Local News

• Handbrake incidents cost police £30,000

  Devon and Cornwall Police have spent 30 thousand pounds in the last six months repairing damage caused by staff failing to apply the handbrakes of police cars properly.

• Exeter City Council to spend 2.6 million pounds tackling damp and mould.

  It's emerged that more than 300 council homes need work.

• Brain tumour awareness campaign in Devon schools.

  A drive to alert parents to the symptoms of childhood brain tumours is underway.

• Rubgy World Cup organising committee in Exeter.

  They'll be at the university to meet local residents who've put themselves forward as volunteer stewards and helpers when three of the international matches are played at Sandy Park next year.

• Teenage motorcylist dies in Mid Devon crash.

  He was traveling on the A3440 just outside Uffclume at around 10.40pm.

• Dispersal order helps tackle anti-social behaviour

  Police have been given extra powers to tackle street drinking and other anti-social behaviour in Exeter city centre. .

• Loss of youth centres 'will put youngsters at risk'

  A local youth worker is raising concerns that the loss of youth centres across Devon will leave children and teenagers vulnerable to crime.

• Local police praised for prudent spending cuts

  Audio

  Devon and Cornwall police have received a good report on the way they've achieved massive spending cuts in the four years to 2015.

• Fluminense 0 Exeter City 0

  All that way for goalless draw!

• Woodbury residents evacuated

  Major fire at village car breakers: 10 fire crews attend

• Multi-million pound flood defence scheme on show

  There's another chance to see the design of Exeter's £30m flood defence scheme today.

• Art award for Devon youngsters in care

  A group of Devon youngsters who have been living in care, have won an award at an event in London to showcase their art work.

• Exeter MP critises tenant eviction

  The MP for Exeter has criticised the circumstances in which more than 40 tenants were suddenly evicted from their homes in the city this week.

• Call for national stalking register following conviction of Exeter man.

  Joseph Willis was jailed yesterday for attempting to kill a woman he'd stalked for five years.

• Man arrested on suspicion of burglary in Exeter

  Police were called to a house in Danes Road just after 9pm last night.

• Exeter men arrested in national anti-paedophile operation

  Four people have been arrested in Exeter as part of a huge national police operation against people who view paedophile material on the Internet.

• Enquiries continue into fatal Exeter crash

  Enquiries are continuing after an elderly woman died after being in collision with a cyclist in Exeter.

• Pressure to upgrade SW rail line

  A group of MP's and council leaders will today be pressing the government to upgrade the rail line in the South West.

• Grecians lose to Reading

  Exeter City narrowly lost their first game of the season at the hands of Reading.

• Camilla officially reopens Central Library

  Duchess of Cornwall surprises readers and is serenaded with 70s' hit song

• Alternative rail routes 'poor value for money'

  A report on alternative rail routes to the vulnerable coastal line at Dawlish has been released this afternoon.... and has concluded that they all offer poor value for money.

• Local NHS seeks ways to reduce spending

  The organisation which buys 80 per cent of healthcare in Devon is looking for ways to save money, as it's facing an overspend of nearly 15 million pounds this year.

• Exeter Chiefs owner to get degree

  The man, who's in charge of the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club, is to receive an honorary degree from the city's University.

• Woman dies after being hit by Exeter cyclist

  An elderly woman has died after colliding with a cyclist in Exeter.

• Canoeist rescued in Exmouth

  A canoeist has been rescued after getting into difficulty near Exmouth's Marina.

• Exeter man faces dog cruelty charge

  An Exeter man is due in court later today charged with animal cruelty after a dog was hanged.

• Exeter new flood defence schemes go on display.

  A series of exhibitions begins today on the design of the second phase of the 30-million pound initiative.

• Beavers might be able to stay in River Otter.

  The fate of the colony of beavers, the first seen in the UK for 500 years, has been the subject of much debate.

• Exeter City top of Fair Play League

  The football club's come out on top when it comes to respect and fair play.

• Woman rescued from River Exe

  A disabled woman has been rescued after getting into trouble in the River Exe at Topsham.

• Pressure for police death answers

  The family of a man, who died after collapsing in a police cell in Exeter, will meet England's Chief Prosecutor today.

• Fire in West Hill Garage

  Six fire crews are tackling a blaze in a garage at a house in East Devon.

• Disruption to Devon's schools and public services

  There'll be widespread disruption to schools and public services across Devon today as union members join a national day of industrial action over pay and pensions.

• Appeal for witnesses after disturbance at station

  Police investigating an assault on a railway passenger and threats directed at train staff at Exeter's Digby & Sowton station are appealing for witnesses.

• Danny Coles stripped of Exeter captaincy

  Coles sacked as captain and placed on transfer list

• Exeter's blooms are judged

  Exeter's bid for a Britain in Bloom award is being judged today.

• Future of East Devon's Beavers discussed

  The MP for East Devon is meeting DEFRA officials later today... to discuss the future of the colony of beavers living on the River Otter.

• Millions of pounds for Devon's economy

  Tens of millions of pounds of government investment in Devon and Somerset has been announced this morning.

• Thatch fire in Ide

  Building hit for second time in two years

• Exeter RAMM funding welcomed

  This week's news of Arts Council funding for Exeter's Royal Albert Memorial Museum has been welcomed by the local councilor for city development.

• Armed Forces Day in Exmouth

  Residents of Exmouth are showing their support for the military today

• Exeter Bus Station celebrates 50 years

  Vintage buses will be seen out on the streets of Exeter today as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of the city's bus station.

• Flood prevention advice on offer to people in Topsham today.

  It'll offer information about property protection equipment, and the grants and finances available for repairs.

• More than half a million of pounds to be spent helping victims of crime in Devon and Cornwall.

  Police and Crime Commissioner, Tony Hogg, has identified, which voluntary groups should be the priorities, and the money from Government will be used to support them.

• Exeter based Met Office ask for money for a new super computer

  Officials say they need the state of the art equipment to ensure their weather forecasts are as accurate as possible.

• Exeter's successful bids for Arts Council funding

  Exeter's Northcott Theatre, Phoenix Centre, Royal Albert Memorial Museum and Bike Shed Theatre have all been awarded Arts Council funding for the next three years.

• LIfeboat goes to aid of fishing boat

  Exmouth's new Shannon lifeboat's been in action, after a fishing boat began taking in water off Sidmouth.

• Two face drugs charges after police operation

  Two men have been charged with possessing Class A drugs in Exeter.

• Naked cyclists brave storms

  Starkers riders cheered in High Street as Exeter gets a little behind

• Exeter historic football match paintings on display

  East Devon school children are seeing the paintings of Exeter City's famous football match against Brazil go on display in the Cathedral.

• Design of new Sidmouth gym in the hands of locals

  Residents of Sidmouth are voting today on the design of their new free outdoor gym.

• Graveyard restoration progress revealed

  A group working to restore a historic graveyard in Exeter are showing off their work today.

• Business confidence booms in Exeter

  Exeter businesses are reporting the highest levels of confidence since September 2007, according to the local Chamber of Commerce.

• Design team sought for bus station redevelopment

  Plans for a new swimming pool and leisure centre on the site of Exeter's dilapidated bus station have moved a step closer.

• Lessons learned after boy dies from Sepsis

  Devon's NHS says work's underway to improve the care of patients with a disease called Sepsis, which is a widespread inflamation caused by an infection.

• Savile abused woman at former Exeter hospital

  Grim details of Jimmy Savile's abuse have been revealed in the most comprehensive reports yet into his behaviour. 28 different hospitals, including one in Exeter, have published the results of their inquiries into his assaults.

• Seaton Jurassic given cash from Heritage Lottery Fund.

  The visitor attraction has secured more than 620 thousand pounds.

• Steep increase in the number of horses and ponies suffering abuse in Devon.

  The RSPCA had to rescue 34 last year which is a rise of 200 per cent.

• Exeter University students raise record amount.

  Fundraising activities through the Students' Guild brought in more than 174 thousand pounds.

• Bottle attacker sought

  Police issue photo of man who attacked 18-year-old with bottle in Club Rococo

• Exmouth RAF man killed by armoured vehicle

  Inquest hears that six-and-a-half tonne 'Jackal' driven by unqualified driver

• West End comes to Exeter

  A top West End theatre producer has agreed that children in Exeter can perform one of his shows

• Dawlish storm damage to go down in history

  A group who're creating a permanent record of the devastation caused to Dawlish by the winter storms and flooding is holding its first meeting this afternoon.

• Exeter celebrates Armed Forces Day

  Hundreds of servicemen and women are preparing to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Exeter with a march through the city centre.

• £6,000 mirror stolen from auction house

  Police are appealing for help to trace a man believed to have stolen a valuable Chinese mirror from an auction house in Exeter.

• Firefighters limit blaze damage to city pub

  A fire at an Exeter city centre pub isn't thought to be suspicious.

• New team tackles problems on Exeter streets

  A new 'street enforcement team' is being introduced in Exeter.

• Government gives Devon money to fill potholes

  The County Council has been awarded more than nine million pounds to help repair the thousands of potholes caused by bad weather and flooding.

• American remanded in custody on sex charge

  An American man has been remanded in custody accused of grooming a fourteen year old girl, who was found at Clyst Honiton.

• Exeter City fixtures revealed

  Details of Exeter City's fixtures for the coming season have been released this morning.

• Fathers protest at Exeter Cathedral

  There's been a Fathers for Justice protest at Exeter Cathedral.

• Fathers 4 Justice scale Exeter Cathedral

  'Pray for Children' say protesters

• Dawlish woman awarded MBE

  A Dawlish woman has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours, for co-ordinating much of the support for local residents evacuated from their homes in the winter storms and tidal flooding.

• Michelmore's run raises £25k+

  Final amount yet to be calculated - but everything looking positive for huge boost for Macmillans

• Prince Harry pops up at Lympstone

  HRH supports rehabilitation scheme

• Exeter boy comes up trumps

  Whipton Barton pupil heads to London for card game final

• Prospective independent MP hits the road

  Claire Wright to tour East Devon asking what people want out of their MP in the next parliament

• Brazil ready for Exeter's footballers

  Excitement's growing in Brazil ahead of Exeter City's visit next month.

• Deaf Academy recruits fundraising volunteers

  An army of volunteers is being recruited by Exeter's Royal Academy for Deaf Education, as it prepares to launch a major fundraising campaign.

• Water company urged to use profits to help struggling bill-payers

  An organisation representing water consumers has called on South West Water to make more effort to improve customer satisfaction.

• New police powers help protect domestic abuse victims

  Police in Devon and Cornwall have got new powers to help victims of domestic violence and abuse.

• Young rugby stars shine at Twickenham

  Ten young tag rugby players from Broadclyst primary school have won their Aviva Premiership Rugby Schools match at Twickenham... in front of 82,000 spectators.

• German WW2 bomb found in Axminster

  An unexploded Second World War bomb has been found in a garden in Axminster.

• Rehearsals ongoing for Football Musical

  Preparations for an innovative musical in Exeter are said to be going well.

• Profits soar at South West Water

  South West water's profits have gone up by a massive ten point eight per cent.

• Tribute paid to coach crash victim

  The family of one of the two Exmouth women killed in a coach crash earlier this month have released a tribute to her.

• Local councillor sets her sights on Westminster

  An east Devon councillor has announced that she's running as an MP in next year's General Election.

• Exeter stalker victim to help with specialist training

  An Exeter woman who was attacked by a man who'd been stalking and threatening her for five years is to help train a new network of specialist advisors -= and may also help train the local police.

• Woman sold fake cosmetics on eBay

  An Exmouth woman who sold fake and unsafe cosmetics over eBay has today been given a four month suspended prison sentence.

• Discussions continue after County Show cancellation

  The Devon County Show's organisers say there'll be discussions in the coming weeks and months on whether changes need to be made, to prevent a repeat of Saturday's cancellation.

• Plans for Broadclyst school criticised

  Teachers' Union opposes free school outside local authority control

• Cullompton robber sought

  Man grabs handbag in late night attack

• Campaign highlights danger of boat fires

  Boat owners in Devon are being targeted in a safety campaign by the local fire service this week.

• Council reclaims flat from nuisance tenant

  A council tenant in Budleigh Salterton's been evicted for anti-social behaviour.

• Proposal for new free primary school in Broadclyst

  A new four hundred and 20 pupil primary school could to be built in Broadclyst.

• Pupils get involved in Brazil football match commemorations

  East Devon school children are learning about Exeter City's famous football match against the Brazilian national team.

• Commissioner wants volunteers to play a bigger role in policing

  Devon and Cornwall police are to recruit an army of volunteers to help keep communities safer.

• Police reduce number of child arrests

  The number of children arrested by Devon and Cornwall police has fallen dramatically over a five year period.

• Shock and grief at death of 12 year old girl

  Tributes are being paid to a 12-year-old girl who died after falling from a wall at an Exeter youth club on Friday evening.

• RNLI's former coxwain is Pride of Devon

  Exmouth hero wins lifetime achievement award

• Barn destroyed in Broadcyst

  60 firefighters battle blaze in building with hazardous fertilizer

• All shall have prizes (except the Lib Dems)

  Labour, Conservatives, UKIP and Greens all get seats in South West Euro elections

• Devon County Show cancelled

  Accident leaves two in hospital

• Success for Labour in city council elections

  Exeter's Labour party are celebrating this afternoon after increasing their seats on the city council, following the local elections.

• 'Men's Shed' tackles loneliness in Exmouth

  An initiative to help isolated older men in Exmouth get out and socialise is proving a success.

• Extra police on duty for Bank Holiday weekend

  Devon's police have launched a special operation to keep the public safe over the Bank Holiday weekend.

• Injured man hits out at 'over-complicated' benefits system

  An Exeter man who injured himself at work and had to claim benefits says the current welfare system puts up far too many obstacles.

• Restorative justice system to be extended

  Communities across Devon and Cornwall could soon be able to decide how people are punished for minor crimes or anti-social behaviour.

• Polls open for Exeter City Council election.

  73 candidates are standing - 13 for each of the Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat parties, 12 for the Green Party, nine for UKIP, and eight for the Trade Unionists and Socialists Against Cuts.

• Exeter's re-vamped library opens

  More than four million pounds has been spent transforming the building into a twenty first century facility, with a business and information hub.

• Devon County Show celebrates 25 years at Westpoint.

  The celebration of farming, food and the countryside is on for the next 3 days.

• Drink ban at Exeter Respect festival

  This year's Exeter Respect festival will be an alcohol-free event.

• Firefighters highlight risks caused by hoarding

  Firefighters in Exeter have been raising awareness of the dangers of over-cluttered homes today.

• Event raises funds for military charity

  A Royal Marines charity that helps medically discharged veterans into work is more than two thousand pounds better off after Exeter businesspeople held an auction.

• Five Exeter Chiefs players named in England squad.

  A quarter of the squad in Stuart Lancaster's team that will report for training with England at Teddington on Sunday are Sandy Park players.

• Calls for more money for Devon and Cornwall Police

  Eleven enquiry offices are being closed, including those in Exmouth, Honiton and Tiverton to save money.

• Men who plotted to kill Joss Stone at her Devon home appeal length of jail sentences.

  Three judges at the Court of Appeal in London will hear challenges by Kevin Liverpool and Junior Bradshaw.

• Calls for cuts decision in public

  The opposition Liberal Democrats on Devon county council say a special meeting hasn't solved the problem of secrecy in the authority.

• Police to close enquiry offices

  It's been announced that eleven of Devon and Cornwall police's enquiry offices are to close to save money.

• Church service for coach crash victims

  A special Mass will be held at All Saints Church in Exmouth this evening to remember the two women, who died on a coach crash in Cornwall.

• Guildhall redevelopment approved

  Planners give green light to £7 million scheme

• Coach driver bailed

  The 57-year-old driver whose coach trip ended in disaster bailed until August

• Coach from Exmouth crashes in Cornwall

  Emergency number: 0845 155 8155

• Teenager assaulted on bus

  Police have released details of a sexual assault on a teenager on a bus in East Devon.

• Loud music woman to be evicted

  Magistrates in Exeter have ordered a woman to leave her home after complaints about very loud music.

• Fire in Exeter bin store

  A building used for storing bins in the centre of Exeter has been destroyed by fire.

• Devon's fire service underspent

  Devon's fire service will report an underspend of more than two point six million pounds at a meeting later this week.

• National recognition for Tiverton teenager.

  A government Minister is paying tribute to a teenager from Tiverton, who's just won a top national volunteering award.

• Woman rescued from River Exe

  A woman's in a critical condition after being pulled from the River Exe near the Port Royal pub in Exeter.

• Exeter men accused of Manslaughter

  Two men are appearing at Exeter Magistrates Court today following the death of a man at the weekend.

• Starcross patients remembered

  Nearly 30 years after hospital closed, memorial is planned

• Pride parade set to be biggest yet

  Giant rainbow flag to float from St James Park down High Street

• Birds land woman with fine

  An East Devon woman says she won't pay an eighty pound fine for feeding birds.

• Exmouth's new lifeboat arrives

  Exmouth gets its new long awaited lifeboat today.

• Don't worry: the sting won't kill you

  Council says jellyfish invasion not dangerous to humans (but probably best not to pick them up)

• Six City players chopped

  Manager Tisdale wishes luck to those whose contracts are not renewed

• Lifeboat rescues woman in sea at Orcombe Point

  HM Coastguard calls for RNLI assistance to pull unconscious female from water's edge in Exmouth

• Rare Bird shot in East Devon

  Police are appealing for information after a rare bird of prey was shot dead in East Devon.

• Robbery in Tiverton

  An eighteen year old has been robbed at knifepoint in Tiverton. Cash and a mobile phone were stolen in the attack, which happened just before one O'Clock yesterday close to the entrance to the people's park. Noone was hurt. Police are keen to trace five school children, who may have witnessed the incident. The man they're looking for is described as white, aged 18 to 25, thin and wearing a grey hooded top and black tracksuit bottoms.

• Globe Inn, Topsham, burgled

  Easter Monday snatch of thousands of pounds

• Newton St Cyres Healthwatch wins award

  Prince of Wales prize heading for village

• Exmouth land train will honour one of town's much-missed sons

  Shortlist of four at www.facebook.com/radioexe

• Ticket details announced as Rugby World Cup countdown begins

  Exactly five hundred days before the start of the Rugby World Cup 2015, ticket sales details have been announced.

• Tickets go on sale for theatre festival

  Exeter's annual Ignite festival of theatre is launched today - with tickets going on sale for dozens of events over six days in June.

• Traders hear benefits of BID scheme

  Exeter city centre traders have been hearing how they'd benefit from the setting up of a Business Improvement District or BID.

• Lifeboat team reach fundraising target

  Exmouth's RNLI have succeeded in raising their target sum towards the cost of the new Shannon lifeboat's launch and recovery vehicle.

• Crime figures report 'could undermine confidence'

  The policing inspector for mid-Devon has raised concern that the controversy over the recording of crime figures will undermine public confidence in the good work police do.

• Police thwart organisers of rave near Tiverton

  Police say a call from a member of the public enabled them to prevent a large illegal rave from taking place near Tiverton over the weekend.

• Funding boost for bowel cancer research

  Lives are likely to be saved after funding was granted for a pioneering health research programme in Exeter.

• Crimes 'significantly under-reported' in Devon and Cornwall

  An interim report on 13 police forces, including Devon and Cornwall, raises serious concerns about the way the crime rate is measured.

• Exeter area hit by firefighters' strike

  Exeter is likely to be among the areas of Devon worst affected by the latest series of firefighters' strikes - starting today.

• Meet Joanna the giraffe

  Zoo's visitors pick name for calf

• Changes to special needs education affect WESC

  Staff at the West of England School are hearing about a dramatic change in special needs education.

• Topsham holiday home nominated for award

  Mede, which is designed for people with dementia and their carers, is in the running for an award from the Alzheimers Society.

• Police investigate car supermarket fire in Exeter

  Six crews tackled the blaze which broke out just after 0530 at Hendys on the Marsh Barton Industrial Estate.

• Rogue traders given prison sentences

  Two cowboy builders who tried to con an elderly Exeter resident into having an expensive driveway laid have been given jail sentences.

• School hosts international conference

  Exeter's West of England School is hosting an international conference on visual impairment.

• Food festival a success despite rain

  The organisers of Exeter's festival of food and drink say the wet weather didn't spoil the event.

• Work officially begins on controversial Exmouth hotel

  A ceremony takes place today to mark the start of work on Exmouth's new five million pound seafront hotel.

• National village hall conference held in Exeter

  The problems facing Devon's village and community halls are in the spotlight .... as a two-day national meeting and training event takes place in Exeter.

• New cycle route proposed for East Devon

  Proposals have been unveiled for a new cycleway in East Devon, running from Feniton to Sidmouth.

• Devon County Show stands under construction

  Four weeks from the county's main agricultural and family event, contractors move in to set up

• Topsham flood defence work underway

  Government funds help to plug leaks from the Clyst

• Dawlish cafe fire 'started deliberately'

  A fire at a beach cafe in Dawlish in the early hours of this morning is being treated as arson.

• London flights will boost Devon's visitor trade

  The introduction of flights between Exeter and London is expected to bring a boost to the visitor trade all over Devon.

• Money available for sports facilities in Broadclyst

  Sports clubs in Broadclyst are being invited to put forward ideas on how to spend almost 12 thousand pounds.

• Teenagers protest against threat to youth centres

  A demonstration against cuts to Devon's youth centres takes place in Exeter this morning.

• London air link could lead to better public transport

  The new air link between Exeter and London is expected to lead to better public transport links between the city and the local airport.

• Radio Exe bans the advertising of electronic cigarettes.

  Tobacco can't be plugged on the radio, but nicotine can.

• New help for private tenants in Exeter

  A group called Exetra has been set up to champion their rights, and campaign against excessively high rents and agency fees.

• MP for Exeter speaks out in support of hospital.

  Ben Bradshaw is blaming Government funding policies for forcing the city's main hospital to go into deficit - in order to avoid compromising patient care.

• Public meeting on future of Exeter youth centres

  A public consultation meeting's taking place in Exeter today on the controversial plans by Devon county council to stop running its youth centres.

• Food festival begins with After Dark celebration

  Exeter's Festival of South West Food and Drink begins today - with the first After Dark event at Exeter Castle.

• 'Lessons to be learned' from Exeter stalking case

  Devon and Cornwall police say they're undertaking significant measures to improve the support on offer to victims of stalking.

• Exeter to get air link with London

  The Exeter based airline Flybe is to start running flights to and from London.

• New school planned to serve housing developments

  A new primary school in Exeter is expected to get outline planning permission today.

• Village halls invited to apply for grants

  Village halls in East Devon are being offered the chance to apply for funding of up to five thousand pounds.

• Waste water plant set for planning approval

  South West Water looks set to get planning permission for a waste water plant in Clyst Honiton this afternoon - despite some local objections.

• New hospice moves a step closer

  Demolition work begins today on the site of a new day hospice for East Devon.

• Women's hostel sees rising demand for emergency accommodation

  The charity running a hostel for vulnerable women in Exeter says it's seen increased demand for its help, following the closure of the local women's refuge.

• Exmouth cruise firm makes national shortlist

  Stuart Line heads to Blackpool final of coach competition

• Play School was best show ever!

  Exeter University chancellor (and former Play School presenter) remembers the programme 50 years on

• Busy Bank Holiday for fire service

  Cars, sheds, kitchens all in flames on Monday

• 90 police officers to lose jobs

  Fewer job losses than expected under old police authority

• Increased risk from unstable cliffs

  People going for coastal walks in Devon this weekend are being advised to take extra care, because of the instability caused in many places by the winter storms.

• Rise in demand for help from food bank

  The number of people needing help from Exeter food bank is continuing to rise.

• Inquiry after light aircraft crash kills man

  An air accident investigation is being launched after a man died in a microlight crash in east Devon.

• Lifeboat charity urges seagoers to wear lifejackets

  The RNLI is reminding seagoers about the importance of safety equipment, after it emerged that a man who died yesterday when his boat capsized off North Devon wasn't wearing a lifejacket.

• School staff to be helped to spot child abuse

  Devon county council has confirmed that it's working with schools to help teachers and other staff identify and deal with suspected cases of child abuse.

• Exeter Chiefs expecting a 'real battle' this weekend.

  The Chiefs take on Sale Sharks in this Saturday's crunch Aviva Premiership encounter.

• Four due in court accused of attempting to murder Exeter woman

  21 year old Natasha Clarke, 34 year old Kate Williams, 22 year old Leigh Yeo and 48 year old Ragnar Dunn, all from Exeter, are also accused of robbery.

• Police pledge to disrupt Easter raves

  Devon and Cornwall police say they're fully prepared to disrupt any illegal raves during the Easter weekend. They're starting special patrols today in areas likely to be targeted.

• Bookies predict record-breaking summer for Devon

  Bookmakers and weather experts have been slashing the odds on the hottest summer ever in Devon.

• Bike accident kills pillion passenger

  One person has been killed after a motorbike accident near Topsham yesterday afternoon.

• Social services failed to prevent paedophile abuse

  A report has strongly criticised the former management of Devon county council's social services - and given details of how a mistake allowed a known paedophile to continue abusing two young girls.

• Elderly residents enjoy their Spring chickens

  Residents of a Honiton care home will celebrate Easter with some eggs with a difference today.

• Council proposes changes to waste collections

  Food waste could be collected weekly in Teignbridge - along with recyclable materials - if councillors agree to the change this morning.

• Beaches come out top in water quality tests

  Water quality at East Devon's beaches has been given a clean bill of health by the Marine Conservation Society.

• Theatre 'could bring millions to local economy'

  A group campaigning for Exeter to have a new theatre are presenting their plans to interested local residents this evening.

• Lorry driver injured in A30 road accident

  Police are at the scene on a serious road accident on the A30 near Exeter.

• Adoption charity highlights 'overlooked' children

  A campaign's being launched in Devon to find adoptive parents for children in care who've been overlooked in the past.

• Child abuse survivor calls for better education

  An Exeter woman who was abused as a child is calling for better education of staff and children in schools, so that victims find it easier to get help.

• Thief mugs elderly woman on footpath

  Police are hunting a cowardly thief who mugged an elderly woman for her handbag in Exeter over the weekend.

• Storm-damaged Goat Walk to open again for Easter

  Topsham's badly damaged Goat Walk should be restored in time for the Easter weekend.

• Mid Devon crime rate bucks local trend

  Police in mid Devon have achieved a 2.8 per cent reduction in the number of crimes this year - even though the force as a whole failed to meet the 2 per cent target.

• Car park overhaul planned to tackle nuisance drivers

  Boy racers are being blamed for late-night noise at an Exeter car park.

• Council extends solar energy scheme

  More buildings in Exeter look set to have solar panels installed - including the Museum and the Corn Exchange.

• Lib Dems say Teignbridge plan is a "developers' charter"

  Plans for the future of Teignbridge has been described as a 'developers' charter' that will allow huge amounts of new housing to be built in areas including Exminster.

• Teignbridge development plan gets official approval

  The blueprint for future development in Teignbridge has been given the go-ahead.

• MP says Exeter's getting a raw deal over libraries

  The MP for Exeter has expressed concern about Devon County Council's plans to stop funding a number of libraries.

• Devon County Council urged to reverse care home decision.

  Thousands of people have signed a petition objecting to plans to close a number of residential homes.

• Principal of Exeter College elected president of a national organisation.

  Richard Atkins will take over as head of the Association of Colleges in August and still retain his existing job.

• New primary school to open in Exeter.

  The county council has approved a new Church of England Voluntary Aided school in the new housing development of Seabrook Orchards in Newcourt.

• Exeter University scientist helps develop new MRSA treatment technique

  Dr Mario Recker was part of a team from the south west whose research found ways to predict the severity of a case of the infection.

• Council to consult on change to library service

  Plans to turn many of Devon's libraries over to their communities to run are to be put out to public consulatation.

• Donate unwanted tools to a good cause

  Exmouth residents are being asked to donate any unwanted hand tools to a scheme that will eventually see them sent to poor communities in Africa.

• Crime reduction fails to meet police target

  The number of crimes committed in Devon have fallen slightly over the last 12 months, according to police figures released this morning - but they've failed to meet their crime reduction target of two per cent.

• Charity says routine eye checks can save lives

  A Honiton woman's raising awareness of the medical conditions that can be diagnosed early through eye tests.

• Dramatic rise in complaints about councillors

  The number of complaints made about councillors in East Devon more than doubled in the last financial year.

• Campaign to save youth centres continues

  Devon's Youth Parliament are stepping up their campaign against the loss of young people's centres - saying the county council's decision to hand them over to voluntary or community groups is flawed.

• Feniton wins battle against housing developments

  Three housing developers have failed in their attempt to be allowed to build more than 200 new homes in Feniton.

• Man due in court over fatal accident near Tiverton

  A motorist is to appear in court in connection with the death of a road worker from Tiverton.

• Woman seriously hurt in four vehicle crash

  A woman's been taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries after a road accident near Honiton this afternoon.

• Man goes missing from Feniton

  Police are concerned about the welfare of a man missing from Feniton.

• Dawlish rail crisis 'could bring A303 project closer'

  With the Dawlish railway line up and running again, there's a call for better road links in the south west.

• Bishop continues campaign against food poverty

  The Bishop of Crediton's visiting a local charity which distributes food to those in need today, as part of the ongoing campaign by church leaders to tackle the causes of food poverty.

• First stage of Guildhall revamp due for planning approval

  Plans for the first stage of the Guildhall shopping centre revamp go before Exeter city councillors this evening - and are recommended for approval.

• Falconer helps control seagulls in coastal towns

  A falconer has been brought in to tackle the problem of nuisance seagulls in Exmouth, Sidmouth and Seaton.

• 'No room for complacency' on Exeter's economy

  An Exeter business leader says the city's economy may be improving, but local companies can't rest on their laurels.

• Chiefs celebrate LV win with victory parade

  Huge crowds are expected to fill the city centre today as Exeter Chiefs celebrate their LV Cup win with a victory parade down the high street in an open-top bus.

• Public asked to help catch Exmouth fly-tippers

  There have been some serious fly-tipping incidents in Exmouth and the local council are asking residents if they can help identify the culprits.

• Dementia patients take steps to improve wellbeing

  The Westbank Community Health and Care centre in Exminster is holding dance sessions for people with dementia and memory loss.

• Exeter churches join protest against causes of food poverty

  Local church leaders are fasting today to raise awareness of food poverty.

• Prime Minister in Dawlish for rail line reopening

  David Cameron has declared the south west "open for business" again - now that the rail line at Dawlish is back in action. The Prime Minister was in the town this morning

• Exmouth honours councillor with plaque

  A plaque has been laid in Exmouth to honour a popular and hardworking town councillor who died last summer.

• Later shop opening hours begin today

  Many of Exeter's city centre shops will stay open until 7pm on Thursdays from today.

• MP slams NHS cuts to mental health funding

  The MP for Exeter has challenged the health secretary in the Commons over the cuts to mental health funding by the NHS.

• Views invited on new community shopping area

  The developers behind a proposed new mini shopping centre in Exeter are asking people living and working nearby what kind of businesses they'd like to see there.

• Future of small libraries under threat

  It's emerged that the county council is planning to cut its support for 28 of Devon's smaller libraries.

• Council urged to defer care home closure plans

  Devon county council is being urged to delay the planned closure of Exmouth's dementia care home, to give the town and district authorities a chance to explore the alternatives.

• Exmouth to host start of 2014 Tour of Britain

  Exmouth and Exeter are to host the start and end of the Devon stage of this year's Tour of Britain cycle race.

• TUC highlights low wages in Devon

  Nearly a quarter of people in mid Devon earn less than the 'living wage' of seven pounds 65 an hour, according to figures released by the South West TUC today. In east Devon the figure's 22 per cent, and in Exeter just under 15 per cent.

• Hopes for reinstatement of women's refuge

  Campaigners for Exeter's women's refuge to be reinstated say they're hopeful of making progress.

• Streetlamps go off in some residential streets

  The roll-out of Exeter's street lighting switch-off begins tonight.

• Devon Healthwatch helped delay national database

  Privacy concerns mean NHS must rethink automatic 'opt-in' process for medical records

• Tag rugby world cup launches

  20 primary schools in Exeter and surrounding area 'adopt' countries as part of Exeter's legacy programme as world cup host city

• Exmouth mayor marries on historic first day

  Standing-room only for Conservative councillor's same-sex ceremony

• TV gardener gets on board with station revamp

  Dawlish railway station will be full of colourful flowers when it reopens to trains on Friday.

• Exmouth unlikely to get Jobcentre reopened

  The campaign to get a Jobcentre reinstated in Exmouth seems to have hit a brick wall.

• Special meeting to be held to discuss council spending cuts

  Controversial spending cuts by Devon county council are to be discussed at a special meeting in May.

• New 'land train' to start running in Exmouth

  A new land train will link Exmouth town centre to the sea front this summer.

• Demonstrators protest in Exeter against badger cull

  A self proclaimed 'Badger Army' is marching through Exeter this lunchtime to protest against plans to extend the badger cull.

• Exeter man jailed for theft spree on trains

  An Exeter man's been jailed for two years, for stealing passengers' luggage on trains.

• Man charged with Exeter bank robbery

  .A man's due in court today accused of robbing a bank in Exeter high street earlier this week.

• New electric car charging points in city

  There are now four new charging points for electric cars in Exeter.

• Savile inquiry includes former children's home in Exeter

  Devon County Council have been asked to look into whether Jimmy Savile abused children at Colleton Lodge in Exeter.

• Bicton College to open a zoo

  The college is currently applying for a zoo licence.

• Plans for wind turbine in Mid Devon withdrawn

  The structure at Hawkridge Farm in Coldridge near Lapford would have been more than two-hundred-and-thirty feet tall.

• Growing opposition to closure of women's refuge in Exeter

  The charity taking over domestic violence services in Devon doesn't plan to reopen the refuge, preferring to enable abused women to stay in their homes by removing the perpetrator.

• Claims victims of domestic abuse being failed by Devon and Cornwall Police.

  It follows a report by Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary.

• Malaysian police take IT lessons from local force

  Malaysian Police officers have been in Devon this week learning how the High Tech Crime Unit examines computers for child abuse images.

• Teachers' strike leads to school closures

  Teachers are taking action over pay and conditions today - with a demonstration in Exeter and strikes at some schools.

• Grecians complete derby double over Argyle

  Exeter City came from behind to beat Plymouth Argyle 2-1 in last night's away match.

• Exeter Chiefs player forced to quit through injury

  Exeter Chiefs forward Chris Whitehead is having to retire from professional rugby with immediate effect.

• Exeter economy on the up, says survey

  Latest economic figures for Exeter seem to indicate that the city's moving out of recession. Businesses are reporting better sales and profits.

• Free conference for tourism businesses

  Free advice and support are being offered to tourism businesses in the Exeter area today, as part of the Government's flood recovery programme.

• Meeting takes place on future of Exmouth care home

  People concerned about the future of the Exmouth care home Bystock Court are meeting representatives of its owners later to try and find out more about their plans for the site.

• Bank robber takes cash in carrier bag

  Police are investigating a bank robbery in Exeter city centre.

• Pilot receives top bravery award

  An RAF helicopter captain from Teignmouth has been given a top military award for bravery - for managing to land a helicopter damaged by enemy fire in Afghanistan and pick up British troops on the ground.

• Chickens killed as barn goes up in flames

  Around six thousand chickens have been killed in a fire near Aylesbeare.

• Robber steals valuable jewellery from antiques shop

  Police are investigating a robbery at an antiques shop in Honiton.

• Exmouth councillors condemn care home closures

  Exmouth town councillors are united in their opposition to the proposed closures of residential homes and day centres.

• Police recover body from river Exe

  A body has been found in the River Exe in Exeter this morning.

• Software giant hands $25,000 to local village school

  A local primary school's won funding from IT giant Microsoft to carry out an idea it's had to educate pupils in technology and international business.

• EU cash helps rare bird make a comeback

  Collaboration between Europe and local wildlife organisations has saved a rare bird from extinction and brought it back to the local countryside, according to a local Member of the European Parliament.

• New sports facility in Exmouth

  An Exmouth community will have a new multi-use games area within a couple of months.

• 'Happy memories' project achieves record results

  It seems that people in Exeter have a lot of happy memories of life in the city.

• Police crack down on stolen metal

  An operation to reduce thefts of metal in Devon and Cornwall is being hailed a success.

• Flood recovery minister hosts meeting in Exeter

  A government minister who's been appointed to make sure flood recovery goes smoothly in Devon and Dorset is holding his first meeting this morning.

• Giant pothole to be repaired 'within days'

  Villagers near Crediton are being reassured that a giant pothole which has closed a local road will be filled in within the next few days.

• Police investigate fatal car collision

  Police are appealing for witnesses to yesterday's fatal car crash near Axminster.

• Survey probes 'irresponsible' A&E attendance

  The increase in people attending hospital A&E departments with minor medical problems is being investigated by Devon's Healthwatch group.

• Task force set up to explore railway options

  Ways of safeguarding Devon's main railway link, following the severe storm damage at Dawlish, are being examined by a new taskforce.

• MP mocks Tories' 'bingo and beer' budget poster

  The Labour MP for Exeter has joined the widespread online mockery of a Tory poster focusing on the bingo and beer tax breaks announced in the Budget.

• RNLI welcomes arrival of new lifeboat launch vehicle

  Exmouth RNLI have taken delivery of the launch and recovery vehicle for their brand new Shannon class lifeboat, due to arrive later this spring.

• Budget Day worries of charities helping with hardship

  A partnership of charities helping people with money and housing problems in Exeter are concerned that today's Budget will lead to yet more hardship.

• Official reopening of canal after repairs

  The Grand Western Canal and towpath at Halberton are being officially reopened today, following a major restoration project to repair damage during the winter of 2012.

• Firemen set room alight on purpose

  Local firefighters will be starting a blaze later this morning.

• Recruitment begins for Rugby World Cup volunteers

  Recruitment has now opened for a band of volunteers to play a key part in Exeter's hosting of part of the rugby world cup next year.

• Academy spreads the word on sign language

  Exeter residents are being urged to learn a few simple phrases in British Sign Language by the city's Royal Academy for Deaf Education.

• City council backs crackdown on rogue landlords

  Exeter city council is supporting a campaign targeting private landlords who fail to keep their properties in good repair.

• Lower bills proposed by South West Water

  South West Water has announced plans that could see its bills go down by around 13 per cent in real terms by 2020.

• Benefit cuts lead to more youth homelessness

  Welfare reforms and public spending cuts have led to an increase in youth homelessness in Exeter, according to a local organisation working to prevent it.

• Talks continue over closure of women's refuge

  Talks are continuing on the provision of accommodation for domestic violence victims when the Exeter women's refuge closes next month.

• Victory parade planned to celebrate rugby trophy

  The Exeter Chiefs have won a major trophy for the first time in their history, beating Northampton Saints 15 - 8 at Sandy Park to win the LV Anglo Welsh Cup. .

• Freedom of the City for ship's company

  Members of HMS Defender’s ship’s company will exercise their Freedom of the City of Exeter for the first time this morning.

• Sleepout event helps homeless young people

  A mass sleep-out's taking place in Exeter tonight to highlight the problem of youth homelessness - and raise funds to tackle it.

• Rugby world cup 'could boost economy by £5m'

  The Rugby World Cup next year is expected to bring up to five million pounds into Exeter's economy.

• Four remanded in custody on attempted murder charge

  Four people have been remanded in custody today accused of robbing and attempting to murder a 25 year old Exeter woman.

• Distinguished historian receives Royal honour

  An Exeter University historian will be at Buckingham Palace to receive an MBE later today.

• Care home campaigners stage protest

  Campaigners against the closure of an Exmouth care home will be protesting in the town centre this morning (10am)

• MP urges council to reconsider youth service cuts

  The MP for Exeter has made a last minute appeal to Devon County Council ..... to reconsider proposals to close its three local children’s homes and stop running youth centres, in its latest round of cuts.

• Flood planning meeting to take place in Tiverton.

  It's to plan the town's response to future incidents of flooding.

• Exeter charities join forces to offer a one-stop-shop service.

  Six services in the city have got together to be to give out the necessary advice and information.

• Devon and Cornwall Police Commissioner appoints new Chief Executive

  Andrew White has been selected by commissioner Tony Hogg.

• Tourist trade offered expert help after weather problems

  Devon tourism businesses hit by the recent flooding are being invited to free conferences, where they'll be offered expert advice on recovering from the problems and marketing themselves effectively.

• Shipwreck linked to Sir Walter Raleigh

  Tests are being carried out on the wreckage of a ship found off the Cornish coast - which may once have belonged to one of east Devon's most famous sons, Sir Walter Raleigh.

• Missing schoolgirl turns up in Cornwall

  The Exmouth teenager reported missing yesterday has turned up safe and well in Penzance.

• Union condemns potential loss of youth centres

  The country's biggest union has joined the criticism of Devon county council's plans to stop running its youth centres.

• New NHS non-emergency number replaces other services

  The new NHS non-emergency 111 number has gone live in Devon today.

• Tree thief sought in Sidmouth

  Rare fruit tree popular in Tudor times goes missing from council offices.

• Arts project creates 'happiness map' of Exeter

  Exeter residents are being asked to add their happy memories of times in the city to an arts project.

• Work to start soon on St Lukes campus redevelopment

  A 10 and a half million pound redevelopment of part of Exeter University's St Lukes campus has moved a step closer.

• Football charity looks set for funding boost

  Exeter city council looks set to give nearly 20 thousand pounds to the Football in the Community charity.

• Relatives' concerns over care home closure plan.

  Campaigners fighting to save an Exmouth care home for people with learning disabilities have launched an online petition and Facebook page.

• Bicton animal centre will protect rare breeds

  Multi-million pound complex is in iconic building that fits in with prime Devon parkland

• Exeter is one of least affordable cities

  Average house prices rise £6,000 in 2013

• J27 shopping complex welcomed by MP

  Exeter's not particularly happy if it takes away shoppers from the city. But a planned complex off the M5 is good news, says Tiverton & Honiton MP

• Abuse 'isn't just physical harm', say police

  Devon and Cornwall police are carrying out an awareness campaign on abuse ... encouraging people to report it.

• Council steps in to repair damaged flood defence

  A damaged flood defence wall in Topsham is to be rebuilt by Exeter city council, after the Environment Agency said it could no longer afford to maintain it.

• Regeneration cash for two local seaside towns

  Two local seaside towns are to benefit from Government funding to regenerate coastal communities.

• New Chiefs deal for Hill

  Sam Hill has signed a new two-year contract extension at Sandy Park.

• Parking facilities could change in Barnfield

  A public consultation begins today on arrangements in one part of Exeter where there are currently several free two-hour zones.

• Council ask residents to keep streets of Topsham clear

  The Council has made the plea as workers will be out and about tomorrow collecting sandbags.

• Shops and Police joins forces to cut alcohol related crime

  Several supermarkets and retailers in Devon have agreed to work with the region's Police and Crime Commissioner in his battle against booze fuelled incidents.

• Modern-day Lent abstinence for cathedral

  Exeter Cathedral is giving up its floodlights for Lent.

• Police commissioner tackles supermarkets over cheap alcohol

  Devon and Cornwall's police and crime commissioner is meeting representatives of major supermarket chains today.. to discuss sales of cheap alcohol and its link to anti-social behaviour and violence.

• Moves to reduce noise from waste processing plant

  The owner of Exeter's new waste to energy plant in Marsh Barton are taking steps to reduce the noise it's making - after complaints from nearby residents.

• Study identifies risk factors in fire deaths

  An investigation into fatal fires in Devon and Somerset has identified several factors which crop up again and again.

• Storm-damaged rail track to open early

  Trains are to start running along the storm-damaged railway line at Dawlish again, two weeks earlier than expected.

• Missing Sussex man last seen in Devon

  Police are appealing for sightings of a missing Sussex man who may be in Devon.

• Remote-controlled helicopter lost in Exeter

  A remote controlled helicopter being used to take aerial photos has gone missing after coming down somewhere over Exeter. .

• Council may bring in food waste collections

  Food waste collections could be introduced in Exeter within the next couple of years... to reduce the amount going to landfill.

• Launch of new-look station forecourt

  The improved forecourt at Exeter Central station is being officially opened this morning. It's been redesigned to make a better impression on rail travellers.

• Work begins to prepare site of new day hospice

  Hospiscare's new day hospice in Honiton could be up and running within months.

• Emergency bike charity could help shape national service

  A charity that transports emergency blood and organs to Devon's hospitals by motorbike has been invited to Westminister to discuss plans to regulate the service.

• City MP calls for action on 'disgraceful' roads

  Exeter MP Ben Bradshaw is calling on the county council to repair the ever-increasing number of potholes in the city.

• Public can help police fight drug dealing

  Police say the public can help them in their continuing fight against drug dealing in the local area.

• Council welcomes fall in fatal motorbike crashes

  There's been a welcome reduction in the number of motorcyclists killed on Devon's roads.

• Fair Trade produce on offer at market

  The main event of Exeter's Fair Trade Fortnight takes place today.

• Action group formed on closure of women's refuge

  An action group's been set up to explore how Exeter city council will deal with the loss of the local Women's Refuge.

• Devon education bosses ask for an end to postcode lottery on school funding.

  Education leaders in the county have written to the Secretary of State urging him to take action.

• Exeter College rated Outstanding...again

  A recent Ofted spot-check judged has rated the college outstanding for the second time running.

• Part of the South West Coast Path to remain closed

  The section from Ladram Bay to Budleigh has been shut since February 8th and will remain so for at least another 3 weeks.

• Good news on broadband in mid and east Devon

  Several mid and east Devon communities are to benefit from superfast broadband by the end of July.

• Council calls on benefit fraud councillor to resign

  Pressure is mounting on a mid Devon councillor who's been convicted of benefit fraud to resign.

• Anger at 'undebated' council relocation decision

  East Devon councillors fighting the controversial plan to relocate their headquarters to the Exeter Skypark say they were denied the chance to debate it in last night's full council meeting.

• Community groups invited to take over city parks

  A shortage of funding for looking after Exeter's parks has prompted the city council to invite local community groups to take over their running.

• Suspected drug offenders arrested in dawn raids

  Police in Exeter have joined forces with the National Crime Agency to target drug dealing and other offences.

• Cullompton cob buildings continue to crumble

  There's been a further collapse of a cob structure in Cullompton's High Street.

• Exeter celebrates Fair Trade Fortnight

  Two weeks of events promoting Fair Trade are underway in Exeter.

• Devon's roads riddled with pot-holes

  Nearly 12 thousand potholes have been reported on Devon's roads since the start of 2014, according to the county council.

• Coast path at Budleigh closed

  Forget the sea views for now; try the route by the sewage works!

• Zero tolerance of begging in Exeter

  Prolific thieves also targeted in crackdown in Exeter City Centre

• No smoke without fire

  Millions of packets of cigarettes have been washed ashore at a East Devon beach, after a cargo ship lost its load.

• Mid and East Devon businesses burgled

  Spate of thefts in towns across the area thought to be linked

• £300,000 cash for child bike safety

  A third of a million pounds is to be spent in Devon teaching children to ride their bikes safely

• Tiverton pub car park fire

  Trout Inn blaze extinguished overnight

• MP welcomes flood funding

  Neil Parish says grants will help get farmers back on their feet

• Council to call for Government action on transport damage

  Devon county council is to demand Government action to ensure the area's road and rail links are fit for purpose.

• Police investigate spate of vehicle crime

  There's been a spate of vehicle vandalism in mid-Devon. Several vehicles have been damaged but nothing was stolen.

• It stings!

  Device for stopping speeders accidentally spikes innocent tyres

• Devon' council tax to rise 2%

  Devon County Council has increased its share of council tax by two per cent, which will increase the average bill for a Band D home by £22 a year.

• Council urged to oppose badger cull

  Devon county council is being asked to prohibit badger culling on any of the land it owns. .

• Councillors meet to set austerity budget

  Protesters will be targeting County Hall in Exeter this afternoon - as councillors meet to discuss controversial cuts to public services they say are forced on them by inadequate Government funding.

• Chefs hope to curry favour from competition judges

  There'll be hot competition in Exeter this morning in the battle to win Curry Chef of the Year.

• Flood rescue work 'hampered by shortages'

  Firefighters in the south west say their rescue and recovery work during the flooding has been hampered by shortages of equipment and staff ... and inadequate training.

• Dawlish rail repairs will take until mid-April

  Network Rail says repairs to the track at Dawlish will take a month longer than expected, after last weekend's storms caused further damage to the sea wall.

• Performers needed for 'The Day We Played Brazil'

  Actors, singers and dancers are needed for a community play being staged in Exeter later this year.

• 'Shock' over plans to close women's refuge in Exeter

  Plans to close Exeter's women's refuge will be discussed today - as a worried local councillor asks how vulnerable women will be protected from abusive partners.

• Concerns over 'suicide hotspot' in Exmouth

  Orcombe Point at Exmouth could get new signs imploring people to call the Samaritans if they's contemplating suicide.

• Calls for Exmouth jobcentre to be reinstated

  The lack of a job centre in Exmouth will be discussed at the town council this evening.

• Plans for Honiton hotel move forward

  A new hotel looks set to be built on the site of the old Turks Head Lodge Motel in Honiton, creating 25 jobs.

• Local consultation on new housing estate

  People in Exeter are being asked for their views on a proposed new housing development just outside Alphington.

• More storms batter Devon overnight

  Devon is recovering from another night of storm force winds and high tides.

• Land to be turned into community park

  People living near a neglected piece of land near Exeter city centre are meeting today to discuss how it could be used by the community.

• Police and councils call for change in licensing laws

  The police and crime commissioner for Devon and Cornwall is calling for local councils to have more power to refuse licensing applications, if they believe that granting them will increase alcohol abuse.

• Highest level of flood alert for Exmouth and east Devon

  A severe flood warning has been issued for the coast from Exmouth to Lyme Regis.

• New online chat service launched by local NHS

  The local NHS has launched an online chat service for anyone wanting to get information on local health services, or to give feedback on their own experiences.

• Re-route Dawlish railway line, says engineering expert

  With speculation continuing over the future of the Dawlish railway line, a top engineer says in his opinion, it should be re-routed inland.

• Recruitment launched for Rugby World Cup volunteers

  Rugby fans in Exeter are being invited to get involved in the hosting of part of the World Cup next year.

• Local MP supports fight against ivory trade

  A local MP is supporting efforts to tackle the trade in ivory - which leads to tens of thousands of elephants and rhinos being killed every year for their tusks.

• RD&E helps research on unnecessary hospital admissions

  Exeter's RD&E hospital is taking part in a study aimed at reducing the unnecessary admissions to wards of people who come to Accident and Emergency.

• Conference hears of former building industry 'blacklist'

  An engineer who was put on an illegal blacklist by building firms because he highlighted safety problems on building sites is addressing a conference in Exeter today.

• Council welcomes change to emergency funding scheme

  Devon is to benefit from a change in the Government's system for allocating emergency funding, after incidents such as storms and flooding.

• David Cameron visits flood hit Dawlish.

  The Prime Minister was in the town as part of his tour of flood hit areas of the region.

• More people visit Exeter CAB with debt problems.

  The Citizens Advice Bureau is reporting an increase in people needing help with rent arrears, phone and broadband bills, and council tax.

• Fund will offer grants to victims of flooding

  A fundraising campaign's been launched to help people badly hit by flooding in Devon.

• Animated Exeter festival gets underway

  Exeter's animation festival begins today with a variety of events happening between now and the 22nd.

• Schools highlight risks of cyberbullying and sexting

  Schools in mid and east Devon are focusing on the potential dangers of the Internet and social media this week.

• A scheme to help vunerable and elderly residents in Devon to be extended.

  Neighbourhood Health Watch involves GPs, police and businesses as well as charities. forming a support network for those who might otherwise slip through the net of health and social services.

• East Devon District Council could relocate from Sidmouth to outskirts of Exeter.

  The council had been considering four locations - Cranbrook, Honiton, Winslade Park and the Exeter Skypark.

• Environment Agency denies delaying work on flood defences at Dawlish.

  The Daily Telegraph claims agency officials met with Network Rail last month, saying plans to protect the train line at Dawlish were put off so the impact it would have on birds could be looked at.

• A welcome blot on the St James Park landscape?

  Ground staff at Exeter City have borrowed a special machine to try and remove the standing water on the pitch.

• Council leader demands Government help

  The leader of Devon county council is calling on the Government to step in - after the latest damage to local transport links.

• Academic and support staff at university on strike

  Lecturers at Exeter University are staging a third one-day strike today in their ongoing dispute over pay.

• 'Report rough sleepers during storms' says council

  People in Exeter have been asked to help the city council identify anyone who is sleeping rough during the extreme wet and windy weather.

• Valuable parachutes stolen in Exmouth

  Three parachutes worth £18,000 have been stolen from a van in Exmouth

• Young politicians fight youth centre closure plans

  Young people in Devon are fighting the County Council's plans to stop running its 34 youth centres.

• Storm and tide damage, and more extreme weather to come

  Gale force winds and high tides have been battering Devon overnight - with warnings of further extreme weather to come.

• Public meeting on community renewable energy project

  Exeter residents are invited to a meeting this evening by a local social enterprise - to discuss and get involved with a solar power project in the city.

• Crunch match for Exeter City youth team

  Live television coverage and national recognition await Exeter City’s under 21 squad, if they can beat Burnley tonight at St James Park.

• Big changes to meals on wheels service

  People receiving 'meals on wheels' in Devon are to see dramatic changes to the way the service is provided.

• Feniton public inquiry resumes

  The public inquiry into plans for more than 300 new homes in Feniton reconvenes today.

• Council unveils details of day centre closures

  Eight day centres used by elderly people in Exeter, mid and east Devon look set to close.

• Road closed after serious accident

  There's been a serious road accident on the A3052 at Woodbury Salterton

• Third man sought in connection with Dawlish robbery

  Police are appealing for the public’s helping in finding a man suspected of being involved in the robbery of a Dawlish holiday park last summer.

• Former City manager faces abuse allegations

  Former Exeter City manager Peter Fox is to face historic charges of abuse at the High Court.

• Pub landlord calls for swollen rivers to be dredged

  The landlord of a pub on the River Clyst - whose business is hit regularly by flooding - is calling for the Environment Agency to start dredging local rivers again.

• Cameras installed in 'dog attack' park

  CCTV cameras are to be installed in the Exeter park which has seen two dog attacks.

• Boat fire investigation in Teignmouth

  Fire crews were called to reports of a vessel on fire near Shaldon Bridge just after 11pm last night.

• Research to be carried out into Exeter's housing needs.

  The city's university is to carry out a project on behalf of the city council.

• New slipway for Exmouth to get the green light.

  The old one was closed last year for safety reasons.

• Too many mental patients held in police custody

  Devon and Cornwall police say they know further work is needed to reduce the number of people with mental health problems being locked up in police cells.

• Who you gonna call? Crimebusters?

  It's been revealed that Devon and Cornwall police have attended dozens of emergency calls to reports of witches and ghosts in the last three years.

• Champion tug of war team seek new 'pullers'

  A local tug of war team who're currently the Devon and Cornwall champions are looking for new members.

• Community energy scheme could attract Government cash

  A scheme in Exeter looks set to benefit from Government plans announced this week, to fund renewable community energy projects.

• Beach reopens after landslip

  A beauty spot at Shaldon has reopened after work to repair a cliff fall was completed., .

• Housing tenants struggle to pay their rent

  The number of private and housing association tenants in Exeter who're unable to pay their rent seems to be on the increase.

• Fall in rescues by Exmouth lifeboat

  Exmouth RNLI thinks a steady decrease in the number of lifeboat launches could indicate that people going out to sea are becoming more safety-conscious.

• South west 'lagging behind' in economic growth

  The economic recovery being seen in the rest of the country isn't reflected in this region, according to the TUC.

• Cannabis 'farm' found on Exeter trading estate

  A quarter of a million pounds worth of cannabis plants have been seized by police in Exeter.

• More talks held on dog control in Exeter parks

  Talks are taking place this week on the future of dog contols in Exeter parks. It comes after a second incident in which a smaller dog was attacked by a bull terrier in Belmont Park.

• How to save up to £200 a year on energy bills

  There's help at hand this week for anyone in Exeter who's having trouble paying their energy bills.

• New scheme will reduce OAPs' admissions to hospital

  An initiative being launched in Exeter is aiming to reduce the number of elderly people who're admitted to hospital when they could be cared for at home.

• Landslip risk on cliffs and coast paths

  People heading out to walk on Devon's coast paths are being urged to take extra care... as the bad weather has already caused a landslip in east Devon.

• Warning after burglar strikes in Exeter

  Police are warning Exeter residents to be on the alert after a burglar got into a house by claiming his football was in the occupant's back garden.

• Benefit cuts 'fuel rise in thefts and disorder'

  Crime figures out this week for Devon and Cornwall would seem to confirm the Police and Crime Commissioner's view that welfare reforms are leading to a rise in some offences.

• Landslip warning to coast path users

  People heading out to walk on Devon's coast paths this weekend are being urged to take extra care... as the bad weather has already caused a landslip in east Devon.

• Lifeboatmen create a splash of colour on the roads

  A group of Exmouth RNLI volunteers are putting on their bright yellow all-weather gear today - to take to the roads instead of the sea.

• Exeter residents encouraged to help maintain their local parks.

  Community groups in the city are being invited to take over the management of their parks and green spaces.

• Exeter MP criticises the amount of house building on city outskirts

  Ben Bradshaw claims East Devon and Teignbridge councils are allowing too much new housing to be built within their boundaries on the outskirts of Exeter.

• Police reveal Christmas Drink Drive figures

  Devon and Cornwall Police carried out 1,326 breath tests over the festive period.

• Good news for library users in Exeter

  The date Exeter library-users have long been awaiting has been announced today - for the reopening of the refurbished main building.

• University hit by industrial action

  Exeter University students face another day of disruption as staff stage a third national strike in as many months, in their unions' ongoing dispute over pay and pensions.

• Crime figures show rise in sex attacks

  Crime fell overall across Devon and Cornwall last year - but there was a rise in some types of offence including sex crimes.

• Chaplains launch new service for city shop workers

  Shop workers in Exeter city centre are being offered a new chaplaincy service - to provide a listening ear to any problems they want to talk about..

• City could get £4 million watersports 'hub'

  A public consultation meeting takes place later on plans for a new watersports centre in Exeter canal basin.

• Guildhall centre improvement plans on public display

  Designs for the seven million pound facelift of Exeter's Guildhall shopping centre are going on display today.

• PCC calls on supermarkets to help fight alcohol-fuelled crime

  Shops and supermarkets across Devon and Cornwall are being urged to join the fight to reduce alcohol-related crime.

• Company fined over recycling plant accident

  An Exeter company has been fined 33 thousand pounds after a man was seriously injured by a vehicle at a recycling centre.

• Exmouth for the high-jump?

  Councillor calls for new sports facilities if existing running track is lost

• Ikea and Morrissons' decision today

  City council will decide on planning applications tonight

• Developers urged to hire local traders.

  People wanting to build new housing or commercial premises in Exeter could be asked to hire local workers for their construction projects.

• Historic Exeter graveyard to be restored.

  The land off Magdalen Street was used during the 18th and 19th centuries as a resting place for people who'd dissented from the established church.

• Police helicopter video footage released via YouTube

  Dramatic video footage of police capturing a prolific offender as he tried to flee through Haldon Woods has been released by the force on to YouTube.

• Police pursue further leads to smash local crime network

  Police investigating a drug supply and money laundering operation will be carrying out further search warrants this week - after arresting two suspects in Exmouth and Exeter.

• Plea to Prime Minister over road maintenance crisis

  David Cameron has been asked to visit Devon and see the flood damage to the roads for himself - as the county council tries to get more Government funding for repairs.

• Public meeting as part of Feniton planning inquiry

  A special evening session takes place later for people wanting to take part in the public inquiry into large-scale housing developments in Feniton.

• Heroin and cash seized in raids tackling organised crime

  Police tackling organised crime have seized drugs and cash after two raids in Exmouth and Exeter. Two men have been arrested.

• New 'Men's Shed' opens in Exmouth

  Men in Exmouth are being given a new facility for learning new skills, using the Internet and socialising.

• Patients want cancer symptoms investigated earlier

  People at risk of cancer would like doctors to check out potential symptoms much sooner than the current NHS guidelines suggest, according to a study involving Exeter University medical school.

• Rail repairs disrupt train journeys

  Rail travellers on the main line between Exeter and London face delays and disruption - as a 15 million pound repair programme takes place.

• Two arrested after death in Exeter

  Two men have been arrested in connection with the death of a man found collapsed in an Exeter launderette on Saturday.

• Free training to reduce accidents at work

  An initiative to reduce workplace accidents in Exeter and East Devon is starting this week.

• Road works increase disruption at city bottleneck

  Motorists using Exeter's Bridge Road - a congestion hotspot - will face even longer delays for the next few months. .

• Police figures show rise in child sex crimes

  Worrying figures out today show a large increase in reports of sexual abuse among primary school children in Devon and Cornwall.

• Police 'risked own safety' during recent severe weather

  Devon and Cornwall's police and crime commissioner has paid tribute to officers who risked their own safety to help others during the recent extreme weather and flooding.

• War memorial grants deadline approaches

  Communities across Devon are being reminded to get their applications in for grants to restore First World War memorials.

• Protest march against 'developers charter' planning policies

  A demonstration against national planning policies which leave the countryside vulnerable to development takes place in Feniton this morning.

• Residents cross-examined in Feniton public inquiry

  It's a key day in the public inquiry into 235 new homes in Feniton.

• Praise for work to thwart rogue traders and conmen

  Work by Devon and Somerset Trading Standards to crack down on rogue traders and prevent the public from falling victim to conmen has been shortlisted for an award.

• Police crack down on unlawful lorry drivers

  Devon and Cornwall Police say an operation - aimed at reducing the danger rogue hauliers cause on the roads - has been a huge success.

• IKEA store in Exeter moves a step closer

  Planning applications for two high-profile developments go before Exeter councillors this evening.

• Glass could be banned in Exeter's nightclubs.

  Glasses and bottles in late-night clubs and bars could be replaced with plastic drinking vessels in order to prevent a repeat of an attack which left a man with a severe eye injury.

• Man in serious condition after crash near Exeter

  A van driver has been airlifted to hospital following the collision just before 7am.

• Tui leaving the Chiefs

  Exeter Chiefs have confirmed that tight-head prop Hoani Tui is to leave Sandy Park at the end of the season.

• City young guns to face Clarets

  Exeter City have been drawn at home against Burnley in the quarter-final of the Under-21 Premier League Cup, after beating Blackburn two-one at St James Park on Tuesday evening.

• Study finds green spaces improve mental health

  Research by Exeter University medical school has found that green spaces in towns and cities can lead to significant improvements in people's mental health.

• Council urged to ban badger culling on its land

  Devon county council's being asked not to let badger culling take place on any of its land.

• 'Top-slicing' removes cash from local police budget

  Devon and Cornwall's police and crime commissioner has expressed his disappointment that the force is to lose two and a half million pounds from its budget next year.

• Man in serious condition after attack in Exeter

  Two men have been arrested by police investigating a serious attack on a man in Exeter.

• Council confirms cuts to mobile libraries

  Devon's mobile library service is to be cut to save the county council money.

• Approval recommended for solar farm

  A large solar farm near Exmouth looks likely to gain planning permission today.

• Exmouth attackers may have boasted about assault

  Police investigating an unprovoked attack on a man in Exmouth during the New Year celebrations think the culprits may have bragged about what they did.

• Local planning appeal 'has national significance'

  A public inquiry in east Devon which starts today will be watched closely by developers wanting to build in rural areas.

• Further growth predicted for Exeter's retail trade

  It's predicted that Exeter's retail trade will continue to do well in 2014 - after a much better performance than the national average last year.

• Open meeting for Sidmouth residents to discuss policing

  Residents of Sidmouth can discuss any concerns about crime and policing with local officers this morning.

• Warning of dangerous waves during high tides

  There's a warning of continuing dangerous conditions around Devon's coastlines, especially during high tides.

• Crowds flock to cathedral's Christmas services

  It's emerged that more than 22 thousand people attended services and concerts at Exeter Cathedral over the Christmas period.

• Acclaim and appetite for Street Food market

  Exeter's Street Food market in the Guildhall shopping centre has been named as one of the city's top five food destinations on the travel website TripAdvisor.

• Woman needs medical treatment after house fire

  Two people have been rescued from a house fire in Exeter this morning - one of them needing medical treatment.

• Crews deal with 'difficult' chimney fire

  Fire crews were called out to a chimney fire in Exeter last night.

• New contractor sought for key University building

  Work on a 30 million pound new building on Exeter University's main campus is being interrupted so that a new contractor can be found.

• Tidal surge lashes Devon coasts

  Exmouth sea front has been closed during high tide as huge waves wash over the sea wall.

• Devon firefighters join national FBU strike

  Firefighters are staging another strike this morning in their ongoing dispute over pension reforms.

• Severe flood warning for Devon coast

  The Environment Agency has issued a severe flood warning for the coastal area from Exmouth to Lyme Regis, and Dawlish Warren.

• More adoptive parents needed for children in care

  The latest figures have revealed there are around 700 children in care across Devon.

• No major problems during New Year's Eve festivities

  Devon and Cornwall Police say New Year's Eve was relatively trouble-free across the two counties - although they did arrest 125 people during the festivities.

• Axminster robber photo released

  Police have published a CCTV image of a man robbing the Prospect Garage on Christmas Eve

• Exmouth's fireworks switch to The Strand

  Head to Exmouth's Strand area to enjoy the new year fireworks this year. Safety worries make seafront display too costly.

• More details revealed of M5 accident

  Police investigating an accident on the M5 near Tiverton on Friday have released further details.

• Property market continues to recover in south-west

  The gap between the asking and selling price for property is narrowing in Devon, according to a local estate agent.

• Design agreed for new-look skatepark

  Improvements to Honiton's skatepark have moved a step closer after a design was chosen from four possible options, in a vote by local young people.

• Don't rely on breathalysing gadgets, police warn

  Devon and Cornwall police are warning New Years revellers not to drive after using a self-testing device to check their alcohol level.

• Chiefs 'will learn lessons' from Harlequins defeat

  The Exeter Chiefs head coach says valuable lessons will be learned from their crushing defeat by Harlequins at Twickenham on Saturday.

• Police prepare for extra calls over New Year

  Devon and Cornwall police are preparing for an increase in calls over the New Year period - many connected with trouble caused by people drinking too much.

• Workplace injuries rise in Exeter and mid Devon

  Figures released today show that three people were killed in workplace accidents in Exeter, mid and east Devon in the year 2012 to 2013 - and a hundred and 39 suffered major injuries.

• Cycling and sports facilities boost for Sidmouth

  A new cycle route is to be created in Sidmouth. A hundred thousand pounds, from a pot of money contributed to the district council by housing developers, will pay for cycling lanes and facilities in the town, and possibly the first part of a cycle route to Feniton.

• CAB expects New Year spike in debt enquiries

  Exeter Citizens Advice Bureau is expecting a busy January as people realise they've run up large debts to pay Christmas.

• Chinese lanterns often mistaken for distress flares

  People near the coast who're planning to launch Chinese lanterns into the sky during New Year celebrations are being asked to let their local coastguard know.

• Exeter groups receive money to help fight crime

  The Exeter organisation which staged the south west's first conference on knife crime earlier this year is among the groups awarded funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner's small grants scheme.

• Devon Greenpeace campaigners return home

  The Exeter Greenpeace activist and two other members of the Arctic 30 from Devon are safely back in the UK after their ordeal in Russia.

• Police investigate M5 car accident

  Police are appealing for witnesses to an accident on the M5 yesterday afternoon.

• Seafront traders concerned about Exmouth redevelopment

  People running businesses on Exmouth seafront say they still don't know whether they'll lose their livelihoods as a result of the major redevelopment of the area.

• Exeter Greenpeace activist flies home from Russia

  The Exeter Greenpeace activist Iain Rogers is due to fly home today after being held in Russia for protesting against oil drilling.

• Sustainable transport project appeals for unwanted bicycles

  A bike recycling project in East Devon is appealing for anyone who got a new bicycle for Christmas to donate their old one to them.

• Don't waste festive food, say recycling officers

  People across Devon are being urged to do all they can to minimise the amount of food they throw away this Christmas

• Domestic violence to increase over festive break

  With domestic violence expected to increase in Devon over Christmas, local support services are urging victims to seek help.

• Christmas swim is last job for retiring RNLI stalwart

  Today's the last day at work for the long-serving coxwain of Exmouth RNLI, Tim Mock. He's been with the lifeboat charity for nearly 34 years.

• Register expensive gifts with security website, say police

  Exeter Police are reminding anyone who's received an expensive Christmas present to register it with a national property website.

• Safety advice on Christmas toys for children

  Local trading standards are warning parents to make sure all toys given to their children for Christmas aren't a safety hazard.

• High demand and low resources for local youth service

  An organisation offering help and support to young people in Devon says the demand is higher than ever.

• Police advise vigilance against Christmas present thefts

  As local residents finish off their Christmas shopping, police in Exeter are urging them not to fall victim to opportunistic thieves.

• Christmas travel hit by bad weather

  There's widespread disruption to local rail and road travel, because of the storms and flooding.

• Intruder leaves own keys in burgled house

  Police investigating a burglary in Exmouth hope items left inside the house may help identify the culprit.

• Paedophiles unmasked under 'Sarah's Law'

  Devon and Cornwall police have revealed that they've disclosed details of 39 paedophiles since the introduction of a new law in April 2011.

• Trading Standards urge care with Christmas lights and candles

  Christmas lights, candles and decorations can be a real safety hazard, according to Devon and Somerset Trading Standards.

• Alcohol-related incidents increase during party season

  The number of alcohol-related incidents dealt with by police in Exeter was nearly 25 per cent higher last December than the same month in 2011.

• High Court setback for Budleigh longboat campaigners

  High Court rules for East Devon District Council in ongoing dispute about redevelopment of historic seafront building

• Prison inspectors' report praises staff and procedures

  Exeter gaol has received a broadly good report, following an un-announced visit by inspectors.

• Police forces collaborate to save money

  Devon and Cornwall police have announced plans for closer collaboration with the Dorset force, in response to continuing cuts in Government funding.

• New 'help zone' for late-night drinkers in Exeter

  Tonight traditionally sees the biggest Christmas celebrations in Exeter as most people finish work for the festive break - and a new 'help zone' is being set up for revellers.

• Five remanded in custody over city murder

  Four men and a 17-year-old youth, accused of murdering an Exeter man last month, have appeared at the city's Crown Court and been remanded in custody.

• Fallen trees and flooding as storms hit Devon

  Parts of Devon are recovering from a battering by strong winds and heavy rain yesterday evening.

• Exeter Greenpeace activist could be home for Christmas

  The Exeter Greenpeace activist Iain Rogers could be home from Russia soon after the authorities there granted the so-called Arctic 30 amnesty.

• School benefits from £2.4 million improvements

  Work has begun on a new development at Clyst Vale Community College in Broadclyst.

• Christmas trading boost for city centre

  Christmas shoppers in Exeter are giving retailers a business boom - and the best could be yet to come.

• Diocese of Exeter to sponsor new school.

  The primary school is being built in Plymouth.

• Repaint job on Kennford cottage deemed too pink.

  Earlier this year, Teignbridge District Council ordered Ann Kennedy to tone down the colour of her 17th century home after a complaint.

• Exeter City hand teenager professional contract.

  Matt Jay is currently a second year scholar at the Academy.

• Exmouth Chamber Chairman mentors over 50s

  Prince's Initiative for Mature Enterprise is supported by the Prince of Wales and helps people who're finding it hard to get back into the workplace.

• New main road for Cranbrook gets the green light.

  Planning permission has been given for an extension to the main road into the new development near Exeter.

• Devon firefighters to join national another FBU strike

  Local firefighters will walk out on strike for 4 hours from 6pm this evening.

• Luke Friend's homecoming

  Louis Walsh has the Radio Exe Factor

• Man arrested following alleged incident on Exmouth bus

  Police are looking into an allegation, said to have happened on Wednesday 4th December.

• Exeter Guildhall to get 7 million pound facelift.

  Work's due to start next year on what will be the first significant investment in the centre since it opened in 1976.

• Exmouth recreation complex gets outline planning approval

  The redevelopment of Exmouth's Queen's Drive area into a beachside recreation area has moved another step forward.

• New restrictions proposed on usage of bus passes

  Elderly and disabled people could face new restrictions on the use of their bus passes, under plans by Devon county council.

• MP concerned about social housing sell-off

  The MP for Exeter says Government plans to increase the amount of social housing could end up removing people on low incomes from their local communities.

• Tiverton residents consulted on Post Hill development

  A second consultation has begun on the plans for a major housing and employment development near Tiverton.

• New recycling centre opens in east Devon

  About five thousand tonnes of household waste are expected to be dealt with each year at a new recycling centre for Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary and the surrounding villages - which opens this morning.

• MP joins fight against Feniton housing estates

  The MP for Tiverton and Honiton has joined the fight against major housing developments in fields surrounding Feniton.

• Tisdale to stay at Exeter City

  League Two Portsmouth have appointed Richie Barker as their new manager - NOT Exeter City's Paul Tisdale.

• Local areas to benefit from superfast broadband

  Superfast broadband is to be made available to more local communities in the next few months.

• Trading standards warn of fake DVDs and cosmetics

  Local residents are being warned about the risks of buying counterfeit goods as Christmas presents.

• Charities launch appeal to combat fuel poverty

  Hundreds of people across Devon are facing dangerous levels of fuel poverty... as another cold winter approaches. .

• Lottery Funding for local food operation

  An organisation tackling food poverty in Exeter has won lottery funding to expand its operations.

• Flybe routes axed

  Flybe has announced this week that three routes from Exeter Airport are to be axed.

• Devon in Top 3 for Recycling

  Continuing improvements in household recycling rates have put Devon among the three best-performing counties in the country.

• Caring students help out in the community

  Exeter University students are joining forces with a local care home to offer old people outings to the Northcott Theatre.

• EU funding confirmed for Exeter Internet monitoring centre

  Exeter's Safer Internet Centre, which plays a vital role in removing illegal online content such as child pornography, is to receive its much-needed European funding for the next six years.

• Spate of chimney fires as winter weather moves in

  Devon and Somerset fire brigade are warning residents of the danger of chimney fires as the weather gets colder.

• Work starts on Haldon travellers' site

  Work's begun to create a permanent travellers' site at Haldon, to replace the illegal encampment that's been there for 12 years.

• Residents continue fight for parkland's village green status

  Campaigners for an area of Exeter parkland to be protected from development by having 'village green' status are continuing their fight.

• High-tech company makes Exeter its global HQ

  The first big high-tech company has moved into Exeter's Science Park, in a landmark stage for the development.

• Ferry death trial hears evidence from safety experts

  Exeter Crown court's heard that a flight of steps on the quayside, where an 80 year old woman fell and drowned in the river, had been used with no other accidents for 40 years.

• Pig attack

  A pensioner from Cofton near Dawlish has spent more than a week in hospital after being trampled by fighting pigs.

• Crash closes M5 at Cullompton

  The Devon Air Ambulance attends crash on northbound carriageway.

• Drivers ticked off by Broadclyst children

  27 drivers who were caught speeding chose to explain their behaviour to children in Broadclyst rather than receive a fine.

• Crime commissioner wants residents help with binge drinkers

  Devon and Cornwall's police and crime commissioner is calling on the public to help fight alcohol abuse and binge drinking.

• City council denies breach of law over 'unsafe' steps

  Exeter city council has denied that the steps down to a ferry, where a local woman fell and drowned, breached health and safety legislation.

• Councillor campaigns for more tree planting

  A local councillor's campaign to protect trees in east Devon has led to her being asked to work with the Woodland Trust, to help get more trees planted in the area.

• Council plans road maintenance cutbacks

  Ways to reduce spending on Devon's highways and traffic management by nearly seven million pounds are being explored by the county council.

• Opportunist burglars target homes in Exmouth

  Police in Exmouth say there's been a spate of house burglaries in the past month. .

• Police charge two more with Exeter murder

  Four people have now been charged with the murder of 43 year old Stephen Crook in Exeter.

• Police launch Christmas drink-drive campaign

  A convicted drink-driver is at the centre of Devon and Cornwall police's Christmas campaign to highlight the dangers of getting behind the wheel when over the limit.

• Preparation work starts on Exmouth slipway

  Engineering work begins today on Exmouth's Mamhead Slipway, to gain information that will help with the design of its replacement.

• Payday loan changes 'don't go far enough'.

  Exeter's Citizens Advice Bureau says the Government should be doing more to make payday lenders give borrowers a fair deal.

• New outdoor education centre thriving

  A new outdoor education centre at Exeter Quayside is on track to train more than 25,000 people in its first year of opening.

• Council seek opinion on Devon flood management

  Local residents are being asked to give their views on Devon's strategy for managing the risk of flooding.

• Free sign language courses for parents of under 5s

  Free sign language courses are being offered to parents with children under the age of 5 who are hard of hearing.

• Exeter gears up to host a late night march

  A 'reclaim the night' event is taking place in the city centre this evening.

• Second Man Charged with Exeter Murder

  43 year old Stephen Crook was found injured in a house on Alphington Road last Thursday night - he later died in hospital.

• Water company announces freeze on bills

  South West Water is freezing its charges until April 2015, and says it'll also keep average bill rises below inflation until 2020.

• Man arrested after alleged rape in Honiton

  Police investigating the rape of a woman in Honiton have arrested a 19 year old man.

• More arrests in city murder inquiry

  Three more people have been arrested as part of a murder investigation in Exeter.

• Partial victory for rights-of-way campaigners

  Campaigners for footpaths through land owned by East Devon council to be formally recognised as public rights of way are claiming victory, after a planning inspector overturned a bid to ban public access.

• Exeter researchers link poverty with child ADHD

  Scientists at Exeter University's medical school have found a link between low incomes and the incidence of child attention deficit disorder.

• Credit cards and payday loans will fund Christmas

  There's concern that large numbers of people in Devon are planning to run up debts in order to pay for Christmas.

• More training and support for jobseekers in Exeter

  Unemployed people in Exeter will have a new source of help and training next year.

• Man may lose sight in eye after nightclub attack

  Police are appealing for witnesses after a man suffered a serious eye injury in an assault in an Exeter nightclub.

• Police name fatally-injured Exeter man

  Police have named the man who was found with fatal injuries in Exeter last week as 43 year old Stephen Crook.

• Girl attacked by man in Exmouth park

  Police in Exmouth are investigating an assault on a 13 year old girl.

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