Local News

The airport at Exeter had always been intended for use by the military in the event of war, and in 1939 the airport was taken over by the Air Ministry. Three asphalt runways were laid and RAF Station Exeter became officially operational on 6 July 1940.

RAF Hurricane squadrons had protected the Channel ports but in April 1944 the RAF units were withdrawn and the airfield was taken over by the US 9th Air Force. It became Station 463 and the United States 440th Troop Carrier Group, flying seventy C-47As and seventy CG-4 gliders, arrived in preparation for D-Day. There was insufficient...

East Budleigh and Bicton Parish residents are being asked to decide how to spend £3,450 available for sports in the area.

East Budleigh with Bicton Parish Council and East Devon District Council are taking their voting stall to the Scarecrow Festival at East Budleigh Village Hall on Saturday 14 June between 11am and 3pm. Go along and cast your vote!

The money has all come from recent housing developments (Section 106 money) in the parish. It is now up to residents to decide how the money is used.

An appeal for ideas last year produced two suggestions from East...

Students from University of Exeter are taking part in a day of action today in order to protest against controversial cuts they believe could “disproportionally impact” students with disabilities. Exeter students are joining with students from universities across England to protest as part of a national campaign led by the National Union of Students (NUS) against cuts to the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). The DSA cuts come under plans the government say will “modernise” the allowance and see individual universities pay more towards supporting students with disabilities. In a statement...

Paignton Zoo is looking for a new gorilla – because their old one has been worn out by too much cuddling!

The large plush toy gorilla in the charity’s entrance hall has become the Zoo’s unofficial mascot, greeting visitors with her laid back attitude and laconic smile. Over the years, thousands of children and grown-ups have had their photo taken with her and her orang utan friend.

Zoo spokesperson Phil Knowling said: “She’s worn out from too much love. All those children have knocked the stuffing out of her! Members and regular visitors are asking after her, but she is...