A major new global study has revealed that Christianity enters 2026 facing significant challenges despite continued worldwide growth.

The findings come from the Status of Global Christianity 2026 report by the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Researchers identified demographic change, persecution, urbanisation, displacement and financial crime among the most pressing issues confronting church leaders today.

One of the report’s most striking findings is that while Christianity continues to grow globally, Islam is expanding at a faster pace. Analysis by Lifeway Research shows the global Christian population is increasing by 0.95% annually, while Islam is growing at 1.57% each year. The global Muslim population has now surpassed 2 billion and is projected to reach 3.4 billion by 2075, significantly narrowing the gap.

The report also highlights continued decline in regions long associated with Christianity. Europe, once home to the world’s largest concentration of Christians, now has around 553 million Christians and is experiencing an annual decline of 0.41%.

North America’s Christian population, estimated at 275 million, is also shrinking, with an annual decline of 0.16%.

Christianity is continuing to decline in the Middle East, the birthplace of the faith. Christians accounted for 12.7% of the region’s population in 1900. That figure fell to 6.1% by 1970 and now stands at 4.2%, with further decline expected at an annual rate of -0.07%.

Rapid urban growth is creating both challenges and opportunities for evangelism. The number of cities with populations exceeding one million has surged from just 20 in 1900 to 670 today. Yet many of these growing urban centres have little Christian presence. More than 60% of the world’s key cities are now considered minority-Christian, compared with only a quarter 125 years ago.

Despite progress in missionary work and Bible translation, more than a quarter of the world’s population still has no access to the gospel. Researchers estimate that 27.7% of people globally - around 2.3 billion individuals - remain unreached. In addition, fewer than 20% of non-Christians personally know a Christian.

Although the long-term number of Christians killed for their faith has declined compared with previous decades, persecution remains severe. Around 900,000 Christians are estimated to have died for their faith over the last 10 years.

The report also points to the growing refugee crisis, with global displacement levels rising sharply in recent decades. The refugee rate now stands at 450 per 100,000 people worldwide.

Another major concern raised by researchers is financial loss within Christian ministries and churches. An estimated £55 billion is lost every year through theft, fraud and other forms of ecclesiastical crime, up sharply from around £15 billion in 2000.

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Politicians and community leaders in Devon are pressing the government to deliver a long-term rural broadband strategy, warning that thousands of homes could otherwise be left behind when current support schemes end.

A joint letter signed by Devon MPs and senior figures from organisations across the county urges ministers to put plans in place for hard-to-reach rural areas once existing funding programmes come to a close.

The letter was written by Devon County Council’s cabinet member for rural affairs and broadband, Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin (Liberal Democrat, Torrington Rural), and South Devon MP Caroline Voaden (Liberal Democrat).

They warn that although the Gigabit Project Voucher Scheme has been relaunched, it is due to end in early 2028. They say that after this point “there will be no national programme supporting rural connectivity in rural areas, leaving many hard-to-reach premises with no hope of improved connectivity”.

They added: “At a time when the national target of 99 per cent gigabit connectivity is reached, there will be a higher percentage of properties falling into the remaining 1 per cent in Devon, where we estimate this will be closer to 7 per cent, or roughly 44,000 homes.”

The Gigabit Project Voucher Scheme was originally due to finish last year but has since been extended. It offers grants towards the cost of faster broadband connections in areas where commercial providers are unlikely to invest.

Cllr Cottle-Hunkin and Ms Voaden also argued that rural communities often have a greater need for reliable digital access, particularly as banks and Post Office branches continue to close and more services move online.

They said current national investment was widening the gap between well-served and poorly served areas.

“In Devon, the reality is that the vast majority of Project Gigabit funding is uplifting premises with reasonable connectivity to gigabit speeds at the expense of more rural premises with the slowest speeds and the greatest need,” the letter states.

“Specifically, 90 per cent of Project Gigabit delivery in Devon will cover premises already at superfast speeds, with only 10 per cent addressing those below 30 megabits per second (Mbps).

“This national investment is therefore widening the rural digital divide, not closing it.”

The letter adds that around 35,000 homes and businesses in Devon currently have speeds below 30 Mbps with “no commercial solution or investment from Project Gigabit”.

It continues: “At present, Building Digital UK has no mandate to even begin to address this challenge since it is a delivery body, charged with delivering against government policy.

“In the continuing absence of any government policy on the Very Hard to Reach Premises, there can be no budgetary allocation and thus no delivery plan.”

The pair have requested a meeting with ministers to discuss the creation of a national strategy for the hardest-to-reach properties.

They have also proposed Devon as a “national location to test, trial or pilot solutions, technologies and models for delivery of rural broadband solutions”.

Among those signing the letter were Edwina Bradshaw, independent chair of Citizens Advice Devon, Andrea Davis, chair of Exmoor National Park, and Will Dracup, chairman of Dartmoor National Park.

Six other Devon MPs also backed the call, including Liberal Democrat MPs Richard Foord (Honiton and Sidmouth) and Rachel Gilmour (Tiverton and Minehead), along with Conservative South West Devon MP Rebecca Smith.

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Families across the South West are being urged to respond to proposed government changes to special educational needs support, amid concerns the reforms could weaken parents’ rights and make it harder to secure help for children.

Rebecca Roberts, an education law specialist and associate solicitor at Amicus Law, has raised concerns about proposals contained in the government’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reform white paper. The firm has branches in Ilminster, Martock and Yeovil.

She said: “On the surface, these reforms are being positioned as making the system less adversarial, but when you look more closely, they risk stripping away the very mechanisms that allow parents to challenge decisions and secure the right support for their children.”

Ms Roberts highlighted several areas of concern, including a move towards generic support packages rather than individualised provision, reduced powers for tribunals to name specific school placements, and increased reliance on non-binding local complaints processes.

She warned: “There is a real risk this becomes a postcode lottery.

“Not all schools are equipped to deliver the level of support children with SEND need, and without robust safeguards, families will have fewer options to challenge that.”

She also cautioned that removing independent scrutiny could leave parents having to challenge decisions within the same system that made them.

Ms Roberts brings both professional and personal experience to the issue. Before joining Amicus Law, she worked as a headteacher, SENCO and inclusion manager, and she is also the parent of a child with significant special educational needs.

Although the government has said the reforms will be introduced gradually, she believes the long-term impact could be significant.

She said: “Small changes add up, and over time this could fundamentally reshape the system in a way that reduces accountability and access to justice for families.”

Parents, professionals and stakeholders are being encouraged to respond to the government consultation, SEND reform: putting children and young people first, before the deadline on Monday, 18th May.

Ms Roberts said: “If your child may need an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), I would strongly encourage parents to begin that process without delay.

“At the same time, it is vital that families share their experiences and concerns through the consultation.”

Ms Roberts will also speak at a parent event at The Den Coffee House in Taunton from 7.00pm to 9.00pm on Friday, 24th April.

Places can be booked in advance at : www.bookwhen.com/coffeechatandsupport/e/ev-sj98q-20260424190000

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Readers across Devon will have the chance to pick up a free novel later this month as libraries across the county mark World Book Night with a major giveaway.

A total of 300 copies of The Last Bench by Carmel Harrington will be handed out as part of the nationwide celebration of reading, organised by The Reading Agency.

The initiative will see participating libraries distribute books during regular activities and events, while some branches are also planning to take copies out into the wider community.

Sophie Crofts, reading development manager at Libraries Unlimited, said the organisation was eager to help more people reconnect with reading.

“We are really excited to invite people to find joy in the act of reading this World Book Night,” she said.

“Especially during the National Year of Reading.

“Stories can bring people so much happiness and understanding; they offer everything from introspection to adventure.

“Libraries are trying to remove the barriers to access stories: we offer books for free, eAudiobooks and eBooks for download through BorrowBox, and volunteers deliver books to those unable to access the library due to health, mobility or caring responsibilities through the Home Library Service.”

Libraries taking part in the giveaway are dotted throughout Devon, and it is suggested that you check with your nearest library to find out if they are going to be involved.

World Book Night is designed to encourage adults to rediscover reading while also highlighting the benefits it can bring to wellbeing. Research from the University of Sussex has suggested reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68 per cent.

Despite that, a recent YouGov poll found that 40 per cent of people in Britain had not read a single book in the past year.

This year’s “Go All In” theme celebrates every type of reading, from graphic novels and magazines to audiobooks and eBooks.

People are also being encouraged to take part in the #ReadingHour campaign between 7.00pm and 8.00pm on 23rd April by reading, sharing a recommendation or posting online using the hashtag #WorldBookNight.

The celebration also coincides with the 10th anniversary of Libraries Unlimited taking over the management of Devon’s public library service on 23rd April 2016.

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Thousands of homes and businesses across the South West are now better protected from flooding, as major investment in defences begins to show results ahead of what experts warn will be a wetter, more unpredictable future.

New figures released by the Environment Agency reveal that 4,916 properties in the region have benefited from improved flood protection over the past two years, including communities in coastal and low-lying areas such as parts of East Devon. Among the most significant schemes is the £120 million Avonmouth Severnside Enterprise Area (ASEA) project, which has delivered 17 kilometres of new flood defences.

The scale of the Avonmouth scheme is not only reducing flood risk to 2,500 homes and businesses, but is also expected to help unlock up to 12,000 new jobs across the West of England.

Meanwhile in Somerset, the £9.7 million refurbishment of the Dunball Sluice has extended the structure’s operational life by at least 25 years. The upgrade has already proved its worth, allowing all eight gates to operate at full capacity when conditions allow, helping to efficiently drain floodwaters from the Somerset Levels and Moors.

The improvements come as part of a wider national programme that has exceeded expectations. Across England, 61,898 homes and businesses have been better protected from flooding since 2024 - nearly 10,000 more than originally planned.

The Government says its £2.65 billion investment in flood defences is beginning to pay off, with more than 250 projects completed and an estimated £10 billion in future damage prevented.

Caroline Douglass, Executive Director of Floods and Coastal Risk Management at the Environment Agency, said the milestone reflects a sustained national effort.

“Flooding has a devastating impact on communities and will only worsen as our climate changes,” she said.

“Exceeding our target by nearly 10,000 properties reflects the tireless work of our teams and partners across the country to protect the communities they live in.

“With more than 600 projects being taken forward in the coming year, we will continue working to ensure vulnerable towns and cities get the protection they need.”

Floods Minister Emma Hardy described the impact of flooding as “life-changing”, adding that investment was reversing years of underperformance.

“Flooding is life-changing - destroying homes, shutting down businesses and leaving communities facing months of heartbreak,” she said.

“This Government has invested a record £2.65 billion to repair flood defences and build new ones. After we inherited defences left in tatters, our investment is paying off, with almost 62,000 homes and businesses better protected from flooding and a further 840,000 properties on course to benefit by 2036.”

The urgency of these improvements was underlined earlier this year, when exceptionally wet weather hit parts of the country. While several hundred properties were flooded, Environment Agency teams successfully protected more than 24,000 others - demonstrating the value of strengthened defences.

With more than six million properties in England considered at risk from flooding, and climate change expected to increase the frequency of extreme weather events, officials say continued investment remains critical.

Every £1 spent on flood defences is estimated to prevent around £8 in economic damage, offering significant long-term savings for households, businesses and the wider economy.

Looking ahead, a further £1.4 billion has been committed for the coming year alone, funding more than 600 projects nationwide. By 2036, the Government aims for its wider £10.5 billion programme to better protect around 840,000 properties.

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Churches in rural communities are increasingly at risk from crime, with new figures revealing an average of ten offences a day targeting places of worship across the UK.

Data compiled by the Countryside Alliance recorded 3,809 crimes against church properties in 2025, including theft, burglary, vandalism and assault.

Of these, 1,619 incidents involved theft or burglary – including 58 cases of lead and metal theft – while 1,018 were linked to criminal damage such as vandalism and arson. A further 1,000 cases involved violence.

The figures, based on Freedom of Information requests to 45 territorial police forces, are likely to underestimate the true scale of the problem, as only 37 forces provided data.

The Countryside Alliance said the findings highlight a growing threat to churches, particularly those in smaller towns and villages, where buildings are often more isolated.

Mo Metcalf-Fisher, Director of External Affairs at the Countryside Alliance, said: “Across the country, churches and places of worship continue to suffer, as vandals, thieves and other criminals treat them as easy targets.

“We cannot allow this to continue. Churches and places of worship are focal points for local communities, particularly in rural towns and villages where they play a crucial role in combatting isolation. It is vital that the public keep a watchful eye and report any issues to the police.”

He also warned that financial pressures are compounding the issue. “At the same time as it appears crime is going up, funding is going down. The government has this year imposed VAT on church repairs, increasing costs for hard-pressed and vulnerable churches while at the same time refusing to increase funding in line with inflation. It is vital that the government drastically increases funding for churches, so that we can keep these hugely important community assets open and in use.”

The data includes incidents that underline both the financial and cultural impact of such crimes, including the theft of £25,000 worth of historic silverware from a parish church and the destruction of historic stained glass, leaving repair bills running into thousands of pounds.

The National Churches Trust said the figures demonstrate the growing strain on those responsible for maintaining historic places of worship.

Ben Sims, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the trust, said, “The National Churches Trust welcomes this new report by the Countryside Alliance, which shows that a shocking ten crimes a day were committed at UK churches last year. If volunteers are not supported, and if funding is not easily accessible, this is just one of many sad outcomes.

“Already this year the government has imposed VAT on 21,000 historic places of worship. By further demoralising volunteers, and causing chaos for ongoing restoration projects, this leads to churches becoming more vulnerable. We should be helping those who wish to safeguard our national heritage, not making their lives more difficult.”

Police leaders have also stressed the impact on communities, particularly where churches form a central part of local life. Deputy Chief Constable Rachel Nolan, heritage crime lead for the National Police Chiefs’ Council, said: “As the policing lead for heritage crime, I’m acutely aware of the impact it can have on communities. Crime and anti social behaviour targeting our heritage can be targeted or simply thoughtless, but the harm can still be significant. Crimes impacting churches are one of the most common reports impacting our heritage.”

She added, “I would encourage anyone to report suspicious activity, no matter how minor it may seem, whether that’s around churches themselves, which are often in isolated locations, or around unusual metal or stone that may have come from church or heritage sites.”

The findings raise fresh concerns about the vulnerability of rural churches, where isolation, limited resources and rising costs are leaving vital community spaces increasingly exposed to crime.

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Wales & West Utilities has announced plans to invest nearly £3.9 million over the coming years to upgrade gas pipes along the East Devon coast, helping to ensure a safe and reliable supply for around 1,750 customers well into the future.

The programme will involve replacing approximately 16 kilometres of gas mains across the region. The company will work closely with Devon County Council to carefully plan each phase of the project and manage any necessary traffic measures.

Roxanne Whittaker, who is managing the programme for Wales & West Utilities, said the investment is essential to maintaining and modernising the network.

“We’re investing in our gas network to ensure it remains safe, reliable and fit for the future for the customers we serve across the wider area,” she said. “We’ll continue to work closely with the local authority and are committed to keeping communities informed as projects are planned and delivered.

“We understand our work can cause disruption, but it is essential to maintain a resilient network that people rely on every day.

“While much of the gas network is out of sight, it plays a vital role in daily life - from heating homes to cooking meals - and we know how important it is that gas is there when people need it.

“This investment will not only maintain today’s supply but also prepare the network to transport greener gases in the future.”

Wales & West Utilities provides gas emergency and pipeline services to more than 7.5 million people across Wales and the south west of England. The company does not sell gas but transports it through an underground network spanning over 35,000 kilometres.

For more information about the upgrade programme and what to expect as work begins, customers can visit the Wales & West Utilities website.

Anyone who smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide is advised to call the National Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999 immediately. Trained engineers are available 24 hours a day to respond.

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Fears are mounting over the future of thousands of South West jobs after a petition was launched opposing plans for a new holiday tax.

Campaigners warn the policy could make UK breaks more expensive and hit the region harder than any other, following Government approval of new powers allowing mayors and councils to introduce a levy on overnight stays.

Tourism plays a central role in the South West’s economy, with around 2.4 million visitors each year supporting approximately 377,000 jobs - more than 12% of the local workforce - across accommodation, food services and the arts.

However, the petition argues the economic impact would reach far beyond the tourism sector. Retail, transport and administrative support services in coastal and rural communities could also face significant knock-on effects.

The policy was first proposed by the Liberal Democrats before being adopted by the Labour Government. Campaigners estimate it could add between £60 and £100 to the cost of a typical week-long family holiday in the UK.

Industry data cited by the campaign suggests 39% of Britons would consider travelling abroad if domestic holidays become more expensive, raising concerns about a potential shift away from UK destinations.

Small businesses are expected to be among the hardest hit. The petition highlights that smaller accommodation providers - who make up the majority of businesses in parts of Somerset and Devon - could face new compliance costs alongside a possible decline in visitor numbers. This, in turn, could mean fewer shifts for hospitality workers and reduced trade for local high streets.

The campaign has already gathered momentum, with nearly 1,000 people signing the petition in its first week. It was launched by Exmoor farmer and Conservative campaigner James Wright, who is calling for the plans to be halted.

James Wright said: “West Somerset and Mid Devon relies on tourism to sustain jobs and incomes. Even a small shift towards overseas travel will cost local jobs, cut wages, and damage already fragile economies. The Liberal Democrats who run our council’s must rule out raising a holiday tax or jobs will be at risk.”

Andrew Griffith MP, the shadow business and trade secretary, also criticised the proposal, saying: “By making British holiday breaks more expensive, Labour is driving tourists abroad and punishing the small businesses that are the heart of our coastal towns and rural villages. It is a reckless policy of economic self-harm that puts thousands of local jobs at risk and ignores the reality of the South West’s tourism sector.”

The petition is available at https://bit.ly/stoptheholidaytax

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A total of 120 new recruits have begun training with Devon and Cornwall Police as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen frontline policing across the region.

The latest intake includes 90 student officers, 16 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs), and 14 transferees from other forces. Among them are 32 graduates from the national Police Now programme, reflecting a continued focus on attracting a diverse range of candidates into policing.

Chief Constable James Vaughan QPM said he was “delighted” to welcome the new cohort, describing policing as a “challenging, rewarding and deeply meaningful career”.

“Each new officer represents our continued commitment to strengthening the frontline and keeping communities across Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly safe,” he said.

Of the recruits, 58 student officers have now formally attested, taking the oath required to assume police powers. They will begin their initial training before moving on to a 12-week placement alongside experienced officers.

The intake also includes a transferee police dog and handler, adding further operational capacity to the force.

One new recruit, who previously worked as a professional musician, spoke of his motivation for joining. After two decades touring internationally, he said becoming a father prompted him to seek a more stable and purposeful career.

“The key was finding something my daughter will be proud of,” he said. “My uncle was a police officer and hearing about his career made me realise that’s the sort of person I want to be.”

The recruitment drive follows a commitment made in September 2025 to increase visible policing by reducing senior ranks and reallocating resources to frontline roles.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez welcomed the latest intake, praising efforts to improve staff retention and support for frontline officers.

She said: “It is encouraging to see recruitment continuing at pace despite financial pressures. Strong leadership is ensuring officers feel supported, and I thank all those working behind the scenes to make this possible.”

The latest boost comes as the force continues to balance ambitious recruitment targets with wider budget challenges, while maintaining one of the largest officer numbers in its history.

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Concerns over unreliable rail services across Devon and the wider South West were raised in Parliament this week, with MPs warning that poor connections to London are impacting local communities and economic growth.

Opening the debate, Richard Foord, MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, pointed to ongoing issues on rural routes, particularly the West of England line serving Honiton, Feniton and Axminster. He highlighted a significant gap in performance compared to the wider region.

He said: “Across south-west railways, 82% of trains arrived at their destinations within three minutes of their advertised time, but on the west of England line it was just 61%.”

Mr Foord noted that some delays had even been attributed to “soil moisture deficit”, rather than more typical seasonal disruption.

While raising concerns, he also welcomed progress on plans to reinstate Cullompton railway station, describing it as a key opportunity to strengthen links to London.

He said: “Cullompton and Wellington are the two largest settlements on the line between Exeter and Taunton, so it is right that those towns should be afforded the means to enable the people who live there to walk or cycle to stations, giving them access to London via Paddington.”

He added: “A station at Cullompton will be key to its economic growth, enabling connections for work and education.”

Drawing a comparison with international rail systems, Mr Foord said passengers in Devon are not seeking high-speed rail, but basic reliability.

He said: “We are not asking for the Devon Shinkansen - bullet train - even at HS2 speeds; we just want a route that connects Devon to London Waterloo at the same standard enjoyed by the rest of the country.”

Further concerns were raised by Jayne Kirkham, MP for Truro and Falmouth, who warned that communities further south-west remain heavily reliant on a single line, leaving them exposed during extreme weather.

She said: “Nearly one million people in Plymouth and Cornwall struggle when there is a storm that affects their one line in and out of Cornwall.”

Responding on behalf of the Government, rail minister Keir Mather said reliable rail connections are “vital for connecting people to job, service and leisure destinations” and described them as “catalysts for economic growth”.

He outlined plans for Great British Railways, which aims to bring together train operators and Network Rail to improve coordination and service delivery.

He added: “People deserve access, irrespective of where they live, to all the benefits that the railway has to offer.”

With further details on long-term rail strategy expected later this year, MPs stressed that improving reliability and resilience in the South West must remain a priority.

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Parents in Devon are being invited to help shape future supermarket products as part of a new initiative launched by Aldi.

The retailer has opened applications for its new Parent Panel, which will see families from across the UK share feedback on products, services and the in-store experience.

Those selected could receive up to £400 in Aldi shopping vouchers, along with free Mamia products and selected Specialbuys.

Julie Ashfield said: “Families rely on Aldi every day, and it’s important that we continue to listen to what really matters to them.

“The Aldi Parent Panel gives parents from across the UK the opportunity to play a role in shaping how we support families – from the products we offer to the experience we provide in-store and beyond.

“We want the panel to reflect families of all shapes, sizes and experiences, so we can continue delivering the quality and value Aldi is known for.”

Parents with children of any age, from babies to teenagers, are encouraged to apply.

Successful applicants will take part in short surveys and product reviews at various points throughout the year, receiving £100 in vouchers for each completed survey.

A total of 10 parents will be chosen for the panel.

Applications can be submitted either as a written entry of up to 200 words or a short video, and should be sent by email to aldiparentpanel@aldi.co.uk by 15th April, 2026.

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A new long-term strategy to support survivors of domestic abuse across Devon has been approved by Devon County Council.

The council’s Cabinet has signed off on its Domestic Abuse Support in Safe Accommodation Strategic Plan for 2026-2030, aimed at improving housing and support for people fleeing abuse.

Council leader Julian Brazil said: “Domestic abuse has a devastating impact not just on individuals, but on families and communities.

“This strategy ensures that victims and survivors – including children and young people – can access safe accommodation and the right support at the right time.

“By working closely with our partners, we are strengthening our response and helping people to recover and move forward with their lives.”

The plan sets out how the council will meet its duties under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 while responding to rising demand and increasingly complex needs.

It includes a phased increase in supported accommodation such as refuges, specialist units and dispersed housing, alongside improved therapeutic support for adults and children.

The strategy also aims to expand access for those facing additional barriers, including people with no recourse to public funds, and strengthen schemes that allow survivors to remain safely in their own homes.

Delivery will be supported by the Devon Domestic Abuse Alliance service, which has been in place since April 2025 and is funded through existing resources.

The plan will now be published and implemented, with progress monitored through regular reviews.

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A countryside charity has warned that Devon’s farmland is under growing pressure from competing land demands, following the Government’s publication of a new national framework.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) in Devon has criticised the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Land Use Framework, unveiled this week, arguing it could have serious consequences for food production and the county’s rural landscape.

The framework, the first of its kind in England, sets out how land could be used in future to balance priorities such as food security, renewable energy, housing and nature restoration. However, Devon CPRE says the proposals risk taking significant amounts of farmland out of production.

Steve Crowther, chairman of Devon CPRE, said the plans “confirm long-held concerns” among farming communities.

He claims around 10% of England’s land could be reassigned, including 1% for solar and wind energy and a further 9% for environmental schemes such as rewilding and habitat creation. In addition, land is expected to be allocated for housing development.

Mr Crowther questioned the Government’s assurance that enough farmland would remain to maintain current levels of domestic food production, pointing out that the UK is only around 58% self-sufficient in food.

“With a growing population and increasing global uncertainty, maintaining current levels is not enough,” he said. “We need to prioritise homegrown food production, especially in areas like Devon, which has some of the best land for livestock farming anywhere in the world.”

He also raised concerns about the expansion of large-scale solar developments on agricultural land, arguing that financial incentives are encouraging developers to prioritise energy projects over food production.

“All of our solar energy needs could be met through rooftop installations and the use of brownfield land,” he said. “But as long as it is more profitable to build on farmland, that is where developers will go.”

The charity has also warned of potential impacts on tourism, one of Devon’s key economic sectors, which depends heavily on the county’s rural scenery.

Alongside its response to the framework, Devon CPRE has launched a new campaign titled “This Is Our Green Land – Mega Solar and Mega Batteries, KEEP OFF!”, aimed at mobilising local opposition to large-scale energy developments.

The campaign focuses on a growing cluster of solar and battery projects near the Alverdiscott grid connection point in North Devon. Six schemes have already been approved in the area, covering more than 400 acres, including one of the largest solar farms in the county at Litchardon Cross.

Two further proposals - at Bulworthy Farm and West Webbery Farm - could increase the total area to around 725 acres within an 11-square-mile zone.

Devon CPRE argues that while each application is considered individually, the cumulative impact is significant.

The campaign includes a public petition and is intended to demonstrate to both local and national politicians that residents want to protect Devon’s farmland and landscapes from what the group describes as large-scale industrial development.

DEFRA says the Land Use Framework is designed to ensure England can meet long-term challenges while balancing environmental and economic needs.

Consultation and local planning decisions will continue to play a role in how the framework is implemented.

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A Devon charity is urgently appealing for volunteers to help raise assistance puppies that will go on to support military veterans facing serious mental health challenges.

Veterans With Dogs is calling for “puppy socialisers” to play a vital role in preparing young dogs for their future as highly trained assistance companions.

The charity works with former members of the armed forces who are living with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression, pairing them with specially trained dogs that can help restore independence and confidence.

Each dog’s journey begins in the home of a volunteer. Puppy socialisers care for the dogs during their early months, introducing them to everyday life including walks, shopping trips, cafés, car travel and public transport. These experiences are essential in helping the puppies develop into calm, adaptable and loyal companions.

Hilary, who volunteers as a puppy socialiser, said she was inspired to get involved after hearing about the impact an assistance dog had on a veteran’s family.

“When I heard about the difference one of these dogs made, including a child saying they felt like they had their dad back, I knew I wanted to be involved,” she said. “Being a puppy socialiser means you’re helping create that kind of life-changing partnership.”

Once fully trained, the dogs are able to detect signs of distress, interrupt anxiety or panic episodes, and provide grounding support. For many veterans, this can be the difference between isolation and re-engaging with daily life.

Sally Williams, an Army veteran and chair of trustees at the charity, said volunteers are at the heart of the programme.

“Every assistance dog begins with a volunteer,” she said. “Puppy socialisers play an incredibly important role in helping these dogs grow into calm, confident companions who will go on to support veterans facing very real mental health challenges.”

She added that although the charity has secured funding to support its work, a shortage of volunteers is limiting how many puppies can enter the programme.

“Without vital puppy socialisers, we cannot bring new dogs into training. We desperately need more people to come forward and help.”

The charity provides full support to volunteers, including guidance throughout the process and veterinary care for the puppies.

Those interested in becoming a puppy socialiser can find out more by visiting the Veterans With Dogs website at : www.veteranswithdogs.org.uk

( Photos: Courtesy of Veterans With Dogs 📸 )

Devon County Council has approved an extra £3 million to help repair potholes and deal with damage caused by a winter of severe weather across the county.

The funding was agreed by the authority’s Cabinet and will be used for highways reactive maintenance during the current financial year, as pressure on road repairs continues to grow.

Council figures show that pothole reports have surged following recent storms and prolonged winter conditions. In February 2026 alone, around 9,700 potholes were reported, representing a 90 per cent increase compared with the same month last year.

The council says the additional money will help crews respond more quickly to road damage, including potholes, winter-related deterioration and the effects of recent storms.

Recent weather events – including storms Goretti, Ingrid and Chandra – have placed additional strain on Devon’s vast road network, with repair teams also carrying out emergency work in coastal communities.

That has included work to protect properties along the South Hams coastline at Slapton, Torcross and Beesands, where storm conditions have caused significant damage.

The new funding is intended to cover the increased demand for pothole repairs, winter gritting and storm recovery work across the county.

Devon maintains one of the largest highway networks of any local authority in England, looking after around 8,000 miles of roads. Rural lanes, coastal routes and exposed areas can be particularly vulnerable to harsh weather conditions.

Councillor James Buczkowski, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for finance, said the scale of the network meant winter weather inevitably had a significant impact.

He said: “Devon has one of the largest road networks in the country, and periods of severe winter weather inevitably take their toll. The additional £3 million agreed today will help address the pressures created by storms and winter conditions across the network.

“It also sits alongside the significant increase in highways funding we have already agreed for next year, including over £36 million for highways maintenance and more than £100 million for preventative maintenance on our roads.

“Maintaining Devon’s roads is essential for residents, businesses and rural communities who rely on them every day. This additional funding will help us respond to the pressures of winter while continuing to increase investment in the years ahead.”

The extra £3 million comes alongside broader investment plans for the county’s roads. As part of the council’s 2026–27 budget, councillors have already committed to more than £36 million for highways maintenance – an increase of £6 million compared with the previous year.

In addition, the authority plans to spend over £100 million on capital investment for preventative maintenance, aimed at improving road surfaces and reducing the likelihood of potholes forming in the future.

The council says the combined funding will support both urgent repairs and longer-term improvements to Devon’s extensive road network.

( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Residents in a small East Devon community are urgently raising funds as they prepare to challenge two major battery energy storage proposals at public inquiries, with the first hearing due to begin next week.

Campaigners around the rural hamlet of Hawkchurch are seeking financial support to oppose two large Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) planned near Blackpool Corner and Raymonds Hill. The schemes – Hazelhurst (300MWh, planning reference 24/0096/MFUL) and Newlands (80MW, Ref. 24/2650/MFUL) – are being reconsidered after developers appealed against refusals by East Devon District Council.

Hawkchurch lies close to the West Dorset and Somerset boundaries and its proximity to the Axminster Substation has made the surrounding countryside attractive to developers of energy infrastructure projects.

Battery Energy Storage Systems typically consist of rows of large metal containers housing lithium batteries placed on concrete bases.

The Hazelhurst site alone would cover an area comparable in scale to a factory, with cabling proposed to be dug along the B3165.

The Hawkchurch and Monkton Wyld Action Group (HMWAG) has assembled a team of experts and a barrister to represent residents at the upcoming appeals. The group says it is particularly concerned about the potential risk of fire and the impact on local water supplies, as the proposed sites sit above an important aquifer relied upon by many farms and households for drinking water.

The community has previously challenged similar proposals. Appeals for battery storage schemes at Pound Road in 2023 and Pound Farm in 2025 were both successfully resisted, with the earlier case funded largely by one local resident and the latter supported by contributions from local people.

The countryside charity CPRE Devon is now supporting the campaign by helping to raise awareness and promote a fundraising appeal to cover the legal and expert costs of the latest cases.

Councillor Moe Dodson of Hawkchurch Parish Council said local residents had already expressed strong opposition to large-scale battery developments in the area.

“There were three BESS fires in the UK last year, a significant number considering how few sites are operational. The Parish Council carried out a survey of residents to draw up our Neighbourhood Plan. One of the survey questions was about large-scale lithium battery schemes and 98% of respondents said they didn’t want them in the local area because of the significant risks, including the threat to the important aquifer which is the sole water source to many surrounding farms and homes.”

Karen Goaman of the Hawkchurch and Monkton Wyld Action Group said the community felt it had little option but to oppose the schemes.

“We are resisting these two BESS schemes with everything we’ve got; we have no alternative because of the threats they pose to the environment, residents and visitors to the area, not to mention the industrialisation of the rural landscape and the harm to wildlife and ecosystems from noise and possible fires releasing toxic emissions.”

She added that financial support from the public was urgently needed.

“We urgently need contributions – large or small donations - to share the burden of funding our defence as widely as possible. It’s easy to donate on our Go Fund Me page. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed. Please show your support for our defence by attending the Inquiry whenever you can, particularly at the opening at 10am on Tuesday, 10th March.”

Rupert Gordon (pictured) of the action group said the community faced an uphill battle against well-funded developers.

“We are really up against it to raise money to defend our East Devon and West Dorset countryside from attempts to install potentially dangerous and harmful Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These city-based companies are happy to blight our countryside, and we continue to incur more costs borne by a group of likeminded individuals donating what they can. This is the planning system we have, and so we must take part fully, or face defeat by well-funded corporations. Please help us. If one installation succeeds, we will likely see several others in no time.”

Penny Mills of CPRE Devon said the organisation had long raised concerns about the potential dangers of battery storage systems.

“We have been campaigning against Battery Energy Storage Systems for several years because they are so dangerous and most people know little about them… BESS sites are at high risk of catching fire - the batteries can ignite without any outside interference. Fire services struggle to put out these fires, and instead have to let them burn out, which can take days. In the meantime, there is a risk of toxic plumes over a wide area. Contaminated water from any fire control activity will likely lead to streams, rivers, wells and aquifers being permanently poisoned.”

She added: “These BESS are not good news, and are part of the slow creep of industrialisation of our beautiful countryside. We need to stop them. We urge people to support the Hawkchurch and Monkton Wyld Action Group however they can as they fight these two landmark Appeals.”

The first public inquiry, concerning the Hazelhurst scheme, is scheduled to begin at 10.00am on Tuesday, 10th March and is expected to run for up to a week. It will be held at Blackdown House on the Heathpark Industrial Estate in Honiton.

Residents are being encouraged to attend the opening session and support the community campaign.

( Photos supplied by if-Media 📸 )

Two staff members from Libraries Unlimited have been shortlisted for the Libraries Connected Awards 2026, recognising their work supporting reading, wellbeing and community engagement across Devon.

The national awards, organised by Libraries Connected, celebrate the dedication and achievements of library workers who make a meaningful difference to local communities and library users.

Emma Ward from South Molton Library has been shortlisted in the reading category for her efforts to inspire a love of books among readers of all ages.

Emma runs three book groups supporting children, teenagers and adults. Alongside leading the sessions, she spends time outside work reading and preparing so participants can enjoy a richer experience.

She has also worked with young people to redesign the Teen Library space, helping to make it more inclusive and welcoming. By gathering feedback from local teenagers and using their ideas to shape the new layout, Emma has helped create a space where young people feel a sense of ownership and belonging.

Beth Harris, health and wellbeing development manager at Libraries Unlimited, has been shortlisted in the health and wellbeing category for her work strengthening the library service’s role in supporting community health.

Beth has helped transform the organisation’s wellbeing offer by securing funding and building partnerships that bring new programmes and resources to libraries across Devon and Torbay. Initiatives introduced under her leadership include blood pressure monitors now available in all libraries, media literacy workshops delivered in partnership with the Guardian Foundation, and the Outdoor Explorer Club, which helps people discover and access the outdoors.

Alex Kittow, chief executive of Libraries Unlimited, welcomed the national recognition for both members of staff.

“It’s a huge honour to have not one but two members of staff shortlisted,” he said. “We are delighted that Emma and Beth have received this national recognition for their hard work in going above and beyond to enrich and resource community wellbeing. Libraries have the power to transform lives, but that would not be possible without people like Emma and Beth who bring so much heart, thought and enthusiasm to their work.”

The shortlist will now be considered by an expert judging panel, with winners set to be announced at a ceremony in June.

Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, congratulated those nominated this year.

“Huge congratulations to all the staff who have been shortlisted for the Libraries Connected Awards 2026,” she said. “We had a record-breaking number of nominations this year and the range of projects put forward shows just how creative and committed library workers are, even in challenging times.

“It’s inspiring to see how staff respond to local needs, find new ways to connect people and ensure that libraries remain welcoming and trusted places for everyone. We’re delighted to recognise their achievements.”

The awards are sponsored by OverDrive, which provides digital books, audiobooks and other resources to libraries and schools around the world.

( Photo supplied by Libraries Unlimited 📸 )

Players in Devon have helped raise more than £7 million for the international charity Mary’s Meals through the People’s Postcode Lottery.

The funding supports the charity’s mission to provide daily school meals to some of the world’s poorest children, helping ensure they are well-fed and able to attend school.

Thanks to the contributions of lottery players, 478,968 children are now receiving a meal every school day through Mary’s Meals programmes. In total, more than 39 million meals have been served across 16 countries as part of the partnership.

Laura Chow, head of charities at the People’s Postcode Lottery, praised the generosity of players who have supported the charity over the past decade.

“It’s fantastic to know that for a decade our players have supported the essential work of Mary’s Meals – and have now raised an incredible £7 million to help children across the globe access nutritious meals,” she said.

“This funding helps children in some of the most underserved communities go to school well-fed, ready to learn, and full of hope for a brighter future.”

Mary’s Meals began with a simple initiative in a shed in the Scottish Highlands and has since grown into a global charity serving daily meals to more than three million children.

Over the past ten years, support from People’s Postcode Lottery players has helped expand the charity’s reach significantly. By 2015, Mary’s Meals had reached the milestone of feeding one million children, with further programmes launched in Ethiopia and Syria in 2017. Most recently, the charity began operations in Mozambique in 2024.

Gemma Love, philanthropy and institutional partnerships manager at Mary’s Meals, expressed gratitude for the continued support from players in Devon.

“We are incredibly grateful to People’s Postcode Lottery players in Devon, whose ongoing support is helping us reach more children than ever before with a daily school meal that encourages learning, brings hope and changes lives,” she said.

Mary’s Meals continues to expand its work internationally, providing meals in schools and helping children gain access to education in communities where poverty and hunger often prevent them from attending class.

Find out more here : https://www.marysmeals.org.uk

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Education unions representing headteachers, teachers and support staff across Devon have called a public meeting to highlight what they describe as a long-standing and unfair funding system which they say leaves the county’s children “worth less” than pupils in other parts of England.

The meeting will take place at 5.30pm on Thursday 12th March at Exeter Library on Castle Street. It is being organised jointly by NAHT, NASUWT, NEU, GMB and UNISON.

Devon is a member of the f40 group, a coalition of the 40 lowest-funded local authorities in England. Union leaders argue that national funding formulas have historically disadvantaged large rural counties such as Devon, where factors including sparsity, transport costs and levels of deprivation are not fully reflected in allocations. As a result, they say, Devon remains consistently below the national average for per-pupil funding.

According to the unions, this longstanding underfunding is now being compounded by rising pressures in special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), recruitment challenges and increasing expectations on schools, creating what they describe as unsustainable strain.

The meeting follows a recent decision by Devon County Council to seek approval from the Department for Education (DfE) to transfer 0.5 per cent of funding from the Schools Block to the High Needs Block for 2026/27.

Members of the Schools’ Forum voted not to approve the transfer. However, the council subsequently applied to the DfE to overturn that decision, and approval was granted.

This comes despite the DfE’s plans to write off 90 per cent of SEND debt from council balance sheets, provided it approves a local SEND reform plan. The unions argue that the transfer represents a false trade off linked to a ‘Safety Valve’ agreement between the council and the DfE. Under such agreements, the DfE supports local authorities that have exceeded their high-needs budgets on condition that measures are taken to prevent further deficits. The national Safety Valve programme has recently been announced as ending.

Steve Hitchcock, speaking on behalf of the unions and president of NAHT’s Devon branch, said: “Schools were clear in voting this down. To then apply to overturn that decision has caused real anger across the profession. Schools are already stretched to the limit. Taking more from classroom budgets to plug historic deficits is not a sustainable solution.”

He added: “Many people in Devon simply don’t realise that our pupils attract less funding than children in better-funded parts of the country. This amounts to many tens of thousands of pounds for each school. Devon’s children are not worth less – but the system treats them as if they are. The public deserves to understand what this means for staffing, provision and outcomes.”

Union representatives warn that continued financial pressure could lead to restructuring, job losses, reduced SEND capacity and increased stress across the school workforce, ultimately affecting children and families.

At the public meeting, organisers say they will explain why Devon receives lower funding, outline what the 0.5 per cent transfer could mean for school budgets, set out their wider campaign for fair funding, and give parents, staff and residents the opportunity to ask questions.

The unions say they remain willing to work constructively with Devon County Council and central government, but believe greater transparency and public engagement are now essential.

All members of the public are welcome to attend.

( Photos: Unsplash 📸 )

A senior councillor at Devon County Council has welcomed the Government’s new plans to reform support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), describing them as an important move forward for families.

Councillor Denise Bickley, the council’s cabinet member for SEND, was responding to the publication of the Government’s education and SEND white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving.

She said: “The publication of this white paper is a positive step.

“It clearly recognises the pressures facing the SEND system and the need to improve outcomes for children and young people.

“The focus on earlier intervention is welcome.

“Supporting children sooner can make a real difference to their lives and reduce the need for more intensive support later on.”

The white paper sets out plans to improve outcomes for children and young people, including those with SEND and their families. Proposals include prioritising earlier support, introducing clearer national standards, strengthening partnership working across education, health and care services, and increasing inclusion within mainstream education.

Cllr Bickley said councils have long called for these priorities and are ready to play their part in delivering change.

She said: “Clearer national standards and stronger joint working between education, health and care services are also important.

“Families need greater consistency and confidence, wherever they live.

“The white paper’s commitment to inclusion and workforce growth, including recruiting more teachers, is encouraging.

“These are essential foundations for a stronger system.

“Teachers need to be allowed to teach – and be respected for the knowledge and experience they bring to their role.

“Teaching assistants need to be recognised for the vital role they play in schools.

“We will see how the white paper, as it moves through consultation, addresses this.”

She also highlighted concerns raised by schools and parents around funding and class sizes.

Cllr Bickley said: “There is an obvious desire from schools and families for smaller class sizes and parents will want reassurance that funding will be sufficient to allow this – although if schools are given the tools to pool funding and work collaboratively, as laid out in the plans, this may well free up funding for complete reorganisation and innovative planning.”

The Government’s proposals will now go through consultation before any changes are introduced.

( Photo: Denise Buckley / YouTube 📸 )