HEROES of a city restaurant fire have spoken for the first time of the wall of flame that erupted before their eyes. Staff at Exeter McDonald's have been praised by fire officers and their bosses for their quick action that meant no one was hurt when the blaze recently broke out at the premises. The High Street restaurant was officially reopened this week by the Lord Mayor of Exeter Councillor Percy Prowse. Staff who were on duty the day of the fire told how the blaze erupted in seconds. Part of the High Street had to be evacuated while firefighters battled to prevent the fire spreading. Josh Spiller, 18, of Heavitree, a former St Peter's and Exeter College student, was working behind the till. He said: "It all happened without any warning. Flames just blew up across the 10 vats of fat. There were a lot of flames. "My first reaction was to get everyone out. We had about 10 customers – it was quite early on a Sunday morning. I shouted for all the staff to leave the counter and we ushered the customers out as we went. "There was no panic and everyone was very good. We got them out the front and across the road. The fire service arrived within minutes. "I have to say it was a whole new experience." Brian Harbottle, 54, of South Street, Exeter, was cooking muffins when the fire broke out. "I heard some noises and looked through the muffin toaster and I could see a curtain of fire about five feet across and about three feet high," he said. "I nipped round to shut the gas off and I thought about going down to the basement to the main supply, but that is a dead end and I didn't want to risk coming back and finding the flames had got worse. "The automatic sprinklers came on straightaway but they couldn't make a difference to the flames. "We got everybody out and I checked upstairs for the staff there. I then when out the back was to make sure everyone was out. "People's lives were at stake – the main thing was no one was hurt." Restaurant manager Greg Abraham and shift manager Josh Finneran, were also praised for their part in the successful evacuation. David Shawyer, the McDonald's franchisee, said as well as the restaurant crew he wanted to thank the emergency services for their work. The fire, caused by grease on a gasket, resulted in smoke damage across all three floors of the restaurant. He said: "I'm proud of all of the crew members who were on duty at the time for working together as a team to evacuate everyone safely from the building. "I'm also extremely grateful that the local fire brigade and police force responded and assisted so quickly. "It's great to be able to open our doors to the public again." The speed of the operation was due to the backing of McDonald's and involved the replacement of 60 per cent of the kitchen – including special parts diverted from America. Staff were paid during the closure. Mr Shawyer said that sales since the re-opening were above expectation and up on the same time last year. The Lord Mayor said: "I was really impressed to hear how crew members worked closely with the emergency services to ensure the evacuation went without any glitches and I was delighted to meet David and his team at the restaurant reopening. "As with all local businesses, the McDonald's High Street restaurant makes a vital contribution to the local economy in Exeter so it's great to see that they've been able to re-open so quickly." The restaurant was opened in 1988 and currently employs 83 people.

EXETER'S annual Festival of Winter Ales is taking place on Friday, January 16 and Saturday, January 17. This year, due to a surge in popularity, more ales have joined the line-up, more space has opened up, and there are two bars, one with live music, the other left quiet for conversation. The annual celebration of real ale is organised by the Exeter and East Devon branch of the Campaign for Real Ale group. The 26th event is once again being hosted at Exeter City Football Club. Such was the popularity of last year's bash, which attracted around 1,400 enthusiasts, that the barrels had almost run dry by the end of the first day last year, so this year the number of beers have been increased from 65 to 76 from 73 different brewers. All the ales are winter only brews. There will also be 10 Westcountry ciders, perries and a ginger beer. Rowland Honeywill, one of the event organisers, said: "As usual, there is a preponderance of mid-brown to dark ales and Porters. "But we do have a reasonable range of light and golden beers. "They come from 15 Devon brewers, six from Cornwall, eight from Somerset, 11 from other Westcountry counties, eight from the Southern Counties, 12 from the Midlands and 16 from the North – east and west of the Pennines. "We will have a range of strengths, from 3.6 per cent and upwards, many at four to five per cent, with six in the six per cent range, eight in the seven per cent range. "The top two are both from Devon brewers – the Devil's Walkabout at eight per cent from Topsham and Imperial Russian Porter from Teignworthy at 10 per cent." The event is to be opened by BBC Spotlight home affairs correspondent Simon Hall. Live music will be provided by Stompin' Dave on Friday from 7.30pm and Julian Piper on the Saturday, from 7.30pm. Organisers are keen to encourage sensible drinking with ales served in third and half pint measures. "We're anticipating it being as popular as always this year," added Mr Honeywill. "The real ale scene is really buoyant and three breweries which opened in the last 12 months in Devon have ales featuring in the festival." The event is open from 11am until 11pm. Entertainment will be provided by Stompin' Dave from 7.30pm on the Saturday evening. Entry is £10, or £7 for Camra members, to include a festival tankard and £4 of beer tokens. For more information visit www.exetercamra.org.uk, email chair@exetercamra.org.uk, or phone 01392 223212.

A British Pie chain has announced plans to open more stores, with Exeter named as one of the cities they are hoping to move to. Bristol company Pieminister is one of the Southwest's biggest success stories after launching 12 years ago. It was founded by friends Jon Simon and Tristan Hogg and the first shop opened for business in a run down and derelict shop in Stokes Croft. The firm, that currently runs ten outlets from its headquarters has now announced plans to open 20 outlets in towns and cities across the country. The company has taken on property specialist Williams Gunter Hardwick to identify potential locations with Exeter, Leeds, Liverpool and Manchester top of the wish list for early 2015. "The plan now is to identify prime new locations with between 2,000 and 4,000 sq ft of space ," Stuart Williams, director of Williams Gunter Hardwick told the Bristol Post. "This is a brand that has huge appeal – based on pies using only 100 per cent free range British meat, usually served with lashings of gravy and mash. "We are looking particularly at areas in cities with a vibrant bar and casual dining scene – including Bath, Bournemouth, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Exeter, Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham and York. "We are also keen to expand Pieminister's presence in London." "These are really exciting times for us," says managing director, Jon Simon. "Our growth to date has really surprised us, but there's obviously a big appetite out there for quality, ethical and filling food that isn't overcomplicated or expensive." The company has gained a huge reputation over the last 10 years, collecting a host of awards – including accolades for Britain's best steak pie and best chicken pie. They were also included in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 in 2012 and voted one of the 1,000 companies to inspire Britain in 2013. The business began in the most modest circumstances possible: baking pies in a small flat in Bristol and selling them in markets and at festivals. The quality of the pies eventually opened the door to Harrod's, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, as well as exporting to Ireland and Holland – and supplying the Queen. The company has steadily built their own portfolio of restaurants over the last few years – including two in London and one in Amsterdam.

Retailers are eyeing the South West for more new stores this year. New research in the TLT Retail Growth Strategies Report 2015 found that retailers think the South West is the region with the most potential. One factor could be the relatively high disposable income across the region, although high streets in market towns are cited as the most attractive spots for investment with out-of-town.sites such as Bristol's Cribbs Causeway less popular. Perran Jervis, partner and head of Retail & Consumer Goods at the Bristol-headquartered law firm TLT, said: "There has been significant investment in recent years across the South West, including the development of Bristol's Cabot Circus and the expansion of Exeter's high street. "But, as our annual report reveals, there is still more potential for new stores in the region." The role of the high street continues to change with most retailers planning to use stores as hubs for click and collect (83 per cent). Some believe that the primary purpose of stores will be to showcase there online offering (31 per cent). The impact of click and collect is seen as being positive for stores, with 41 per cent believing that it will increase footfall to a store . Perran added: "With savvy customers now using various channels simultaneously to research and buy, retailers have to respond. "Stores are no longer just places to browse and buy, but an increasingly critical link in the retail chain. Stores are helping build brands that drive online growth and vice versa." The recent announcement on a review of business rates, the property-based tax on businesses, was largely welcomed by retailers but the report found 59 per cent wanted lower VAT and lower National Insurance contributions for employ.

Sensea Robinson, 22, of Cathedral Yard, Exeter was sent to prison after being deemed to have a "flagrant disregard for court orders". On 2 June 2014 she stole a PSP games console, to the value of £90, belonging to a man in Exeter. On 12 August 2014 she stole meat, to the value of £60 belonging to Sainsbury, Guildhall, Exeter. Miss Robinson was committed to prison for four weeks concurrent. She was also fined £80. Susana Franquelli-Tabuso, 41, of Holloway Street, Exeter was given a suspended prison sentence after two offences of theft. Between 5 May 2014 and 8 August 2014 she stole cash, to the value of £85, belonging to a woman in Exeter. Between 1 October 2012 and 13 June 2014 she stole four gold metal rings, to the value of £1,350, belonging to a woman in Cullompton. Ms Franquelli-Tabuso was committed to prison for 18 weeks, suspended for two years. The offence was deemed 'so serious', because she was deemed to have breached the trust of individuals who had provided her accommodation, causing "distress and shock" to them. Some of the items were apparently of sentimental value. She was also fined £1,467.50. Paul Martin, 44, of Newman Road, Exeter was fined £200 for criminal damage. On 8 November 2014 in Exeter he damaged a front door panel, to the value of £200, belonging to a housing association. Damien Meacham, 29, of no fixed address, was fined £159.99 after two offences of theft. On 11 November 2014 in Exeter he stole a Ralph Lauren jumper, to the value of £59.99, belonging to TK Maxx. On the same day he stole three chocolate bars, to the value of £2.20, belonging to Martins Newsagents. David Bee, 53, of Coach Road, Silverton, committed three vehicle-related offences. On 6 June 2014 he committed fraud by hiring a vehicle in the name of a company to obtain their discount. On 8 June 2014 he drove a motor vehicle in Exeter without an authorised licence and without an adequate policy of insurance. His license was endorsed with six points and he was fined £100. Jackson Kelly, 19, of Evett Close, Exmouth was fined £170 after assaulting a man. On 15 July 2014 he assaulted the man by beating him. He also breached a 12-month conditional discharge for theft offences. Liam Henderson, 19, of East John Walk, Exeter, failed to comply with the requirements of a community order. He failed to attend appointments on 18 August, 16 and 22 October 2014 as instructed. He also failed to keep in touch with a supervising officer. He was told to carry out a new total of 140 hours of unpaid work, supervised by an officer. Preetypal Singh, 26, of Old Tiverton Road, Exeter was banned from driving after committing three vehicle-related offences. On 16 August 2014 he drove a Vauxhall Zafira after consuming so much alcohol, namely 100 milligrammes in 100mls of blood, to exceed the prescribed limit. On the same day he also took the car without the consent of the owner. He used the vehicle without an adequate policy of insurance and without an authorised licence. Mr Singh was disqualified from holding or obtaining a licence for 38 months, reduced by 38 weeks subject to the completion of a course. He was given a community order, including a requirement to undertake 100 hours of unpaid work. He was also fined £145. Scott Whatley, 24, of Cathedral Yard, Exeter was given a suspended prison sentence after breaching a court order. He failed to comply with the requirements of a community order by not attending appointments and not keeping in touch with a supervising officer. The court order related to previous offences for stealing and failing to surrender to court having been released on bail. Mr Whatley was committed to prison for 12 weeks suspended for 12 months. Custody was granted because the defendant persistently failed to comply with alternatives and the 'totality' of his offending. He was also told to comply with the requirements of 12 month supervision order. Elaine Nosworthy, 34, of Townfield, Exminster was fined £180 for two offences of speeding. On 17 March 2014 she drove a car on Rydon Lane, Exeter at a speed exceeding 40mph. On 28 March she committed the same offence. Her licence was endorsed with six penalty points. Jonathon Mcclay, 25, of Burnthouse Lane, Exeter was fined £205 after using threatening or abusive words or behaviour in Exeter on 25 October 2014. Rachael Soan, 26, of Nap View, Awliscombe near Honiton was fined £535 after using a motor vehicle on 10 September 2014 without an adequate insurance policy. Her licence was endorsed with three points. Jon Grigg, 34, of Kinnerton Way, Exeter, admitted stealing from his employer. Between 21 May 2014 and 24 September 2014 he stole cash to the value of £3,247 belonging to the Express and Echo. During an appearance at Exeter Magistrates' Court, Grigg pleaded guilty to one charge of theft by employee. The case was adjourned until January 28, and the judge ordered the probation service to prepare a pre-sentence report.

Around Exeter area by area, the news down your street edited by Anne Byrne. Contribute by emailing Anne on abyrne@expressandecho.co.uk or give us a call on 01392 442233 City-wide Allotment forum THIS year will see the establishment of a forum for allotment holders. Looking forward to that is Cowick councillor Heather Morris, who has done so much to ensure that the Mobile Homes Residents' Forum has been a success. Cllr Morris said: "Fellow Cowick councillor Paul Bull and I are very much looking forward to the new allotments' forum taking off, and hope that all sites in Exeter will have a representative, should it be decided that this is the best way for the forum to be run. "I very much hope it will be as successful as the mobile homes' forum which has helped owners to feel supported, which has been essential given the recent changes to mobile homes legislation. "For this reason, I was happy to support the suggestion for the forum put forward to scrutiny community a few months ago." Becky Wells, secretary of the St Thomas Allotments' Association, said: "Allotments are important in terms of general health and wellbeing, food security, community, socialisation and the environment involving people of all ages and backgrounds. "St Thomas Allotments' Association has been working very hard, in partnership with Exeter City Council, to represent their members, all allotment tenants who have plots on the west of the Exe. "The idea of a city-wide allotments' forum, involving elected councillors, council officers and representatives from allotment sites all over Exeter, was put forward by one of our members at the community scrutiny committee in September 2014. "We hope that, by drawing together providers and users of the allotment service, we can discuss problems, share experience and ideas, and we will achieve what, surely, we all want to see; a well-managed, thriving, resilient, sustainable allotment service in Exeter, with plots available for as many people as possible. "A preliminary meeting will be held at the end of January with the first full forum meeting being held at the beginning of the next financial year." Becky added: "The mobile homes forum has become a model in other areas all over the country. "It would be wonderful to think the Exeter allotments forum might be the same." Bonfire warning EXETER firefighters have put out a warning after a woman's garden bonfire left a number of properties smoke-damaged. The fire, which included an old mattress, was to the rear of flats in Littleway, St Thomas. Anxious residents called in the fire service after smoke and fumes from the bonfire threatened their homes. Fire watch manager Sean Faulkner, who was on the scene, said neighbours were attempting to douse the flames when the first crew arrived. "We took over and extinguished the bonfire, but the flats had been affected by smoke and the heat of the fire. "We would advise people that, if at all possible, they should seek to have items they no longer want disposed of by the appropriate authorities. "If you have to have a bonfire make sure it is on an appropriate site, well away from other property, and close to a water supply should that be required." Organ club MEMBERS of Exeter Electronic Organ Club are being given a chance to show off their skills at their next concert. The concert on Thursday, January 8, starts at 7pm at Matthews Hall, Topsham, and gives members the opportunity to perform for fellow members. Anyone interested in music of all kinds is welcome to come along. Maureen Grinham, club secretary, said: "We had so much fun the last time we did one of those members' nights, and hope to see as many as possible and welcome enthusiasts from other electronic keyboard clubs in the area. "Please join us for a fun evening." Clyst St Mary Campaign starts SAVE Clyst St Mary is a campaign started to object to large-scale development in and around the village. It has been started by a group of residents who want to protect the character of the village as they believe that substantial residential schemes, which would see the village grow by 120 per cent, will considerably alter the identity of the village. They also believe the developments would have a detrimental effect on the community by overloading the infrastructure (including an already heavily congested traffic system) causing potential increased flooding with the loss of green spaces, and inevitably causing the destruction of the beauty of the East Devon landscape. The Local Plan for Clyst St Mary agreed the provision of 93 new dwellings in the village and after obtaining the necessary planning permission, these developments have recently commenced. The group believes this provision fully meets the housing requirements of the village. Applications for outline planning permission have recently been submitted for 304 residential units by Friends Provident on a green/brown field site at Winslade Park. In addition, property developers have submitted an application for 93 dwellings on a green field site near the Cat and Fiddle with another developer proposing a further 40 houses on a green field site adjoining Winslade Park. Gaeron Kayley and Ingrid Quick, two of the organisers of the Save Clyst St Mary campaign, said: "This level of development would double the population of Clyst St Mary and turn a small, rural village into a characterless town. "We must all understand that wherever we manage or influence how others manage land of any size or scale, we must place the protection of our unique communities and our landscape at the heart of local decisions. "We must hope the local authority will focus on its responsibility to protect and maintain the amenity quality, character and identity of local villages, to conserve and promote wise use of land and protect and enhance the landscape of East Devon." Anyone wanting to support the campaign can find further details at www.saveclyststmary.org.uk Residents are encouraged to ensure letters of objection are submitted to East Devon District Council by the deadline, January 15. Exminster More retail MATFORD filling station has been granted planning permission by Teignbridge District Council to increase the floor space of its shop. The scheme was also approved by Exminster Parish Council with councillors commenting about the inadequate demarcation of the cycle path running past the entrance and exit to the forecourt. They said they hoped this would be addressed as part of the changes as there was likely to be additional traffic using the facility. Newtown Bowling green COUNCILLOR Richard Branston has told Community News he is concerned about the condition of the council-owned bowling green in Belmont Pleasure Ground. Cllr Branston said: "The council is looking to get a specialist firm in to look at it, but it needs to be done urgently. "It looks as if some animals have got at it." Polish eats A PLANNING application has been registered with the city council which could see a Polish/Lovakia restaurant opening near the city centre. If permission is granted the new restaurant would be in what is currently LaLa's Baguettes at 155 Sidwell Street. Pennsylvania Dangerous path LOCAL councillor Peter Holland has asked the county council to improve part of the path which runs from the top of the valley to Plassey Close and Linnet Close. Cllr Holland told Community News: "There are numerous lumps and bumps along this path, but there is one part which was exceptionally hazardous. "I was told the council settled a compensation claim recently in the vicinity but the remedial work has not satisfactorily made the path safe. "The path in question runs at the bottom of the steps leading from Plassey Close. "While I realise funds are scarce, I believe it is essential the path is repaired as soon as possible. "It is widely used by joggers, residents, dog walkers and in particular a blind gentleman (with guide dog). "I am mindful that the council should not be exposed to further claims nor suffering from any residents who may take a tumble." Pinhoe Craft Hub THE Pinn Wheel Craft Hub was established last year. For all those who like being involved in crafts it meets each month in the Hall Church in Main Road, Pinhoe. On January 14 and 21 there will be the chance to learn about modelling Fimo. On February 11 those attending will be able to make a make a Valentine's card and on March 14 the spotlight will be on the art of sugarcraft. On April 15 there will be the opportunity to learn the skills involved in making a summer necklace. Future classes will include salt dough work, making a stuffed heart garland and learning how to crochet. For further details email fosternorma01@gmail.com or phone 07899793162. RD&E Hospital Friendly art LOCAL artists have again been brightening up the corridors of the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital with their annual Friends and Family art exhibition. Now in its 16th year, the exhibition has been organised by Exeter HealthCare Arts to showcase the work of the local arts community who have a connection to the hospital. The exhibitors include talented RD&E staff, outpatients and former patients, who have all loaned their work to help brighten up the hospital environment. Exeter HealthCare Arts is the arts for health project for the RD&E. It delivers a range of activities to improve hospital life, for patients, their loved ones and visitors and for staff. Art exhibitions in the corridors can help add interest for hospital users and have direct healthcare benefits too. Patients preparing or recovering from treatments and procedures are often encouraged to tour the corridors to reduce stress before and to regain mobility as they recover. The wonderfully varied collection of artworks, ranging from Devon landscapes and seascapes to pictures of artists' pets, can be seen along the second floor of the main hospital corridor. Many of the works are for sale with the artists donating a percentage of their sales to Exeter HealthCare Arts. Proceeds will help with further ECHA exhibition work at the RD&E throughout the year. Stephen Pettet-Smith, head of Exeter HealthCare Arts, said: "This is a wonderful exhibition and really shows how the local arts community support the hospital. It makes a difference to hospital patients and visitors by giving a positive distraction and something for people to talk about. "I would encourage everyone to take a look next time they are at the RD&E." The Friends and Family exhibition finishes at the end of the month. St Thomas Light permitted EXETER city council has granted planning permission for eight six-metre high floodlights to be erected around the perimeter of the skatepark in Flowerpot playing fields. The scheme had attracted 11 letters of support and one objection. Several conditions have been attached to the planning consent including one which states that the lighting must be switched off by 10pm each evening so that those living nearby are not disturbed by it. However, the new lighting cannot be used until checks have been made to ensure that it does not cause significant glare when viewed from park paths and other important viewpoints and sensors have been installed so the lights only become lit when ambient light levels drop and the skatepark is in use. To minimise any possible impact of the proposed lighting on bats and other nocturnal wildlife at the River Exe, a detailed scheme for landscaping for the skatepark's eastern boundary must be submitted to the city council. Library friends THE next meeting of the newly formed Friends of St Thomas Library group will be on January 20 at 7pm. The meeting will be held in the library itself in Church Road. Although the group has a chairman it has still to appoint a secretary and treasurer and the meeting will also be concerned with drawing up a constitution. Lee Rawlings, the library's supervisor, said: "The Friends will be involved in supporting and promoting the library. "We also want to hear from people with ideas for fundraising." Festive lunch ONCE again at Christmas the St Thomas Ecumenical Project provided a festive lunch at the Exeter Age UK headquarters in Cowick Street. This time there were 28 guests. Following a short carol service, this year led by the Rev Julian Albrow from St Thomas Methodist Church, and which included favourite carols chosen by the guests, those attending were treated to a full Christmas lunch followed by coffee or tea and mince pies and a chance to chat to friends old and new during the day. The majority of those attending were elderly and would otherwise have been completely on their own on Christmas Day. One of our guests wrote after the event: "I am writing to thank you all for giving us such a wonderful time on Christmas Day." In total, 33 volunteers made the event possible by either driving guests to and from the centre or volunteering at the centre during the day – some doing both. Trevor Olding, one of the organisers, said: "Many stories in the press concentrate on problems in our society, but seeing the generosity of people to give up their time on and leading up to Christmas Day to make it special for others shows that there are very many people with a kind heart. "We are so grateful for the support from Age UK in making their premises available to us." At the end of the day, guests were given biscuits and chocolates to enjoy at home– along with some very happy memories. The event is supported by local churches, individuals and businesses including Waitrose, the Co-op in St Thomas, the Fish Supper House and Mayfields greengrocers in Whipton. Additional contributions from Alphington Sainsbury's, M&S Exe Bridge and Tesco Metro were also gratefully received. Topsham New homes OUTLINE planning permission has been granted for nine new homes on the land to the north of Wessex Close. However, the city's planning committee heard that the developer, if the scheme is to go ahead, would have to negotiate access with the Ministry of Defence as it leases what are private roads into the site. The scheme had received 26 objections and a resident told the planning committee that there had been "inadequate notice"; an earlier scheme for 15 homes on the site had been withdrawn and replaced with one for nine but the city council's planning website continued to show that the scheme had been withdrawn. Committee member Cllr Kevin Mitchell said: "I am a little bit concerned that this is encroaching on the Topsham gap – the distinction between Exeter and Topsham should be maintained. "However, as we have already granted planning permission for homes for a neighbouring site it is difficult to refuse." The committee approved the proposed scheme which will see the main trees, which are the subjects of a group Tree Preservation Order, retained. And more... PLANNING permission has been granted for up to 63 new homes at Bricknells Bungalow, off Old Rydon Lane. The city's planning committee had earlier deferred a decision to allow members to undertake a site visit because of concerns about road safety raised by residents. The committee was told that narrowing the road further by the introduction of a footpath would slow speeds but councillor Rob Newby, a member of the committee, said he thought the fact the road was well used by walkers and cyclists would go out the window if the scheme went ahead. University Time to Change The University of Exeter is joining a growing number of companies committing to end the stigma and discrimination against people with experience of mental health problems by signing a pledge with Time to Change, a programme run by the charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness. University Provost Professor Janice Kay, who signed the pledge, said: "The Time to Change organisational pledge demonstrates a serious commitment to challenging stigma and discrimination against mental illness across the university. "Through this we seek to promote a better understanding of mental health problems while offering support and welfare advice to both students and staff." The signing is a direct legacy from the university's Grand Challenge theme "No health without mental health". Grand Challenges is a week-long summer programme in which Exeter undergraduates work together in interdisciplinary research groups, alongside top academics, to tackle some of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. This year's topics included mental health, climate change, sustainable food production and conservation. Dr Ali Haggett, a historian of mental illness at the university, who led the mental health related theme, said students spent a week investigating all aspects of mental health, and considering mental health on campus. They examined a range of ideas that might promote wellbeing and reduce stigma towards those with mental health conditions. Dr Haggett said: "Working with staff, they produced an action plan, culminating in the signing of the organisational pledge. We hope that this important commitment will make a real difference to staff and students here at the university." Wonford Volunteers? ANDY Shiach, the youth and community worker with the Wonford and St Paul's Youth and Community Project, is looking for more volunteers from the local area to help with a number of community projects. And the good news is that WASP's Community Action Team can take on a couple of gardens that could do with a little bit of TLC this spring. The gardening Community Action Team is made up of six children from Wynstream school and volunteers which was set up last year and which does some gardens on a rota basis. They have room in their schedules for a couple of gardens which would benefit from a 'one-off' hit. If you would like to volunteer to help with any of the various projects which WASP is involved in or feel you would like CAT to tackle your garden, please contact Andy Shiach (WASP Project) on 07740107600.

POLICE are trying to piece together the last movements of a woman whose body was discovered in the estuary after going missing from her home in Exeter. Officers have been working with the family of the 66-year-old to work out how she ended up in the water at Topsham, and establish the cause of her death. The woman has been identified but not yet named by police. Officers were called at around midday on Friday, January 2, to the dock area near to St Margaret's Church in Ferry Road, following the discovery of a woman's body. Police say they believe she was still alive on New Year's Eve. But her death is being treated as "unexplained" by officers. A spokesman said her family reported her missing prior to the discovery. Officers are now investigating where and when she entered the water. Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Adrian Hawkins, of Exeter CID, said detectives are looking into the woman's lifestyle and routine in case either point to any clues as to why she may have ended up in the water. He said: "At this stage we are still considering how we progress the investigation. "It is normal for the police to make enquiries into any sudden death – by this I mean anyone whose death is not expected. "And in cases in which the circumstances are unexplained, such as this case, CID will generally hold the investigation and work with the coroner's office to piece together the last movements of the deceased person and look into possible causes of death. "We are speaking with the lady's family and friends to learn about her lifestyle and her routine. We are currently content that she was alive on New Year's Eve." Exmouth RNLI inshore lifeboat and Exmouth Coastguard volunteers assisted police after reports of a body in the water off Trouts Boatyard. A spokesman said the woman had been declared dead by paramedics upon their arrival. A spokesperson for Exmouth Coastguards, said: "We assisted the inshore lifeboat crew and HART Paramedics with the recovery. "A difficult start to 2015. Our thoughts are with the person's family." Following the discovery police immediately set about making enquiries to identify the woman, initially seeking assistance from the public and releasing a detailed description of her. Officers subsequently made contact with her next of kin later in the day, who helped in confirming her identity.

LAST year was a momentous, paradigm-shifting year in world events. The overthrow of the Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych in February, after popular protests, and the subsequent pro-Russian separatist movements has put the West and Russia on a geopolitical collision course that has already led to a Kremlin sponsored armed insurgency in Europe, the shooting down of a civilian airliner and sanctions that are weakening Russia's economy. Elsewhere the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa shows the need for the international community to be ever-vigilant against medical disasters that soon escalate in countries without the infrastructure to combat highly contagious diseases. The UK is taking a leading role in defeating this deadly virus and has committed £230m, including more than 70 brave NHS nurses caring for patients in Sierra Leone over Christmas. We are also supporting communication campaigns about good hygiene, particularly in relation to the safe burial of those who have died from Ebola, which is critical in controlling the outbreak. Bashir al Assad continues to barrel-bomb and gas his own people in Syria and the chaos there allowed given some of the vilest jihadist groups to consolidate power and carve out their own "state" straddling the borders of Syria and Iraq. This is the so called "Islamic State" that persecutes religious minorities, massacres civilians and engages in some of the 21st century's most prolific acts of slavery and sexual abuse. The "Islamic State" poses a direct threat to the safety of British citizens with those travelling to Iraq and Syria to wage jihad (holy war) returning home further radicalised and willing to carry out terrorist attacks when they return home to the West. In short, we are living in uncertain times and there has never been a greater need for strong competent UK leadership that will work with the international community to face the challenges of this world and to protect British interests. There is no doubt that under this Government the UK is playing a leading role in addressing global threats to security. Under this Government the UK still has the fourth largest defence budget in the world and Armed Forces equipped with state-of-the-art technology. We are delivering on our commitment to the poorest nations – honouring the pledge to spend 0.7 per cent of Gross National Income as aid while cutting aid to countries that no longer need it. The International Climate Fund was set up by the Government to provide £3.87 billion between 2011 and 2015 to help the world's poorest adapt to climate change and promote cleaner, greener growth. This year will bring new challenges that must be faced and the UK must have a sustainable and robust economy. This Government has backed businesses with lower taxes and better infrastructure to grow the British economy and to create the jobs that will help families be more financially secure. Just one example is the Government's £2bn investment to transform the A303/A30/A358 route into a new strategic corridor to the South West to help with journey times and safety, creating an estimated 1,300 construction jobs. The most important part of this is reducing the deficit, providing businesses and families with stability so they can plan for their future. While there is still more to do and many difficult decisions lie ahead, I am pleased the Government is making progress with the deficit as percentage of GDP forecast to have fallen by a half this year. With the Eurozone stagnating, and geopolitical risks rising, it is more important than ever that we stick with this plan. Indeed, the British economy expected to grow by 3 per cent this year, the fastest growth of any major advanced economy in the world, evidence this Government's plan is working. The growth we are seeing is also more balanced. Business investment has risen by 27 per cent since 2010 and manufacturing is now growing faster than any other sector; with investment set to be up 11 per cent this year. In total, the UK has been the third fastest growing of any major advanced economy since 2010 and in the International Monetary Fund's latest 'World Economic Outlook', the UK is forecast to have the fastest growth among advanced economies over 2014 as a whole. With more than 2 million private sector jobs and 760,000 more businesses since 2010, we are making progress. However, the gains made since 2010 could easily be reversed in 2015. There is still more to do, which is why we need to keep working to deliver more growth and security for hardworking families in Devon and across the country.

Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale will be pleased to welcome David Noble back into the centre of midfield for Saturday's match with Northampton Town. The midfielder has signed a permanent deal at St James's Park having been released by Oldham Atheltic. Noble was already on loan from Oldham but has missed the last four games as his emergency deal ran out prior to the trip to Stevenage on December 20. City lost that match and two of the other three games Noble was missing for over the festive period, and Tisdale does not put that down to coincidence. Noble was also missing for City's first six games of the season when they failed to pick up a victory. "I'm not saying it is that black and white, but he is obviously a crucial part of our team and it will be very good to get him involved with us again," said Tisdale. "He has been made a permanent signing so he is now our player. "We just failed to get that deal through in time for last Saturday, but he will go back into the team for this Saturday and give us a real vital player in the middle of the pitch." Tying Noble down has been one of a number of deals Tisdale has been working on. Alex Nicholls signed on Tuesday, while a deal to make Ryan Harley's loan move permanent is imminent. Talks are still on-going with Clinton Morrison. Harley is likely to line-up with Noble in the centre of midfield this weekend. Tisdale sees Harley as a replacement for teenage star Matt Grimes – who joined Swansea City for £1.75m on Friday – having brought him back for his second spell at the club on loan from Swindon Town. Tisdale said that despite the dip in results over Christmas, it was important for him not to change too much during the January transfer window, so getting the players already at the club onto permanent deals was his priority. "I think at the moment, although we have had a bit of a dip in results the past fortnight, I don't really want to change too much," he said. "My priority going into this period, January and the second half of the season, is to maintain the form we have had up until now. "I will add to the squad if I think there is someone who is particularly suitable, but my priority is to not lose or upset or start to disassemble what we have already got, be it Ryan Harley, Alex Nicholls, Clinton Morrison or David Noble. "Those are the four players who have all got contractual bits and pieces that needed to be secured." Tisdale admitted after Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Accrington Stanley that his side have lost their rhythm – prior to the Stevenage defeat the Grecians had gone nine games unbeaten in the league. However, the City manager has a few ideas of how he can get his side back onto a winning pattern. "The rhythm can go and then come back and sometimes you don't even know why, but I have a feel for it," said Tisdale. "I have got one or two ideas of what we need to work on and talk about. We have had some forced changes in midfield and we have played one or two games on the road that I actually think we could have won, but we ended up losing. "I don't think there is too much wrong. Sometimes you get these spells and I'm disappointed we haven't got more points, but we just have to re-start some of our play and concentrate on what we need to do."

Twelve months ago, Jack Nowell was busy impressing Stuart Lancaster enough to win a starting spot in England's side for the Six Nations. He had played just nine games for the Chiefs that season after being given time to rest his on-going knee condition. However, his consistent form – especially in the Heineken Cup – was enough to earn him his first senior call-up. Nowell is arguably in better form now, certainly when it comes to his attacking prowess as he has scored four tries in his last five league games – double the amount he had scored in his previous 21 Premiership outings. The 21-year-old turned in a dazzling display in defeat against Gloucester on Saturday to show what a threat he is at the moment – beating three tacklers as he sniped away from a ruck to score his side's first try of the game. However, Nowell may find it harder to force his way back in now than he did last year. In 2014, England boss Stuart Lancaster had to assess his options as Marland Yarde and Christian Wade were injured. Nowell and Gloucester's Jonny May were called up and the far more experienced Chris Ashton was jettisoned as the head coach looked to the future. While Nowell has not played for his country since scoring his maiden international try in Italy at the end of the Six Nations, May has inked himself in as he has grown in stature. Anthony Watson, a year Nowell's junior, started against Australia in England's most recent match and has done nothing to deserve to lose his place. Wade is fully fit and his twinkle-toes have been lighting up the Premiership in recent weeks, while Yarde may be fit but not in the sort of form that saw him make his England debut in 2013. All Nowell can do is keep his form going, safe in the knowledge his appearances in a white jersey last season pleased Lancaster and his fellow coaches. Being part of a winning Exeter team would do no harm either, and how the Chiefs could do with a win against London Irish this weekend. Not just because they have lost their last three matches; not just because they have dropped down the table to sixth; not just because losing against the team down in 11th place is not what teams with aspirations of being in the top four should be doing. The Chiefs are entering a period now where their hopes of reaching the European and LV= Cup knockout stages will be decided. Seven days after they face the Exiles, Rob Baxter's men will be in Connacht for the crunch game in their pool. Going into that match on the back of four defeats would hardly be encouraging. Away dates with Newport Gwent Dragons and Saracens are not for the faint-hearted either, and those will be decisive with just a three-point cushion over Harlequins. There were more promising signs in the loss against Gloucester last weekend as the home side did more than enough to justify winning the game. They enjoyed the majority of the possession and created more try-scoring opportunities. Part of their undoing was being unable to take more than three of those – one of which was an 80-metre interception from Billy Twelvetrees' poor pass. Having had another week to put things right in training, if the Chiefs can play with the same attacking vigour as they showed against the Cherry & Whites then they should be able to record that victory they so crave. Amidst all the efforts to get back on the winning trail, Rob Baxter has been able to tie down the services of scrum-half Dave Lewis for another two seasons. The scrum-half has only featured five times this season after suffering an elbow injury in pre-season, having started 24 times last term, but can make a big impact in years to come.

Rob Baxter wants his Exeter Chiefs players to think on their feet more when they take on London Irish on Sunday. That comes after last weekend's 26-25 loss against Gloucester, when the Sandy Park head coach felt some decision making let his side down. The coaches have taken time this week to remind the players they have to adjust their plan as the game unfolds, rather than sticking rigidly to any specific tactics. "It's about not having anything pre-planned," said Baxter. "Some of our exit problems (against Gloucester) were about the fact we'd identified that they often didn't have many players in the first defensive line, and we said if the opportunity arose to move the ball across to one edge and that would probably create some space and maybe a great kicking opportunity or breakaway opportunity. That's fine, but if that picture changes your decision making has to change and that's what didn't happen. "It wasn't that there was no opportunity to play out of our 22 because at times there were, but as they saw us setting up to run and brought players into the front line we had to change our decision, we went through with it and put ourselves under pressure. "That's the key, it's not being pre-planned and saying we're definitely going to do something." Exeter slipped to sixth place in the Aviva Premiership as a result of their third loss in a row, but Sunday's hosts have taken just one win in their last eight league games. Baxter thinks that makes the Exiles potentially tricky opponents as they have nothing to lose. "It's very unlikely they'll get pulled into a relegation battle because people are aware of what's happening at London Welsh and they'll be unhappy with their season to date," he said. "London Irish will come after us like they'll go after a top side, with very little to lose but a lot to gain by starting to climb the table. "We've got to be really looking forward to that because we want to prove we're in the top half of this league right now because we deserve to be and the way we perform and everything we do shows that." The Chiefs could be boosted by the return of lock Damian Welch for the trip to the Madejski Stadium in Reading. The 32-year-old missed the loss against Gloucester with a knee injury but it is not as bad as first feared. However, fellow second-rower Mitch Lees was having scan earlier this week on a hamstring after being forced off last weekend. Phil Dollman also went off with a bang to his head, but Baxter was hopeful the Welshman would recover in time. And the head coach will hope to have his key players fit as he admitted there was now more riding on Sunday's match after three successive defeats. "As you're not picking up points, the points become more important for you," he said.

After a fantastic few months, there's no disguising the fact we've hit the buffers a bit over the last couple of weeks. Three defeats in four games isn't the kind of form which is going to earn us a play-off place. However, while recent setbacks have been hard to stomach, I still think we've got what it takes to challenge for promotion. Our upward momentum might have stalled but, having faced every side in League Two at least once, I am convinced there aren't seven better sides than us in the division. However, it's vital we start moving in the right direction again sooner rather than later and we'll be doing everything in our power to pick up all three points when Northampton Town visit St James's Park on Saturday. For a long time, it looked as if that was exactly what we were going to do against Accrington Stanley on Saturday. Tom Nichols' ninth goal of the season sent us in at the break 1-0 up and, having enjoyed much the better of the first half, we seemed well set for a third straight home victory. Unfortunately, we didn't reach anywhere near the same levels after the break and, while it pains me to admit it, John Coleman's side were good value for their 67th-minute equaliser. They continued to put us under pressure for the next five or 10 minutes but, I have to be honest, I thought we'd weathered the storm. We were, once again, looking the more likely winners when they nicked all three points with a goal at the death. Clearly, there weren't too many positives to take from a home defeat but Clinton Morrison had, by some distance, his best game yet for us – holding the ball up well against a robust Stanley side – and might have done enough to earn himself a longer-term contract. While Clinton's initial trial period is coming to a close, he's a great guy to have about the place and, that aside, his experience at the highest level is something we can all learn from. I'm sure I speak for pretty much everyone at the Cat & Fiddle when I say we'd be delighted if he stayed with us for a little bit longer. Matt Grimes was one of my best mates at the Cat & Fiddle – not to mention my roomy on away trips – and it's fantastic that he's got a move to a Premier League club. What's more, he's a proper talent and I've no doubt whatsoever that, with a bit of good fortune, he will be a huge success at Swansea City. As has been well documented, a number of clubs were interested in signing Grimesy, but it's not hard to understand why a move to the Liberty Stadium held such appeal. The Welsh side play football the right way and in Garry Monk they have a manager who played in all four divisions himself. Therefore he will be more ready than most to put his trust in a 19-year-old whose debut in League Two came little more than a year ago. While there's no denying Matt will be a big loss, the permanent captures of Ryan Harley, Alex Nicholls and David Noble should go a long way towards plugging the gap. While it was, I believe, always the plan that all three should re-sign permanently after their loan deals expired, it's great that all the paperwork is sorted for Alex and David and that Ryan is not too far away from becoming a bona fide Grecian again. All three are real class acts and I'm sure it's no coincidence that our upturn in form coincided with Nobes' arrival from Cheltenham, via Oldham, and that we've fared rather less well during the course of his enforced absence. As you may already know, he's missed the last four games after his loan deal expired and he had to wait for the transfer window to reopen before he was able to re-sign. Frankly, it all seems a bit of a nonsense to me, but thankfully David will be back in contention for a place in the starting line-up at the weekend. Myself and Amy took my mum, Tracey, out for a meal on Tuesday night to celebrate her birthday. She's done a huge amount to help me get to where I am today and it was the very least I could do to show my appreciation. Thanks for everything mum and happy birthday! As I said earlier, it's imperative we get back to winning ways sooner rather than later and I'd ask you to get along to the Park on Saturday if you possibly can. The support we've enjoyed home and away this season has been a huge help to us, especially when results haven't been going as we might have liked. A large and vocal crowd could, conceivably, be the difference between winning and losing. So, if you've got a little bit of red and white blood coursing through your veins, please do try and come along and, in return, I promise we'll do everything we can to ensure your visit to the Park is a thoroughly enjoyable one!

Exeter City's favourite XI has been revealed as chosen by the supporters. The Express & Echo ran an online poll asking fans to nominate their favourite City goalkeeper, defender, midfielder, striker and manager. Kevin Miller topped the goalkeeping poll, Scott Hiley was chosen as the favourite defender, Ryan Harley picked as the most popular midfielder, Tony Kellow as the most cherished striker and Paul Tisdale as the most-liked manager. The Echo was inundated with nominations and managed to complete a top 10 list in each position. Exeter City reporter Simon Larkins has put the most popular choices into an all-time XI, using a 4-3-3 line-up to accommodate the three most popular strikers. Kellow, City's all-time record goalscorer, finished with 31 per cent of the vote in the forward category, which saw him finish well clear of his closest challenger. However, Adam Stansfield, with 11 per cent, and Darren Rowbotham (10 per cent) comfortably finished in the top three. Understandably a lot of the 1989/90 title-winning side featured in the poll, with Hiley, Miller and Shaun Taylor also making the side. John Delve joins Kellow in the side as one of the elder members of the team, while recent heroes Ryan Harley, Matt Taylor, Rob Edwards and Matt Grimes also make the starting XI. The teams is as follows: Kevin Miller; Scott Hiley, Matt Taylor, Shaun Taylor, Rob Edwards; Ryan Harley, John Delve, Matt Grimes; Stansfield, Kellow, Rowbotham.

Dave Lewis wants to help Exeter Chiefs reach the knockout stages of at least one competition this season after signing a new contract. The scrum-half has extended his deal by another two years, keeping the former academy youngster at Sandy Park until 2017. Lewis has only been a bit-part player this term after injuring an elbow in pre-season. The 25-year-old has featured just five times – with no appearances in the Aviva Premiership – having been first-choice last season. But the former Gloucester player is looking to make up for lost time and help the club push for honours. While Rob Baxter's men dropped out of the top four in the league following Saturday's 26-25 reverse against Gloucester, they still top their European and LV= Cup groups. "Injuries are part of rugby and it has been frustrating," said Lewis, who featured for England Saxons last term. "Obviously the injury has held me back at the start, but now I feel I'm getting back to where I was last year and I'm pushing hard to get back into the squad again. "I am not dissimilar to any other player, I want to be playing in the big games, and obviously the chance to play in the LV= Cup final last year, especially at home, was awesome. "Things like that experience, coupled with my time with the Saxons – once you experience it once, you want to experience it more and more. "I just want to get back playing and hopefully push the Chiefs towards the semi-finals of whatever competition we are in. Anything else that follows after that will be a bonus." Lewis has had to bide his time as Will Chudley, who recently signed a new deal until 2018, and Haydn Thomas have shared scrum-half duties. However, head coach Rob Baxter said Lewis will get a chance during the four-week break from league action after Sunday's trip to London Irish, with the final pool matches in the European Challenge Cup and LV= Cup offering a chance to rotate the squad. The Sandy Park boss, who is set to confirm several more players have extended their deals in the coming weeks, said the form scrum-halves will then feature in the next block of Premiership games. "Dave's probably been a bit unfortunate with the injury at the start of the season," he said. "The season started very well for us, Will Chudley has been showing some very good Premiership form and that's meant Dave's opportunities have been limited because Haydn has been doing a good job for us as well. "A bit like in the last LV= and European block, Dave will get some opportunities in the next five or six weeks, we very much see it being a three-way fight between them when we get back out of that block. There's a lot of the season left yet for Dave. "The way he was improving last year meant we were always going to look to keep him. "We feel we have got a good group of scrum-halves here. Haydn is getting a little bit older now and maybe is becoming the elder statesman, but the other two are still young enough and still improving with Premiership game time all the time. "It's exciting for Dave, we'll see a lot of him performing in the next couple of years and there will be some opportunities for him to have a big say on how the rest of the season goes."

Paul Tisdale is set to swap St James Park for St James' Park if betting odds are to be believed this morning. The Exeter manger has become the shock second favourite for the next Newcastle job on several betting websites. The second longest serving manager in the English Leagues moved to 8/1 with BetVictor yesterday evening. Although he is often linked to moves to League One clubs the switch would be a shock o Exeter and Newcastle fans alike. It would appear the price drop may have been affected by BBC 5 Live reporter Ian Dennis after he said on the radio that when "When Alan Pardew was appointed, there was talk of Paul Tisdale at Exeter. So with Mike Ashley, expect the unexpected." In 2010 it was reported that the Exeter manager was one the names under consideration to succeed Chris Hughton at Newcastle. SkySports reported that Newcastle's hierarchy gave Tisdale serious consideration before deciding to go with their initial idea of appointing a manager with Premier League experience. A number of other clubs have looked at the former Southampton midfielder in the past, including Swansea City, Wolves and Portsmouth. Former Newcastle manager Alan Pardew was confirmed as Crystal Palace manager earlier this month. The Magpies fans have been calling for Pardew to be sacked for months and now the 53-year-old is leaving for a team fighting relegation. Remi Garde is currently favourite to take the job at 6/4 at most bookies, Steve McClaren and John Carver are also in the running.

Exeter City's Alex Nicholls says he won't be approaching the game against Northampton Town this Saturday any differently despite only being released by the Midlands club this week. Nicholls, who has been on loan at St James's Park since late November, signed an 18-month contract with the Grecians on Tuesday, having been told he was surplus to requirements at Sixfields. The striker says that other than not celebrating any goal he scores, Saturday's match will be just like any other. "It will be nice to catch up with a few old faces when they come to St James's Park, but allegiances only go so far in football and if I do play I will be looking to get the win over them," said Nicholls. "I don't necessarily want to win the game more. I want to win every game I play in, so I won't approach it any differently." The deal to tie down Nicholls to an 18-month stay was one of two to go through at St James's Park on Tuesday, with David Noble also putting pen to paper on a contract, having been on loan from Oldham Athletic. Midfielder Ryan Harley is also expected to join City before Saturday's game, with the paperwork to make his loan from Swindon Town into a permanent signing currently with the Football League. Clinton Morrison, who is playing on a non-contract basis, will also be eligible to feature this weekend as talks between him and manager Paul Tisdale continue over a new deal. Noble has missed the last four games for the Grecians as his emergency loan ran out prior to the game against Stevenage on December 20. City have lost three matches since then, including a 2-1 defeat to Accrington Stanley last time out, and Nicholls said they are missing the influential midfielder from the side. "He is a massive part of how we want to play," said Nicholls. "He will put his foot on the ball and get us playing and we missed that against Accrington. "We have just got to draw a line under it now, we have got a big game on Saturday against Northampton and we will be looking for the three points then." City conceded an injury-time goal against Stanley to lose a match that they had been in control of for the first hour. Nicholls admitted the defeat was had to take, but drew on some positives from their recent performances. "When you concede so late it's hard and we are bitterly disappointed, but you have to give them credit." he said. "They looked dangerous at times going forward and it is one of those things. "We are looking back at the last few games and, if you take Wimbledon out of it, against Stevenage and Accrington we feel we should be coming away with the points really. "I think we were good value for the 1-0 lead at half-time on Saturday. We could have gone in two or three up with one or two things in the first half and we felt we had control of the game. "If we had come out and got an early goal in the second half, I think the game would have been put to bed there and then. "It is just those fine margins, but we are still there or thereabouts in the pack and if we can put some back-to-back wins together we will get right back in there."

Commuters were hit by heavy traffic in Exeter this morning after one lane of Barrack Road near Heavitree was closed following a collision involving a cyclist. The female cyclist was taken to hospital shortly after 9am with possible neck injuries after the incident involving a blue Ford Ka. Ambulance and police were called to Haldon View Terrace at 8.53am, and one lane was closed as the injured woman was In the middle of the road. The cyclist is believed to have suffered minor injuries in the incident and was taken to The Royal Devon and Exeter hospital.

The road has now reopened.

The A379 in Exeter is currently closed in both directions after concern for the welfare of a man spotted on the wrong side of the railings on the bridge above the road. The busy road between J30 of the M5 and Old Rydon Lane is currently closed because of the incident. Police and ambulance are on the scene. Emergency services were called to Baker Bridge by Sandypark at 9.10am after a member of the public spotted the man. Negotiators are on the bridge talking to the man.Full updates as we have them

The police helicopter was called to the skies above Exeter last night after reports of a missing 21-year-old man. Police were called after concerns for the welfare of the man who went missing from the Exwick area of Exeter. The incident was reported at 10pm last night, the man has not been found but is not believed to be a high-risk missing person. The Exeter based NPAS helicopter tweeted about the search in the early hours of this morning:

2250hrs search of River Exe area for male re concern for welfare, plenty of dark areas but no problem for our camera pic.twitter.com/pW7eJl2i3S

— NPAS Exeter (@NPAS_Exeter) January 8, 2015

The search is described as on going.Updates as we have them

A rugby captain has been ordered to pay £4,000 compensation to a team mate who he attacked after a drunken post match celebration. Samuel Howard received a suspended sentence and was told by a Judge that as the captain of his local side he needed to learn how to control his aggression. The burly forward launched an apparently unprovoked attack on victim Matthew Monaghan, who played at fly half for the same South Molton rugby team. He was staying over at Howard's home and woke in the early hours to find him standing over him and attacking him. Mr Monaghan suffered serious damage to his teeth which has caused him months of pain and led to a £4,000 dental bill. Howard, aged 29, of Raleigh Road, South Molton, admitted causing actual bodily harm and was jailed for ten months, suspended for two years, ordered to do 200 hours unpaid community work, pay £4,000 compensation and receive six months supervision by Judge Phillip Wassall at Exeter Crown Court. The Judge told him he was lucky not to be sent straight to prison and told him:"As the captain of a rugby team you should understand that the last thing you should do is to react to any situation with violence." He also told him he did not accept his explanation that there had been some provocation to justify his assault. Mr Gordon Richings, prosecuting, said the two men had been out celebrating after a game on November 11 last year and eventually gone back to Howard's home where the victim had gone to bed. He said he woke at about 2.30 am to find Howard standing over him. He was hit and slapped and suffered an injury to his top lip which fractured two teeth. Mr Richings read a victim impact statement in which Mr Monaghan said:"This was a completely unprovoked assault which caused considerable dental damage and has caused me distress and caused me pain, inconvenience and considerable financial expense." Mr Gareth Evans, defending, submitted a basis of plea which said Howard suspected there had been contact between Mr Monaghan and his ex girlfriend. He handed the Judge a set of testimonials extolling Howard's work for the rugby club and community in South Molton.