Homes & Gardens

Sam Alford and Sam White, both from Exmouth, are starting a bike recycling project at Bicton EaRTH in East Devon. It is one of few such projects based in the heart of a rural community where there is a need for low-cost, independent transport – especially for young people.

After working for various charities and youth projects they are now establishing EaRTH Cycles and want the public to donate their old bikes, rather than throwing them away.

“We’ve secured support for the project from Devon County Council’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund, Making it Local and Awards For...

As river levels rise following last night's torrential rain, the Environment Agency has issued advice about what to do if you've suffered flooding in your home.

*Take care. There may be dangers in the water such as sharp objects and raised manhole covers.

*Flood water may have caused structual damage to buildings.

*Flood water can contain sewage, chemicals and animal waste. Always wear waterproof outerwear, including gloves, wellington boots and a face mask.

*If your electricity supply is not already switched off at the mains, get a qualified person to do...

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service want you to have a joyful and fire safe Christmas this year. Fire safety is important at anytime of the year, but with the extra distractions of Christmas it’s especially important to be vigilant. Dry Christmas trees, colourful decorations and wrapped presents are all extra fuel for a potential fire into your home.

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to accidental fires in the home, so take extra care this season to ensure that your families, loved ones and neighbours are all protected from the extra Christmas fire...

The amount of long term unfurnished empty properties in Teignbridge stood at 385, a reduction of 156 since the same time four years ago.

The figures have been released during National Empty Homes Week which is aimed at highlighting the waste of empty property nationwide and to celebrate the success of numerous examples and new initiatives to bring empty homes back into use.

Properties become empty for a variety of reasons, including owners moving into nursing homes or other properties going into probate. In most cases owners of empty properties do not want to leave them...