Local News

A nine-strong team of Devonians are cycling the length of the country to raise funds for Exeter-based charity Rainbow Living.

It’s an eclectic group, ranging from experienced cyclists to complete novices, and including four of pensionable age! Event organiser Curly Wright, a 69 year old pensioner, is joined by Shirley French, 70, a retired senior nurse who is in remission from cancer, and former Devon and Cornwall Police Officer Terry Windeatt, 70.

The rest of the team includes Dr James Haytor, who works at the Cheriton Bishop and Christow surgeries, Dick Scagell, 63,...

Are we living in a material world? A new survey has revealed that almost half (49%) of people in the South West would describe themselves as a materialist! ​ Our possessions have the ability to fill us with happiness and give us a sense of achievement, so it can be hard to let them go. The survey has revealed that when the region does get rid of items, 71% donate items to charity, 36% sell items online, and 31% recycle. It seems the region doesn’t just keep things for the sake of it. In fact, 34% admitted to keeping things due to the sentimental value they hold, and 31% said they keep...

Citizens Advice Devon is urging local organisations which support or work with benefits claimants to ensure their staff and volunteers are fully up to speed with the new Universal Credit system as it continues its roll-out across the South West. This comes as Citizens Advice report a 50% or more increase in benefits enquiries in areas where universal credit has already been rolled out.

Universal Credit combines six benefits into one single payment, including Jobseeker’s Allowance and Working Tax Credits. It is currently being rolled out across the UK, and, by the end of September...

Simon Arnold, a volunteer for the National Trust, has started a challenge to play nearly every working piano or organ at a National Trust property in the south west, all to raise money to help keep music alive in these historic places. Simon’s challenge, ‘Pachelbel’s Progress’ will see him head off to play at a total of 15 places over 11 days in September, not a small task! The repertoire will be chosen to reflect the spirit of each place, with pieces including Greensleeves, Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven, The Charleston, Clair de Lune by Debussy and The Entertainer. Money raised from the...