devon MP Caroline Voaden has warned the shadowy practices of residential estate management companies could prove to be “the next great scandal of our time”, following the unmitigated disaster of the privatised water industry. Leading a Westminster Hall debate on this issue, Ms Voaden outlined how every type of resident is affected by rogue management companies, with both leaseholders and freeholders dismissed, intimidated and fleeced. Comparing the practices to the water industry, she noted that these companies are not subject to regulation, and are often owned by overseas investors, who eat up smaller players in the market, and build up their wealth and size so they can ride roughshod over anyone who questions their methods or asks where their money has gone. During the debate, Voaden drew on research from the Commons Library. Of the over 1,100 people who responded to relevant petitions on this issue, 94 per cent said they were unhappy or very unhappy with the services provided by their management company. The same percentage (94 per cent) said their service charges were unfair, with shoddy workmanship, delayed repairs, broken lifts, and leaking ceilings cited as common complaints. This is an issue pertinent to South Devon. Since her election, Caroline has met with FirstPort, one of the largest estate management companies in the country, and, during the debate, discussed the challenges Totnes residents of Camomile Lawn are facing, where service charges have risen far beyond inflation. At Camomile Lawn, residents were told the annual contribution to a reserve fund had been increased from £2,000 to £8,000 per year, a 265 per cent increase. Service charges also increased by 23 per cent, based on a 10-year plan that was not shared with residents. Accounting costs also went up by 55 per cent in one year with no explanation. This is a pattern, Voaden noted, that is being repeated across the country. To fix the issue, the Liberal Democrat MP urged the government to consider ending the practice of shared ownership of public spaces for the vast majority of new developments. She also asked the Minister for a timeline for the Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill, and when the government will bring forward legislation to allow freeholders to challenge management charges. Reflecting on the debate, Caroline Voaden, MP for South Devon, said: “As a new MP, I realised there would be some issues that would only be pertinent to South Devon, but when I reached out to colleagues to see who else was dealing with casework about estate management companies, I was taken aback by the response I got. “Tales of intimidation, excessive charges, and poor services span the length and breadth of our country, and without government action, I fear we’re facing the next great scandal of our times. “It is way past time management companies were required to act responsibly, to treat residents with respect, and provide timely, straightforward, accessible information to all residents. “This issue isn’t solely about money. It’s about how people feel living in a home they may have put their life’s savings into buying. Homes that are sold as offering ‘peace of mind’ should deliver that; instead, many face the opposite.” Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us Salcombe will be celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day ahead of time on Monday May 5 with a Community Garden Party at Cliff House, Lower Gardens. Victory in Europe Day celebrates the formal acceptance of unconditional surrender by Germany. It’s a moment of celebration with the best dressed competition for all, fancy dress including your best hat and 1940s uniform. There will also be children’s activities. The event gets underway at 1.30pm with arrival and set up: bring your own picnic blanket and chairs. At 2.15pm the Town Crier makes the VE Day Proclamation and the event is rounded off with the Flotilla at 5.15pm. Tel: 01548 853101[email protected]Follow us