Letter from John Hart, Chair of Devon County Council

When we turn our televisions on today, we are seeing countries in conflict across the world and it reminds us of the sacrifice our families have made in trying to keep peace over past years. As a country we remember these events on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of every year.

This year the Royal British Legion will be holding numerous events across Devon to commemorate the fallen in two World Wars and subsequent military engagements. In Remembrance we keep their memory alive and acknowledge the devastating acts of the past.

For many people, Remembrance is...

Green Dreams: School Launches Eco Club to Plant Seeds of Change!

Authored by News Desk
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 5:01pm

Queen Elizabeth’s School, (QE) part of the Ted Wragg Trust , has held its first official Eco Club meeting this term.

The club has been set up by Science teachers Miss Mercer and Miss Owen, who both specialise in biology. They are both passionate about the environment and sustainability and want to use the club to share knowledge, inspire a love of the natural world, and empower pupils with the skills and understanding on how to tackle important issues such as climate change.

Pupils from all different year groups have signed up to be part of the club and planning is now...

Warm welcoming spaces and a host of services in libraries across Devon this winter

Authored by News Desk
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 4:57pm

Free warm clothes, hygiene banks, community fridges stocked with free food, and hundreds of welcoming groups and events are amongst a wealth of offerings to be found in libraries across Devon and Torbay this winter.

Libraries Unlimited, the charity that runs 54 libraries in the county, is rolling out its Cold Days, Warm Libraries campaign for the third year running. The initiative is aimed at encouraging people into warm, friendly library spaces this Winter not only to help with their fuel bills and the cost of living but to combat isolation. 

1.2 million visits were...

Westbank Community Health and Care’s newest trustee, semi-retired health worker Pam Smith

Westbank’s newest trustee brings wealth of health service experience

Westbank Community Health and Care’s newest trustee, semi-retired health worker Pam Smith, has attended her first board meeting for the charity this month.

70-year-old Pam, from Alphington in Exeter, has worked in senior health service management roles for more than 20 years, including as a PCT Chief Executive. Since 2013 she has worked on a freelance basis supporting general practice, latterly mostly in Cornwall, working through a provider owned by all the GP practices in the county. Pam has previously chaired a small local dyslexia charity and is looking forward to supporting the...

What to Expect From New Online Casino Sites in Exeter

Authored by David Banks
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 11:58am

New online casino sites are cropping up all over the UK, especially in Exeter and this has created quite a stir amongst the punting community. With every new upgrade, certain changes are bound to come about. The big question regarding the new online casino sites that are now available is: What is to be expected of them?

Online casinos are doing all they can to distinguish themselves from the competition and new online casino sites are doing the most to create safer, more advanced and immersive experiences for their players. If you're interested in this topic due to the tech side...

Financial Planning for Families: Steps to Owning Your Own Home

Authored by Val Watson
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 11:24am

Owning your own home is a major milestone for any family, providing security, stability, and a place to build lasting memories. However, buying a home in the UK can be a complex and expensive process, making careful financial planning essential. With the right approach, you can take the necessary steps to achieve homeownership and ensure that your family is financially secure throughout the process. Here's a guide to help families navigate the financial planning needed to purchase their own home.

1. Assess Your Financial Situation

The first step in your journey to...

Helping Your Relatives Attend Health Care Appointments from Far Away

Authored by Liv Butler
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 10:28am

Caring for elderly or ill relatives can be challenging, especially when you live far away. Ensuring that they attend their healthcare appointments and receive proper care is essential, but distance can make it difficult to coordinate visits or provide direct support. Fortunately, with some thoughtful planning and modern technology, you can help your relatives stay on top of their health even if you're not physically present. Take note of the following ways to help your relatives attend healthcare appointments from far away.

  1. Stay Organised with a Health Care Schedule
  2. ...

South West urged to 'feel the burn' with cancer squats challenge

Authored by Daisy Hall
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 9:48am

THIS AUTUMN people across the South West are being urged to embrace the ups and downs of a unique challenge for Stand Up To Cancer the joint fundraising campaign from Cancer Research UK and Channel 4.

Gym bunnies and sofa surfers alike are being asked to flex their fundraising muscles by signing up to do 100 squats every day throughout November to raise money for life-saving research.

People can adapt the challenge to suit their fitness level and complete their squats anytime, anywhere – all at once or throughout the day.

And everyone who signs up receives a...

Are Nicotine Pouches Safe? A Look at the Health Impacts

Authored by David Banks
Posted: Thu, 10/24/2024 - 6:33am

Nicotine pouches have gained significant attention in the UK as a modern alternative to smoking and vaping. These small, tobacco-free pouches provide a nicotine hit without the need for combustion or inhalation, making them a popular choice for individuals seeking a smoke-free nicotine option. But the question remains—are nicotine pouches safe for long-term use? This article will explore the health impacts of nicotine pouches, comparing them to smoking and vaping while considering the pros and cons of their use based on the latest research and insights from health organizations.

What...

A Blooming Victory! InExeter Crowned Best BID in National Competition

InExeter, the Business Improvement District (BID) for Exeter, is thrilled to announce its achievement as the 'Best Business Improvement District' at the national Britain In Bloom awards, following a recent gold award at the South West in Bloom competition earlier this month.

The prestigious Britain in Bloom competition is organised by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), aimed at enhancing and regenerating local environments through imaginative planting, conservation projects, and addressing urban challenges like litter and vandalism.

Mattie Richardson, Projects...

Pages