Next week sees an interesting speaker come to Trill Farm, Axminster: Prof. Herbert Girardet is an author, filmmaker and international consultant specializing in ‘regenerative development’. He is co-founder, former program director and honorary member of the World Future Council. Recipient of a UN Global 500 Award for outstanding environmental services, he has been consultant to UNEP, UN-Habitat, and cities such as London, Vienna, Riyadh and Bristol. He has authored many TV documentaries, such as “Far From Paradise”, “Jungle Pharmacy” and “Halting the Fires”, as well 13 books such as “Cities, People, Planet“ and “Creating Regenerative Cities”.
In 2003, Herbert was inaugural ‘Thinker in Residence’ in Adelaide, defining eco-development strategies for South Australia most of which have since been implemented. From 1996 to 2008 he was chairman of the Schumacher Society, UK. Herbert is a member of the World Academy of Art and Science, an honorary fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects, a patron of the Soil Association, UK, and a visiting professor at University of the West of England. Girardet, Herbert • Club of Rome Prof. Herbert Girardet - World Future Council Herbert Girardet - Beyond Sustainability Bristol Green Week Schumacher lectures 2013 - YouTube Here are the details of the talk and supper: Trill Farm: Supper & Conversation
Friday, May 10th - An Economy for a Sustainable Future
Speaker: Herbert Girardet
One of Trill Farm’s Supper and Conversation evenings coming up looks interesting for anyone grappling with finding solutions for the threats to our planet. More information. Tickets are available for £5 for the talk or £30 for talk and supper.
Extract from their web site:
“Humanity is engaged in an attempt to build prosperous economies across the world, yet current economic practices are threatening the very future of humanity and the natural world. In the face of a looming earth emergency, can new thinking lead us to new practices?
To address the deteriorating condition of our home planet in the Anthropocene, there is an emerging consensus that we need to think towards ‘regenerative’ practices: It is not sufficient to try and just sustain the global environment in an increasingly depleted and polluted condition. The world is a dynamic and ever-changing place, life is continuously renewed through the action of great variety of interconnected forces. Could modern economies operate in a similarly regenerative manner?”
If we don’t act to stop the climate crisis now, our world will change
beyond recognition. [1] For far too long politicians have ignored the
facts, and failed to put our bees, hills, and fields first. Now time is
running out. [2]
But on Wednesday, an urgent debate is taking place in Parliament. MPs will
be asked to vote to declare a ‘climate emergency’ and force Parliament to
take action to stop runaway climate change from devastating our planet. [3]
It could be huge. MPs would have to put their words into action and
commit to setting an example to the whole world to stop climate change. But
it will only happen if MPs turn up and vote for it.
Climate change isn’t a done-deal. We can stop it. [4] But we need
politicians to sit up and listen. If your MP - Hugo Swire - hears from
thousands of us today, the pressure could force them to vote the right way.
Last time climate change was debated in Parliament, hardly any MPs turned
up. [5] There were empty benches and nothing was decided.
But thanks to the huge wave of pressure over the past few weeks - from
school children striking, to city-wide protests - MPs are feeling the heat
to act. [6]
Thousands of messages from constituents like us, demanding they vote
to declare a climate emergency, could force them to vote, and take the
necessary steps to stop climate change - now.
Will you write to
your MP and tell them to vote to declare a climate emergency on Wednesday?
Enjoy one of Dorset's largest science festivals. Find out all about the amazing Jurassic Coast with specialist talks, walks and incredible interactive activities: Home - Lyme Regis Fossil Festival Programme - Lyme Regis Fossil Festival The Herald tells us what to expect this weekend:
Lyme Regis Fossil Festival returns!
PUBLISHED: 17:00 26 April 2019
The Lyme Regis Fossil Festival returns in early May
Have you ever held a 200-million-year-old fossil in your hands?
Have you ever dreamt of becoming a polar explorer?
Can you design your very own prehistoric creepy crawly?
All these questions and more will be answered in a weekend of science, discovery and fun at this year's Lyme Regis Fossil Festival held from Friday, May 3 to Saturday, May 5.
The festival will once again host some fascinating exhibitions throughout the town centre including the wonderful Natural History Museum, the British Antarctic Society, the Palaeontological Society and lots of local scientific organisations, as well as some thought-provoking and entertaining talks and lectures in the Marine Theatre.
On the Saturday night, B Sharp and students from The Woodroffe School and Mrs Ethelston's C of E Primary Academy will be entertaining visitors at the Marine Theatre in a journey through sound, light and music in a concert called Evolution Rocks!
There will be plenty of opportunities to follow in the footsteps of local hero Mary Anning by discovering your very own fossils when you join one of the many guided fossil hunting walks over the weekend.
There will also be stalls selling a variety of fossils, jewellery and dinosaur gifts.
The whole weekend kicks off with a dazzling lantern display along the seafront, which will truly be a sight to behold.
You can join the Lyme Regis Fossil Festival for an adventure 200 million years in the making!
Election candidates in a Sheffield Council ward will take part in ‘political speed dating’ at a community hustings. Candidates for Crookes ward will sit at tables for questions by groups who move on to the next party after 10 minutes. ‘Date night’ on the cards for Sheffield Council election candidates - The Star And in Totnes in April 2015: Welcome to POLITICAL SPEED DATING! Which candidate will you fall in love with and vote for on May 7? To get you chance to meet every candidate up close and look them directly in the eye as they answer your questions, just come along and take your turn at each candidate's table.
This isn't the normal General Election Hustings where only a few lucky people get to put a single question to the candidates. Oh no! We've put every Totnes Constituency Parliamentary Candidate in the hottest of seats! All five Prospective Parliamentary Candidates for the Totnes Constituency will available for your questions, so you can sit down one-on-one with each of them, and ask anything on your mind.
A fish out of water: What is happening at Sidmouth Sea Fest 2019?
PUBLISHED: 07:00 25 April 2019
Louise Cole shares what is in store for this year’s Sea Fest.
Fish out of Water: a new play exploring the life of Sidmouth's Stephen Reynolds, has been written especially for Sidmouth Sea Fest 2019.
This short play uses humour, song and personal testimony to tell Reynolds's moving story. The play about author and social commentator Stephen Reynolds is to be performed by a community ensemble at Sidmouth Sea Fest on Saturday, May 18.
Sea Fest organisers Sidmouth Coastal Community Hub asked for the play to be written to as part of their 2019 theme – Celebrating Diversity Creatively, aiming to bring to life the hidden history of Reynolds life, his experience of life with the Sidmouth fishing family the Woolleys and his later influence on the fishing industry.
Reynolds, whose book 'A Poor Man's House', published in 1908, was based on his life in Sidmouth. At the time it was acclaimed and praised by the likes of Joseph Conrad, but is not particularly well known locally. His personal struggle with his family, his sexuality at a time of intolerance, his reflections on social class and inequality are often overlooked.
SCCH director Louise Cole: “We have, through our film Working the Sea and previous projects, touched on Stephen Reynolds as we bring to life Sidmouth's Fishing heritage.
“We wanted to re-tell Stephen's story to engage people locally and bring this, often hidden history, to a new audience including younger people by casting a new light on his dynamic and extraordinary narrative. It often seemed strange to us that locally, not many people and certainly very few young people know about Stephen. It may be that his story simply hasn't been told in an accessible way that touches on issues still relevant today.”
The play is a stylised and impressionistic insight into the life of Stephen Reynolds, and his relationship with Sidmouth, with the Woolley's, and with the sea.
The title, A Fish out of Water, suggests Reynold's journey to find his 'element', socially, creatively and personally. The play suggests that it was his time in Sidmouth that enabled him to become who he really was, not simply as a chronicler and observer, and an advocate and innovator, but as a socially diffident, gay man committed to justice and to community.
As Hilaire Belloc said: “He had charity, humility and justice in equal poise” - a true gentleman, who felt more at home with working-class fisherfolk than his own middle-class upbringing.
Pippa Marriott, currently at the University of Exeter, has co-written the play with fellow creative writing MA student and Sidmouth resident David Lloyd. Pippa, who is directing the play, is herself a former drama teacher.
Working with Sea Fest organisers, they have recruited a local community cast who will perform the half-hour play at Sea Fest in the main marquee on the Ham, Sidmouth at 3.30pm.
Stephen Reynolds
Pippa and David have drawn on Reynold's writings, aided by Nigel Hyman, of Sidmouth Museum, who has just published a short book about Reynolds, to bring this extraordinary man's life to the attention of the audience at the Sidmouth Sea Festival with an engaging mixture of humour, song and ensemble performance.
Coco Hodgkinson, artistic director of the festival added: “This year is the 100th year anniversary of Reynold's death during the influenza pandemic of 1919. His grave at the cemetery in Winslade Road, in Sidmouth, is not much known about either and it felt fitting to start this community project at Sea Fest this year, which we hope to extend out into a wider heritage project with students in Sidmouth, if it generates people's curiosity.
“We would love to see a really interesting interactive heritage installation in Sidmouth that young people will engage with in the future.”
Sea Fest itself will be parading rainbow colours, fish masks and feature, as usual, lots of creative and environmentally friendly activities, food and live music on the day.
This year, for the first time in our six-year history, the festival will run as a free festival not just in the day but through the evening too, from 10am to 11pm.
The programme will see an increase in our cultural offer and by hosting the event all through, it is our ambition that all ages will come along, get involved and make a day and evening of it.
The festival is Sidmouth's first single-use plastics free event and will be full of active collaborations with other local organisations such as the Scouts, the Gig club, Sidmouth Arboretum, the Sailing Club and the Science Festival.
Sea Fest creates a platform for a multitude of special interest groups such as Sidmouth In Bloom, the Walking and Literary Festival, the Sid Vale Association and others.
It will include a range of Creativity on the Coast activities such as storytelling, arts and crafts, authors, a coastal-themed Cake Off competition and the festival's own Sidmouth Sea Fest Community Choir.
The festival organisers have also been successfully working with Winstone Books in Sidmouth to bring Tom Nancollas, author of Seashaken Houses, A Lighthouse History from Eddystone to Fastnet, to Sea Fest.
Last years' addition of withy pot making, a pop-up beach and a Sea Fest beach clean run by Sidmouth Plastic Warriors will be back.
Visitors to the festival will be able to learn about the process of making Sidmouth Gin at the copper distillery from the Dairy, buy local New Devon Army ale at the Prawn Cocktail Bar and eat from a range of local food stalls including local seasonal fish baps from the Bagwell's Fish Hut.
Local sponsors and supporters include Everys Solicitors, Morris Sales and Lettings, the Royal York and Faulkner Hotel, Sidmouth Town Council. Sidmouth Sea Fest is also supported this year as one of the Co-op local causes.
Andrew MooseHead of Retail, Consumer Goods and Lifestyle Industries, World Economic Forum
Dana MarquardtCommunity Lead - Retail, Consumer Goods & Lifestyle Industries, World Economic Forum
In our overpopulated world, stuffed with an ever-growing stockpile of products, offline experiences have become key to personal fulfilment. While 78% of millennials choose to spend money on a desirable experience over something material, the trend extends beyond just young people, to every age bracket and socioeconomic class.
This tidal wave is already having extreme effects on the global economy and traditional business models. It requires a fundamental shift in how we look at everything, from revenue growth to personal happiness. Ultimately, the shift to an experience economy has the power not only to change how we spend our time and money, but also to promote inclusion and democratize happiness.
The commoditization of things
Products from every corner of the globe are easier to acquire than ever before - and many of them are even shipped for free. This ubiquity leads to commoditization, which drives down the perceived value of these objects.
One company that has continued to thrive is Lego, even as many households have reached saturation point, stuffed with toy building blocks. The company has launched in-store experiences and conventions accessible to all socioeconomic groups, designed to encourage collaboration and help build children’s cognitive skills. While many commoditized toy companies have faded in the digital age, Lego has doubled down on creating offline experiences that create connection and brand affinity.
When diamonds are no longer rare, and the world’s increasing number of urban residents are no longer interested in owning a car, rare experiences become the new social capital. Nowadays, the world’s biggest celebrities tend to post far more Instagram “humble brags” in exotic destinations than photos of new fur coats. The means and time to create unique experiences are this era’s luxury goods.
Human psychology
Many would argue that this trend toward an experiential economy is not a trend at all, but rather a realization of the longevity of human happiness. Professors Thomas Gilovich and Amit Kumar of Cornell University study the relationship between wealth and happiness, and conclude that “experiential purchases, such as vacations, concerts and meals out, tend to bring consumers more enduring happiness than material purchases, such as high-end clothing, jewellery and electronic gadgets”.
According to the researchers, experiences create more lasting happiness because they are more open to positive reinterpretation; they tend to become more meaningful parts of one’s identity; and they do more to foster social relationships. Experiences help us learn, grow and connect with each other, so it’s no surprise we choose to spend our money and time on them.
Since 1987, the share of consumer spending on live experiences and events has increased by 70%, relative to total US consumer spending. The importance of human experience is not new, but this massive shift has been waiting for the perfect moment - rampant overconsumption and the social platforms to amplify it.
The death of retail
Physical retail is dead. Its extinction is accelerating as malls close, chains go bankrupt and next-day delivery makes a trip to the store seem pointless. Many of the brands that we grew up with - Toys ‘R’ Us, RadioShack, Rite Aid, Sears, Sports Authority and Claire’s - are closing their shutters. The stores that kept malls expanding through the 1990s have turned into business school case studies about the impact of digital disruption. Why take hours to visit a toy store when Amazon gives better customer service, cheaper prices, informative reviews and fast delivery, with no need to wait in line?
The only companies that will exist in 10 years’ time are those that create and nurture human experiences. This learning and growth will come from maximizing opportunities, including the reinvention of retail spaces, new models of engagement, and an understanding of experiences as perhaps the most important form of marketing.
Red Bull built its global empire on allowing people to experience the personality of its brand. Lululemon builds community by offering free yoga classes in its stores. Patagonia and REI both focus on experiences - trips, hikes, and classes - as core parts of their business.
These experiential initiatives create emotional bonds between consumers and brands, frequently having ten times the return on investment compared to digital marketing and building measurable loyalty. The brands that embrace the experience economy - and the data that powers it - are the only ones who will thrive.
Inclusion
As the forces of the Fourth Industrial Revolution accelerate, consumers are enjoying the benefits of rapid innovation and new models of consumption, but also struggling to maintain a sense of connection and understanding our rapidly changing world. In that context, it should be no surprise that experiences, especially transformative ones that educate, inspire and bring people together, are growing in popularity.
Crossroads Foundation, a nonprofit organization based in Hong Kong SAR, created the popular and emotionally jarring “Refugee Run”, a 75-minute experience in which guests “become” refugees. In a basement fitted out as a refugee camp and staffed by refugees from around the world, the immersive experience brings adults to tears, creating more empathy than a lecture or article ever could. Crossroads has created further immersive experiences in order to build awareness of global issues, understanding that “when people have stepped, even briefly, into the shoes of others, the conversation changes and they are considerably more motivated to engage”.
While experiences have the power to make the global economy more inclusive, this must be an intentional priority. The internet is largely a great force for inclusion, but with 45% of the world’s population lacking access, it can also widen the gap between socioeconomic groups. Given that experiences can enhance learning, increase social connection and ultimately transform the global economy, we have a responsibility to design the experiences of the future in ways that reach a diverse range of individuals and benefit the planet. As we continue to invest in the experience economy, our greatest challenge may be ensuring access and inclusivity while maintaining personalization and uniqueness.
The District Council elections are now looming after what feels like the longest build-up ever.
This time round the atmosphere has been far more frenetic. I’ve been out leafleting and chatting to anyone who wanted to chat, but the cynicism on the doorstep is almost palpable.
I’m being told that everyone’s had enough of politics. No-one’s going to vote because apparently it doesn’t make any difference. Millions turned out to vote on their nation’s future, only to have the result of their vote largely ignored. Yes … dare I mention the word … it’s Brexit. I believe that the Brexit effect is likely to impact on the local council elections (2 May), both here in Feniton ward and across the country, with people turning their backs on the ballot box.
Whatever you feel about Brexit, the candidates standing in the District Council elections are there because they want to do the very best for their communities. This is your opportunity to express your opinion … and it’s certain that if you don’t vote, nothing will change.
One kind supporter suggested that Claire Wright and I could resolve the Brexit negotiations on our own. Apart from banging heads together, I’m not sure how!
On my first day on the stump, I met a gentleman who asked me what I was doing. When I explained, he said he didn’t trust any of the councillors because they are all corrupt and had I seen the size of their cars at the Council HQ! I told him that I drive a 03 reg VW Polo … and he responded that my bank account must be bulging. I thought it was rather a depressing exchange!
I met a sweet dog when I was out last week. It was a Poodle Shih Tzu cross and her delightful owner said that the combined name was rather tricky for her. The dog barked at me as I opened the gate, barked at me as I walked down the drive and barked at me as I put my leaflet on the door mat, as the door was ajar. I turned and walked back to the gate, only to discover the dog at my heels, in silence because my leaflet was clamped between her jaws. She looked at me with great disgust and dropped the leaflet at my feet. I felt that if dogs could vote, this one shared the general disenchantment of the electorate and would not be turning up to the polling station!
Elections are always a time of anticipation and change, but the bombshell which has landed at this 11th hour is that the excellent Tory councillor, Ian Thomas, Leader of East Devon District Council, has resigned the Party Whip and is now standing in the forthcoming election as an Independent. The Independent Group is delighted that he’s turned his back on party politics. Unsurprisingly, the Conservatives remain tight-lipped on the subject.
The last full East Devon District Council meeting was on Wednesday evening and apart from a planning meeting next week (complete with 400 page agenda), it’s full steam ahead to the election on Thursday!
Numerous kind people have offered support throughout the election period as well as help on the day. I cannot begin to express how immensely grateful I am to them for their encouragement.
If you live in Feniton, your polling station is the Sports & Social Club in the village. If you live in Buckerell, you can vote at Doug’s Shed (Splatthayes) and if you live in Gittisham, your polling station is the Village Hall.
The polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. on Thursday 2 May, so hopefully everyone will have ample time to have their say.
East Devon District Council elections are fast approaching with candidates hoping to win electorates votes on May 2.
Meet the candidates standing in Sidmouth’s Rural, Sidford and Town wards.
A hustings event will be held in Sidmouth on April 30.
Sidmouth Rural (one seat)
David Barratt (Independent)
I am currently a Town and District Councillor. As a true Independent, I work with Councillors from any Party on individual issues, gaining agreement through trust and respect, not constant opposition. I stand by my record of fighting strongly against inappropriate development, notably the Sidford Business Park proposal, and I will be speaking to object at the upcoming Appeal. There is a lot left to do. I promise to work hard to do it.
Ray Davison (Labour)
Ray has been a member of EDDC standard’s committee and active school governor in Exmouth for over thirty years. On Labour’s national policy forum he successfully moved the amendment which secured abolition of National museum and gallery charges. “In these days of masterplans, outsourcing and so-called regeneration projects with their commercially protected internal debates and Chinese whispers, the key issues of public transparency and accountability to voters need addressing to ensure that public assets are protected and retained.”
John Loudoun (Independent East Devon Alliance)
I live in Sidbury within the Sidmouth Rural Ward. I have a strong commitment to public service. I will stand up for Sidmouth and Sid Valley. I want better and more efficient services for local residents and visitors. I will have no personal vested interest to pursue and I want to make improvements to our lives locally. Tough times need high standards and leadership. I will provide both. Facebook election page: JohnLoudoun4SidmouthRural Website information: eastdevonalliance.com
Lewis Ragbourn (Liberal Democrat)
Lewis, who is a retired wine trade professional, lives on the outskirts of Sidford. He is strongly committed to protecting the interests of rural areas, alongside the considerable development challenges facing Sidmouth. He considers that East Devon District Council is too remote and secretive and would press for greater accountability and openness. He believes that local councils need to do all they can to combat climate change, including by increased recycling and plastic reduction.
Chris Wale (Conservative)
Having had the privilege of growing up in Sidmouth I know many people within the Sid Valley. Having served 12 years as the district ward member and 18 years on Sidmouth Town Council, I am seeking re-election as I believe the next four-year term will be crucial to the health, safety, prosperity, and happiness of everyone in Sidmouth and Sid Valley Rural requires a strong knowledgeable councillor who will represent them regardless of their political persuasion.
Sidmouth Sidford (three seats)
Stuart Hughes (Conservative)
I believe the record shows the results achieved on a wide range of issues that I am someone who stands up for what is right for both the individual and wider community. If re-elected I shall continue to provide a strong voice on East Devon for the Sid Valley giving 100 per cent in my community leadership role working with residents, community groups, schools, town and county councils on local issues and enhancing and safeguarding local services.
Dawn Manley (Independent East Devon Alliance)
Sidmouth is a beautiful town to live, work and play in. I was fortunate to have been born and lived my 49 years here. We have seen many changes, with some good and some not so good, and have been an Independent councillor for eight years. If re-elected I will continue to represent the people, not some distant party political machine with no care for what is important in our unique community. I stand for people not politics.
Zachary Marsh (Conservative)
“I have lived in East Devon all of my life and am a Sidford ward resident. I want local people to feel their councillors are working with them, not over them. That for me means fighting Sidford Business Park, supporting our brilliant small businesses, and properly grappling with issues of parking and policing to improve the quality of life for residents. Sidmouth needs action not words and EDDC needs stable, proven Conservative leadership.”
Colin Mills (Labour)
Colin was born and brought up in Sidmouth. He served as a parish councillor in the Chilterns and worked as a volunteer for the local Oxfam, Chiltern Open Air Museum. He worked in the civil service and graduated from the Open University. Combatting isolation and loneliness in the elderly and retired is also another of his concerns. Planning, education and libraries are areas in which he intends to address. Marianne Rixson (Independent East Devon Alliance)
“As a councillor, I have opposed the Sidford business park due to inadequate road access, flooding and harm to our AONB; supported the successful Drill Hall campaign; spoken out against high business rates; challenged issues such as poor broadband coverage,120% increase for parking at Sidford and introducing charges for public toilets. If re-elected, I will continue to fight for the interests of Sid Valley residents and a new access to Alexandria Industrial Estate.” Jenny Ware (Conservative)
Jenny Ware was born in Sidmouth. Her family dates back many generations. She successfully ran her hairdressing business “Jenstyle” in the town centre. “I was born in the beautiful Sid Valley which I am so blessed to be able to call my home and if I am elected as your ward councillor I will do my utmost to be there for you and to listen and help where I can to resolve your problems.”
Ken Warren (UK Independence Party)
“My wife and I are from the Midlands but so love Sidmouth we retired here. As your representative I will work to focus council spending on essentials, because I believe people and local businesses are better judges of how their money should be spent. I will challenge any plans to build over our lovely countryside – and don’t even think about windmills! Moreover, your vote for me will signal your dismay at the unfolding Brexit betrayal.”
Sidmouth Town (two seats) Denise Bickley (Independent East Devon Alliance)
“I am a keen environmentalist, founder of Sidmouth Plastic Warriors and Regional Representative for Surfers Against Sewage, running regular beach cleans and helping to gain ‘Plastic Free Community’ status for Sidmouth. I am standing because I strongly believe we should all put something back into our community. I will always act according to my conscience and the people I represent. I am not a fan of party politics and believe it’s time for change.”
Nicholas Diprose (Labour)
Nick has lived in Sidmouth for three decades and feels qualified to represent Sidmouth at both town and district level. Nick will do his best to listen to all representations without favour, and to respond with the necessary vigour, whilst acting with dignity and empathy. Nick comes from a strong trade union background, specialising in occupational safety and health, teaching health & safety at work to reps over the South West and at City College Plymouth.
Cathy Gardner (Independent East Devon Alliance)
“As a councillor and local resident I have spoken up for the town using any means possible. I intend to continue to do that if re-elected to represent you. I will: encourage collaboration to support our high street and improve the street scene; call for action on the delayed Beach Management Plan; push for improvements at Port Royal to capitalise on the redevelopment of the Drill Hall; and call for transparency on the true cost of relocation.”
Sheila Kerridge (Conservative)
SHEILA has lived in Sidmouth for 46 years, married to Martin for 50 years, and owned and traded as Vinnicombes Bakers and Confectioners in the town. SHEILA’s previous experience as a councillor includes serving on EDDC as tourism champion, STC on its tourism & economy committee and the Sidmouth Parishes Pathways Partnership. She is very interested in sustainable tourism within our town and keeping our pathways and bridal ways safe for all our residents and tourists.
Timothy Venner (Conservative)
“I am a lifelong lover of Sidmouth. As a lifelong Conservative my priorities for Sidmouth and East Devon are a council run efficiently keeping council tax low by strict financial control. My main concerns are keeping East Devon a place where young people can return from education to work and find family housing to ensure a balanced age profile for benefit of all. Beach stabilisation is urgently needed, an area in which I have extensive knowledge.” Who is standing for Sidmouth in East Devon District Elections 2019? | Latest Sidmouth and Ottery News - Sidmouth Herald And here are the Town Council candidates' manifestos: East Devon elections 2019; Who is vying for a Sidmouth Town Council seat?
Residents will head to the polls on May 2 to elect their chosen candidates to represent them on Sidmouth Town Council.
The Primley, Sidbury and West wards will not be contested on election day resulting in standing candidates to be elected unopposed.
Deirdre Hounsom, Emma Murdoch and Jeff Turner will take the seats as the Primley ward members, John Loudoun will represent Sidbury and Louise Cole will retain her seat as the west ward representative.
The remaining candidates vying out for the remaining seats.
Sidmouth East (one seat)
Marc Kilsbie (Independent)
No statement provided.
Louise Thompson (Independent)
“I love living in Sidmouth, and am proud to have returned home to live in the town I grew up in. I co-launched The Lighthouse community business hub this year, and want to continue to contribute to our wider community. If elected I am keen to focus on initiatives that support our local economy, the environment, and the range of opportunities and facilities available for all ages to thrive here at work and play.”
Sidmouth North (four seats) Charissa Evans (Independent)
“I aim to protect our beautiful green spaces, ensuring that Sidmouth is a place for all ages to enjoy and feel secure in. Having taught in state schools for twenty years, I’m passionate about Youth Services and acutely aware of the demand for activities and areas for our growing population. Increasing cuts to services mean we must unite. We must protect our High Street, and boost Sidmouth’s economy by encouraging people to shop locally.” Stuart Hughes (Independent)
“Having represented the North Ward since first being elected to the Town Council 28 years ago I have worked hard in supporting the community, and as both Snow & Road Warden have gone the extra mile in helping the town become more resilient in times of inclement weather. Re-elected I shall continue to work in champion the completion/implementation of the cycle/footpath links to Sidbury and Feniton and help deliver the climate change agenda.”
Sheila Kerridge
SHEILA has lived in Sidmouth for 46 years, married to Martin for 50 years, and owned and traded as Vinnicombes Bakers and Confectioners in the town. SHEILA’s previous experience as a councillor includes serving on EDDC as tourism champion, STC on its tourism & economy committee and the Sidmouth Parishes Pathways Partnership. She is very interested in sustainable tourism within our town and keeping our pathways and bridal ways safe for all our residents and tourists.
Dawn Manley (Independent)
“Sidmouth is a beautiful town to live, work and play in. I was fortunate to have been born and lived my 49 years here. We have seen many changes, with some good and some not so good, and have been an Independent councillor for eight years. If re-elected I will continue to represent the people, not some distant party political machine with no care for what is important in our unique community. I stand for people not politics.”
Andie Milne (Independent)
“I moved to Sidmouth nine years ago, from the moment I arrived I have been active with various community voluntary organisations. Since being a member of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group I have become passionate about positive communication between the residents of Sidmouth and elected town council members. If you vote for me, I will endeavour to promote transparent communication by listening and facilitating the best action plans to benefit all those who reside in our beautiful town.”
Jenny Ware (Independent)
Jenny Ware was born in Sidmouth. Her family dates back many generations. She successfully ran her hairdressing business “Jenstyle” in the town centre. “I was born in the beautiful Sid Valley which I am so blessed to be able to call my home and if I am elected as your ward councillor I will do my utmost to be there for you and to listen and help where I can to resolve your problems.”
Edward Willis Fleming
“Sidmouth matters, to everyone who lives, works or visits here. I want to serve both young and old, to help preserve and improve, enhance and advance our precious green and blue spaces and our incredible built environment. By helping to found Sidmouth Arboretum and The Sidmouth Trust, and as a local business person, I hope I’ve shown how much Sidmouth matters to me. Let me help represent your concerns too and what matters to you.”
Sidmouth Salcombe Regis (two seats)
Ian Barlow
“Most people know me as a local businessman but for the last eight years I have also been your local town councillor, most recently as it’s vice chairman. I have used the experience gained from 40 years living and working here to help transform Sidmouth Town Council into the most proactive, efficient, innovative and courageous town council in East Devon. I seek your vote so I can continue this work for the benefit of us all.”
David Barratt (Independent)
“I am currently a Town and District Councillor. As a true Independent, I work with Councillors from any Party on individual issues, gaining agreement through trust and respect, not constant opposition. I stand by my record of fighting strongly against inappropriate development, notably the Sidford Business Park proposal, and I will be speaking to object at the upcoming appeal. There is a lot left to do. I promise to work hard to do it.” Cathy Gardner
“The Town Council should be more open and proactive for all parts of the Sid Valley. Cuts to street cleaning by EDDC have led to more litter and weeds: we need a street cleaner to clear up problem areas and do small jobs abandoned by EDDC. I fought relocation from the Knowle and to ‘Retain, Refurbish and Reuse’ the Drill Hall - which is now happening! The Town Council must now push ahead to improve Port Royal, using s106 money from Sanditon.”
Sidmouth Sidford Village (two seats) Peter Blackmore
“Whilst living In Sidmouth for 11 years, I have seen many changes in the Town and going forward I plan to make the council more accountable for. Its important to improve the Health and Wellbeing of our citizens,young and old. I am a committee member of The Gig Club, was involved in the campaign to protect the Drill Hall and I will be campaigning to Stop the Sidford Business Park other sites are available.”
Jack Brokenshire (Independent) Residents of Sidford. Thank you for your faith in me in the past years and hope you will have faith in me for the next four. We do not want the business park at Sidford for obvious reasons. Traffic congestion. Danger. It is bad enough trying to cross the roads now especially at the bottom of Sidford high street. Possible chance of flooding. Packhorse bridge in times of the floods cannot take any more.”
Ian McKenzie-Edwards
“I have been a town councillor since 1988 the majority of the time representing Sidford. I have always involved myself in all aspects of council activity. As a planning committee member I oppose the Sidford employment land proposal. Sidford still has a sense of community based on its two halls. Now EDDC have moved I would like to see the town council be as proactive as possible in securing the future of the valley.” Colin Mills (Labour)
“Colin was born and brought up in Sidmouth. He served as a parish councillor in the Chilterns and worked as a volunteer for the local Oxfam, Chiltern Open Air Museum. He worked in the civil service and graduated from the Open University. Combatting isolation and loneliness in the elderly and retired is also another of his concerns. Planning, education and libraries are areas in which he intends to address.” Marianne Rixson
“I’d like the Town Council to adopt a ‘can do’ attitude, put the community first and welcome public engagement. I have fought the proposed industrial site at Sidford because of the adverse impact HGVs would have on both villages; other sites are available for local employment. I will campaign against any plans to charge for public toilets, which would be disastrous for residents and visitors. I will also support initiatives to save our high street. “
Sidmouth South (five seats) Denise Bickley
“I am a keen environmentalist, founder of Sidmouth Plastic Warriors and Regional Representative for Surfers Against Sewage, running regular clean-ups. I believe we should all put something back into our community. I have many ideas to help Sidmouth: encouraging events that will benefit the community; protecting the natural environment; supporting local businesses and re-energising our town; supporting our youth services; making volunteering easier to get involved in; researching the possibility of evening classes and improving the town’s website.
Kelvin Dent (Independent)
“I am standing for re-election in Sidmouth Town Council’s South Ward where I live with my wife, Sue, and which I have represented since 2013. My present duties include chairing the Planning Committee and organising the Hopper Bus which I hope to continue if I am re-elected. I also want to safeguard the Knowle park and gardens for public enjoyment. My hobbies include playing music for various groups which help raise money for local charities.” Nicholas Diprose
Nick has lived in Sidmouth for three decades and feels qualified to represent Sidmouth at both town and district level. Nick will do his best to listen to all representations without favour, and to respond with the necessary vigour, whilst acting with dignity and empathy. Nick comes from a strong trade union background, specialising in occupational safety and health, teaching health & safety at work to reps over the South West and at City College Plymouth.
Christopher Lockyear
“Sidmouth is home and I am proud of where we live. I am a Governor of Sidmouth College and chair the programme committee of the Sidmouth Science Festival. The Council needs to ensure Sidmouth remains an attractive place to live and work, but also to visit. We have a fantastic natural environment which we must preserve. We also have a huge amount of human talent, of all ages, which we must use to benefit all.” John Rayson
“There are a number of challenges facing our town–the loss of public halls, crumbling cliffs, shops closing and adjusting for the move of the district council out of Sidmouth. I hope to continue to play a part in sorting out these problems. The whole Port Royal area should be developed. I would like to see our own Jurassic coast centre as part of any development. There is also wide support for a pier or jetty.” Paul Wright
“I have been pleased to represent the Sidmouth South ward for the past four years, acting as councillor with financial responsibility for the past three years. During my time, I have led the introduction of water refill stations around the town to reduce plastic waste, introduced a wildflower meadow at St Margaret’s and a sea swimming platform for this summer. Married and father of four teenagers, we have lived in Sidmouth for over ten years.”
Stephen Reynolds
Stephen Reynolds
