 Hello,
In this week's newsletter, read about these stories and more:
Armed Forces Covenant signed by East Devon District Council
 The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The Covenant was signed at an event on Tuesday 10 September 2024 to mark the council's 50th anniversary by Councillor Paul Arnott, EDDC's Leader, and Major Mark Latham RM.
During a speech at the event, Councillor Vicky Johns, EDDC's Armed Forces Champion, said:
"I feel as a nation, our serving personnel have been overlooked for far too long and the signing of this Armed Forces Covenant goes a small way to ensure they are no longer overlooked."
 East Devon is home to the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Lympstone and a large proportion of residents either serve as personnel, are veterans, or are part of a military family. The occasion, highlighting the value that the council places on their contribution to our local community and country, was attended by EDDC officers, current and former councillors, and members of the armed forces.
 To mark 50 years since EDDC was established, a plaque was unveiled on the side of the Blackdown House council headquarters in Honiton, and a tree was planted in the grounds of the nearby Business Centre, by Councillor Eleanor Rylance, Chair of the Council, and Chris Snow CBE (Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Vice Lord Lieutenant, Rear Admiral).
Rockfish sign lease agreement for Sidmouth restaurant
 Artist's impression of new Rockfish restaurant in Sidmouth. Credit: Grainge Architects
Public toilets at Drill Hall, on Sidmouth seafront, will remain open and maintained by East Devon District Council until construction work begins for the new Rockfish site. At that time the existing toilets will be demolished, and temporary toilets will be in place until a new separate toilet block opens in December 2024.
Managed by Rockfish, the new fully-accessible toilets will be outside the restaurant and accessible directly from the pavement. The new restaurant and outdoor seating area is expected to be completed in late Summer 2025.
Industry recognition for East Devon's pest control service
In 2023/2024, 313 cases of rats, 253 wasp nests, 49 cases of mice, 18 cases of fleas and 15 cases of ants, were treated or removed by East Devon District Council's (EDDC) Pest Control Team.
The team have received national recognition, awarded membership of the British Pest Control Association (BPCA). This membership means they will have greater access to resources, expert advice, support and training, so they can stay at the forefront of best practices in the industry.
If you experience a pest control issue, contact EDDC for advice on the most appropriate course of action.
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Unlock 33% off your first three months of gym membership at LED Leisure
 Are you ready to embrace a healthier lifestyle? Whether you're an early bird gym-goer, a yoga enthusiast seeking inner peace, or a family looking for fun activities, LED Leisure has the perfect membership for you. With 11 locations across East Devon, you're never far from achieving your fitness goals.
When you join LED, you will enjoy:
- Access to gyms, swimming pools, and a diverse range of fitness classes
- Tailored fitness programmes designed specifically for your needs
- Expert consultations to guide your fitness journey
- Nutritional advice to help you stay on track
- Health checks to monitor your progress
- InBody consultations for a comprehensive understanding of your body composition
This is a limited time offer, with no joining fee, exclusive to new members.
Events in East Devon
Free entry this weekend: Heritage Open Days
 Learn about fascinating history across East Devon on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September 2024 with free entry to Heritage Open Days.
On Saturday, join a guided tour of Dunkeswell Abbey or discover The Church of Our Lady in Upton Pyne. On both Saturday and Sunday you can wander the grounds of Poltimore House and Grounds, or visit Columbjohn Chapel, the Gatehouse Arch and Clyston Mill on the Killerton Estate. The East Budleigh Heritage Centre in Salem Chapel will be hosting storytelling sessions about historic smuggling activity along the East Devon coast.
Explore East Devon's stunning landscapes at the Sidmouth & East Devon Walking Festival
 Now in its 11th year, 24 walks will be led by experienced volunteer guides from Saturday 14 until Friday 20 September 2024.
Enjoy the best local food and drink at Taste East Devon Festival
 Credit: Becky Craven Photography
Showcasing the very best of East Devon's food and drink, multiple events are scheduled
everyday from Saturday 14 until Sunday 22 September 2024. From farm-to-fork dining experiences to tasting sessions with local producers and cooking courses, this festival is a must for foodies seeking authentic and sustainably sourced delights. From fresh local seafood to artisan delicacies, Taste East Devon showcases the very best of the region’s culinary landscape, making it a highlight for food enthusiasts.
Exclusive offers for Devon residents: days out on your doorstep
 Take advantage of special discounts on dining experiences, tickets to top attractions and even short breaks. By taking part, you're supporting the wonderful local businesses that make our county so unique. Discover the offers on the Visit South Devon website.
 Learn about Devon's witch trials and persecution
 Artist, Anne Jackson, will share the stories of individual witches from Devon and Somerset, who have inspired her work that is currently on display in Thelma Hulbert Gallery. Drop in anytime between 11am until 2pm from Tuesday 17 to Friday 20 September 2024.
Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton EX14 1LX thelmahulbert.com
Celebrate books by the sea at Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival
 Literary icons and influential voices will return to Budleigh Salterton for a series of engaging talks, workshops, and family and children’s events from Wednesday 18 until Sunday 22 September 2024.
Discover more events in the local area by heading to the East Devon Excellence website
 Consultations
Discover more East Devon District Council consultations on the Commonplace website.
 Planning applications and decisions
Discover this week's planning applications and decisions by following the links.
 Council meetings dates
Over the next week the following East Devon District Council meetings are taking place:
You can watch public meetings live on the council’s YouTube channel.
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