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Devon runner Jo Pavey is looking forward to her third Commonwealth Games after being named in the England team. The Exeter Harrier has been selected to run both the 5,000m and 10,000m at this summer's championships in Glasgow. She finished fifth in the 5,000m in Manchester in 2002 but claimed the silver medal over the same distance in Melbourne four years later. Pavey, 40, has not competed at the Games since but is relishing the chance to perform in front of a British crowd again, having competed at the London Olympics two years ago. "I've known for a couple of weeks that I had been selected but I'm really pleased to be competing at another Commonwealth Games," said Honiton-born Pavey. "It's going to be a great atmosphere because it's in the UK again. I know it's in Scotland but a lot of people who will be supporting the English team will be able to get there. "There's been so much hype around it that it almost feels like another Olympics, seeing the baton relay on the TV and things like that." Pavey faces a busy summer schedule as she is due to race at the British trials next weekend in a bid to secure a place in the 5,000m at the European Championships. The West Hill resident has already been selected for the 10,000m, having won the British title last month. The Commonwealth Games 5,000m final is on Saturday, August 2, just four days after the 10,000m. The European Championships 10,000m follows on August 12, with the 5,000m heats two days later and the final two days after that. While the trials in Birmingham on June 29 are the priority right now, Pavey said it will be tough to produce her best at both championships. "The trials are really important in their own right, and that is a difficult race to run because it's very tactical," she said. "I am trying to gear towards that as well but then I can put in some more training and then sharpen for the championships. "It's always quite tough to juggle when you've got two championships because you're trying to reach your real peak more than once and it's quite difficult. "I know my routine and how I peak for major championships, so when you have two of them it makes it more difficult to plan. "I'll be going into the Europeans against people who haven't done the Commonwealths as well so it will take a bit of planning." Pavey missed the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in 2010 but is keen to grace the stage again in Glasgow this summer as she has fond memories of the competition. "I went to Manchester and had a bad run but in Melbourne I got the silver medal so I've got good memories from that," she said. "The Australians were really up for it – they're into their sport and there was a great atmosphere and that was a great experience." However, Pavey knows it will be tough to be in contention at the top of the field as some of the best athletes in the world will also be bidding for glory. She said: "From my point of view the Commonwealth Games are always very tough because, even though you only have the countries of the Commonwealth there, we have Kenya, the best distance-running nation in the world. "The distance races are very tough because of that but you have to be positive and try to race against them."

Jo Pavey excited by prospect of her third Commonwealth Games

The new Bishop of Exeter is to spend the days before his installation at Exeter Cathedral on a pilgrimage around Devon - taking in Exeter Prison. Bishop Robert will spend several days visiting projects and people in different areas of the county as he gets to know the diocese, before he formally starts work as Bishop of Exeter on 5 July. As he travels around, he will be listening to people's concerns and offering to pray for them. He will be handing out a special prayer card and asking for their prayers too, as he begins his work as Bishop. His pilgrimage will include spending time with patients at a children's hospice in north Devon, with inmates of Exeter prison, pupils at a small primary school in Beer, having a drink with the lifeboat team in Hope Cove and spending time with naval officers at the Devonport naval base. He will also be spending time in reflection with the monks of Buckfast Abbey, at the invitation of Abbot David Charlesworth. Bishop Robert said: "The church isn't buildings, its people. And getting out and about in Devon and meeting people is my priority. It will be a privilege to hear their concerns and bring them to God in prayer." He will be installed in a special service at Exeter Cathedral on Saturday July 5. Bishop Robert's pilgrimage will begin next Monday in Plymouth and will end on 2 July in Hope Cove.

New Bishop of Exeter on Devon pilgrimage

TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular, highly respected and "dedicated" East Devon coastguard of 20 years who died in a fire at his Sidmouth home. The 42-year-old father of four, named locally as Marcus Dack, lost his life in the horrific blaze which occurred at about 7.40am on Sunday, June 15. Following a joint investigation with the police, a spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the cause of the fire at the property on Howarth Close, was accidental and there were no suspicious circumstances. Mr Dack, who worked in the IT department at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service headquarters in Exeter, had been a "committed and dedicated" member of Beer Coastguard for almost 20 years. His hard work liaising between police and coastguard officials when the infamous 62,000-tonne MSC Napoli ran aground off Branscombe in January 2007 earned him a highly regarded Letter of Appreciation from Devon and Cornwall Police. During his two decades of voluntary lifesaving service, he was also awarded a Queen's Golden Jubilee medal, a Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal and a Chief Coastguard Commendation in 1997. On behalf of his colleagues, past and present, Beer Coastguard station officer Terry Hoare paid tribute to his friend, and colleague describing him as someone who would "help anyone if he could". "It's tragic, a huge loss. We're all shaken up," he said. "We're all in a state of shock. He will be sadly missed. "He was such a so knowledgeable team member, you could always rely on him. He loved his role, he was always willing to go out, night or day, if he was available, he was there, normally the first on the scene. "He was a busy person but always willing to help, including outside of his role as a coastguard – he was a good friend and colleague," added Mr Hoare. "He would help anyone who needed it." Fire Service group manager Jon Miller, added: "Marcus's death has filled us with great sadness and we are all thinking of his family and friends at this terrible time. Marcus was a popular member of our team and a friend to many of us." Five crews from Honiton, Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary and Seaton attended the blaze following numerous calls reporting that smoke was "pouring" from the property. The fire was well advanced on their arrival. One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said she looked out of her home and could seesaw flames "raging" from the windows. Another neighbour who witnessed the fire, said: "I heard a beeping noise which must have been an alarm, and then the sirens of the fire engines. The smoke that was coming out of the windows was unbelievable. "I could see flames coming out of the downstairs windows, it was dreadful, very scary." "I was worried someone was in there, but there was nothing I could do as the fire engines were already there. It's very sad." Firefighters searched the house after initial reports that there could have been three people inside. One man was pronounced dead at the scene. His next-of-kin have been informed. A report is being compiled for the coroner. The Fire Service will be carrying out a community safety initiative in Sidmouth on Friday, June 20, knocking on doors giving fire safety advice. Residents will also be able to go and speak to fire officers at Sidmouth Fire Station on Woolbrook Road, on Sunday, June 22 and Monday, June 23, from 2pm until 8pm. Mr Miller, added: "All members of your family, guests and loved ones should know how to get out, stay out, and call 999 in the event of a fire. "A smoke alarm can give people the warning they need to get out of their home in a fire but that is only part of the problem. Thinking about a plan for you and your families escape is equally if not more important. A blocked exit, a locked door or unfamiliar surroundings can often shave vital seconds from your escape time." The fire service has issued the following safety advice: Get out, stay out and call 999.• Prepare and practice a plan of action to help you act quickly if there's a fire in your home. • Keep your escape route clear to ensure a speedy exit• Make sure everyone knows where the door and window keys are kept. • Fit a smoke alarm on at least every level of your home and test them regularly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time in a fire Group Manager Miller added: "Every second counts when escaping a fire and a working smoke alarm and knowing the escape plan in an emergency could make all the difference." If anyone is unable to come to one of the community safety sessions, they can call 0800 73 11 822 for advice.

Tributes paid to 'dedicated' coastguard and father of four killed in Sidmouth fire

Royal Navy VIPs attended the handover ceremony of the Commandant General at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Lympstone. The event marking the handover from Major General Ed Davis CBE to Major General Martin Smith MBE, took place in the Commandant Generals Courtyard at and was witnessed by Commanding Officers and Regimental Sergeant Majors from across the Corps. Among the other guests present at the ceremony were the Naval Secretary Rear Admiral Jonathon Woodcock and senior representatives from the United States Marine Corps and the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps. Major General Davis, said: "As I handed over command of the Royal Marines I felt immensely privileged to have been entrusted for the last two-and-a-half years with the leadership of one of the countries finest institutions and the UK's premier crisis response force. "Every day that I've been in command, I've been humbled and inspired by the quality and dedication of the smiley, steely and selfless boys and girls that make our Corps so unique, so relevant, and so revered."

New Commandant General takes up post at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre, Lympstone

With only six weeks to go until Cancer Research UK's Race for Life at Westpoint Exeter, women across Devon are being encouraged to jump into their training shoes and sign up for this year's event. This week's sunny evenings are the perfect time to begin training ahead of the 5k or brand new 10k race on Sunday, July 27. Taking part in Race for Life at Westpoint Arena is a great way for women of all shapes and sizes to enjoy the outdoors and get a little more active as they prepare for their event. Committing to take part, and encouraging their mums, grans, daughters, sisters and friends to join them, gives participants a target to aim for, in terms of getting a bit fitter and raising money to beat cancer sooner. Last year, 3,300 women took part in Race for Life in Exeter and raised a fantastic £174,380. This year, organisers need 4,000 women and girls to take part in the 5k and 10k events and help raise £218,497 for vital research. Ruth Chamings, Cancer Research UK's Exeter event manager, said: "Race for Life is not competitive and it's not about being fit or fast. It's about thousands of women coming together to show cancer who's boss. "You don't need to pound the pavements or be decked out in lycra to do your bit. Participants can choose to walk, jog, run or even dance their way around the course. Whichever way they reach the finish line, they are united by their determination to beat cancer." Cancer Research UK's Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring women-only series of 5k and 10k events which raises millions of pounds every year to fund research to help beat 200 types of cancer. Although the number of people being diagnosed with cancer is going up – largely due to the fact that people are living longer and cancer is predominantly a disease of old age – the good news is that, thanks to research, survival rates have doubled in the past 40 years. More people across the South West are now beating the disease than ever before. Ruth added: "You don't need to embark upon a tough training regime – unless you really want to. A gentle walk is a great form of exercise, and with lighter evenings now upon us, it's the perfect time to enjoy the fresh air, get fit and gear up for the Race for Life experience. "The atmosphere and excitement on the day will get everyone's blood pumping." Free training plans for different levels of ability are available on the Race for Life website. The six-week training plans are designed for walkers, joggers or runners. They feature guidance on warming up and stretching, as well as motivation. More information can be found at www.westpointexeter.co.uk. To enter the Race for Life, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.

Cancer Research UK wants 4,000 women and girls to join Exeter Race for Life

Forecasters have predicted it will be warm and dry for the beginning of the Glastonbury Festival. The much-anticipated forecast for the 135,000 revellers setting off to next weekend's event has given hope to all those attending after experts said they are "optimistic" the dry spell will continue. Crowds will start arriving at the event on Wednesday next week with Arcade Fire, Metallica and Kasabian confirmed as this year's main headliners. Laura Young, a spokeswoman for the Met Office, said that early weather signals indicated rain should stay away, at least for the first half of the weekend. But they have been warned to pack their wellies just in case as there is "an indication conditions might turn more changeable". Showers are more likely to fall over the north west and south east, but Britain might escape rain altogether and the dry spell may continue, Ms Young added. She said: "For the most part up until Friday and Saturday we are looking at dry weather. "It might not be glorious sunshine, but it should be dry – particularly in the south west. It is looking quite good for the festival goers."

Glastonbury Festival 2014 weather: Forecasters say 'it's looking good'

Exeter boxer Lewis Browning is confident he can take his punching power with him as he steps up to lightweight on Saturday. Usually a super bantamweight, Browning is stepping up three classes when he faces a yet-to-be-confirmed opponent over six two-minute rounds at the Best of Devon Show at Torquay's Riviera Centre. Fellow Exeter Boxing Club fighters Faheem Khan and Freddy Kiwitt are also set to appear on the bill. Browning, who has a record of five wins and two losses to date, claims lightweight is actually closer to his natural weight, so he has not had to sacrifice anything to make the jump up. "I'm stepping up for this one because I want to look good for it and don't want to appear weight-drained at all," says Browning, whose scheduled opponent Andrew Harris pulled out earlier this week. "I have put on a lot of muscle for this one and I am feeling really good for it. "I will probably drop down to fight at featherweight after this fight. "I am not that tall and once you start stepping up then the fighters start getting taller and taller. "I don't think stepping up to this weight will be a problem at all though. I feel I am punching harder than before because I have the extra strength behind me. "I walk around pretty much at this weight anyway so I haven't had to lose anything to make the weight." The fight represents a first bout for Browning since a 2012 points win over Delroy Spencer after a spell in prison. But the 24-year-old is determined not to waste the opportunity to rebuild his career in the ring. "My last fight was in 2012 but I got myself into a spot of bother after that. I have had two years out but I am certainly confident," he said. "I can't wait to get back in the ring. I have messed up one chance already but I won't do it again. "I have been training in the gym for the last nine weeks and feel really good. I might have a little bit of ring rust but that will soon get shaken off." Stablemate Khan will face Jason Nesbitt as the Exeter boxer looks to end a three-fight losing streak. However, Kiwitt will be looking to extend his three-fight winning streak when he fights 34-year-old Kevin McCauley from Halesowen, who has lost 72 of his 86 professional fights. And Kiwitt was backing his fellow Exeter Boxing Club members to do themselves proud on Saturday. "My training has been going well with my coach Mike Etheridge. I also train with Lewis," he said. "He is making a return after a couple of years out, but he is already looking sharp. I think he is going to have a good fight. "Faheem has lost his last three fights, so he has got to really work hard in training to make sure he is ready. Then he will be able to show everybody what a good boxer he is."

Exeter boxers ready for Devon card

Luke Cowan-Dickie has already set his sights on establishing himself as Exeter Chiefs' first-choice hooker after leaving England's tour injured. The 20-year-old was called up by Stuart Lancaster for the four-match tour of New Zealand, but returned home last week without playing a game after twisting a knee in training. Rather than taking some time off now as planned, the academy graduate will instead work with the club's medical staff to get his knee right as soon as possible. He is hoping he does not need surgery and will be able to play a part in pre-season. Cowan-Dickie said: "I just twisted it (his knee) in training. "Things are on the mend, it wasn't anything major, we just want to get on top of it for next season. "We're not too sure whether I'll need an operation but hopefully a bit of re-hab will sort it and I'll be back playing again. "I'll probably be back in straight away next week because I want to get my knee right for next season. "I only played half the season last year so I really want to get ready for pre-season. The physios are keen to see me back in so I'll try to get on top of it as soon as I can." Cowan-Dickie started the last two games of last season but knows he will have a fight on his hands to pull on the No. 2 jersey again next term. Jack Yeandle was first-choice for most of the campaign, while Tongan Elvis Taione has been signed from Jersey in the wake of Chris Whitehead's retirement through injury. "It's a big season for me now at Exeter. I'm going back there now looking to perform at my best to pick up the starting shirt there," said Cowan-Dickie. "I played a bit last year, that was a great experience for me, and I really want to get back now, get on top of my knee and start training hard and proving myself. "Jack's a quality player, he's had a really good season or two, and I haven't seen the new guy Elvis but he's a big lad. "There's going to be a massive battle for the No. 2 shirt but hopefully I can show something a bit different in my game, get my set-piece up to scratch and get the jersey." Although his time with the England squad did not end as he would have wanted, Cowan-Dickie thinks he learned a lot from being in the international set-up. As well as picking up things from the likes of forwards coach Graham Rowntree, plus fellow coaches Mike Catt and Andy Farrell, the former England under-20s ace also tapped into the experience of the other hookers. He hopes those lessons will help him become a better player next season. "I spoke to Graham quite a bit on scrums and stuff like that because I'm still new to hooker," he said. "I think I've learned a lot from him and from Catty and Faz. "I know I was only there for nine days but it's great how much I feel I have learned. "It was unbelievable to be part of the squad, especially where I came from having been injured at the start of the season." He added: "It's good to get the coaches' views on you as a player and you also get to work with the other hookers who have been there for a while and you get to see what their traits are and what they're good at. "The coaches have told me what they're looking for in a hooker and why I was there, which was really good."

Luke Cowan-Dickie targets Exeter Chiefs starting berth

Matt Oakley says he has no intention of hanging up his boots at the end of the 2014/15 campaign, after agreeing a new deal to stay at Exeter City. The 36-year-old has penned fresh terms with the Grecians which will take him to 20 years in the professional game, having made his Southampton debut in 1995. Oakley first arrived at St James's Park in 2011, and feels he is more than capable of continuing after the forthcoming campaign. "I speak quite regularly to Paul (Tisdale) – we are quite close – and he agreed that I could play another two or three years if I was willing to do it," said the Peterborough-born player. "As players get older, you can't go around giving out two or three-year contracts, so we have decided to take it year by year and Paul has been true to his word. "There are not many players that keep going until the age that I have done so I am quite lucky in that respect. "I really enjoy it and love playing the game. It is the training that takes its toll on your body. "As you get older, it is tougher on your body so you are always looking for new things to help your body get through it. "I can't just say I want to play though. If I am not performing well enough then Paul will be the first one to tell me that I am not getting a new contract." Much has been made of the youthful look of City's squad for the 2014/15 season. Veteran midfielder Matt Gill has linked up with former assistant manager Rob Edwards at Tranmere Rovers, while the likes of Artur Krysiak and John O'Flynn have also moved on. The Grecians did receive a boost last week with Jimmy Keohane agreeing fresh terms but, with the club currently under a transfer embargo, it means hardened campaigners such as Oakley will be few and far between. The former Derby County midfielder appreciates his role in helping the club's youngsters develop, but feels the maturity and experience gleaned from last season has already given them a headstart. "If I can do anything to help the youngsters through my experience then that should be an advantage for them," he said. "They speak all the time to the likes of Paul and the coaching staff and are willing to listen, so that can only be a good thing. "Sometimes you get young lads that think that they know it all and come a little bit unstuck but we have a good group of young lads here. "Things did get a bit tight at the end of the season with the young lads playing and the fans were not too happy about that, but there is a bigger picture behind playing the youngsters. "Getting the young lads experience and playing in those games and getting comfortable in the first team does take time. "They were quite pressurised games as well and you have to grow up quickly at the bottom of the table. You have to learn quickly what you have to do to win games, and last season will have been a big learning curve for them."

Matt Oakley signs new Exeter City deal

Armed Forces Day

High Street, Exeter

Saturday

The city centre will be full of servicemen and women, past, present and future as it celebrates Armed Forces Day. The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, together with marines from Lympstone, will be marking their 350th anniversary with a parade through the city centre. It leaves St James Park at 11.30am. The day also includes a Military Village on Cathedral Green, together with a Party in the Park and Beating the Retreat. Exeter Cathedral will host an evening concert by the Royal Marines Association Concert Band.

Crikey It's Vintage

Killerton House, Broadcylst, Exeter

Saturday and Sunday

There will be 100 vintage and handmade stall holders, traditional wedding marquee, all day entertainment with Company B, Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer, fashion shows, best dressed competition, classic cars, pop up beauty parlour, photo bus, workshops and lots more. Tickets £6 adults in advance, £4 children in advance. Visit www.national trust.org.uk/killertonvintage

Mother & Baby Show

Westpoint, Exeter

Saturday

From prams and bottles, to baby grows and cots, the Heart Mother & Baby Show will feature everything new and expectant parents need. The show opens at 9.30am. Adults £5, children free if accompanied by an adult.

Witheridge St John's Fayre

Witheridge, North Devon

Saturday

Experience and enjoy a charter fayre dating back to 1248 in the heart of the medieval Devon village. The parade starts at 11.15am with marching bands, entertainers, vintage farm and military vehicles, ponies, beagles, a Harris hawk, and the parents and children of the village. The festivities continue with music, dancing, entertainers, dog show, model boats, art, stalls, family races and lots more. The fun continues until 12am. Free entry, parking and entertainment. Visit www.stjohnsfayre.btck.co.uk

Boden Clothes Sale

Westpoint, Exeter

Tuesday and Wednesday

Take advantage of huge discounts on women's, men's, and children's clothing. Open Tuesday 10am to 7pm, and Wednesday 10am to 4pm. Free entry. Visit www.boden.co.uk

Shaldon Festival

St Peter's Church, Bridge Road, Shaldon

Thursday to Sunday

The international classical music festival is now in its 25th year, and this year on the Thursday is Bath Philharmonia and will include Ralph Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending with stunning young English violinist Tamsin Waley-Cohen as soloist. Friday's concert sees the return of young pianist Lara Melda, who won the BBC Young Musician 2010 competition. All concerts start at 7.30pm. Line-up and tickets at www.shaldonfestival.co.uk

Teignmouth Folk Festival

The Carlton Theatre and The Den, Teignmouth

Friday to Sunday

The small, friendly folk festival is back for its 16th year. Headline artists include Vin Garbutt (pictured), Skyhook, The Gavin Davenport Band, and Paul Downes. Call 01626 778991 or visit www.teignmouthfolk.co.uk

WHAT'S ON: Our seven best picks in and around Exeter

The sentence of a woodman who attacked a total stranger with an axe has been adjourned once again for a further psychiatric report. Richard Weddell attacked a tourist with an axe as the victim was filming flower displays at Connaught Gardens while visiting the genteel seaside resort of Sidmouth in July. Victim Mark Lightburn, aged 61, needed stitches in a neck wound after being hacked down with the axe which Weddell normally used for cutting trees and shrubs. Weddell, aged 31, who lived in a caravan at Bowd Corner, Sidmouth at the time, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm 11 months ago. He has been in custody ever since but has been transferred from Exeter Prison to the Langdon Hospital for psychiatric assessment. He was due back at Exeter Crown Court in Thursday but was not brought to the building and his case was adjourned in his absence without any further progress being made.

Sentencing of man who attacked stranger with an axe as he filmed a flower display in Sidmouth delayed

Nine people from Crediton have completed part one of their 2014 fundraising challenge for a Devon charity. A team of five people made up of members from businesses around the town have completed the Three Peaks Challenge, an attempt to walk the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours. The intrepid adventurers have raised just over £600 of a £2014 target for the Devon Community Foundation. George Clover and James Fyfe, from Helmores Estate Agents, Chris Eaton and Sam Watkins, from Viator Electrical Contractors, Colin Heard, of Colin Heard Landscapes, Damo Cross, of Colourburn, Barny Butterfield, of Sandford Orchards, and Graham Webber, of GW Fitness, completed the challenge of 26 mountainous miles in just over 24 hours. They were supported by Ken and Laura Clover. George said: "The three peaks consists of Snowdon in Wales at 1085m, Scafell Pike in England at 978m and Ben Nevis, in Scotland at 1344m. We narrowly missed doing the 26 miles in 24 hours – but we were all delighted that we completed the course successfully. For me the best bit was a foot of snow on Ben Nevis in the dark." Around 30,000 people take on this challenge each year. The record for the quickest time to complete the Three Peaks Challenge is 11 hours 54 minutes, set in 1971. Laura Hewitt, at Devon Community Foundation, said: "One of our strengths is the fact that donors can have the personal freedom and pleasure of seeing their donation go to the causes closest to their hearts and homes. "By working together with local organisations, individuals and community groups we really can make a big difference to the lives of those in need across the county. We cannot thank Helmores Estate Agents enough for all of their support and all money raised is invaluable for us to be able to continue do this."

Crediton business people complete Three Peaks Challenge for Devon Community Foundation

A gang of burglars have been jailed after they went on an all-night crime spree and raided homes and businesses across East Devon. The three men drove from Kent and sought out soft targets within easy reach of the main road network before heading home in the early hours in a car full of loot. They were intercepted by police after they carried out one final raid on a service station at Stonehenge on their way home. They broke into a village shop near Ottery St Mary, the town's football club, a garage in Fenny Bridges and a family home in Honiton where the owners were asleep upstairs. The raiders took wedding and engagement rings, cash, tools, cigarettes and even cartons of washing powder, most of which were found by police when they were stopped on the A 303 near Andover. Riley Scamp, aged 20, of Green Street, Dartford; Luke Stewart-Day, aged 26, of Hartley, Longfield, and Alfred Rye, aged 22, of Hill Rise, Darenth, all admitted seven burglaries and were all jailed for three years by Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, at Exeter Crown Court. He told them:"You three all travelled to the West Country for the purpose of committing burglaries at night. The domestic burglary caused greater harm because you took rings which were of sentimental value. "Your culpability is greater because you came down equipped for burglary and all three were acting together and have previous convictions for burglary." Miss Janice Eagles, prosecuting, said the men drove from Kent in a car belonging to Stewart-Day's girlfriend and spent the night of September 9 last year raiding homes and businesses in East Devon. They started by stealing tools from two garages in Fenny Bridges and moved on to the Alfington Stores near Ottery St Mary where they stole tobacco and washing powder. Miss Eagles said the owner was distressed by the raid because she had lost property in a previous burglary and the two crimes had affected her business. The gang next burgled the home of Raymond Cleal in Joslin Way, Honiton, as he slept upstairs with his wife. They entered and lefty through a side door and took wedding and engagement rings, cash, phones and an iPad. They also broke into Mr Cleal's van, which was parked outside, stealing tools and cash worth £1,000 before moving to Ottery St Mary Football Club where they stole alcohol tobacco and an large screen television. Miss Eagles said the gang's car had already aroused suspicion and police were looking for it before they carried out their final raid at Winterbourne Stoke, near Stonehenge, where they stole drinks and alcohol from a service station shop. Mr James Taghdissian, defending, said the men had come to Devon to commit crime but had not targeted the victims deliberately or sought to cause unnecessary damage. He said:"It was a spree of opportunistic burglaries having come down to this area rather than anything targeted or organised." He said all three are keen to turn their lives around in jail and Scamp hopes to seek work as a tree surgeon, Stewart-Day as a bricklayer and Rye as a welder on their release.

Gang of burglars who targeted homes and businesses in East Devon are jailed

A suspicious husband who hit his wife in the face after an all day drinking binge has been sent on courses to tackle his domestic violence and alcohol abuse. Stephen Wright attacked his partner in front of three of their children and hit her so hard she feared she had suffered a broken jaw, Exeter Crown Court was told. The father-of-five became abusive and violent after returning home to the family home in South Molton and starting an argument. Wright, aged 42, of South Molton, admitted causing actual bodily harm and was jailed for six months, suspended for two years, and ordered to attend courses to address issues of domestic violence and alcohol abuse as part of two years supervision. He was also barred from going to the family home for three months to provide a 'cooling off' period for his wife. He has already served 18 days in custody awaiting sentence. Judge Barry Cotter, QC, told him:"You had been in a relationship with your wife for 12 years and made accusations against her for reasons which are none of my business. "You made the accusations in phone calls and texts and on a previous occasion when they plainly triggered wholly unacceptable and violent behaviour. "This offence happened when you had been drinking all day. You came back home and were out of control. You assaulted you wife while three of your children were watching. "Domestic violence in the context of a relationship can be more serious because the victim has nowhere to go. This was aggravated by prolonged violence with children witnessing the traumatic event. "I have heard you are of otherwise good character and area hard working man and probably a loving husband and father in the past. The suspicions you had and the way you reacted led you to behave in a way which is simply intolerable." The judge said he was influenced in his sentence by the 'pragmatic and sensible' approach of the victim, who wanted Wright freed from jail for the sake of the children. Mr David Bowen, prosecuting, said the domestic incident happened last month when Wright attacked his wife, who had been married to him for five years and in a relationship with him for 12. He said:"The defendant had been drinking all day and came home. He became aggressive and verbally abusive. He struck his wife while she was on the bed and also kicked her hard on the thigh. "He went downstairs and started to damage property and while downstairs he struck her to the side of the face while making threats. She thought her jaw was broken but it was found not to be." Mr Nigel Wraith, defending, said Wright had admitted his guilt straight away and has already served 18 days in jail as a result of his behaviour. He urged the Judge to follow the proposals of a probation report which recommended supervision and a 'Building better relationships' course.

Drunk husband attacked wife in front of three of their children

An intrepid service advisor at an Exeter car retailer will bravely launch herself from a plane at 15,000 ft to raise cash for the hospice that cared for her nan. Georgia Parkhouse, 23, who works at SMC SEAT Exeter, is also poised to make history as she is part of the Skydive UK attempt to smash the Guinness World Record-breaking 260 jumps in 24 hours this Saturday. The record currently stands at 251. Georgia will be one of those 260 thrill seekers who get to experience freefall from nearly three miles up - and at the same time the caring mum-of-one will be raising more than a thousand pounds for Exeter-based Hospiscare which cared for her nan, Moira Parkhouse, who died from cancer five years ago. Georgia, who lives in Beacon Heath, said: "I was so impressed with the care that Hospiscare provided for my nan that I wanted to give something back to the charity. I'm really excited about the chance to be part of history. I am sure I will be a bit nervous on the day but this is something I can cross off the bucket list. "At first I thought I might struggle to raise £500, but the total of sponsorship money has now topped £1,000 with everyone from the postman to the delivery drivers, customers and staff chipping in. "I am hoping for good weather on the day and I am sure the skydive will be over before I know it. It's sure to be a great experience and even better should I be part of a new Guinness World record." On the day Georgia will be spurred on by family and friends. Her five-year-old son Louis, mum Denise, dad Guy and sister Lucy will be among the crowd of well-wishers. Hospiscare, in Dryden Road, is a local independent charity that employs professionals that are often leaders in their field. It has built a leading reputation for providing dedicated care and support for local people with a terminal diagnosis. Celia Wilkinson, Events fundraiser at Hospiscare, said: "This is great news that Georgia has raised so much money already for a cause that is obviously very close to her heart. We are sure she will find the skydive a thrilling experience." To celebrate 50 years of skydiving at Dunkeswell Airfield, near Honiton, Skydive UK will be holding the official Guinness World Record attempt over a 24 hour period this Saturday (June 21) - the longest day of the year. The record attempt can only take place during daylight hours, and on hand will be the two fastest UK jump-planes and some of the best tandem instructors around. To make a donation visit Georgia's fundraising page at http://www.skydiveukltd.com/skydive/charity/online-sponsorship/raise-money-online/rnj-profile/?profile=416

Exeter's Georgia set for skydive record in memory of her nan

Crews attended a fire at a kitchen near Exeter today. They attended the High Street in Ide just after 11am following reports of a house fire. On arrival the crews confirmed that there was light smoke logging in the house and they forced entry. The small fire in the ground floor kitchen of the end terraced property, involved an electric cooker. Two breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet, a short extension ladder and positive pressure ventilation were used to put the fire out.

A MAN from California has been remanded in custody by magistrates in Exeter charged with child abduction, grooming and sexual activity with a child. David Telles, 38, from California, USA, appeared for the first time at Exeter Magistrates Court today. He was arrested and taken to Heavitree Road police station for questioning after a missing teenage girl was found safe and well in Clyst Honiton, near Exeter on Tuesday. Police had launched an investigation after the girl disappeared from her home in Cornwall on Monday. He was remanded in custody and will appear next at Exeter Crown Court on July 10.

Update: Californian man arrested near Exeter remanded in custody over grooming and child abduction charges

Exeter MP Ben Bradshaw has accused the Government of inflicting "disastrous and expensive upheaval" on the health service as Labour highlighted a worsening financial picture across the NHS. The opposition claimed the Government has "lost grip" of NHS finances as new analysis of official figures published by Liz Kendall MP, Labour's Shadow Minister for Care and Older People, showed more than one in three acute trusts are currently in deficit for 2013-14 – compared to just one in 10 at the time of the last General Election. The Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust is among the growing number of health trusts in the region to have plunged into the red, with a £790,000 shortfall for 2013/14. Seven out of 18 hospital and acute trusts in the region were in deficit, up from three in 2009-10. Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, the region's largest hospital, has racked up the biggest deficit of £13 million so far this financial year. Former health minister Mr Bradshaw said: "If anything, these figures underplay the current deficit crisis facing the NHS in our region. The most recent statements from Trusts show things are even worse. "Waiting times and lists are growing and services being cut. This is a direct consequence of the Government's disastrous and expensive upheaval of the NHS after they came to power." The Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust said for each of the last four years cash it receives to treat patients has been reduced by four per cent. Chief executive Angela Pedder said: "Returning to making a surplus is going to be a considerable challenge if we have to continue making the same level of efficiency savings each year whilst managing increasing demand." In the Commons, David Cameron dismissed claims the NHS was in financial "crisis", arguing "efficiencies" were being re-invested into frontline services. A Conservative health spokesman said health bosses have to keep a "tight financial grip as delivering high quality services and balancing the books must go hand in hand", adding: "We won't be taking any lessons from Labour, as deficits in the NHS were a consistent feature of its administration." Labour said two thirds of hospitals that have gone into the red since the election have done so in the last financial year. Ms Kendall said: "David Cameron promised that he would protect the NHS. Instead, his disastrous reorganisation has thrown the NHS into chaos. "Patient care is going backwards as more people are forced to wait longer in A&E, cancelled operations are at their highest for a decade and waits for vital cancer tests and treatments are increasing too. "We now know that the Government has also lost grip of the NHS's finances. A third of hospitals are reporting deficits, putting patient care at even greater risk in future. The fact that Ministers are having to put more money in to tackle a summer crisis in A&E and the growing backlog of operations shows how desperate the situation now is. "Forcing through a £3 billion back-room reorganisation when the NHS faces the biggest financial challenge of its life was David Cameron's single biggest mistake on the NHS, and it is patients who are suffering as a result."

Ben Bradshaw blasts Government as RD&E faces financial squeeze

By Bridget Batchelor

On Tuesday I saw the mighty Kasabian at Plymouth Pavilions. Well, I say 'saw'... Being somewhat vertically challenged I viewed them mainly in short, one-second bursts on wobbly, beer-slippery tiptoes. I did, however, get a lovely, clear view on the screens of the many, many smartphones held aloft by members of the audience.

Call me old-fashioned (and I probably am), but I long for the days when the only obstacle to a clear view (aside from my height, or lack thereof) was the World's Tallest Man, who follows me everywhere; gigs and festivals, the cinema and crowded bars.

Now I have technology to contend with. Just as I've cleverly weaved my way behind WTM's shoulders (he's blessedly static, not being a fan of dancing) and balanced myself on my very tiptoes – yes! A clear view of Serge! – up comes a double-handed iPhone hold, and as I spot the little red 'record' button, my heart sinks.

I have a couple of issues with this, and my interrupted view isn't even one of them. After all, I've spent many years enjoying some great performances, sometimes not catching a glimpse of the band at all. Take The Red Hot Chili Peppers in Hyde Park in 2004 – we were so far back you couldn't really see the stage with the naked eye – and Slayer at Donington Monsters of Rock in 1995, when I fainted from heat exhaustion (no, honestly, I was only 15) and spent the following couple of hours sitting at my dad's feet. Rock 'n' roll.

It's not even the taking of photos that annoys me. We all like a nice memento – well, one we'll probably look at once, realise the quality is crap, post it on Facebook anyway, and then promptly forget about. I did it myself, at this very gig, so there.

No, it's the recording of minutes and minutes of footage, which will turn out to do the band no justice at all, all the while broadcasting a tiny, illuminated concert to the poor people behind who are missing the main event because the eye is drawn unavoidably to your Hello Kitty-clad smartphone. It's like TVs in pubs – you know want to chat to your mates but your brain seems to think you'd much rather be watching that advert for weed killer.

And what are you going to do with these terrible, wobbly, nausea-inducing videos, especially when you realise you've picked up the sound of WTM singing along tunelessly to Shoot the Runner? You're going to post them all on social media, auto-playing on our news feeds (thanks for that horrifyingly irritating feature, Facebook).

Don't get me wrong, I love a bit of social media, I just believe its place is sharing interesting, quality content and - yes, why not? - funny pictures of cats. Not shaky, tinny, blurry videos of a band I didn't buy tickets to, because I don't much like them (I don't mean you, Kasabian).

And, more importantly, I really don't understand why you would purposefully miss great swathes of live music while watching it record through your screens. Here's a thought: Put the camera away, and use your eyeballs and your brain to enjoy and remember the show.

I saw a few instances at last night's show which I found quite depressing. There was a lot of posting on Instagram - fair enough, but soon someone's pint of Tuborg is going to come flying at your iPhone - but the worst was one young lady who spend two whole songs (two!) texting furiously. I honestly don't think she looked up once.

It's not only us poor folk in the audience getting all het up about this. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs made their views known in no uncertain terms, and I tend to agree. I know this is the smartphone generation, and society is adapting to life with information, entertainment and communication at its fingertips 24 hours a day, but we're in serious danger of losing the ability to experience, enjoy and lose ourselves in the moment. Do you really want to miss that moment when Serge looks you right in the eye, because you're too busy looking at your iPhone screen? Thought not. To close, you've probably all seen this, but this short video makes the point perfectly. Go, live, enjoy.

Smartphones at gigs: You're missing the moment

England boss Roy Hodgson admits the class of Luis Suarez has left his side on the brink of an early exit from the World Cup. The Uruguay striker, questioned by Hodgson in the build-up to the game, struck twice - including the winner with six minutes left on the clock - but England were not able to rediscover their attacking edge in search for a second equaliser of the night. And Hodgson says he and his side were devastated by the result, which leaves England bottom of Group D after their second loss of the tournament. "We believed we could do enough to get a result in this game and we worked so hard to counter Suarez's first goal," Hodgson said. "At 1-1 I fully believed that we would go on to win the game, or at least draw. To concede the second goal as we did was an unbelievable blow. "It's a goal that we don't expect to concede, we knew we could deal with the Uruguayan attack but we came up against a strong defensive unit ourselves but we still did enough to get the draw we would have needed. "The first goal his scored was exceptionally good and I thought Cavani's chip was good and Suarez's pulling away for the header was top class play. "I think he was fortunate to get himself free for the second goal, but of course he made no mistake. We knew what he could do." Suarez gave Uruguay the lead in the first half with his 40th international goal, peeling away from Phil Jagielka to head Edinson Cavani's chip past Joe Hart. The lead lasted until the 75th minute when Wayne Rooney matched Suarez's tally with his first ever World Cup finals goal, tapping in from close range after good work from Glen Johnson down the right. But it was Liverpool striker Suarez who struck the deflating blow to Hodgson's side, capitalising on an error in the England defence, who failed to clear a long punt forward from Fernando Muslera. The Uruguay striker pounced on the ball on the right of the area and powered his shot past Hart once more in what proved to be the decisive moment. Hodgson said he did not expect to lose the game in the last ten minutes after England's second-half domination, but pointed to England's deficiencies in front of goal as the reason for their two losses in the competition. "When Rooney scored I didn't think we would lose the game because we controlled the game for such a long period of time," Hodgson continued. "After the first five minutes of the second half we got ourselves back on track and they had been nowhere near their goal. "We got near theirs a couple of times but it doesn't matter how many times you get close, it's how many times you put the ball in the back of the net and on both occasions we haven't done it enough."

Match Report: Uruguay 2 England 1 - Hodgson admits the class of Luis Suarez to blame