My promise to visit every town and parish across West Devon throughout my year as Mayor, is now well underway and it has been a pleasure to spend time in so many of West Devon’s towns and parishes.
Each visit has offered something different, a glimpse into local traditions, a chance to meet residents, and an opportunity to celebrate the community spirit that makes our borough so special.
The challenge continues throughout the civic year, raising funds for SPACE Youth Services, and my wife Jan and I are delighted to share an update on the journey so far.
Find out more about where I have visited so far here.
Cllr Chris Edmonds | Mayor of West Devon
As part of our ‘Shining a spotlight on West Devon's Heritage’ series, this week we're highlighting the story of Dartmoor Prison.
It begins in the early 19th century, when Britain was locked in conflict with Napoleonic France. With thousands of prisoners languishing in dreadful conditions on old ships, the government sought a more secure and humane solution. The remote village of Princetown, 1,400 feet above sea level, was chosen for its isolation and the ready supply of local granite.
Dartmoor Prison is more than just a building—it’s a living chapter of West Devon’s story. Its walls have contained the hopes, fears, and ambitions of thousands, from prisoners of war to modern-day inmates.
So next time you gaze across the moor and spot those granite walls, remember you’re looking at a piece of history that’s as wild, complex, and fascinating as Dartmoor itself.
Read more about Dartmoor Prison here.
More hot weather is on the way for us with a yellow heat health alert announced from 12:00 noon on Saturday 4 July until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday 11 July.
We know what to do but are we remembering to follow the advice?
- Keep drinking fluids but avoid too much alcohol.
- Keep that sunscreen topped up throughout the day.
- Close windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun to help keep them cool.
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Visit the UKHSA website for more advice.
There's nothing nicer than having a refreshing dip in water to cool you down when you're hot. Sadly, many of the water incidents we hear about on the coast and in rivers, quarries, reservoirs and lakes are preventable.
Please help by sharing this information with young people, your friends and your family to help emergency services keep everyone as safe as possible.
- Cold water shock - what is it and how does it happen and how can you fight the panic that sets in?
- Slips and falls near water - around 55% of people who drown slip or trip near water.
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Phone, Float, Throw - would you know how to help if someone was in trouble in the water?
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Float to live - lifesaving advice which can help you regain control until you can get help or help yourself.
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Alcohol and water don't mix - entering water while under the influence can lead to drowning.
- Respect the water - which emergency service do I need?
To find out more, click the link below for helpful videos on each safety area.
Watch the videos here.
Are you looking for a flexible role in a supportive and open culture? Come and join us with our Recycling Officer role available in Tavistock.
The waste and recycling industry is undergoing the most significant change in a generation with the aim of increasing recycling rates, reducing household waste and lowering carbon emissions to provide more sustainable services. An exciting time to get involved.
Click the button below to see our current vacancies.
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