Exeter Storm under-18s are one of eight teams left in the Volleyball England under-18 Men's National Championships.
They will take on the remaining seven teams at the National Volleyball Centre in Kettering next month.
Storm recorded a late, final-set victory over St Thomas More Lynx in their first match in Bournemouth.
Qualification was already secure for Exeter Storm when they took on favourites Wessex LeAF A.
In that match, despite battling hard, they fell to a two-set loss.
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Exeter Storm still in championships
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Full military funeral for Exeter sapper who died in crash
DETAILS of the funeral for an Exeter sapper who was killed in a car crash earlier this month have been announced.
Sapper Kieron Blight, 19, of 26 Engineer Regiment will have a funeral with full military honours.
It will be held at St. James Church, Dry Lane, Christow, near Exeter on Tuesday, December 3 at 12noon.
This will be followed by a private cremation in Exeter.
At the time of his death, tributes poured in for the soldier "of huge promise" who died in a car crash in Wiltshire.
An Armoured Engineer, he was a passenger in a Mazda X5 convertible which hit the kerb and overturned before colliding with a tree at around 6.30pm on Monday, November 11.
He leaves grieving parents Stephen and Mandy, who live at Bridford, sister Hayley, and his beloved girlfriend Emily.
His commanding officer at 26 Engineer Regiment,Lieutenant Colonel John Ridge, said: "If you were to sit down and list the qualities required of the perfect sapper, they would sum up what we had in Sapper Kieron Blight. He was keen, professional, courteous and bright.
"Above all, he loved his armoured engineer trade. During our recent deployment to Canada, whenever he got the chance, he would race off to clamber all over our tanks and chat to his fellow crewmen: anything to learn more about armour and how to get the best from it. Canada was his first big exercise, but it was already clear that he had huge promise, so much so that he had recently been selected to attend training to be a Junior Non Commissioned Officer.
"Despite his young age and boyish looks, his maturity and professionalism made him naturally respected amongst his peers. I have no doubt that he would have been a Lance Corporal before most of them."
"We are all shocked by his death, but know how little our loss compares to that of his parents Stephen and Mandy, his sister Hayley, and his beloved girlfriend Emily."
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Builder due to lodge East Devon homes plan
A MAJOR developer has confirmed it is due to submit plans for a housing development in an East Devon village.
Although confirming the intention to submit a planning application for land at West Hill near Ottery St Mary, Daniel Heathcote, Persimmon Homes South West land director, said it was "too early" to confirm details. "We are required to engage with the local community in order to inform them of our development proposals," he added. "In light of this, it is therefore too early to confirm the details of the development that will be submitted as part of the planning application."
Councillor Claire Wright who is the town, district and county ward member for Ottery St Mary and West Hill, has voiced concerns over the plans.
West Hill is allocated 35 houses in East Devon District Council's Local Plan, until 2026. So far, 14 houses have been approved outside the village's built up area boundary and a further 29 are awaiting a decision. But Cllr Wright said her understanding is that Persimmon wants to build in the region of 50 homes on a field towards the end of Higher Broad Oak Road, adjacent to Higher Metcombe. "Residents have observed with sinking hearts, the field behind their houses first being flail-mowed and then, rather ironically, surveyed for wildlife," she said.
"Surveyors have also been in the field carrying out topographical studies of the land.
"A surprising 17 dwellings have been built in West Hill gardens since 2006, however, very unfortunately, the Government does not allow for these developments to be included in housing numbers for local plans," she added.
Residents have set up a Facebook page entitled, Save West Hill the Woodland Village.
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Exmouth husband's attack on wife caught on 999 call as he smashed into home
An angry husband's terrifying attack on his wife was recorded on a 999 tape as he smashed his way into their home while she was calling the police.
Graham Hill broke the front window of the family home in Exmouth and then demolished the bedroom door as his petrified wife tried to hold it shut.
The 999 call only ended when he got inside, grabbed her around the throat, and threw her mobile phone across the room, Exeter Crown Court was told.
Mechanic Hill was angry and upset after his ten-year marriage to wife Debra broke up and she locked him out of their home because he had been drinking.
She started her call to the police when he arrived at the house in the early hours and started banging on the door. She threw the keys out of a window to him but he could not find them and became even angrier.
Hill, aged 37, of Madeira Villas, Exmouth, admitted affray and was ordered to do 200 hours unpaid community work and pay £1,200 costs.
He was also made subject of a two year restraining order preventing him from harassing his ex wife.
Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, told him:"This arose out of the acrimonious breakdown of your marriage in which there was infidelity on both sides.
"I suspect there were problems which neither of you handled that well and it m ay not have been the wisest thing to do to lock you out in the circumstances, but you should not have done what you did."
Mr Jonathan Barnes, prosecuting, said the couple's marriage was already on the rocks before the incident in August, which happened after they had both been drinking and she went home first.
He said:"There had been some unpleasantness and she texted the people they had been drinking with asking them to persuade the defendant to stay with them.
"She went to sleep and was woken by banging on the front door and him shouting for the keys. She decided not to let him in personally but threw the keys out the window.
"Plainly, he was unable to find them because he shouted for her to get down there and do so. He continued banging on the door and she dialled 999.
"In the call there is the background noise of him banging and he can be heard making threats to the effect he is going to kill her. He is then heard smashing the glass in the lounge window.
"His wife tried to barricade herself in the bedroom by putting her back against the door and wedging her feet against a wardrobe, but it was to no avail.
"He smashed the door to pieces, took the mobile phone off her, and threw it down, thus ending the 999 call. He grabbed her around the throat and hit her and she was terrified."
Mr Barnes said the victim pushed him off and ran from the house in her pyjamas and was found in a state of distress by police.
Mr Tom Bradnock, defending, said:"My client is deeply remorseful about his actions but they were in the context of a marital breakdown. They have both moved on and he is living with another partner.
"He is self employed and runs a garage and last year he took home £9,000. He is already paying compensation to the Housing Association for the damage to the window and door."
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10 Financial Planning Week tips from Simon Boulter at Boulter Bowen in Exeter
To mark UK Financial Planning Week, Simon Boulter, of Exeter-based financial planning firm Boulter Bowen, offers his top 10 tips to make sure you are prepared for any eventuality1. Cash is held in a joint account to help meet the immediate needs of any dependents
A friend of ours in Spain recently passed away. His only asset in the UK was a bank account in his name, but in the absence of a valid UK will, it took his widow nearly six months' negotiating with the bank's legal department to access what was now hers. Had this been a joint account it would have taken only a few days.2. Someone I trust knows the location of all my secret passwords
A client of ours went into hospital for a routine operation, but a surgical mishap meant that he spent two weeks in intensive care in a coma. He banked online, for both him and his wife, but only he knew the passwords. His wife had to negotiate with her own bank to release funds at a time she least needed that hassle. Fortunately we had details of the accounts and were able to help.3. I can access copies of all important documents from anywhere in the world
A client travelling to the USA discovered his passport was missing as he was getting off the plane. We held a copy of this document as part of our money laundering process and we were able to email this to him to get him out of an otherwise difficult situation.4. Someone knows how my house works if I am not there
Two clients went travelling for six months, redirecting their post to our office so that we could email them if anything needed their urgent attention. Becky, our bookkeeper, saw that a water bill was way above what it should be. She emailed the clients, who then called their neighbour who found a water pipe had burst. This was fixed before they got home.5. I have access to the contact details of all of the people who need to know in the event of an emergency
We all have support networks locally and around the world. Can you contact them when you most need their support?6. I have appropriate powers of attorney in place should I be unable to deal with my own affairs
An elderly client suffered a severe stroke, and now needs expensive and continuing care. His will left everything to his wife and then to distant relatives, assuming that he would be the first to die. We arranged for explicit instructions to be drafted to his attorneys, to ensure that his care would continue to be funded, should his wife predecease him and the relatives challenge the high level of spending on his care.7. All of my life insurance policies are written in appropriate trusts
On a regular basis we meet clients who have insurance policies that would fall into their estate on death, creating delay and unanticipated inheritance tax liabilities. We always make sure that any such 'legacy' policies are written in trust, the policies eventually expire and nothing comes of this planning, although last year we did have a younger client who sadly passed away leaving a young family. Putting his policies in trust meant that his dependent had the policy proceeds within a matter of a few days.8. Wherever we (or our families) are in the world, we have immediate access to cash
The granddaughter of one of our clients went on a gap year. They were concerned that she would always have access to cash in an emergency. Rather than give her an actual cash reserve, which would in itself cause potential risks, they set up a 'cash passport card' loaded with £1,000 for instant access for use only in emergencies. Fortunately she came home safely and the card was returned to her grandparents, to be given to her brother for his travels.9. My will recognises that I might die at the same time as my spouse or partner, for example in an accident
We were the culprits here, all of my own and Mo's planning was based on the premise that one of us might die, but not both. It was only when Issy, our 17-year-old daughter, asked what would happen to her and her brothers in this scenario that we realised our planning had missed this potential occurrence. Needless to say, our wills and letters of wishes have now been amended and discussed with our children.10. I have appropriate insurance in place to provide for myself and my dependents should the need ever arise
We always say that there are some things that shouldn't be selected on the basis of price alone. Fire extinguishers, life jackets and parachutes are some or those, insurance is another. Would your travel insurance cover you in similar circumstances?
Planners around the country are hosting free financial advice surgeries during Financial Planning Week – a full list can be found at www.financialplanning.org.uk.
There is also an online Ask a Planner tool where consumers can submit questions to a Certified Financial Planner.
On Friday, November 29, at 1pm, there will be a live Twitter chat where consumers and financial advisers can get involved in answering questions and sharing ideas. The Institute of Financial Planning will post a series of questions for discussion and advice over the course of an hour or so. Just log into Twitter and follow #FPWUK
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Floods cost country £600 million
Last year's floods, which hit hundreds of homes and businesses across the Westcountry, could have cost the UK economy up to £600 million, according to research.
The Environment Agency said the estimated damage to all property totalled about £277 million while the impact on businesses in England was up to £200 million, including some £84 million in property damage.
Other indirect impacts – such as lost working days – hit companies and local economies by around £33 million, the agency found, and disruption to transport, communications and utility links cost up to £82 million.
While a quarter of days were officially in drought in 2012, with 20 million people affected by hosepipe bans, flooding occurred one in every five days, affecting more than 7,000 properties.
In Devon and Cornwall 1,000 properties were hit including dozens in Braunton, North Devon, where a torrent water on December 22 overwhelmed new £1.5 million flood defences
Another of the hardest hit areas was Helston where a severe flood warning – the highest possible – was issued during the early hours of December 22 after rapidly rising river levels on the River Cober. Rivers in both counties were recorded as being at their highest levels since the 1960s as 90mm (3.5 inches) of rain fell in six days.
In Somerset almost 300 properties were flooded while 1,000 acres of farmland were under water for months on the Somerset Moors and Levels.
A report by Somerset County Council estimated the financial costs at £7.1 million.
"Extreme events, such as the flooding and drought in 2012, are likely to become more frequent and more severe in the coming decades," Richard Cresswell, South West director of the Environment Agency, said.
"It is vital that businesses plan for weather impacts to safeguard their operations today and in the future.
"Every £1 spent on preventing flooding saves £8 in repairing damage. Many businesses are already helping to build a stronger economy in areas previously at risk by contributing £148 million in partnership funding."
The agency is encouraging businesses to sign up for flood warnings and make a plan, as part of its annual Flood Awareness Campaign.
Some 175,000 businesses are at risk of flooding in England and Wales, and in a recent survey one in five members of the Federation of Small Businesses said flooding had had a negative impact on their company over the past year.
Danny Alexander, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: "The Government is getting on with building better flood defences across the country. At the spending round we set out long-term funding for flood defences, protecting over 300,000 homes over the next six years, giving homeowners and businesses security, and unlocking new development and job opportunities."
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OPINION: Tiverton Town win the perfect hangover cure
'Bouncability' may not show up in the Oxford English Dictionary, but John Clarkson still could not have chosen a better word to describe the nature of Tiverton Town's 3-1 win over Bridgwater Town on Tuesday.
The Yellows went into the game having suffered their first back-to-back defeats since mid-August following their calamitous 3-0 loss at struggling Bishops Cleeve.
That game was preceded by the FA Trophy double-header against Weston-super-Mare, in which Clarkson's men expended huge amounts of physical effort, only to fall agonisingly short.
Whether Saturday's defeat was the result of an FA Trophy hangover or not – about which I speculated last week – is open for debate.
Clarkson certainly seemed to think it was a possibility judging by his post-match comments, in which he also described the performance as amongst the worst he had seen in six or seven years.
However, speaking to Tom Gardner after Tuesday's win, he preferred to put it down to the whole team having an off-day (I have paraphrased the defender as the exact language he used was not quite so family-friendly).
Regardless of the reason, Tivvy were apparently pretty abject at the weekend, so the pressure was certainly on them to drag their promotion campaign back on track.
It was certainly not a given against a capable Bridgwater side boasting the familiar faces of goalkeeper Chris Wright and prolific striker Joe Bushin, with Alex Faux on the bench.
Clarkson himself made five changes to the one beaten so comprehensively on Saturday, with no Jon Viscosi – replaced by Neil Montadon – proving the biggest talking point.
But instead of letting any pre-match tension affect them, Tivvy were ruthless in attack and decisive in defence.
Watching Dan Smith harassing Bridgwater right-back Aron Robbins was a joy to behold, while Matt Wright was twice denied superbly by his namesake at the other end.
Some have questioned whether Nicky Rudge has the physicality required to succeed in the middle of the park at Southern League level.
Against a physical Bridgwater side whose aggression grew exponentially as Tivvy's lead increased, he played superbly, picking out precise passes and adding his name to the scoresheet.
It certainly helped having the physicality of Shane Krac and Marcus Martin alongside him, but that should not take the gloss off what was an excellent performance.
Tivvy did still leave a few gaps at the back and were not always the most composed, but the emphasis was clearly on removing the danger rather than building attacks from the back, and in a first half of superb counter-attacking, the tactic paid dividends.
In the wake of the Bishops Cleeve defeat, Clarkson said Tivvy's next two matches could define their season, and Tuesday's win was the ideal start to this crunch period.
One swallow does not make a summer, and only a decent showing against Evesham United on Saturday will show whether the Weston defeat is truly out of their system or not.
However, if Bishops Cleeve was a hangover, then Bridgwater Town was certainly the perfect tonic.
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Councillor concerned at changes to East Devon District Council question requirements
A LEADING district councillor has questioned why East Devon District Council officers amended a recommendation agreed upon by councillors regarding public speaking at committees.
Currently, there is no requirement for any question at the committees to be in writing, nor is the subject of the question restricted.
However in October after a discussion on public speaking, councillors on the Standards Committee made the recommendation that "where possible" questions not related to a topic listed on the agenda, should be submitted in writing two days before.
A supplementary question is then permitted.
However on the agenda for this month's cabinet meeting, the words "where possible" had been omitted. A note on the agenda stated that council officers had made this "more detailed" recommendation to allow members preparation time. They added that this should in turn be of greater benefit to the public as responses given will be "well considered and researched".
The recommendation means that all questions not related specifically to agendas will have to be submitted in writing two clear working days in advance.
Councillor Claire Wright, Independent ward member for Ottery St Mary, claims the new rule means the committee chairman would be able to "avoid" answering questions.
"This new rule of course would conveniently avoid any embarrassing questions that committee chairmen would rather not answer," she said.
"I was baffled and angry when I read the cabinet papers and discovered that the recommendations agreed by the Standards Committee in October relating to public speaking rights, were been subtly altered and mean considerable restrictions in public speaking at committees.
"How is it, that clear recommendations agreed by a committee can be overturned and subtly changed, but with significant detrimental implications for democracy?"
The recommendations do not include the Development Management Committee, which is due to debate new speaking arrangements for its committee next month.
Cabinet members were due to agree the recommendations on public speaking at their meeting on Wednesday, November 27.
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Property of the day: Former farmhouse Rolle Barton in Otterton
A rare opportunity has arisen through Bradleys Estate Agents to acquire a character property, set within a most desirable courtyard development in the picturesque East Devon village of Otterton.
Rolle Barton, formerly a principal farmstead, was formed in 1999 to an architectural design using traditional materials including stone, slate and oak.
Number 2 is an impressive converted barn that offers three double bedrooms, two of which are on the ground floor offering period features, the master benefiting from an en-suite bathroom and the second an en-suite shower room.
On the first floor there is a spacious sitting room with exposed beams, vaulted ceiling. Double glazed doors open onto a Juliet balcony with an attractive wrought iron balustrade with views over the pretty courtyard.
Just off the sitting room there is a study / snug area and a good size kitchen / dining room which again offers a great deal of space with vaulted ceiling and exposed beams. The kitchen is well fitted with matching base and eye level units along with many built in appliances to include, electric oven, grill and hob, with integrated fridge and freezer.
There is also a lower ground floor offering bedroom three / reception room with a utility room and W.C.
Delightful views over the surrounding countryside and across the Otter River to the valley can be enjoyed from the rear aspect.
Outside, a large enclosed rear garden mainly laid to lawn with flower and shrub borders give a safe and secure environment for children and pets alike. A paved terrace offers peace and tranquillity in which to sit and enjoy the sun. To the front of the property there is a small lawn area with an Apple tree with views across the pretty communal courtyard and garden. The garage and two additional private parking spaces can be found just off the courtyard. There is also a designated area for visitors parking.
This splendid family home is on the market for the asking price of £499,000.
Internal inspection comes highly recommended.
For further information or to arrange a viewing, please call Bradleys on 01395 442201 or email budleigh@beagroup.co.uk
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MP warns park home residents miss out on £50 South West Water subsidy
An MP has warned some residents of park homes in the Westcountry are not getting a £50 Government subsidy to cut their water bills because "unscrupulous" owners are not passing on the hand-out.
Anne Marie Morris, Conservative MP for Newton Abbot, has urged ministers to make failing to pass on the money given to South West Water customers a criminal charge.
There are about 84,000 "park homes" – low-cost residential properties, usually sited on private estates – on 2,000 sites across England.
The Westcountry has a large number of private estates with bungalow-style residential homes, referred to as park or mobile homes, commonly sited in rural and coastal areas.
Speaking during the second reading of the Water Bill in the House of Commons, Mrs Morris said there was no obligation for commercial intermediaries – which include not just park home owners, but housing associations and Ministry of Defence premises – to pass on the rebate if they apply to South West Water.
She said: "The consequence, as I have discovered in my constituency, is that a number of local residents are not benefiting.
"Park homes represent 2.5% of the housing stock in my district council area of Teignbridge, so this is not a small problem; it is a significant problem."
She urged ministers to simplify the application process and allow local councils to apply on a resident's behalf.
She added that "some unscrupulous commercial intermediaries will take the money and not pass it on to the individual resident", and that the costs of a small claims court action would far outstrip the £50 help.
The MP added: "If not passing on the subsidy were to result in criminal rather than civil liability, that would be a measure with teeth and I suspect that those who are not minded to pass on the subsidy at present would do so."
In response, Water Minister Dan Rogerson, also Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, said he was meeting the Newton Abbot MP this week to discuss the matter.
He added: "I will be pleased if we can make progress on it, but there are issues with the way in which they take their water from an intermediary, as she pointed out."
At £499, South West Water's average annual charge is the highest in the country thanks to botched 1980s privatisation. Bill payers in London on average pay £150 less.
It was the reason why the Government has given a £50-a-year subsidy to all households in the region. But many families in Devon and Cornwall pay more than £1,000 a year.
Anne Marie Morris, Conservative MP for Newton Abbot, has urged ministers to make failing to pass on the money given to South West Water customers a criminal charge.
There are about 84,000 "park homes" – low-cost residential properties, usually sited on private estates – on 2,000 sites across England.
The Westcountry has a large number of private estates with bungalow-style residential homes, referred to as park or mobile homes, commonly sited in rural and coastal areas.
Speaking during the second reading of the Water Bill in the House of Commons, Mrs Morris said there was no obligation for commercial intermediaries – which include not just park home owners, but housing associations and Ministry of Defence premises – to pass on the rebate if they apply to South West Water.
She said: "The consequence, as I have discovered in my constituency, is that a number of local residents are not benefiting.
"Park homes represent 2.5% of the housing stock in my district council area of Teignbridge, so this is not a small problem; it is a significant problem."
She urged ministers to simplify the application process and allow local councils to apply on a resident's behalf.
She added that "some unscrupulous commercial intermediaries will take the money and not pass it on to the individual resident", and that the costs of a small claims court action would far outstrip the £50 help.
The MP added: "If not passing on the subsidy were to result in criminal rather than civil liability, that would be a measure with teeth and I suspect that those who are not minded to pass on the subsidy at present would do so."
In response, Water Minister Dan Rogerson, also Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, said he was meeting the Newton Abbot MP this week to discuss the matter.
He added: "I will be pleased if we can make progress on it, but there are issues with the way in which they take their water from an intermediary, as she pointed out."
At £499, South West Water's average annual charge is the highest in the country thanks to botched 1980s privatisation. Bill payers in London on average pay £150 less.
It was the reason why the Government has given a £50-a-year subsidy to all households in the region. But many families in Devon and Cornwall pay more than £1,000 a year.
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Update: Three more men, including 17-year-old, arrested in connection with Exeter murder
Update:
Three men have been arrested in connection with the murder of Stephen Crook.
A 40 year old man from Okehampton was arrested on Monday 25th November.
A 39 year old man and a 17 year old youth were both arrested in Coventry on Tuesday 26th November.
All three men remain in custody at Launcestion Police station.
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A 25-year-old appeared in court in Exeter this morning charged with murder.
Ryan Singleton, of Howcotte Green, Coventry, has been charged with murdering Stephen Michael Crook and possessing an offensive weapon, a black handled kitchen knife, in a public place in Alphington Road and the Exeter Arms Hotel.
Mr Crook was found with injuries in Alphington Road, Exeter, on Thursday, November 21.
Singleton appeared at Exeter Magistrates Court for a short ten minute hearing this morning. The case was sent to Exeter Crown Court, where an application for bail is expected to be made on Tuesday.
Singleton was remanded in custody.
Police launched the investigation after being called to a property in Alphington Road, Exeter, just before 8pm following concerns for a resident.
A-43-year-old man was found inside a property with injuries and was conveyed by ambulance to the Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital where he later died.
The case was sent to crown court for a preliminary hearing on December 12th. Singleton was remanded in custody but will have a bail hearing at the crown court tomorrow.
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Top five things to buy at Exeter Christmas Market
The cathedral green has been transformed into a festive fayre for the next month.
Thousands of visitors are expected to sample the Exeter Christmas market after it officially opened to coincide with the Christmas lights switch-on on Thursday.
Stallholders are offering an eclectic array of handmade gifts, decorations and a multitude of food.
Trader Neil Walsh said: "This Christmas market gives the people of Exeter something they deserve. It is an opportunity to showboat Exeter to the rest of the county and beat off competition from Plymouth."
The Echo visited the market earlier this evening in a quest to find some alternative products to buy:
Here is our top five:
1. Landjáger
This traditional type of Germany sausage comes from the southern state of Bavaria. It is available in a variety of sweet and delicate flavours, with a pair costing £2 or all seven types for £10.
2. Marilyn Monroe shawl. £6.
Made with chiffon fabric, it has a soft feeling to the hand.
3. Curved wine bottle holder, £13.
Made of wood and bamboo, it has been meticulously crafted with some 16-20 layers of lacquer giving it a glossy finish.
4. Handmade dragon, £25 to £150 depending on size.
This hand-crafted gift will certainly stand-out from the garden. Apparently they are almost guaranteed to sell-out.
5. Magic snow £3 or two for £5.
Just add water and watch it grow. Simple.
The market returns for a second year, combining products from local traders and traders from around the globe.
Local retailers make up 30 per cent of the traders who are selling a wide range of traditional Christmas crafts and local foods.
Nick Rhodes, chief executive of Market Place Europe, said: "We are delighted to be returning to Exeter and to be providing new retail experiences that will enhance Christmas shopping for everyone. We are especially thrilled to be setting up our Christmas market on the Cathedral Green, a very special venue that captures the essence of Exeter."
The market will run until Thursday, December 19. It is open Monday to Wednesday, 10am to 7pm; Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 9pm and Sunday 11am to 6pm. Entry is free.
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Man who drinks 'more than 80 pints of cider a week' in court for damaging a police car
A 33 year old man who drinks more than 80 pints of cider a week ended up in court charged with damaging a police vehicle.
But alcoholic Peter Thorpe was so drunk he could not remember putting a dent in the police car one night in September in Tiverton, Devon.
Exeter magistrates were told that Thorpe lives on £89.60p a week incapacity benefits.
His lawyer Peter Seigne said:"He drinks six litres of cider a day. He spends £45 a week of his benefits on drinking and smoking."
Thorpe, from Tiverton, Devon, admitted criminal damage and was fined a total of £170 with costs.
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Exeter teenager in court accused of attacking four people with a stiletto shoe
A teenager has appeared in court charged with attacking four people – with a stiletto shoe.
Sophie Morgan, from Nadderwater, Exeter, Devon, is accused of assault causing actual bodily harm to two of the victims and common assault to the other two. The alleged victims were two men and two women.
Exeter magistrates court was told two of the alleged victims suffered significant eye injuries in the shoe incident in a city street one night last month.
Morgan, 19, did not enter any pleas and her case was sent to Exeter Crown Court to be heard before a judge next month. She was bailed.
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Nigel Havers, Bobby Davro, Lee Mead and Jeffrey Holland star in Devon panto Robin Hood
HEART-throb Lee Mead was happy to be upstaged by a horse as the Theatre Royal's panto was unveiled.
The singer and actor looked the part as he took to the saddle in the title role of Robin Hood.
But he admitted he'd never been on a horse before and credited the placid steed for making him look like a horseman.
"I really enjoyed it," he said. "I think I'll take up riding lessons."
His ride for the day, 14-year-old Dudley, nonchalantly munched on an ornamental tree at the meet-the-stars session. The Irish cob, stabled at Wembury Bay Riding School and owned by Angela Mills, never flinched.
Lee had his musical theatre career transformed by winning the BBC series Any Dream Will Do in 2007, which catapulted him into the top rank of West End stars.
But taking part in the show was a big risk for the up-and-coming musical star who already had a part in the West End in Phantom of the Opera, when he auditioned for the role of Joseph.
"I was quite naive," he admits of his decision. "I never expected to get to the last 12, but when I did they said if you choose to be in the last 12, there's no job for you in Phantom', even if I'd got knocked out in the first week."
It was a big decision and one he did not take lightly.
"I think with anything you do in life, whether it's career related or not, you have to follow your gut," he said.
Lee left Southend's Whitehall School of Performing Arts without graduating, and he says the experience give him a lot more drive.
"I wouldn't say it worked against me, but I thought I had more to prove and I had to work much harder. I didn't walk straight into the West End, I started off at the bottom of the industry and worked my way up."
After his successful run in Joseph, Lee then took on a new challenge, starring at the Theatre Royal Windsor in a touring revival of Lord Arthur Savile's Crime, and he led the cast playing the title role.
He returned to the West End in May 2010 to take on the role of Fiyero in the musical Wicked and pursue a solo singing career. On his days off from the musical, he took his own show 'An Evening with Lee Mead' to various venues in UK. He also starred in his own Christmas show at the London Coloseum and had a three-month run in another top musical 'Legally Blonde'.
He has also taken on a number of TV roles – first as 'Harry Timms' in an episode of 'Casualty' for the BBC and also playing 'Scott' in Series 2 of 'Bedlam' for Sky TV and he will soon be making a return to television. He was also asked to join the cast of a new concert venture called 'West End Men'. The show has been a huge success and included a sell-out performance to 3000 people in Singapore.
Last year he starred in his first pantomime 'Jack in the Beanstalk' at Southampton's Mayflower working with Julian Clary and Nigel Havers – so the Plymouth production unites the two stars.
Lee said: "The funny thing is, Robin Hood was the first role I ever played, when I was nine years old in school.
"I'm looking forward to bringing my daughter Betsy (aged three) to Plymouth to see the show."
And he is looking forward to crossing swords in Robin Hood with Nigel, who plays the Sheriff of Nottingham.
Nigel's had a long and success career both in film, on stage and in the theatre.
TV-wise it spans Upstairs, Downstairs in 1975 to the second of two Coronation Street stints that ended this year.
His films include a trio that were popular and critical successes Chariots Of Fire (1981), A Passage To India (1984) and Empire Of The Sun 1987).
He says he loves panto "because it's such great fun."
Expect a lot of laughs as well from Jeffrey Holland (Nurse Tilly Tick) who has brought many of the same to TV audiences over the decades, starting as Spike in Hi-de-Hi! in the 1980s.
He'll be in dame mode for the 24th time but relishes being "very much a bloke in a frock. Panto is a unique British tradition and that's why I love it."
The comedy lead is all-rounder Bobby Davro (Will Scarlet) who can't wait to renew his acquaintance with Plymouth – he was here in March in the Wizard Of Oz at the Pavilions.
"I had some cracking fish and chips on the Hoe," he says. "What a beautiful city."
For Bobby this panto will be his 28th, and he says he loves it.
"It gives me the chance to exhibit all my talents in singing, comedy and impressions," he said. "It is an art form and a lot of the routines are done in a way you wouldn't do normally in stand-up. I'm still learning."
Bobby is used to being a versatile performer.
He made his TV debut in 1981 and made his major breakthrough in Live at Her Majesty's in 1983. This led to Bobby Davro on the Box, Bobby's Sketch Pad and TV Weekly.
He then moved to the BBC and starred in another three successful series. In 1997 he hosted Winner Takes All and later he also appeared as Vinnie Monks in EastEnders.
He said: "I would like to do more acting, I would like to go back to EastEnders. I didn't get killed off, it just ran its course. But I would be open to going back to it.
"You are only as good as the scripts you are given and I felt the character wasn't allowed to develop enough.
"It wasn't their fault, it was also mine, I kept going off and doing other stuff."
Playing on his own status of notching 35 years in the business he joked: "I've got a new TV show – I'm Still Alive At The Apollo."
Robin Hood will run at the Theatre Royal from December 20 to January 25.
For more information and ticket details call 01752 267222 or visit www.theatreroyal.com
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Wheelchair bound Exeter pensioner charged with sex offences spanning 30 years
A wheelchair bound Exeter pensioner has been charged with sex offences spanning 30 years.
Edward Owens, of Charnley Avenue, Exeter, has been charged with 18 offences – including eleven rapes on boys aged under 16.
The alleged offences – which also include sexual assault on males and indecent assaults – date back to 1982 and the latest allegation is said to have happened in November 2010.
Owens, 68, was not present in Exeter magistrates court to face the allegations in public for the first time because he is unwell and being treated at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital.
His solicitor Kate Scott said he is disabled and in a wheelchair and has health problems.
The JPs adjourned the case for a week so that Owens can attend court. He was granted conditional bail.
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Exeter HMV to remove all Lostprophets albums following Ian Watkins trial
The Exeter branch of HMV has removed all releases by the band Lostprophets in light of the Ian Watkins trial.
The announcement comes two days after the former lead singer pleaded guilty to a series of "depraved" child sex offences including admitting to two charges of attempting to rape a baby, Cardiff Crown Court hear.
The company has said it will not sell any of the band's music in stores and online, and that staff have been directed to remove stock from shelves.
Music magazine NME announced the news today adding that Apple has declined to comment on whether iTunes will take the same action.
The singer made a series of admissions on Tuesday in a last-minute change of plea ahead of what would have been the launch of his trial.
He pleaded guilty to a string of sex offences he had previously "furiously denied," but claimed he could not remember the horrific abuse because he was high on crystal meth.
Lostprophets formed in 1997 and achieved two top ten hits on the UK Singles Chart with "Last Train Home" and "Rooftops".
Watkins originally faced 24 separate charges - all sex offence related – dated from 2007.
He will be sentenced on 18 December.
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Tisdale focused on Exeter City amid speculation linking him with Bristol City job
Paul Tisdale says he remains focused to his job at Exeter City amid speculation linking him with the vacant managerial position at Bristol City.
Bristol City parted company with manager Sean O'Driscoll on Thursday morning with the club placed 22nd in League One having one just two of their 18 games so far this season.
Tisdale is currently 28/1 with Sky Bet to take over the as manager at Ashton Gate, with a number of names such as Richie Barker, Ian Holloway and Steve Cotterill among the favourites.
Speaking about the vacancy, Tisdale said: "I've seen Sean has left Bristol City, which is unfortunate for their circumstances, but as Exeter City manager I'm focused on what we are doing here
"It won't be the first vacancy available in the Westcountry and I'm Exeter manager so there we are.
"If I'm being linked, it is flattering, but I'm not aware of being linked."
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Drinker stabbed mate in back in Exeter car park during set piece punch up
A pub customer has been jailed for stabbing a fellow drinker in the back after they both went to a car park for a pre-arranged fight.
Mohammed Tucker picked up a piece of broken glass during the fist fight in a multi storey car park and used it to cause two wounds as he grappled with victim Leon Daines.
The other man did not realise he had been injured but needed stitches in his back after onlookers saw blood seeping from his back.
Tucker, aged 38, of John Levers Way, Exeter, admitted affray and was jailed for 20 months by Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, at Exeter Crown Court.
The judge told him:"You became involved willingly in this fight but at some point you picked up a piece of glass with which you wounded him in the back.
"You say you did not intend to harm him but your account stretches the imagination beyond breaking point. It was a very dangerous thing to do."
Mr Richard Crabb, prosecuting, said both Tucker and the victim were drinking in a pub in Fore Street, Exeter on June 2 when they got into a fight at about 11.30 pm.
He said:"Mr Daines said words to the effect they could not fight there and suggested they went to the Guinea Street car park for what he called a straightener.
"They exchanged punches and ended up fighting on the floor. At one point Mr Daines had the defendant pinned up against a wall and later the defendant asked 'why are we fighting? This is stupid.'
"By this time people had gathered around them and noticed Mr Daines was bleeding quite heavily from his back. They intervened and Tucker dropped a piece of glass."
He later told police he had picked it up to stop the other man using it and held it in his hand as they struggled.
Mr Rupert Taylor, defending, said Tucker has been in custody since the night of the incident and has used his time on remand to overcome a long standing drug problem.
He said:"He and Mr Daines knew each other and both were in drink. He does not remember very much about the incident and suffered some injury to his hand and what he believed to be a dislocated shoulder."
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AUDIO: No fresh injury worries for Tisdale ahead of Bury match
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale says he has no fresh injury worries as his side prepare to take on Bury at home on Saturday.
City are looking for their first win in seven but go into the match with a bit of confidence having grabbed a late equaliser away at Wycombe on Tuesday night.
Listen to Tisdale's pre-match thoughts here:
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