Getting Around

Dawlish is a lovely town to visit and shop. The Dawlish Water runs through the Strand down to the sea with the famous black swans posing for their many admirers along the way. For the less abled getting around is not that easy and everyday excusions to the shops from the carpark can be daunting. Help is at hand through the Shopmobility scheme and with a good crowd of local representatives, volunteers and helpers I joined the launch of "The Tardis" a new building in the corner of Barton carpark where buggies and wheelchairs can be hired by the hour or day. The scheme has been made possible by a donation of land by Teignbridge District Council and a generous grant from Devon County Councillor John Clatworthy plus local fundraising. The new building provides plenty of space for an office and ancilliary accommodation plus a much needed undercover garage store for the buggies.

New Homes - New Start

Working to provide affordable homes in South Devon has many challenges. Wages in the South West are below the national average and it is very difficult for families to find the necessary funds to afford a home. A partnership with Sanctuary Group, the Homes and Communities Agency and Teignbridge District Council has enabled 73 high quality flats and apartments to be developed at Whitelake Place , Newton Abbot providing a mixture of high quality, general rented and shared ownership accommodation, ideal for local people looking to find affordable homes in the area. I was invited to unveil a plaque at the opening of this prestigious addition to our housing stock which gives a much needed boost to the Council's housing provision in this sought after part of Devon.

Sporting Gold

Our own Red Carpet treatment was laid on for the Teignbridge Sports Personality Awards 2009 at a glittering Ceremony at the Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish Warren. Compered by Palm FM's Ben Moseby and accompanied by the beat of MUSE latest Album, the packed audience enjoyed a stunning video presentation of sporting success within Teignbridge over the past year. Nominations were announced in nail-biting order until the winner in each category was revealed. Awards in all categories of sport included Junior and Senior, Team, Coach/Manager, Volunteer and a special Award for sporting achievement for disability. A new Award, the David Vine Award for good sports reporting of Club activities was won by Graham Penn of Teignbridge Trotters. The late David Vine, BBC Sports Reporter lived in Newton Abbot. The Overall Sports Personality Award was won by David Swift the Bob Skeleton Champion and a front runner to be chosen for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Pictured receiving the Trophy on David's behalf is Coach Janice Hindle.

Photolink:http://www.ppauk.com/teignbridgesportsawards2009/ Information from Nikki Taylor nikki.taylor@teignbridge.gov.uk

pictured right with team member Laura Cooper

Celebrating a Hospital's Birthday

From three terraced houses to a new purpose-built community Hospital! A special service in Dawlish to mark the 10th Anniversay of the building of the new Dawlish Community Hospital, a project many years in the making and driven to a successful conclusion by determination and fund raising by the Hospital League of Friends. Opened by The Princess Royal the new Hospital and the Health Centre next door provide a primary care service for the health needs of the local population, greatly appreciated by doctors, staff and patients.

Teignmouth in Concert

Teignmouth, a small seaside resort in South Devon has over the last few years gained a reputation as the place to be for music, classical, rock, big band, jazz, folk, samba and choirs. The Big One this year was A Seaside Rendezvous when MUSE came for that unforgettable weekend in September. A recent benefit concert for Teignmouth Museum saw the town welcoming back the International professor of Harp, Florence Sitruk and Cellist Christoph Bunzendahl who gave virtuoso performances of the works of Bach, Mendelson, Buccherini and of course Teignmouth's own famous Elias Parish Alvars (1808-1849). The Annual Teignmouth Jazz Festival brought in the crowds. Always a big draw for parents is the performance of the Devon Youth Jazz Orchestra, the Carlton Theatre was packed to hear the instrumental talent of the young musicians. Jazz enthusiasts were treated to a packed weekend of traditional, mainstream and easy listening jazz on offer throughout the town in pubs, cafes and the Glorious Chorus Gospel Choir at the United Reform Church. This friendly festival grows each year and is a big boost to business in the town, but it doesn't stop there. Throughout the year Jazz Workshops and Night Club programmes keep the music playing.

Lest We Forget

Remembrance Day was observed in towns and villages throughout Teignbridge.
I attended the Service at the War Memorial in Newton Abbot, the centre of our District and joined Veterans, service representatives and a larger than usual crowd of people of all ages gathered to pay their respects to the dead of two World Wars. The ceremonies this year were particularly poignant following the news of the loss of more of our servicemen men in Afghanistan, including the murder of five soldiers who lost their lives in a senseless shooting by an Afghan policeman in training. The presence of so many young people at the Service on Remembrance Day reminded everyone of the terrible consequences on service families, particularly children who lose their fathers in wars far away. Do they understand?

The Doddi Show

Not what you think! Doddi is not the home of the Diddy Men but is the venue for a unique Art Show in a small village primary school in the Teign Valley called Doddiscombsleigh. The village is also famous for it's treacle mines, but no one will tell you where the mines are to protect the treacle! Every two years at half term, the school undergoes a massive transformation as classrooms are emptied of all things educational and replaced with some of the most stunning art, sculptures and pottery to be found in Devon exhibited by over 50 artists in the South West. Patrons are Michael Morgan and Jonathon Porritt and over £30,000 has been raised over the years for facilities in the school grounds which this year saw the opening of an award-winning sustainable covered play area. Clearly, this is a remarkable school greatly loved and cherished by the local community. Oh!.... by the way. The village pub is called The Nobody Inn..................... but that's another story! http://www.doddiscombsleighartshow.co.uk/

Newton Abbot Civic Service

Newton Abbot Town Council held it's annual Civic Service for the Mayor, Cllr. David Howe in the lovely setting of St. Paul's Church, Devon Square. The theme of the Service was Youth in the Community with young people very much to the fore and a film of local children re-enacting wartime evacuee experiences, complete with period dress, ration books and labels. The polished Choir 86 performed a programme of choral music, including a delightful setting of Leonard Cohen's "Halleluiah"

"A Place for Trees"

How the treescape of towns and villages can be enhanced. This was the theme of the South West Region Tree Warden Forum held in historic Old Forde House and I was very pleased to be able to go along to open the proceedings and greet the delegates who came from all over the South West. The day-long event looked at the pressures for trees in the 21st Century, concentrating on issues of design, planning, village and town issues and creating tree filled spaces in which we can all live. The Warden Scheme of volunteers is overseen by The Tree Council and more information about the Council's work and excellent publications can be seen on the website http://www.treecouncil.org.uk/

Teignbridge Civic Service

It was standing room only for my Civic Service. I chose my own parish Church, St. Michael the Archangel, East Teignmouth. The service was conducted by my Chaplain, the Rev. Graham Stones. The honoured guests included the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Mr. Robin Barlow, Lord and Lady Clifford, Civic heads from all over Devon, uniformed organisations and Council colleagues and officials plus an overflowing congregation of friends and guests who raised the roof to join in the familiar rousing hymns I had chosen, including such favourites as "For the beauty of the earth"and "Mine Eyes have seen the Glory"! The Stover School Chamber Choir CANTABILE rounded off their repertoire with "Boogie, Woogie Bugle Boy from Company B" which was much appreciated by the group of Normandie Veterans. Afterwards the guests were entertained to a cream tea at Bitton House.

South Devon College Awards Ceremony

Still recognising achievements in education I was invited by the Principal, Stephen Criddle, to South Devon College's Day of Celebration when Students of all ages received recognition for their success at the highest level. The morning was taken up with Further Education Awards in Arts & Leisure, Business & General Education, Care & Learning Opportunities and Apprenticeships among the many courses within the curriculum. The Higher Education Awards Ceremony was led by Professor Wendy Purcell, Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive of Plymouth University. The College has made tremendous progress since moving to the new campus in Paignton and has been rated outstanding by Ofsted. http://www.southdevon.ac.uk/

Speech Day at Stover School

This time it was the turn of the senior school to receive congratulations on their achievements throughout the past year. The Prizegiving and Address was given by Pen Hadow, British explorer and author. He is currently working with NASA, ESA the UK Met Office, the Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research and other research and campaining organisations dedicated to global climate change issues. He gave a graphic account of the many setbacks he overcame during his trek to the Geographic South Pole and the theme of his address to the Students was how to overcome disappointments and setbacks to reach individual goals.

Reaching for the Stars

Earth to Universe - Come in please! Civic event with a difference marked an evening in the beautiful surroundings of The Knowle, Sidmouth with dinner hosted by Cllr. Graham Liverton, Chairman of East Devon District Council, Sidmouth the Regency town on the Jurassic Coast and according to the Poet Laureate, John Betjeman "a town caught still in a timeless charm". Timless yes, but also the home of an Observatory founded by Sir Norman Lockyer in 1912 as a centre for astrophysical and geophysical research until the 1980's. Today the observatory is managed by unpaid volunteers to support science education and houses the Kensington 10-inch refracting telescope (1884) marking the start of astrophysics in Britain. With lecture theatre and Planetarium the observatory provides facilities for experimental projects, educational courses, school visits and courses of general interest on the night sky. A visit is highly recommended. For more information contact http://www.normanlockyer.org/

New Business Training Opportunities

From Landfill to Management courses and skills training. Off with the wellies and a drive to the other side of Heathfield to the opening of an important extension of the work of the South Devon College Management Centre. In an increasingly competitive market South Devon College is providing expert advice regarding training and apprenticeships to the business community Courses on offer include Higher Education and professonal programmes, apprenticeships in Hairdressing, Hospitality and Catering, Childcare, Horticulture and Business Administration. For information contact The Centre at 24 Battle Road, Heathfield, Newton Abbot TQ12 6XJ or e-mail business@southdevon.ac.uk

A fresh look at Landfill

Torrential rain, a fierce wind and glowering clouds. Not an auspicious day to visit Heathfield Landfill Site, near Bovey Tracey at the invitation of Lord Clifford of Ugbrooke Environmental Ltd. and Viridor Waste Management. Out came the wellies and the waterproofs and in company with around 4o local representatives we set out on a tour of this 200 acre site to see for ourselves how the disposal of our inert rubbish is handled. No longer just burying the lot in a hole in the ground, regulations in force since 1990 ensure the site is engineered to stop contamination, using clay, bentonite, welded plastic linings and drainage stone to contain the waste and stop water getting in and deadly gas getting out. Currently the site accepts 1,200-2000 tonnes per day. Energy from waste is the way forward and the gas captured goes to the Grid to power electricity. Looking ahead to when landfill is full, future plans include the building of two incinerators in Devon. The highlight of our visit was the display by the two site falconers, who work the site to deter the thousands of seagulls and crows scavanging the rubbish and carrying disease back into the town. Jess, the tiny peregrine falcon enjoyed showing off her remarkable speed. The only one not at all impressed was a buzzard sitting on a post ignoring the whole display.

A Celebration of a New Ministry

It must be a bit nerve racking for any Vicar coming to minister to a new Congregation, in a new Church in a new Town but Dawlish and district turned out in force to welcome The Revd Simon Croft as Associate Priest at St. Gregory's Parish Church, Dawlish together with The Ven. Penny Driver, who is no stranger to Dawlish, as Priest in Charge. The installation was led by the Rt. Revd. Bob Evans, Bishop of Crediton in a moving ceremony and along with others, I was pleased to add my voice of welcome to Simon on behalf of Teignbridge District Council.

Doing the Rounds

As the Civic year moves into autumn my colleagues throughout Devon hold formal Services and functions and welcome fellow Civic heads to join the proceedings. It is a pleasure to visit friends in this lovely County of Devon and we are always given a wonderful welcome and hospitality. We recently travelled to Dartmouth to join Cllr. Melvyn Stone and South Hams District Council at St.Saviour's Church. Following the service we were taken to the impressive Dartmouth Apprentice project where young people learn skills and confidence to run a professional restaurant service in a superbly converted Church building.


Our next visit was at the invitation of the Mayor of West Devon Borough Council, Cllr. Alison Clish-Green to her Civic Service held at the magnificent St. Eustachius Parish Church, in the lovely moorland town of Tavistock. Pupils from the Choir of the famous Kelly College sang the anthem "The Heavens are Telling" from Hayden's Creation - a tricky Choral piece which they performed with confidence.

Not such a Secret Society!

The AGM of the Freemasons Grand Charity afforded me the opportunity to find out the real work of a band of Brothers. I found a room full of beaming gentlemen being kept in order by a businesslike female Chief Executive! How's that for smashing through the glass ceiling! Far from being self-serving, this Charity reaches out beyond the Brethren to donate millions of pounds to non-Masonic Charities. The 2008 Annual Report detailed thousands of pounds donated to good causes as diverse as Ovarian Cancer Action, The Island Trust helping disadvantaged children through sailing, Mobility Equipment Grants, Devon Air Ambulance, Leonard Cheshire Disability, Hospicecare and much more. The Grand Charity has raised £80M since 1981 supporting Masonic and National charities and worldwide emergency relief. All this money is raised entirely within the Masonic movement. More information is available on http://www.grandcharity.org/

Support and Friendship for Families

Home-Start, Teignbridge was formed 20 years ago and is part of a national charitable organisation of 15000 volunteers who visit families at home each week supporting parents facing difficult situations. Teignbridge Council gives a grant each year to this organisation and I went along to their AGM to hear about the year under review. The Teignbridge Group has 76 volunteeers who supported 282 families last year and some of the case studies highlighted in the Annual Report reflect the hard fact that many families and single parents are struggling just to get through each day and benefit from the visits and group activities available. Contact by phone 01626 353700 or e-mail homestart@teignbridge.eclipse.co.uk

French Leave

The lovely Breton town of Morlaix set the scene for the bi-annual twinning get-together between the Rotary Clubs of Teignmouth and Morlaix, an occasion that has been taking place for over 40 years. Morlaix with it's famous bridge and cobbled streets was bathed in mellow autumn sunshine as our hosts gave us the warmest of welcomes and of course their famed Breton hospitality. I was welcomed to the imposing Hotel de Ville by M. Jean-Charles Pouliquen Adjoint au Maire, Madam Agnes le Brun and in the splendid Tristan Corbier Library I conveyed greetings and best wishes from Teignbridge. To mark the occasion I presented a Teignmouth Town Plaque and a History of Old Forde House (built 1610).

Samba! Samba!

The beat of Brazilian Samba bands on the Den set everyone swaying and swinging hips to the hypnotic rhythm of visiting Samba Bands to Teignmouth with exotic dancers bringing vibrant colour and a touch of Mardi Gras to this little seaside town. In between a dance teacher got groups of mums, dads and little ones in a circle to teach the steps and movements of the Samba. The event was brought to Teignmouth by a local resident in support of Childrensaid a Charity who rescue and support the street children of Brazil.

Civic Services

Autumn signals the start of the Civic Service season. The Civic Heads of the various local authorities in Devon (known as "The Chain Gang") visit each area for their annual Civic Service. This gives us all a chance to get to know the home ground of the Civic head and is held generally in the local Parish Church or Chapel. Last week we were invited by Cllr. Roy Lucas, Chairman of North Devon District Council to his service at the ancient St.Brannocks Church in the lovely village of Braunton, followed by lunch in the spacious Isaac Hall at Braunton Community College. Civic duties over, Bill and I set off for a drive around the spectacular beaches in the area, Braunton Burrows at Saunton Sands, Croyde Bay and Woolacombe full of surfers making the most of the surf and wonderful autumn weather.

A Royal Visit

HRH The Princess Royal opens new £80M extension at British Ceramic Tile Ltd. It was a privilege to be represent the District Council on such a prestigious occasion and even more of an honour for myself and my husband to be presented. What a success story this is and one with an important message for our times. The Chairman of BCT Konrad Goess-Saurau and his fellow investors had vision and saw the potential in combining access to an unlimited supply of ballclay on the doorstep with the manufacture of top quality ceramic tiles. First he had to modernise an old fashioned plant and set about creating a fully automated operation. This enabled him to challenge his competitors in Europe by cutting out the need to import raw materials and specialist tiles. Now there is a complete turnaround and BCT supply major developers and household name retailers, plus the lucrative DIY markets as well as reducing his company's carbon footprint considerably.

Armadas Beware - Bowlers About!

The summer season is drawing to a close. We have enjoyed a lovely Indian Summer of warm sunny days and balmy evenings. The Den Bowling Club on the sea front is making the most of playing their final fixtures before the woods are packed away, at least for the outside games. Many still keep bowling during the winter in one of the indoor facilities we have in the area. It has not been like this all the time and we have endured some very unseasonal monsoon-like downpours this year causing havoc to many outdoor events. Undeterred our bowlers are made of sterner stuff and carried on their matches enveloped in white plastic macs and wellies to make sure the Club's position in the League did not suffer through any missed fixtures because of the weather.

Creative Communities

Summer sees the regular calendar of Art and Flower Festivals, crafts and music. I had the privilege of judging the Teignmouth Art Festival and choosing a picture I liked best as a prize for one of the categories. I chose a cheery abstract of sails jostling for position at the start of a yacht race, colourful and full of movement evoking a sunny sparkling sea and the anticipation of taking part. Guaranteed to bring sunshine into a winter's day.

Recently I visited a village Arts and Crafts Exhibition Holcombe near Dawlish. We were basking in a very welcome Indian Summer and the village hall was filled with colour and creativity. Every kind of craft work was on display and the Exhibition was opened by Radio Devon's popular presenter Judi Spiers (pictured) who with myself and other local invitees toured the exhibits and afterwards enjoyed a cream tea in the garden overlooking the tranquil meadows behind the village. A perfect Miss Marple setting!

Battle of Britain Week

2009 has been one of wartime commemorations and anniversaries. The death of two revered veterans from the First World War, Henry Bellingham and Harry Patch received national respect. Teignmouth started the town's Wings Appeal Week by remembering Gerald Henry Edworthy, an old boy of the former Teignmouth Grammar School (now Community College) who as one of The Few with 46 Squadron R.A.F. died in combat over the Thames Estuary on 3rd September 1940, aged 25 years. Mick Florry of The Royal Air Force Association joined me to lay floral Roundels by Gerald's memorial plaque in the College main hall. An official report of the events leading up to the operation, and the graphic descriptions of the dog fights between the Spitfires and the Luftwaffe Messerschmitts was read by pupils in turn bringing home to a new generation the bravery of the young pilots. The official figures of the time reveal "that pilot losses were disproportionately high". Air Commodore Don Harrison OBE Rtd. addressed the pupils on his memories of the iconic Spitfire and presented the school with a model of the plane.

Council Rocks to MUSE

There was a new item on the Agenda at the Council Meeting! There we were, all best suits and formal, me with my Chain on, gavel in hand when clips from A Seaside Rendezvous reverberated round the Chamber as a video of the hightlights of that wonderful concert by MUSE appeared on the screens. It was tempting to go the whole hog, jump up and punch the air but instead Members gave rave reviews and thanks to MUSE for coming home to Teignmouth in such grand style. What was not generally realised was their personal generosity towards local charities, in paticular The Helen Foundation and to my Charity SENSE for deaf/blind young people who can never hear or see a performance like this. MUSE said they wanted to give something back to the town, but they have already done that in spades.

And for our Next Trick ........

Bye-Bye MUSE! Did this really happen on our seafront? Teignmouth folk are just emerging from an unbelievable weekend when a famous Rock Band came to call! Everyone is smiling. The cafes and pubs are a-buzz with gossip about MUSE - who knew the boys at school, who saw Chris Wolstenholme having a tattoo at the Ink Spot, who saw Matt Bellamy walking his dog and who drank with Dom Howard at his mum's pub. Everyone has an opinion about the performances and all want the Council do it all over again. Living on the sea front and inside the Arena area my family had a privileged grandstand view of all the comings and goings and we have been watching with a tinge of sadness as the set is dismantled and the instruments and equipment being carefully packed to go on tour with the band. All we can do now is say Thankyou MUSE - you gave us a magical weekend and our good wishes, support and of course, the fans, will follow you until you next come home to Teignmouth.

MUSE - WOW!!

They came, we saw, they conquered! Teignmouth has never experienced anything like this. Two months in the planning, one week to get the Den Arena ready, the huge stage, lighting rigs, merchandise tents, Arena Bar and of course lots of portaloos! Working with the super efficient S.J.M. Concert promoters, we proved that Teignmouth, a little seaside town in South Devon could punch above it's weight and host two gigs by three local boys, the famous MUSE Rock Band. Thousands of enthusiastic fans of all ages roared their welcome as the Band rocked out numbers from their new Album, Resistance. Two up and coming local bands from Teignmouth, The Quails and Hey Molly had the chance of a lifetime on stage as supporting acts. Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe worked the huge crowd into a frenzy of anticipation until the big moment arrived when Matt Bellamy, Chris Wolstenholme and Dominic Howard appeared on stage and launched into a stunning laser lit performance watched by their families, Teignmouth college friends, teachers, neighbours and just about everyone who had tickets for the shows or could find a perch on a balcony or rooftop to cheer the boys on. Hands punched the air and ten thousand pairs of feet stamped to the beat rattling the furniture in the stately Georgian and Victorian terraces curved around the Arena. We are all still on a high!

Hospital and patient support

Newton Abbot Hospital League of Friends has been celebrating sixty years of serving NHS patients by working to provide funds initially to provide additional patient comforts. Friends' contribution to the work of the NHS nationally now involves raising many thousands of pounds to fund the latest X-Ray machines, physiotherapy equipment, CT Scanners and in some cases complete operating theatres, working at all times with Consultants and clinical staff to prioritise the needs of a particular Hospital. Twelve months ago Newton Abbot saw the completion of a new 60 bed hospital complex at Jetty Marsh, leaving behind the much loved but unsuitable old Wolborough Hospital buildings that have served the town for so many years. The Friends have once again rallied round to fund essentials for the new Hospital and in particular the creation of a quiet room named The Sanctuary which gives relatives and patients a peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle of a busy hospital.

Devon Open Studios 2009

For two weeks 5th-20th September artists studios all over Devon open their doors to enable visitors to experience the freshness and variety of the work created by the hundreds of talented artists. Sculptures, graphics, stained glass, ceramics, wood furniture, creations in cob, felt and willow at Farms for City Children. Full details of artists studios, maps and directions are contained in the beautifully illustrated and informative Guide produced in collaberation with Devon County Council, Teignbridge District Council and other local authorities in Devon and the Devon Artists Network. For more information log on to http://www.devonartistnetwork.co.uk/

MUSE Concert build-up

Excitement is mounting in Teignmouth as the reality of the gig preparation gathers pace on the Den. Residents have seen nothing like it. Construction crews, riggers, security, huge cranes and delivery trucks are appearing daily and the "Seaside Rendezvous" set is gradually taking shape. MUSE are at a secret venue rehearsing for the Teignmouth gig on 4th and 5th September and immediately after that they leave for a mammoth tour of the UK, Europe and the USA. The weather forecast looks promising and we are all keeping our fingers crossed that the Met Office has got it right for a change!

Singin' in the Rain

Well not exactly! but at the kind invitation of the Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Cllr. Ken Foster and together with other civic heads from Devon and Cornwall, we were invited to the Theatre Royal, Plymouth for a wonderful production of this popular musical built around songs composed by Arthur Freed and produced by the famous Louis B. Mayer. We all have memories of seeing the film starring those greats of the Hollywood Musical, Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor and Debbie Reynolds. Hearing once again those favourite toe-tapping numbers, "You stepped out of a Dream" "Make 'em Laugh" "You were meant for me" and the evergreen "Singin' in the Rain"performed in great style by Tim Flavin as Don, Jessica Punch as Kathy and Graeme Henderson as Cosmo proved that this show has lost none of it's magic over the years. For a full list of Shows and the Christmas Panto Aladdin contact the Theatre Royal www.theatreroyal.com

MUSE are coming to Town!

Local Boys Make Good! The hugely successful Rock Band MUSE are returning to their home town of Teignmouth to play a Gig on the Den, the open grassy area on the sea front. The boys, lead singer Matt Bellamy, Dominic Howard and Chris Wolstenhome were raised in Teignmouth and went to the Community College where they joined together to make music. The band are calling the event "A Seaside Rendezvous" to launch their latest album prior to a tour of the UK, Europe and the USA. Tickets for Teignmouth fans were made available locally and the queues quickly built up 24 hours in advance to snap them up. I went along to chat to the waiting crowds and found a carnival atmosphere among the people, young and old, patiently waiting. There will be two concerts on the 4th and 5th September. What a weekend that will be!

Dawlish Carnival and Air Show

The highest accolade for this summer's entertainment must go to Dawlish. A packed week of well organised, first class events thrilled the thousands of spectators. All the usual carnival activities were on show with something for all ages. A packed programme featured the Wakefield Majorettes, a superb display from a group visiting Dawlish for over 30 years. All the fun of the fair and the Carnival procession. The highlight of the week was the Air Show, this year bigger than ever and featuring the main stars, the Red Arrows led by the classic Avro Vulcan, the only one in existence. Restored at a cost of £8M by the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, this majestic example of British Aviation history finally took to the skies again in June 2008 and joined the Red Arrows here in the little town of Dawlish in Devon. Magnificent!

Flower Shows and Prize Vegetables

The Bovey Tracey Horticultural Show is down the road from the Stover Canal. With a backdrop of the old bridge and the imposing former water mill there was a real country town atmosphere at the Show. All the favourites were on display from flower arrangements to marrows, pottery and paintings and lots of entries by schoolchildren plus a super dog show! Devon cream teas were in great demand and all the prize winners beamed as they were presented with cups and trophies for their efforts.

The Stover Canal

An Open Weekend at the Stover Canal proved to be a real eye-opener! The Stover Canal Society was formed in 1999 and is dedicated to restoring the canal as a living monument for all to enjoy. With the permission of Network Rail and Sibelco (formerly Watts Blake and Bearne) ball clay works, the debris of 70 years of neglect is being removed from the canal. The work is undertaken by regular volunteer working parties, taking care to preserve existing habitats and developing new ones in areas that have been cleared. The Stover Canal was built by James Templer who saw an opportunity to transport ball clay from the Bovey Basin to Teignmouth Docks. Granite was transported from the Haytor Quarries on Dartmoor. Lignite, iron ore and pottery from Bovey Tracey was also transported down the canal. The canal itself is 2 miles long over its entire length rising 19'3" through 5 locks. More information can be obtained from http://www.stovercanal.co.uk/ The Society slogan reads - "Built by our Grandfathers. Preserved for our Grandchildren". A worthy cause indeed.

Reduce Re-use Re-cycle!

This catchy slogan heralded a day of fun with serious message. In common with all local authorities Teignbridge is charged with reducing the amount of waste going into landfill sites by promoting and enabling every household to re-cycle as much as possible. There is already a concerted effort to reduce the number of plastic bags in shops and supermarkets but we still have to keep getting the message across. Earlier in my Blog I reported on the superb work of TRAIL and their Wearable Art Show. This Summer Fest was a day long feast of entertainment and fun for children and families. Puppet Shows, a band using instruments made from pipes, tins and barrels. Children dancing with the Jiving Lindy Hoppers, and the hilarious giant Scotsman, Rory with his hound Ochrie causing mayhem on the Prom with a few well-aimed squirts! Two giant seagulls pushed the message that it is not a good idea to feed them. If food is too easy to find, they will forget how to fish! Currently TRAIL has exhibitions of sculpture and art on display in Teignmouth, Dawlish and Shaldon.

Burma Star Remembrance

August is the time to Remember the Forgotten 14th. Together with the Mayor of Newton Abbot, David Howe, I joined members of the Teignbridge Burma Star Association to lay a poppy wreath at the War Memorial remembering the end of the War in Japan 64 years ago and comrades in arms who fought the forgotten war in the jungles of the Far East. In particular those prisoners of war forced to build the infamous Burma Railway. Supported by the Royal British Legion the Burma Star Association now has only six surviving members locally who are determined to continue to honour their friends and comrades until the last man.

Teignmouth Regatta

Continuing the nautical theme. Teignmouth Regatta is about serious sailing competitions but there is plenty to entertain landlubbers as well. Races, treasure hunts, Punch & Judy, pavement artists, a rowing race up the River Teign to Newton Abbot Quays for the Barham Cup and stiff competion in the off shore Seine boat and gig races. Teignmouth can boast the largest Rowing Club in the UK with over 500 members, all keen to show what they can do and plenty of lady rowers can testify to the benefits of rowing to keep in trim! Teignmouth rowers take part in the rowing races held in the Scillies each year. The evenings down on the River beach are packed with revellers enjoying the Regatta barbeque, a tug of war, home-made raft races, music and plenty of liquid refreshment to keep everyone going.

Shaldon Water Carnival

Across the Teign Estuary lies the lovely Regency Village of Shaldon. Every year they run their own version of a Carnival. It is not the street variety, but a fun packed procession of boats of all sorts, from dinghies to cruisers dressed overall, sailing round and round the estuary sporting all kinds of whacky themes and making a great deal of noise in the process. There are plenty of spectators crowded on to Shaldon and Teignmouth River beaches cheering them on - oh and the pubs on both sides do a roaring trade too!

Schools Out!

Carnivals, Regattas, Fun Days and Punch and Judy!! Time to kick off the main summer events with a week packed with fun, music, entertainment and It's a Knock Out. Yes Teignmouth Carnival is here again with lots to do for all the family The pace is non-stop with all the fun of David Rowlands Fair adding to the colour and excitement leading to the finale and the Grand Procession of beautifully decorated floats carrying Carnival Queens and Princesses who have come from a wide area of Devon to show off their displays. What a lot of work and effort goes into each float! The end of Carnival Firework display lit up the estuary with plenty of ooh's and aah's from the crowd as each rocket burst overhead.

Wearable Art?

An intriguing evening was promised when I attended the Carlton Theatre for an evening billed as the Wearable Art Show. I had no idea what this was all about but as I was to present the prizes to the winners I was ready for anything! What a show it was! Fabulous garments worn on stage by enthusiastic models but these garments would cause a sensation on any professional catwalk! No high value couture here - low production costs and nil costs for fabric and materials. The Show was the highlight of the TRAIL 2009 season http://www.trail.org.uk/ The TRAIL organisation was started in a small way by Liz Lockyer and like minded friends to demonstrate that recycling can be glamorous. The gorgeous outfits and dramatic themes certainly proved the wisdom of never throwing anything away! Pictured the show stopping "Bubblewrap, the next generation" with the futuristic model dressed entirely in bubblewrap plastic! Beats the black rubbish sack anyday!

A magical evening at the Opera

S.E.N.S.E. Devon, my Chairman's Charity for the deaf/blind is a well respected Charity and enjoys the support of New Devon Opera who describe themselves as "a small scale opera company but one worthy of international standing" www.newdevonopera.co.uk On a rare rainfree summer evening we gathered in the Courtyard at the home of Lord and Lady Clifford of Ugbrook House, Chudleigh for a performance of La Boheme. The setting was simple, the time the 60's hippy scene, but the superb performances of the opera stars Michaela Bloom (Mimi) Arthur Swan (Rodolfo) plus a lively supporting cast and the orchestra led by Conductor and Director Dr. Paul Foster all combined to produce a magical evening of music and atmosphere in the historic surroundings of Ugbrook.

Top Score for The Grecians!

It was a pleasure to be a guest at a Reception hosted by Devon County Council in honour of Exeter City Football Club's promotion to Division One of the Football League. Exeter City enjoys good support not only from fans in Exeter, but also from the wider Devon and we all toasted their well deserved success. Another good reason to celebrate was the launch of a new partnership between the County Council and The Grecians to promote sport and Devon as a tourist destination.

Changing Places

A new use for a neglected Pavilion in Forde Park was the order of the day when I was invited to open the newly refurbished venue to provide a wider community use in this lovely area of Newton Abbot. Teignbridge Council and the Police have joined forces to increase the use and range of activities available for young people. Combined with this initiative is the refurbishment of the tennis courts to create a top class all weather area for groups such as the Police Cadets to use for organised sporting activities. Regular use of the Pavilion and outdoor facilities by local organisations and young people will improve the quality of life of residents and young people in the park.

Royal Garden Party

An invitation from the Queen! I was privileged to represent the Council at a Garden Party hosted by Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace. A colleague Cllr. Mary Mugford and our respective husbands enjoyed a perfect afternoon joining 8000 guests at the Palace soaking up the atmosphere. We were greatly impressed by the superb organisation ensuring that everyone had an opportunity to see the Queen at close hand, working her way through specially invited guests to be presented, supported by the Duke of Edinburgh and other members of the Royal Family. Strolling through the vast grounds, past the lake and the Rose Garden and seeing behind the familiar front of Buckingham Palace was really special.

Singday 2009

The Really Big Chorus of 2009 saw singers from all over the UK and as far afield as The Balearic Islands, Spain, Ireland and even Bahrain gathered at the Royal Albert Hall for the yearly Singday to support The Alzheimer's Society. What an experience this is - the atmosphere, the sense of occasion and the sheer joy of joining 2000 singers brings enthusiasts back year after year. This year we sang Vaughan Williams O BE JOYFUL IN THE LORD and John Rutter's REQUIEM with the composer himself conducting. The soloist was soprano Mary Bevan. A real treat was Vaughan Williams THE LARK ASCENDING with Violin soloist Thomas Gould. You could not hear a pin drop during his exquisite performance. Want to know more? Check the website http://www.trbc.co.uk/ or write to Concerts from Scratch Ltd. PO Box 4211, Bath BA1 0H, England. Hope to see you next year, especially tenors and bass!

Golf - but not as you know it!

A Charity Golf Evening was recently held at the superb Adventure Golf Park on the sea front at Teignmouth to raise funds for my Charity SENSE Devon, for the deaf/blind. What a turnout we had with 70 friends and colleagues turning out to compete against the challenges of a course full of hidden bear traps for the unwary putter. Tunnels, pools, unexpected slopes and diversions but everyone had a great time, a lot of fun and lots of money was raised.

Royal recognition for Business

The Queen's Award for Enterprise-Innovation was presented on behalf of Her Majesty by the Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, Mr. Eric Dancer to two successful local companies who have achieved the highest standards in manufacturing. Centek Ltd. of Newton Abbot produce casing centralisers and stop collars, used to position casing when drilling oil and gas wells and SRA Developments Ltd. based in Ashburton, leading innovators of ultrasonic products for medical applications. Devon is home to many innovative and world beating companies seeking to relocate away from the major cities bringing skilled job opportunities adding to those in our traditional industries of tourism and agriculture.

End of Term

It's that time of the year again and so far I have attended two Speech Days. Stover School, Newton Abbot and Trinity School, Teignmouth. Both schools are highly regarded Independent Schools attracting pupils from across the world to join students from this country. Teignbridge is very fortunate to have a wide choice of good schools whether in the Independent or State sector and our children are very well served by dedicated teachers who ensure that the objectives of the national curriculum are achieved and students reach their personal goals by winning places at University or choosing much needed skills training at local Further Education Colleges. Congratulations to all our students and enjoy a well earned holiday.

New Youth Centre for Dawlish

Great excitement in Dawlish when the first dig was made in land donated by Teignbridge District Council to build a brand new flagship youth resource centre. The new centre should be ready by next spring and will be a place of leisure yes, but also reaching young people who lack the necessary skills to meet the challenges of working life. Computer skills, hairdressing, basic building techniques and additional educational opportunities will be provided alongside social skills.

Lighting the Olympic Flame in Devon

Devon Games to Inspire: The first large scale Games event was held in Barnstaple on 5th July and teams of young people from every corner of Devon competed in front of an enthusiastic crowd all hoping to catch some of the excitement and opportunities building up to the Olympics. The Games are part of a wider vision to engage the people of Devon in the Olympic spirit under the Banner TEAM DEVON www.teamsouthwest.co.uk/devon Taking Part is the key to opening the door to new opportunities and young people of all abilities are encouraged to participate.

....and talking of Volunteers

Twenty five years of persuasion, cajoling and nagging by a determined group of Volunteers in Teignmouth came to a triumphant conclusion on Independence Day, 4th July 2009 when the historic Orangery building in the grounds of Bitton House was re-opened after a major restoration. Local Authorities have a responsibility to ensure that historic buildings in public ownership are maintained to at least minimum standards but sadly funding is not always forthcoming. Persistence paid off for the Friends of Teignmouth Orangery when Teignbridge District Council agreed to pay for a major overhaul of the building which is used as originally intended nurturing plants from all over the world. Built in 1842 the Orangery is a rare example of it's type still in use in the country and yes, it does house an orange tree whose fruit is made into marmalade and sold to raise funds for the upkeep of the plants!

Volunteer of the Year Awards

To be invited to the Bishops Palace Gardens behind the Cathedral is quite an honour and on a lovely warm June summer evening, we went along with many other Civic heads and representatives from business and voluntary organisations to the first Awards event held by the Devon Community Foundation. The Bishop of Exeter graciously presented the Awards to individuals who give their time freely to help others less fortunate in our communities. There were four Categories involved: helping people with special needs: helping young people: helping older people and a Young Volunteer Award. As the Bishop so rightly said, it should never be thought that because volunteering is free, that does not mean "cheap". These Volunteers are unsung heroes and without them local groups helping local people simply would not exist.

Armed Forces Day in Teignmouth

The Royal British Legion in Teignmouth work hard to raise funds for the welfare and support of veterans of past and present conflicts. Armed Forces Day in Teignmouth was a day when the town turned out in force to celebrate and commemorate shared memories of personal bravery and sad loss when parts of the town received a direct hit from enemy aircraft. Two special presentations were made. One to a member of the French Resistance, Ferndnand Davoult, whose couragous actions saved the lives of many servicemen trapped in occupied France. The other was to our own local hero Piper Bill Millin, who on D-Day, armed with nothing but a set of bagpipes and Scots determination, marched along the beach in Normandy playing his pipes encouraging our troops forward in the face of ferocious enemy firepower. The German forces manning the guns thought he was raving mad but respected his courage. Bill's actions on that day are immortalised in the film Saving Private Ryan. The picture shows Bill receiving his Town Plaque from Lord Clifford of Chudleigh in his capacity as Honorary Colonel, Royal Devon Yeomanry.

More about the Chairman's Charity

S.E.N.S.E. in Devon supports and campaigns for children and adults who are deaf/blind. My Blog so far has recorded the many occasions I have attended which have been full of colourful spectacle, wonderful music and singing, the sound of children laughing and playing - everyday events taken for granted by the majority but cruelly denied to children who grow up isolated by this double sensory loss. 2009 is the 25th Anniversay of the Devon Branch of S.E.N.S.E. started by Peter and Mary Holman, whose son was born deaf/blind and who now enjoys independence and purpose through the help of the inspirational work of this Charity.

S.E.N.S.E. provide specialist information, advice and services to deaf/blind people, their families, carers and the professional staff who work with them. A new facility in Exeter, Providence Court, provides an Outreach base, services and activities to people living at home. Working with the deaf/blind requires particular and specific skills which although rewarding and fulfilling is very expensive to provide, particularly keeping up with specialist technology.

I hope the work of S.E.N.S.E. touches you and maybe you would like to help. There are two links on my web-page with more information and contacts or you can send a donation direct to The Chairman's Charity, Teignbridge District Council, Forde House, Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 4XX. Thank you for reading this

Thanks to our Armed Forces

Armed Forces Week: The start of this week was marked with the raising of the Armed Forces Flag at Forde House. Members and veterans from the Royal British Legion joined myself and Cllrs. Mike Walters and Joan Lambert to honour the flag which will fly over Forde House during the week. Major events to mark the week were also taking place in Exeter and Plymouth.

Afternoon at Ugbrook House

Garden Party at Ugbrook House: Bill and I attended Ugbrook House and gardens where theProvincial Grand Lodge of Devonshire held a garden party by invitation of Lord and Lady Clifford of Chudleigh. The Royal Masonic Trust raise many thousands of pounds for charity and one of the charities to benefit from this wonderful event is my own Chairman's Charity S.E.N.S.E. for the deaf/blind. A full programme of events included concerts in the Chapel, a Marine Cadet display and the Soundhouse Brass Band were followed by a scrumptious Devon tea

An amazing day

Exeter has seen nothing like this: a crowd of 5000 gathered on the Cathedral Green to commemorate the sending of Bishop Eadwulf to Crediton in 909. His Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams led the Celebration Eucharist in a joyous ceremony of renewal with songs, hymns and drama and the Bells of the Cathedral's South Tower rang out to mark the occasion. The welcome was given by Bishop Michael of Exeter who was joined by the present Bishop of Crediton, Bishop Bob and Bishop John of Plymouth plus a whole army of clergy drawn from Devon parishes who helped disribute the bread and wine to what can only be described as a biblical multitude!

A significant tradition in Exeter Cathedral Church is the choral tradition which has provided music at the daily services for over 800 years. The singing and music was specially composed to mark the occasion by the Cathedral Director of Music. Everyone was entranced by the skill of the puppet operators bringing the giant ecclesiastical puppets to life . Formalities over, the day continued with lots of entertainment to suit all ages. Evening saw some rousing songs of praise from a crowd still wanting more, ending with the ever popular swing music of A.J.'s Big Band. Truly an Amazing Day and I was privileged to be there.

Singing by the sea

Songs of Praise: "Bishop Bob" comes to Town! Sunday, 14th July continued the Exeter Diocese 1100 year Anniversary celebrations with a programme of hymns and songs on the Den, Teignmouth. The weather was glorious and a good crowd sang along with Bishop Bob and the Rev. Graham Stones of Teignmouth

Christianity in Devon 909-2009

"Heaven in Devon": This month sees the celebration of 1100 years of Christianity in Devon with the arrival of Eadwulf, first Bishop of Crediton in the year 909. To commemorate this significant event a full programme of visits was arranged throughout the Exeter Diocese which includes a large area of the Teignbridge District. I represented the Council at Bitton House, Teignmouth for a discussion afternoon with the current Bishop of Crediton "Bishop Bob". All sections of the community were present including our Member of Parliament, Councillors, voluntary and uniformed organisations, Youth Forums and the Senior Council. The theme of the afternoon was how to engage and interact with all sections of the community in a rapidly changing world

Folk Fest for Teignmouth

It is always a delight to see and hear traditional English music and dance all around the town and doubly pleasing for me to receive an invitation to the opening concert at the Carlton Theatre. The Folk Festival receive support from the Councillors' Community Fund and Teignbridge residents and visitors certainly get full value for money from this fantastic weekend. Everything was laid on from Punch and Judy for the children, Sea Shanties, Folk Groups, and Morris dancing in the streets. Quirky names like The New Rope String Band, The Widders and Paddy's Whiskers appeared with traditional Morris groups including Shuffle the Deck, Heather and Gorse, Green Willow Clog and Knockhundred Shuttles among the many non-stop performances.

Party in the Park

Saturday, 13th June proved to be a very lucky number for the Teignmouth Hospital League of Friends who held their bi-annual Party in the Park Fete to raise funds for patients in the Community. I have had a long association with the Teignmouth League of Friends and was delighted to be invited to open the Fete and even more pleased when I heard that over £1,000 had been raised. The focus of patient care within the NHS has shifted considerably over the past decade with more priority given to helping people stay in their own homes. Volunteering in Health work hard to meet the needs of patients and are always looking for more willing folk to assist in this vital work.

Lest We Forget

Remembering Comrades: The weekend of 6th June 2009 marked the 65th Anniversary of D-Day and the Normandy landings and we saw on our televisions Piper Bill Millin of Dawlish, immortalised in the archive films of that Day, being given back the original bagpipes he doggedly played as the troops poured on to the beaches whilst facing the onslaught of enemy guns.

On Sunday, 7th June I represented the Council at a moving ceremony called Decoration Day held in Wolborough Cemetery, Newton Abbot. The timing had to be exactly precise as an identical ceremony was taking place across the world by Comrades in Arms in a town called Medicine Hat, in Alberta Canada, organised by the Royal Canadian Legion. Tributes were paid to the fallen by the Mayor of Newton Abbot, Cllr. David Howe, Armed Services and representatives from local organisations planted simple wooden crosses at the foot of each white headstone lined in military precision within a peaceful memorial garden area.

Future Olympians

Sails Away! An invitation to the Starcross Yacht Club based at Powderham Point for the presentation of the Volvo Champion Club Status flag and plaque. The Club occupies an idyllic position on the Exe Estuary, perfect for introducing young people to the skills of dinghy sailing. The Volvo Award is hard won and to achieve this highly valued recognition the Club had to satisfy a very strict criteria of team work, respect for others, and sailing proficiency under RYA rules. Especially important is that the young trainees are supported totally by a backup team of dedicated volunteers. The Commodore and Flag Officers organise training, sailing races and events throughoughout the year for all the family to join in. To see so many children and young people,their faces shining with delight at the Club's achievement was a real tonic. They listened enraptured to visiting Olympians Ben Rhodes and Stevie Morrison who came along for the presentations and to give the children inspiration that sailing excellence at international level was achievable. Well done everyone!

Respects to a former colleague

The start of the month saw my official attendance at the funeral service of former Teignbridge District Councillor Bill Oxburgh who served the residents of Moretonhampstead, Devon for a number of years. Tributes from his family remembered the long life of a highly respected professional engineer, farmer, devoted family man and stalwart of the community.

Chairman's Blog 2

Thank you for so many messages of congratulation on my appointment to the Chair of Teignbridge District Council. More about future plans later, but now down to business.

Friday, 22nd May proved a very crowded day. I had a very early start for my first engagement at the Edginswell Business Park, Torquay at the foundation stone laying ceremony for the impressive office complexes to house Chartered Accountants, Francis Clark and Solicitors Kitson Hutchings under construction by contractors Mansell. The Teignbridge boundary lies at the edge of this new development and our area will most certainly benefit from the additional employment opportunities within easy travelling distance along what is hoped will be the new Kingskerswell By-pass.

Adrian Sanders MP for Torbay performed the opening ceremony together with Mayor Nick Bye. Adrian seemed somewhat relieved to be back in Devon after the hothouse atmosphere at Westminster and the daily revelations about MP's expenses. Everyone agreed that major developments such as this will attract high quality businesses to the whole of the South Devon area.

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We had a couple of hours to spare and paid a visit to Luscombe Castle, Dawlish for the Hospital League of Friends annual fundraising coffee morning. What a joy it was to be able to enjoy the magnificent grounds and exquisite gardens forming the backdrop to the lovely castellated home of the Hoare family whose ancestors have lived there for over 200 years. The peace and tranquillity of this lovely place was all embracing and it was hard to believe that the hustle and bustle of the busy town of Dawlish was literally over the garden wall.

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Off then to Devon County Show and an invitation to a cream tea with Chairman Cllr. John Rawlinson. Remembering the deluge last year it was such a relief for the Organisers to know that the weather was set fair for the whole period of the Show. I spotted our own Peter Bromell on BBC Spotlight the night before, beaming from ear to ear, escorting the Earl and Countess of Wessex around the showground. It was good to see so many familiar faces and to see local exhibitors and businesses represented. I hear that attendance at the Show broke all records with over 100,000 visitors boosting the local economy by over £160M. Wonderful stuff and congratulations all round!

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Bank Holiday weekends are full of local events, all run by dedicated people giving their time and energies for the benefit of others and raising lots of money for good causes. Saturday, 23rd May saw Tina Graham and her team at Volunteering in Health out in force in Teignmouth for a Charity Fun Day to raise awareness and funds for local patient services. Rotary was there with a Shelterbox tent displayed to demonstrate how help gets to people affected by natural disasters when the big green boxes full of practical survival essentials are hauled up mountains to reach communities isolated after an earthquake.

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I want to get about to local events so Bank Holiday Monday, 25th May took us to the annual Ram Roasting Fair in Kingsteignton. We joined the thousands flocking to Oakford Lawn to celebrate this ancient festival when the village was spared from starvation following a drought. It was baking hot but the young girls dancing around the Maypole made sure that their ribbons finished up perfectly untangled and back in the right place. Tony Beard the Wag from Widdecombe, welcomed everyone in his rich Devonshire dialect and did the honours by crowning the May Queen.

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Tuesday 26th May I was delighted to go to Dawlish Warren to see the 2009 Blue Flag raised proclaiming once again that the beaches and seawater were clean, safe and up there with the many famous beach resorts throughout Europe. RNLI Lifeguards now patrol our beaches watching over the safety of swimmers and beach users. With their distinctive bright red uniforms, state of the art equipment and the best look out Tower on the sea wall, visitors can be confident that safety is a priority not only at Dawlish Warren but Dawlish, Teignmouth and Shaldon also.

CHAIRMAN’S BLOG – MAY 2009

It is a curious feeling to find myself sitting in a raised position in front of a roomful of my Councillor colleagues who have elected me as Chairman of Teignbridge District Council for the year 2009/10. Why curious? Well for one thing the usual debating challenges aimed by colleagues at each other during the course of the past year are missing. No contentious issues, no scores to settle, no last minute surprises.

Instead I presided over the smooth transition of the Chairmanship from Cllr. David Weekes to myself in an atmosphere of genuine support and goodwill from all sides of the Chamber. I was touched and humbled by the tributes and congratulations delivered by colleagues and feel honoured that they unanimously expressed confidence that I will represent the best interests of Teignbridge and the changes we all strive to make for the benefit of the people we represent.

In accepting the Teignbridge Chain of Office, I have committed myself to represent and champion all that is best about the Council I have served since 1979. Supported by my husband Bill, himself a former Teignbridge Councillor we are very much looking forward to getting out and about visiting as many places in the area as possible, seeing what people are doing in their own communities to foster opportunities and improvements with the help of the professional support of Teignbridge Officers who work hard to advise and guide groups and organisations through the forests of paperwork which can be complicated and daunting to enthusiastic volunteers.

I have seen many changes since I was first elected a Teignbridge District Councillor in May 1979. In those days Council meetings were held in the former Newton Abbot Council premises at Kingsteignton Road, Kngsteignton. All other principal offices were scattered around the District. Eventually we had the opportunity to secure ownership of Old Forde House and plan the development of the office complex we occupy today. Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh came to formally open the House and grounds as our new base. I think we can rightly claim that the coming together of all strands of local government in Teignbridge on this campus at Forde House has strengthened and evolved the partnerships and working relationships we now enjoy with the business community, residents and neighbouring authorities.

Now more changes are on the horizon and I do not just mean a possible General Election! Whoever is in charge at Westminster will be deciding whether the current system of local government administration in Devon should continue unchanged or be re-born as a unitary organisation. We are in a period of some uncertainty but I know everyone here, Councillors, Officers and staff will continue as always to oversee the business of the Council and further the interests of everyone living in the District. In my role as Chairman I will continue to raise the profile of the Council throughout the area, taking the view that until someone says otherwise, it is Business as Usual!