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Devon teachers praised for good conduct after figures show low number of investigations into conduct

July 14, 2014, 4:01 pm
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THE low number of investigations into teacher conduct revealed by Devon County Council has been described as "extremely encouraging" by a longstanding councillor and former cabinet member for schools. Figures released to the Echo reveal there have been 125 investigations into teacher conduct in four and a half years since September 2009: 22 in 2009/10, 37 in 2010/11, 28 in 2011/12, 31 in 2012/13 and seven in the 2013/14 academic year up until January. There are about 360 state schools in Devon with about 4,500 employed as teaching staff, so the figures represent a fraction of those on the roll. Of the investigations there were 12 relating to sexual conduct, seven relating to fraud, five relating to drugs or alcohol and four under the category of assaults. Approximately a quarter of all investigations ended in "no further action", with 10 per cent ending in a dismissal. The raft of other sanctions included seven resignations, 15 compromise agreements as well as written warnings. By far the biggest category was "professional guidance", of which there were 32 cases. Councillor Christine Channon, Conservative ward member for Budleigh Salterton, who was the portfolio holder for schools and learning for three years, explained there is a duty of care to both staff and pupils and the complaints system reflects that commitment. "The figures are extremely encouraging and suggest that either attitudes are changing or there are very few incidents. "I heard of very few incidents occurring in Devon schools. Any investigation starts with a complaint which starts with the headteacher, who should consult with the head of governors, who will decide whether to escalate things. "If appropriate a verbal warning may be given, most complaints will involve a verbal warning at first unless there are witnesses. "A written warning, possibly a second, may follow for repetitive offences and a decision on how to proceed which will be reviewed by a reserve team." She added: "There is a duty of care to both staff and pupils and teachers are often in an invidious position. "Teachers have to be so careful these days – you can't put your arm round a child who is crying anymore, but we are in danger of becoming without emotion if we're not careful."

Devon teachers praised for good conduct after figures show low number of investigations into conduct

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Exeter's smelliest areas revealed as figures show increase in odour complaints

July 14, 2014, 4:01 pm
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Exeter is getting smellier. That is the results of new data released to The Echo that has named the city's worst areas for bad smells. Exeter City Council's Environmental Protection Unit has revealed the information through a freedom of information request that shows a 29 percent increase in smell complaint so far this year compared to the same time range last year. The information also shows that the council has received a total of 1,262 odour and smell complaints in the last five years - with nearly half of those in Alphington alone. Residents in part of St Leonard's and along the Quay have complained about the smell they claim is coming from JL Thomas, in Alphington. Earlier this year in June one Barrack Road resident resident complained of a "smell of death" plaguing the Barrack Road and Salmon Pool Lane area. Jenny Long, who lives in Rivermead Road, said at the time: "It absolutely stinks. The smell spreads from Barrack Road, all the way down Salmon Pool Lane and Rivermead Road. It is horrendous. "It is like the smell of death and is unbelievably bad. Truly awful." The figures now reveal that Mrs Long wasn't the only one to notice the pong with a total of 12 residents also making complaints to the council about a factory smell on the same day. In fact in the last five years factory smells have topped the list of complaints with 570, followed by bonfire odours at 399, sewage at 33, food smells at 26 and chimney smoke at 7. Other complaints include cigarette smoke, marijuana, animals, burning clutches and TCP. Smelliest Exeter Wards revealed (figures since January 2009) 1) Alphington with 610 complaints Most complained about smell: Factory smell – 555 complaints 2) Priory with 181 complaints Most complained about smell: Sewer – 127 complaints 3) St Davids with 55 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 21 complaints 4) Duryard with 50 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 50 complaints 5) St Leonards with 43 complaints: Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 27 complaints 6) Exwick with 42 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire - 29 complaints 7) Whipton Barton with 36 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 28 complaints 8) Pinhoe with 31 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 23 complaints 9) Heavitree with 26 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire - 21 complaints 10) St James with 23 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 18 complaints 11) Mincinglake with 22 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 18 complaints 12) Newtown with 19 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 10 complaints 13) St Thomas with 17 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 6 comlpaints 14) Polsloe with 16 complaints: Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 9 complaints 15) St Loyes with 16 complaints: Most complained about smell: Bonfire – 11 comlpaints 16) Topsham with 16 complaints Most complained about smell: Bonfire - 9Breakdown of complaints by years and wards: 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014Are you being badly affected by odours in your home? Email Richard.booth@expressandecho.co.uk

Exeter's smelliest areas revealed as figures show increase in odour complaints

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The Bishop of Exeter welcomes historic vote to allow women to be bishops

July 14, 2014, 4:01 pm
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The Bishop of Exeter has welcomed the news that women will be able to become bishops for the first time. The General Synod of the Church of England yesterday gave its final approval to legislation that will pave the way for females to enter the upper echelons. The historic decision, achieved by a convincing majority, came at the climax of an emotional debate of the General Synod, the church's governing body. The newly installed Bishop of Exeter, the Right Reverend Robert Atwell, welcomed the decision, saying there was "relief all round" when the vote was cast. "I am very pleased that General Synod has approved the legislation and that the Church of England can now move forward together on this issue," he said. "I look forward to the day when the first woman bishop is appointed. "I pray today for those for whom our decision is a difficult one, as well as for those for whom it brings great joy; that we may grow, worship and move on together." Attending his first ever General Synod he said there was joy after the vote - but not triumphalism. An atmosphere of "respect for others" was present throughout, he added.The vote in the House of Laity went 152 in favour, 45 against, with five abstentions. In November 2012, it failed by just six votes amongst the lay members. In the House of Bishops, 37 voted in favour, two against and there was one abstention; while the House of Clergy voted 162 in favour, 25 against with four abstentions. The legislation will now go before parliament's Ecclesiastical Committee for approval and may become law as early as November. In a joint letter to clergy, Peter Hancock, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, and Bishop of Taunton, Peter Maurice, said: "We could not be more delighted with the result. After the trauma of the last vote and the damage it did to the public's perception of our church, we can now move forward knowing that this is the path the Church has decided to take. "Some of you may not be rejoicing. We recognise that, and we want you to know that you are no less loved and valued for your ministry today than you were before this vote." Michelle Martin, who was last month ordained and serves the East Bristol Partnership, was delighted with the new "freedom" it will provide. "It's a great moment for the Church of England and I'm really excited to see what will come of it," she said. "I think we all feel that women have also been blessed with leadership skills, passion and gifts. Up to now, we have been restricted as to how we can put those gifts to use." The 32-year-old former nurse is the vicar for St John's in Fishponds, St Michael's in Two Mile Hill and St Aidan with St George, in St George. "It's great to think that women now have the opportunity to go forward in our church with a sense of equality," she added. "It's very exciting to think that it's now only a matter of time until we have our first woman bishop." Back in 1994, the first 32 women CofE priests were ordained at Bristol Cathedral.

The Bishop of Exeter welcomes historic vote to allow women to be bishops

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Exeter's Cougars swing back into rock'n'roll action

July 14, 2014, 4:01 pm
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Who remembers Exeter rock'n'roll band,The Cougars? If you do you'll be tapping your feet at the news that "Johnny's Original Cougars" are getting together again, after several years, for a one night only appearance to headline a Music Festival at the Heart of Oak pub in Pinhoe, Exeter, on Saturday,August 2. The band will create the nostalgia of Rock n' Roll, in the evening, together with a taste of Rockabilly. The 1960's outfit is made up of original members Mike Lloyd, John Ffoulkes, and Mike Emery, who joined the band in the 1980's. They will be accompanied by newcomer, drummer Graham Pickard, formerly of "In Sect", and "Dufflebags", who have toured France, and recently released a CD. The summer party will also star Sarah Yeo, a talented local singer and songwriter, and "Reckless", one of Exeter's top party bands playing hits from the 1970's. The event starts at noon and continues into the evening. The Garden Festival will feature live bands throughout the day and children's activities include an assault course, bouncy castle, and rodeo bull (adults also). There will be face painting, and an all day BBQ. The event will be raising cash for the Devon Air Ambulance.

Exeter's Cougars swing back into rock'n'roll action

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Honiton man who bit woman in front of her children is given suspended jail term

July 14, 2014, 4:22 pm
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A Honiton man who bit a woman in front of her children in Tiverton has been given a suspended jail term. Olusegun Odubore, 37, of Westcott Way, Honiton, was handed a six-week suspended prison sentence at Exeter Magistrates' Court. Odubore had denied a charge of assault in connection with the incident on January 24 and admitted a bail offence. Magistrates found him guilty of assaulting the woman in a trial on Tuesday, and he was also ordered to pay costs and compensation totalling £200. Odubore was also made the subject of a restraining order which prevents him from attending an address in Tiverton, until July, 2017.

Honiton man who bit woman in front of her children is given suspended jail term

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Angry residents condemn 'ridiculous' ruling to ban hanging baskets

July 14, 2014, 4:30 pm
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Elderly residents of a Mid Devon village are shocked and upset after being told to remove hanging baskets because they are a health and safety 'risk'. The pensioners who live in Bradninch put up the flower carriers to improve the appearance of their flats and bring a smile to their faces. But Mid Devon District Council (MDDC) ordered for the baskets to be removed from a first-floor balcony for health and safety reasons. Now the tenants of Bowley Meadow flats are fighting the "ludicrous" decision, saying they are being "targeted" because of their age. Dianne Byrne, 70, said: "It's ridiculous. How can they be a health and safety risk? They are destroying something that's beautiful and taking joy from our lives." Mrs Byrne said she "fell in love" with the flower baskets in 2011 when she was ill with depression, and the sight of them helped her to recover. "The first thing I saw at this flat was the beautiful flowers. When I was down they got through to me, and they helped me get back on my feet," she said. But she was left devastated when the council told her to remove the baskets following an inspection of the warden-controlled flats in April. Emma Elston, MDDC neighbourhood officer wrote in a letter: "Whilst the baskets look lovely and improve the appearance of the area, they are unfortunately posing a health and safety risk. I therefore ask that the hanging are removed within the next 10 days." But Mrs Byrne said the council did not explain the 'risk' to them, and she refused to comply with the instruction. She accused the council of causing stress, illness and grief to many residents over the past three months. "They are targeting older residents by making wardens redundant, and expecting us to pay for services they used to provide free-of-charge. And now they are even picking on our flowers," she said. "When you reach this age you expect life to be stress free and peaceful – not disrupted in this way." Fellow resident Antonia Jones, 75, said: "It's ludicrous because it's taking happiness from the elderly. I treat the flowers like my little babies, and say hello to them. They are a big part of our lives." Their tenancy agreement states: "you or anyone living in the property must not throw anything or allow anything to fall from any windows, balconies or communal areas". A MDDC spokesman said its decision had followed complaints about solar lights falling from the baskets, and that watering the plants had caused a "nuisance".

Angry residents condemn 'ridiculous' ruling to ban hanging baskets

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Picture of the day: Exeter Cathedral

July 15, 2014, 6:06 am
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This image of Early morning sunshine and clear blue skies at Exeter Cathedral was posted on Twitter by @suecartwright.

Tweet your pictures to @expressandecho using #echopics, email them to eephotos@expressandecho.co.uk, post them on our Facebook wall or simply upload them on this website on our galleries page.

Picture of the day: Exeter Cathedral

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Financial adviser accused of taking company's database was warned he would be drummed out of the Round Table, court hears

July 15, 2014, 6:22 am
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A businessman warned an ex employee he would be run out of town and shunned by the Round Table after he left to start his own business, a jury have been told. Financial adviser Stephen Wales was also warned he could be sued for more than a million pounds from stealing clients after he left a Devon investment firm and set up on his own. Wales, aged 35, had worked at the South Devon based Pension Drawdown Company for more than two years before he left to set up his rival business called Positive Solutions Financial Services. He is on trial at Exeter Crown Court accused of secretly downloading and taking his old company's entire six gigabyte database on his last day at work. Former employer Mr Jonathan Walker, whose Pension Drawdown Company employs 11 people and manages investments of £80 million, told the jury Wales broke a rigorous agreement by taking the data and sending other details to himself in e-mails. He said he reported the incident to both the Data Protection Commissioner and the Financial Services Authority, who had told him to call in the police. Mr Walker denied bullying and threatening Mr Wales and trying to prevent his new business from getting off the ground but he said he has launched civil proceedings claiming £1.5 million which are currently in abeyance because of the criminal case. He said he had told Wales he was likely to be asked to leave the Round Table because of his behaviour but denied threatening to 'run him out of town'. Computer studies Masters graduate Wales, aged 35, of Torquay, Devon, denies fraud in the case at Exeter Crown Court. The prosecution say he worked for Mr Walker's company in Torquay from June 2008 until he left in October 2010 and signed a restrictive covenant which prevented him removing any confidential information. The Crown say while serving his notice he sent e-mails to his private address containing client data and on his last day created two zip files which enabled him to take the entire database away on a memory stick. He started his new business on October 12 and by November 22 more than 30 clients had allegedly transferred away from Mr Walker's company, taking a total of 57 pension plans with them. Mr Walker told the court some of the clients who left had been introduced as a block from another firm by Wales and they had discussed whether they would move on to his new business but not reached a definite agreement. He said he had never given authority for any data to be removed or transferred and had started civil legal action after Wales left to protect his firm and 11 employees. He said:"I did not know where it was going to stop. It was putting the company in jeopardy and the livelihoods of the people working there. "I had hoped it could all be sorted amicably. I did not bully or threaten him although I may have told him mother he may have to leave the Round Table because of the financial dispute between us. "She asked me why I was pillorying him and said everyone had a right to start on their own. I said yes, so long as they did it on their own and not with my clients. I did not tell her I would run him out of town. "I wanted him to come to his senses and avoid the waste of resources and money of the case going to court. It was when he did not sign an agreement that further inquiries were made which indicated his criminal activity. "The theft of the data enabled him to take clients away from me and happened when I was paying him a salary of up to £5,200 a month. He could not have the contact details until he illicitly took the information. "He may have had some contact details in his phone but would not have the access to the entire data base." Under cross examination by Mr Richard Crabb, QC, he denied using the criminal law to pursue a civil dispute. He said:"I had a responsibility for data protection and had to report the breach. I told the data protection authorities and the FSA, who told me if data had been removed and not returned, it was a matter for the police."The trial continues
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Rare bug surfaces from Exeter sludge

July 15, 2014, 6:42 am
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A rare bug has has been discovered in Exeter sludge. The aptly named dragonfly known as the scarce chaser, wasm spotted at Devon Wildlife Trust's Old Sludge Beds nature reserve on the outskirts of Exeter. The charity's site is a well-known haven for local wildlife, but the sighting of a scarce chaser still came as something of a surprise. The nature reserve is now thought to be one of only a handful of places in Devon in which scarce chasers have ever been recorded. The dragonfly was spotted by Keith Richards, a member of the British Dragonfly Society. At first Keith was unsure of his find but after taking photos he had it confirmed by the British Dragonfly Society who told him: "This is a very interesting record – the first ever seen at the Old Sludge Beds. The species first appeared at the nearby Exminster Marshes in 2007 and small numbers have been seen there since. It's possible that the species has bred at the Old Sludge Beds, but more likely it has flown over or under the M5 to get there." The adult male scarce chaser has a bright blue abdomen with patches of black, while the adult female and juvenile male each possess bright orange abdomen. It is about 45 mm in length with a wingspan of 74 mm. This dragonfly is considered a 'species of special concern', making it one of the rarest in the UK. Stephen Hussey from Devon Wildlife Trust said: "We are thrilled by this news. This dragonfly's appearance at our nature reserve suggests we are being successful with our management. Scarce chasers need wetlands with dense vegetation. In the last 100 years our countryside has lost many of its wetlands and wildlife like this dragonfly has struggled to survive. But at the Old Sludge Beds the mix of wet lagoons, reeds and submerged plants seem to have provided it with the ideal conditions. We are so pleased that it has found a home with us." The scarce chaser was spotted in early summer and with a flying season which extends into August it could be seen for some weeks to come. Steve added: "Old Sludge Beds nature reserve makes a wonderful place to visit in the summer. Being close to Exeter and the Exeter Canal cycle path the reserve already attracts good numbers of visitors. But the news that this rare dragonfly has taken up residence may mean that those numbers are boosted still further." The Old Sludge Beds is one of 48 wildlife havens looked after by Devon Wildlife Trust. The charity is keen for people to know that they are free to enter and make wonderful places to explore the county's landscapes and wildlife. More details from www.devonwildlifetrust.org

Rare bug surfaces from Exeter sludge

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Duchess of Cornwall meets children at re-opening of Exeter Library

July 15, 2014, 6:42 am
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The Duchess of Cornwall, who is patron of the National Literacy Trust, was in Exeter this afternoon to offically re-open the revamped Exeter Library. The Duchess of Cornwall was caught by a surprise flashmob as she entered the library – being serenaded by the Bill Withers song Lovely day. The Duchess chatted to children, students and older people, at the new library which re-opened in May after a £4million refurbishment, which took 18 months to complete. The site now includes a new foyer, café, a larger children's section and thousands of new books. The library has also been modernised and now includes a fabrication laboratory (a digital workshop). The library sits in the heart of Exeter's cultural quarter alongside the city museum, Phoenix Arts Centre and Exeter Castle. The Duchess is also patron of the BookTrust and First Story,which help to promote literacy in young people. She is known to be keen to promote the benefits of reading, and has undertaken a number of engagements on this theme in recent years The Duchess was presented with a posy of flowers by 11 year old Beatrice Stone, and copies of the Exeter Reads books by seven year old Betsy Speck, both from Exeter. Earlier, accompanied by the Duke of Cornwall, she toured the River Cottage HQ restaurant with the cook and broadcaster Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, meeting young people, visiting the cookery school and learning more about foraging, ore. Before coming to Exeter, the Royal couple mett members of the emergency services and saw a demonstration at Exeter International Airport. They met members of the Police, Fire, Ambulance and other services who worked together during last winter's severe weather and flooding in the West Country, including on the Somerset Levels and at Dawlish. While the Duchess was at the Exeter Library the The Duke of Cornwall touredtour the Royal William Yard, and attend a reception to mark the 100th anniversary of the city of Plymouth, which was formed when the three towns of Plymouth, Stonehouse and Devonport were amalgamated

Duchess of Cornwall meets children at re-opening of Exeter Library

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BB gun case back on track after accused recovers from car crash

July 15, 2014, 6:50 am
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A man accused of having a BB gun in the centre of Ilfracombe will go on trial later this month after recovering from a serious road accident. Luke Simmonds, aged 30, appeared at Exeter Crown Court for a short hearing at which it was confirmed he is well enough to attend a trial listed for the end of this month. Simmonds last hearing in March was adjourned in his absence after the Judge was told he had suffered serious injuries in a road accident in Stoke on Trent and would be in hospital for several weeks. Simmonds, of West End, Street, Somerset, is charged with having an imitation firearm in High Street, Ilfracombe, in December. Recorder Mr John Williams bailed him to his family home in Street until the trial date.
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Update: Alder King say they followed legal process to remove 40 Exeter "trespassers" from city flats

July 15, 2014, 6:52 am
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Property consultancy Alder King has said they followed proper legal process to remove 40 people, including children, from an Exeter block of flats yesterday. Bailiffs carried out the eviction from the property in Bartholomew Street on Monday morning. Residents, most of whom are believed to be Polish, have claimed they were given "no warning" of the eviction and some said they have nowhere to go. The families claimed they were given just 20 minutes to leave. Council officers attended the eviction to give advice to those being evicted. And the authority has demanded better rights for those in rented accommodation The eviction is understood to have followed the repossession of part of the property from Property Edge Lettings, which went into administration in 2012. Alder King was appointed in 2012 to act as Receivers in respect of Flats 1-6 Bartholomew House in Exeter. In a statement on the eviction process a representative said: "In early 2014 communication commenced with the occupiers and their legal representatives concerning obtaining possession of the property advising them that they were occupying the property as trespassers. "This led to trespass proceedings being pursued through a formal Court process culminating in a Court Order for Possession granted on 16 May by the County Court. This required the occupiers to vacate within 28 days. The occupiers had legal representation present at the hearing, an interpreter and one of the occupiers was also in attendance. "Unfortunately the occupiers failed to comply with the Court Order and the matter was then referred to the High Court. Following a Risk Analysis by the High Court Enforcement Officer, Alder King was explicitly advised not to provide advance notice of the eviction. " Martyn Jones, senior partner at Alder King, said: "Of course we regret the distress this case has caused to the occupiers. However we have strictly followed the proper legal process and complied at all times with Court procedures and advice in what has clearly been a very difficult situation." Rob Hannaford, Exeter's lead councillor for housing said the council had been made aware of the situation several weeks ago and had offered advice on alternatives, as well as giving residents information on legal advice. "We had been trying to find out the date of the planned eviction from the bailiffs but they were unable to provide us with that information," he said. "This again highlights the pressing need for private sector tenants across the board to have stronger legal protection."

Update: Alder King say they followed legal process to remove 40 Exeter “trespassers” from city flats

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Exeter private tenants urged to get together in wake of evictions

July 15, 2014, 7:51 am
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Exeter private tenants are being urged to help to set up and run a new advice and rights network In a week that saw over 40 people – including children – evicted from private flats in Bartholomew Street, Exeter CVS project worker Vicky Worthington said the case brings into stark relief just how vulnerable people renting privately are. She said: "While cases of this scale are relatively rare, the fact is that when a landlord defaults on a buy-to-let mortgage, and the home is repossessed, it is the tenant that suffers – and repossessions of this sort are becoming more common. "We also know that private tenants face a range of additional pressures. The average tenancy duration is just one year, which has an impact on a family's ability to feel settled, or to get involved in their community. " Privately rented properties also tend to be more poorly insulated, and are more likely to be below the standards of Council or Housing Association properties." "We are seeing more organisations like ExeTRA (Exeter Tenants' Rights Association) being set up by tenants around the country." ExeTRA is in the early stages of becoming a charity in its own right, and is looking for more private tenants who want to be actively involved in helping to develop and run the organisation. ExetRA is currently hosted by Exeter Council for Voluntary Services (CVS) – a local organisation that supports charities and community action. Simon Bowkett, Chief Executive of Exeter CVS, who is also a city councillor, said: "The lesson from Bartholomew Street is that tenants need greater protection – and until the laws that govern the private rented market are changed, people who rent their homes can stand stronger together to influence local landlords, letting agencies, and councils." If you are a private tenant, and would like to find out more about ExeTRA – or to get involved – see https://www.exetercvs.org.uk/socialaction/exetra, or contact Vicky Worthington at Vicky.worthington@exetercvs.org.uk

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Flying ant day hits Exeter

July 15, 2014, 8:58 am
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It's flying ant day. Another warm, sunny day in Exeter has brought swarms of flying ants out onto the city's streets. People have reported seeing the insects swarming in the air and on roads and car parks, with sightings across the city. This afternoon large numbers of the ants were seen in Exeter City Centre and the outskirts So why do the ants appear all at once? The phenomenon is sometimes known as "flying ant day" - although it often takes place over a number of days during a spell of dry, warm weather. Queen ants take their cue from the weather to venture out of their nests on what is known as a "nuptial flight", seeking males from other colonies to mate with. Once far enough away from their own colonies to avoid inbreeding, they release pheromones, the chemicals behind sexual attraction, to attract suitors. They then lead the males they have attracted on a chase to ensure only the fittest get to mate. Flying ant days normally happen in July but they can occur any time between June and September if the weather is right. The huge number of ants which emerge provide food for predators but sometimes this has unexpected side-effects. Last year the Echo reported an increase in attacks and nuisance behaviour by seagulls - which was put down to them getting drunk on the formic acid created by the large number of flying ants they were gorging themselves on. Like humans, the effects of getting drunk made the seagulls lose their inhibitions, stealing food from people's hands and raiding bins. There were also reports of seagulls getting so drunk they flew into buildings or into the paths of cars. Have you seen any flying ant swarms? Tell us where and when using the comment form below.

Flying ant day hits Exeter

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Aldi plans revealed to public for store at Topsham, Exeter

July 15, 2014, 9:58 am
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A proposed discount supermarket store on the edge of Exeter has come under scrutiny. Residents were asked to give their views on plans for the Aldi store on green fields at Topsham. The company is looking to build a 1,140 square metre store on land between the M5 and the Newport Park mobile home site, with parking available for almost 100 vehicles. Dozens of people attended the drop-in session between 3pm and 8pm on Tuesday at Topsham Rugby Club to view and comment on the plans. Several people raised their vehement opposition to the plans due to the perceived effect on traffic and competition with local, independent shops. John Orr, 68 who has lived in the Exeter and East Devon area for the past 30 years, said: "I'm against the plans. We've already got enough supermarkets because they are built all over the place. If they do insist on building, it should be on a brownfield site." Raymond and Barbara Norton, 80 and 77, who live in Topsham, said: "It's already hard enough to get in and out of the town and these awful proposals will just make it worse." But other people were adamantly in support of the proposals, saying it would be helpful for people to have a supermarket on their doorstep. Anthony Ashford, 75 who lived in Topsham, described the idea as "fabulous". He said: "We're very much in favour of it, because there's no store like it in the area. The sooner it gets built, the better." If given the go-ahead, the new store promises to generate 40 new full and part-time jobs for the area. An Aldi spokesman said: "A new store on this site would avoid customers having to travel elsewhere in the city and would provide easy access to high quality, discounted goods. "Given the location of the site and with an understanding that the city council has previously recognised it as having development potential, we consider our proposals would be both appropriate and beneficial."

Aldi plans revealed to public for store at Topsham, Exeter

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Exeter City 0 Reading 1: Match report

July 15, 2014, 1:18 pm
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A first-half strike from Ryan Edwards was enough to give Reading a victory against Exeter City. Having had to endure a number of dire 1-0 defeats at St James's Park last season those fans who didn't make it through the gates for City's first pre-season game of the season could have been forgiven for thinking it was business as usual. And for stages of the first half it seemed to be the case as a defensive lapse in concentration cost the Grecians the opening goal and then they struggled to create chances after that. However, in the second half City were unfortunate not to get back on level terms, creating three good chances to level and having most of the territory and play against their Championship opponents. City lined-up in a 5-3-2 formation for the whole game, but Tisdale used the friendly as an opportunity to give all of his squad a run out by naming an almost completely different starting XI for both halves. In the first half Matt Oakley played the holding midfield role with talented youth academy player Alex Bryne given his first appearance for the first team alongside Arron Davies. Tisdale also chose to start David Wheeler, who played most of last season on the wing, up front alongside Matt Jay. It was Jay had the first shot of the game as he turned neatly in the box after five minutes and hit a right-footed effort that forced Adam Federici to push the ball over his crossbar for a corner. However three minutes later Reading were in front when the ball got played forward to Ryan Edwards, who sprung the offside trap and hit a shot past Pym and into the bottom left corner of the goal. There was little goalmouth action for the next 15 minutes with Reading growing into the match and having lots of territory without troubling Pym. The closest they came to grabbing a second when a low cross from the right from Nick Blackman was booted clear at the near posted by Danny Coles. Another cross from Jordan Obita found the edge of the six yard box, but Jordan Tillson put just enough pressure on Pavel Pogrebnyak to stop him from getting a decent header on target. In terms of an attacking intent at the other end though City rarely threatened and the Royals were good value for their half-time advantage. Paul Tisdale made nine changes to the side at the break, with only Pym and Tillson keeping their place in the side. Bennett captained the second half side before it was announced after the match that he would be the new skipper for the forthcoming season. There was also a place at right-back for former Welsh under-21 international Christian Ribeiro, who is currently training with the City first team. City started the second half brightly with Matt Grimes and Ollie Watkins combining well on the left, before the latter curled a cross to the back post that nobody was able to get on the end of. Liam Sercombe then picked up the ball 40 yards from goal and made a direct run towards the edge of the box before hitting a fiercely-struck shot that was blocked by Alex Pearce. Up the other end Pym had to be alert to grab a cross from Shaun Cummings as Craig Tanner lurked at the near post, but from that move City threatened again. They broke up the other end of the pitch and the lively Sercombe found himself with space to run into at the edge of the box. However, his ball into Nichols allowed Pierce Sweeney to get a block on the striker's shot and clear. City continued to look the more dangerous of the two teams though as Jimmy Keohane broke down the left and hit a shot. Mikkel Anderson got a block on the effort, but the ball looked to be looping into the net until it hit the post. Unfortunately for Nichols' his close-range follow up effort was deflected over for a corner. If City thought they couldn't get any closer to scoring without actually doing so they were wrong as moments later a right-wing cross from Ribeiro was headed towards goal by Grimes. Keohane looked to have flicked the ball over the line from close range but it was booted clear and then Nichols' follow up effort was blocked. In a rare attack for Reading in the second half Jack Stacey stung the palms of Pym with a shot from the right hand side of the box with fifteen minutes of the match remaining. At that point Tisdale introduced first-year pros Connor Riley-Lowe and Jason Pope to the action. However, City were unable to create any further clear-cut chances and fell to a 1-0 loss. Attendance: 1,211. Away: 202. Exeter City, first half: Pym, Woodman, Baldwin, Coles, Oakley, Davies, Dawson, Byrne, Wheeler, Jay, Tillson. Second half: Pym, Butterfield, Bennett, Sercombe, Keohane, Ribeiro, Grimes, Moore-Taylor, Watkins, Nichols, Tillson. Subs: Connor Riley-Lowe, Pope Reading, first half: Federici, Gunter, Morrison, Pogrebnyak, Obita, Hector, Blackman, Williams, Taylor, Kuhl, Edwards. Second half: Anderson, Kelly, Pearce, Akpan, Tshibola, Cummings, Sweeney, Tanner, Long, Griffin, Stacey. Subs: McArthy, Cooper.

Exeter City 0 Reading 1: Match report

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AUDIO: Exeter City boss Tisdale pleased with lessons learnt against Reading

July 15, 2014, 3:44 pm
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Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale admitted his side learnt a lot from the 1-0 friendly loss to Reading on Tuesday night. The City manager played 22 players in the match as he named vastly different line-ups for the first and second half. Ryan Edwards scored the only goal of the game for Reading eight minutes into the match. Listen to Paul Tisdale's thoughts on the match above.

AUDIO: Exeter City boss Tisdale pleased with lessons learnt against Reading

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AUDIO: Tisdale confirms Scot Bennett as new Exeter City captain

July 15, 2014, 3:59 pm
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Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale has confirmed that Scot Bennett will be the captain for the new season. Bennett takes over from Danny Coles who was stripped of his role as skipper earlier this month after sending an abusive Tweet to a teenage supporter who mocked his performances for City. Tisdale was speaking after the club's first pre-season friendly against Reading. Christain Ribeiro made an appearance in that game. The former ex-Wales under-21 international is training with the Grecians at the minute. However, Tisdale confirmed that they are not looking to sign him at the moment. Listen to Tsidale's interview above.

AUDIO: Tisdale confirms Scot Bennett as new Exeter City captain

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Exeter allotment holders say livelihoods 'at risk' under city council proposals to save £43,000

July 15, 2014, 4:00 pm
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Allotment holders in Exeter have expressed fears for the future after the city council announced a raft of proposals to save money on the service. Some 1,200 people currently rent a 250 square metre plot of land for growing vegetables or flowers at a standard price of £55 a year. But the council says it cannot afford to continue making a loss of £43,000 each year in the face of ongoing government cuts. Now city tenants are concerned they will face a substantial hike in the cost – either by increasing the annual rent to £97, or by removing 50 per cent subsidies and losing free water, maintenance and administration provision. Members of the Prince Charles Road allotment Association are concerned the proposed increases could be too expensive for some plot holders to continue. Chairman Ken Cann, 66, said: "I don't drink; I don't smoke; I don't play sport; I do my allotment. That's what my life is; take that away and I've got nothing." Treasurer Roger Dean added: "The magnitude of their proposals is going to turn the traditional working man and pensioners off allotments because they can't afford it." They are worried a 'worst case scenario' would lead to vast increases for older people currently paying £27.50 with their 50 per cent concessions. Mr Cann said: "If they bring the price up to £97 and remove the subsidy, those people who get the concession at the moment would face a rent increase of more than 300 per cent." Letters were sent to allotment associations in the city asking for people's views on the cost-saving measures. But the council has been criticised for inadequate communication of the consultation because it did not write to individual tenants. Committee member Caroline Fox said: "This consultation document has been seen by very few people in Exeter. There could be many people who don't know the council is proposing big changes." Exeter City Council promises it has "no intention" of removing allotment provision in the city and is working to secure the long-term future of the service. But it says it "can't just stand and do nothing" as it will lose more than half of its government grant for local services by 2017. According to the council, more than half the costs of the allotment service is currently subsidised by the 53,500 council taxpayers in Exeter. Cllr Keith Owen, lead councillor for environment, health and wellbeing, said: "We appreciate the importance of allotments, especially in cities, and the benefits that they bring, but we are facing difficult financial times with year-on-year cuts in central government funding." If the authority manages to break even on the service, it would look to increase the number of plots and address a 600-strong waiting list. In response to feedback, the council extended the consultation period until August 4 for people to put forward their ideas.

Exeter allotment holders say livelihoods 'at risk' under city council proposals to save £43,000

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Exeter Force charity shop named the most profitable in the country again

July 15, 2014, 4:00 pm
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THEY'RE in retail heaven again – the Force Cancer Charity shop in Heavitree's Fore Street has just been named the most profitable in the country. And the staff as excited as ever – despite the fact that it's the 11th time in a row they've won the accolade. Winning the award at the Charity Retail Association's annual conference has become something of a habit – the Exeter shop has won in the category for those charities with between one and five shops for more than a decade. And when the award's category was previously for the biggest turnover it won that too, making it 15 years in a row they've won an award. The shop takes around £5,000 a week on average – and is open throughout the year. In the financial year just ended it raised £241,000. And the secret of its success seems to be its nooks and crannies. Shop manager Anna Heard said: "Some charity shops have gone for the High Street look, but we haven't done that, concentrating instead on raising as much as possible. "People describe it as an Aladdin's cave and I have always thought of it as a charity department store as it sells everything." It sells furniture, cutlery, crockery, glassware, jewellery, videos, books, records and of course clothes, including dressing-up items and its Classy Clobber range. And of course there are the bargains – at the moment there is a special offer on jeans with them selling for just £1 a pair. And there is a permanent £1 bargain rail just inside the shop. It has nearly 30 volunteers and six staff – in addition to Anna, there is assistant manager Toni Newton, two van drivers and two part-time sales assistants. And if you anyone would like to play a part in what is arguably the most successful charity shop in the country, now is the chance – the shop is in need of more volunteers. Anna said: "It may seem we have a lot of volunteers, but we need more." If you can help, even just by offering an hour or two, pop into the shop.

Exeter Force charity shop named the most profitable in the country again

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