Local News

The Exeter-based Met Office has lost its BBC weather forecasting contract for the first time since 1922.

The BBC is legally required to secure the best value for money for licence fee payers and will tender the contract to outside competition.

Steve Noyes, Met Office operations and customer services director, told BBC News: "Nobody knows Britain's weather better and, during our long relationship with the BBC, we've revolutionised weather communication to make it an integral part of British daily life.

"This is disappointing news, but we will be working to make sure...

A senior policeman has once again taken to social media to raise concern about the amount of police time being taken up coping with mental health patients.

Devon and Cornwall Assistant Chief Constable Paul Netherton posted on his twitter account: "Yet again MH patients being kept in police cells as no beds available in D&C. NHS providing nurses to help but still no places #unacceptable"

Earlier this year Mr Netherton told Sky News his officers spend 20 per cent of their time dealing with mental health issues even though they are not trained or equipped to do so....

From 6-8 September, the Household Cavalry Regiment will be taking part in an epic challenge; to cycle to all 13 of the Rugby World Cup venues in only 13 days, totalling to around 1,300 miles.

The cycle will be taking place to raise money for the Household Cavalry Foundation, which raises much needed funds to care for the casualties, soldiers, veterans, heritage and horses of the Household Cavalry. This challenge is also a great opportunity for the soldiers to hone their military skills, such as navigation and leadership.

The ride will begin at Combermere Barracks in Windsor...

The Met Office has issued a severe weather warning for Devon.

Forecasters say heavy downpours and thunderstorms may affect eastern parts of the region.

More persistent and at times heavy rain will develop across Devon during today (Sunday), clearing northwards during the early afternoon.

The public should be aware that flooding may result from either short-period intense rainfall this evening, or more persistent heavy rain thereafter. This warning may be updated as further information becomes available.

A chief forecaster at the Exeter-based agency said: “...