One of the UK’s most recognisable garden visitors has been named Britain’s favourite butterfly after thousands of people took part in a nationwide poll.

Wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation has revealed that the colourful Peacock butterfly has topped the first-ever public vote to find the nation’s favourite species.

More than 20,000 votes were cast between 15th May and 7th June, with the Peacock beating 59 other butterflies to claim the title. The Orange-tip finished second, followed by the Red Admiral, Holly Blue and Brimstone.

The result comes at a significant time for butterfly conservation. Last year, Butterfly Conservation declared a butterfly emergency after figures from its annual Big Butterfly Count recorded the lowest butterfly numbers since the survey began.

The Peacock is a familiar sight across East Devon, West Dorset and South Somerset, where it can regularly be spotted in gardens, parks, nature reserves and countryside hedgerows throughout the summer months. Its striking red wings, decorated with distinctive eye-like markings, make it one of Britain’s easiest butterflies to identify.

Kate Merry, Head of Engagement at Butterfly Conservation, said the response to the poll demonstrated the affection many people have for butterflies.

“The response to Britain’s Favourite Butterfly has been absolutely wonderful, and we’re not surprised. It’s clear that people up and down the country love butterflies of all shapes, sizes and colours, and voted in their thousands for their favourites.

“The Peacock is a worthy winner, it’s a true showstopper and a species that I bet a lot of us picture when we think of butterflies. It’s been really special seeing people get so passionate about their favourites and throw their support behind them. Now we can’t wait to see how many Peacocks are spotted up and down the country in this summer’s Big Butterfly Count.”

The Peacock’s popularity is perhaps unsurprising. Found throughout the UK, it is known for its bold colouring and dramatic eye-spots, which help protect it from predators. When threatened, the butterfly can suddenly reveal these markings, startling birds and other animals.

The species thrives wherever nettles are allowed to grow, as the plant provides an essential food source for its caterpillars. Conservationists often encourage gardeners to leave a small patch of nettles untouched to support local butterfly populations.

The top five in the public vote showcased the rich variety of butterflies found across Britain. The Orange-tip, with its vivid orange wing tips on males, secured second place. The Red Admiral, famous for its striking black, red and white colouring, came third, while the delicate Holly Blue finished fourth. The sunshine-yellow Brimstone completed the top five.

Butterfly Conservation is now encouraging people across the South West and the rest of the UK to take part in this summer’s Big Butterfly Count, which runs from 17th July to 9th August.

The annual survey, described as the world’s largest butterfly count, asks members of the public to spend 15 minutes recording the butterflies and day-flying moths they see in any outdoor space. The information helps conservationists track population trends and provides an important snapshot of the health of the natural environment.

Ms Merry said: “Taking part in the Big Butterfly Count couldn’t be easier, simply spend 15 minutes in any outdoor space and count the butterflies and day-flying moths you see and submit your sightings to help build our interactive map.

“This information will help conservationists to see how some of our more-common species are faring, which in turn helps to build a wider picture of how all butterflies and moths are doing. It’s easy, fun for all the family, and a great excuse to get outside and experience the simple joy of spotting butterflies.”

The charity hopes a strong public response this summer will help provide fresh data on butterfly populations while raising awareness of the need to protect habitats that support pollinators and other wildlife.

For many nature lovers across the region, however, the result of the nationwide poll has already settled one debate. The Peacock – a regular visitor to gardens and green spaces across East Devon, West Dorset and South Somerset – is officially Britain’s favourite butterfly.

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Somerset is set to receive £50 million in government funding to help protect homes, farms and businesses from future flooding following what ministers described as an exceptionally challenging start to 2026.

The investment, announced on Tuesday 9th June, comes after the county experienced its second wettest January on record, with more than double the average monthly rainfall. Flooding continued into February, prompting Somerset Council to declare a major incident as communities across the county faced prolonged disruption.

Despite the scale of the flooding, existing flood defences, deployed pumps and Environment Agency teams working around the clock helped protect 2,860 properties from being inundated.

The new funding package was announced by Floods Minister Emma Hardy during the Flood and Coast Conference and is intended to strengthen Somerset’s resilience to future extreme weather events.

The £50 million investment will fund a range of measures including improved water management infrastructure, enhanced flood defence schemes, nature-based solutions and better maintenance of watercourses. Ministers say the work will help reduce pressure on emergency responders while providing greater protection for local communities.

The announcement is particularly significant for Somerset’s agricultural sector. As one of England’s most important farming counties, repeated flooding poses a serious threat to rural businesses and livelihoods. Government officials say helping farms become more resilient to extreme weather will not only support local communities but could also help reduce the wider impact of flooding on food production and supply chains.

Floods Minister Emma Hardy said she had witnessed the impact of the flooding first-hand during a visit to Somerset earlier this year.

“Somerset has faced the full force of extreme weather this year, which I saw when I visited earlier this year,” she said.

“The communities here deserve more than a temporary fix which is why this government is investing.

“This £50 million funding in the protection of homes, farms and livelihoods in Somerset for years to come.”

Somerset Council Leader Bill Revans welcomed the announcement and said the funding would help the county adapt to the growing challenges posed by climate change.

“We’d like to thank the Minister for visiting Somerset during the major incident and meeting with the Council, our partners and residents,” he said.

“We are pleased the Government has listened to our calls for urgent action and welcome this vital investment into the future of Somerset.

“This winter has shown how Somerset’s unique environment is particularly susceptible to the impacts of climate change and it is clear we must help our communities to adapt and become more resilient.

“We will work closely with partners, including the Environment Agency, Somerset Rivers Authority, Internal Drainage Boards, Natural England and, most importantly, our local communities, to ensure these funds are invested wisely to provide lasting benefits for years to come.”

The investment forms part of the Government’s wider £10.5 billion flood resilience programme, which ministers describe as the largest ever flood protection investment programme in England. Running until 2036, the scheme aims to deliver new flood defences and restore existing infrastructure in areas most at risk from flooding.

The Government also announced in April that almost 62,000 homes and businesses across England have received improved flood protection over the past two years.

In Somerset, new and upgraded flood defence schemes introduced during the same period have helped better protect 4,916 properties while also safeguarding valuable agricultural land and supporting communities regularly affected by flooding.

With climate experts warning that extreme weather events are likely to become more frequent, local leaders say the latest funding represents an important step towards ensuring Somerset is better prepared for future challenges.

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Thousands of people across the South West are expected to take part in Pride celebrations over the coming weeks as towns and cities host parades, festivals, exhibitions and community events marking Pride Month.

Held annually throughout June, Pride Month celebrates LGBTQ+ communities while recognising the ongoing fight for equality, inclusion and human rights. Events across Devon, Somerset and Dorset are expected to bring together residents, visitors, community groups and performers in a series of celebrations highlighting diversity and acceptance.

The origins of Pride Month are widely linked to the Stonewall Uprising in New York City on 28th June 1969, when members of the LGBTQ+ community resisted a police raid at the Stonewall Inn. The protests that followed are widely regarded as a turning point in the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement and helped inspire the first Pride marches a year later.

More than five decades on, Pride events are now held across the world, combining celebration with activism and visibility for LGBTQ+ communities.

In Devon, one of the first major events will be Torbay Pride on Saturday 13th June at Torre Abbey Meadows in Torquay. A Pride march will begin at Princess Gardens before heading to the main festival site, with organisers promising live music, food stalls and community-led activities.

Exmouth Pride will follow on Saturday 20th June in Manor Gardens, featuring a march from Sideshore, live performances, family-friendly activities and local organisations showcasing support services.

On Saturday 27th June, Dartmouth Pride will return for its sixth year, centred around Royal Avenue Gardens, with town-wide decorations, entertainment and community stalls.

The South West’s largest Pride gathering is expected in Plymouth on Saturday 11th July, when Plymouth Pride will see a parade march from the Theatre Royal to Plymouth Hoe, followed by a large-scale celebration on the Hoe.

In Somerset, the Taunton Brewhouse is hosting a month-long Pride exhibition throughout June alongside theatre, queer cinema and comedy events aimed at showcasing LGBTQ+ stories and creativity.

Martock Pride will also take place on Saturday 20th June, featuring cabaret performances under the banner “Y’all Means All”, with drag artists and live entertainment at the Parish Hall.

In Dorset, Sherborne Pride returns on Sunday 28th June for its second year, with live performances and family-friendly activities in Pageant Gardens.

Local political leaders have also highlighted the importance of Pride Month. Plymouth MP Luke Pollard ( seen pictured here with with partner ) said Pride continues to play a vital role in promoting equality and visibility.

Speaking about the significance of the month, he said: “June is Pride Month. I am really proud to be Plymouth’s first openly gay MP, and I have always been proud to campaign for better LGBT+ rights.”

He added that equality remained central to his work, saying he has “always tried to use [his] platform to highlight issues that make life difficult for folks that are part of the community.”

Reflecting on the challenges still faced by LGBTQ+ people, he said: “There is still a long way to go until every LGBT+ person can live openly, safely and love who they want. Which is why Pride Month matters so much.”

He also encouraged people to take part in local celebrations, highlighting that Plymouth Pride will take place on Saturday 11th July, and pointing residents towards Love Army HQ in Plymouth Market for information about Pride activities.

Organisers across the region say Pride events continue to offer not only celebration, but also a space for reflection on progress made and the work still needed to achieve full equality.

While attitudes towards LGBTQ+ people have changed significantly in recent decades, campaigners say issues such as discrimination, hate crime and mental health inequalities remain.

For many, Pride provides an opportunity to connect with others, celebrate identity and feel part of a wider community. Studies have consistently shown that visibility, acceptance and social support can have a positive impact on wellbeing, particularly for LGBTQ+ young people.

As more rainbow flags begin appearing across the South West, organisers hope this year’s events will continue to strengthen inclusion and understanding within local communities, while celebrating the diversity of those taking part.

( Photos: Pixabay Library / Luke Pollard MP / Threads 📸 )

An exceptionally rare Roman gold ring discovered in South Somerset is providing archaeologists with valuable new insights into life in Britain during one of the Roman Empire’s most turbulent decades.

The artefact, known as the Ilminster Ring, was uncovered alongside a hoard of coins and other objects during an archaeological excavation near Ilminster in 2018.

Following a successful fundraising campaign, the South West Heritage Trust has now acquired the treasure and plans to place it on public display at the Museum of Somerset in Taunton.

Experts believe the ring dates to shortly after AD 297, a period marked by political instability and conflict across the Roman world.

Gold jewellery from late Roman Britain is exceptionally uncommon, making the discovery particularly significant. The ring features elaborate gold craftsmanship and a finely engraved gemstone, known as an intaglio, which has survived in remarkable condition despite spending more than 1,700 years underground.

According to Amal Khreisheh, Senior Curator at the South West Heritage Trust, the find is helping researchers better understand the lives of affluent Romans living in south Somerset during a challenging period of history.

“Roman gold is really rare, most jewellery is made out of silver or bronze in this period, so it’s really striking to see in such good condition,” Khreisheh said.

She explained that the discovery sheds light on how local Roman communities navigated the unrest that affected the empire between AD 286 and 296, a decade marked by political upheaval and uncertainty.

The ring stands out not only because of its material value but also because of its craftsmanship and historical context. Khreisheh described it as a “nationally significant find”, highlighting its importance to understanding Roman Britain during the late third century.

“The Ilminster Ring is both large and heavy, with elaborate goldwork and a beautifully executed intaglio.

“It is likely the ring was buried shortly after 297 as part of a hoard including coins, lead and pottery objects.”

The discovery suggests that some members of Roman society retained considerable wealth and status despite the wider instability affecting the empire at the time.

The ring was discovered by metal detectorist Kevin Minto from Amesbury, who participated in the excavation in 2018. Although the significance of the find was not immediately apparent, the reality of what had been uncovered became clearer once the day’s work was over.

“At the time, you’re tired from digging all day,” Minto recalled.

“When you see it, it’s all a bit overwhelming and it didn’t really sink in until I got home that night.

“I put the coins on the table and was like, ‘wow’.”

The discovery of both the ring and the associated hoard has since attracted considerable interest from archaeologists and historians alike.

To secure the ring for the region, the South West Heritage Trust raised £78,010 with support from Arts Council England and charitable organisations.

Following specialist conservation work, the Ilminster Ring will become part of the Museum of Somerset’s Roman collection, allowing visitors to view one of the most important Roman discoveries made in the county in recent years.

The acquisition ensures that the artefact will remain accessible to the public while continuing to contribute to research into Roman Britain’s social, economic and political history.

( Photos: Pixabay Library / South West Heritage Centre 📸 )

Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of silent flight while supporting two vital local charities at a special fundraising event in East Devon this summer.

The Devon & Somerset Gliding Club is preparing to host its annual Charity Day on Friday, 19th June at North Hill Airfield, Sheldon, near Honiton.

This year’s event will raise funds for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and Hospiscare.

Guests will be able to take to the skies alongside experienced pilots in two-seater gliders, choosing between a traditional winch launch or an aerotow flight.

Winch launches propel gliders to around 1,000 feet above the airfield, offering flights of up to ten minutes. Aerotow flights, using a Eurofox tug aircraft, climb to approximately 2,000 feet and can remain airborne for up to 20 minutes.

Depending on weather conditions, passengers may experience thermal soaring and ridge lift while enjoying panoramic views across the Devon countryside. Wildlife sightings can also include buzzards and red kites soaring alongside the aircraft.

“Gliding is a beautiful way to fly that allows the peaceful experience of a bird’s-eye view without the noise of a propeller engine. It’s a double win that these flights offer a way to raise funds for a good cause,” said a long-term fan of gliding.

The volunteer-run club has chosen Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance because of its strong aviation links and the assistance provided to one of its members following a gliding accident at the airfield several years ago.

Hospiscare was selected after a number of club members and their families received support from the charity during difficult times.

The event follows the success of last year’s fundraiser, which generated £1,000 for Devon Air Ambulance through donations linked to glider flights completed on the day.

Alongside raising money for charity, organisers hope the event will introduce more young people to aviation.

The Devon & Somerset Gliding Club is recognised by the British Gliding Association as a Junior Gliding Centre, offering pilot training from the age of 12 under the supervision of DBS-checked instructors and established safeguarding procedures.

Club members say many former junior pilots have gone on to careers and hobbies involving powered aircraft and helicopters after beginning their flying journeys in gliders.

Further information about the event, the club and booking opportunities is available from the Devon & Somerset Gliding Club.

( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Music lovers in Axminster are being invited to enjoy an evening of stirring choral music this June as Axminster & District Choral Society presents its Summer Concert at The Minster Church.

The concert takes place on Saturday 13th June at 7.30pm and will feature two celebrated English works - Songs of the Fleet by Charles Villiers Stanford and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ much-loved Five Mystical Songs.

The performance will also showcase acclaimed baritone soloist Julian Rippon, whose “rich and expressive” voice is expected to be one of the highlights of the evening.

Audiences can enjoy pre-concert drinks from 6.30pm before the choir takes to the stage in the historic town centre church.

Stanford’s Songs of the Fleet, based on poems by Sir Henry Newbolt, opens the programme with dramatic and patriotic themes inspired by England’s naval traditions. The five-part work ranges from the energetic “Sailing at Dawn” to a moving and reflective finale.

The second half of the concert features Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs, a powerful setting of poems by 17th-century Welsh priest and poet George Herbert. The work combines joyful choral moments with quieter, deeply reflective passages, including the well-known “Love bade me welcome”.

Axminster & District Choral Society, which celebrated its 40th anniversary season last year, remains one of East Devon’s best-loved community choirs. Founded in 1984, the society performs three concerts each year at The Minster Church and continues to attract loyal audiences from across the region.

Tickets cost £15 for adults and £10 concessions. They are available online at axminsterchoral.co.uk or from Archway Bookshop in Axminster.

( Photo courtesy of ADCS 📸 )

A heat health alert has been issued across the South West as forecasters warn temperatures could climb to 29C over the bank holiday weekend and into next week.

The yellow alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), came into force on Friday afternoon and remains in place until Wednesday evening. It covers Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Bristol and Gloucestershire.

The warning comes as beaches, parks and beauty spots throughout the South West region are expected to attract large crowds during the bank holiday break, with temperatures forecast to remain well above average for late May.

The UKHSA said “significant impacts” are possible across health and social care services during the alert period. Officials also warned there may be a rise in deaths among vulnerable groups, “particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions”, although younger people may also be affected by the prolonged heat.

Forecasters at the Met Office said temperatures across the South West could reach 29C over the weekend and into next week, with heatwave conditions becoming increasingly likely.

A heatwave is officially defined as at least three consecutive days in which temperatures meet or exceed a set threshold for a particular area.

The Met Office said: “As the bank holiday weekend progresses, these conditions are expected to become more widespread, as temperatures remain well above average.”

Health officials are urging people to take precautions during the hot spell by staying hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol and limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day between 11.00am and 3.00pm.

Residents are also being advised to keep homes cool by closing curtains and windows exposed to direct sunlight, while those spending time outdoors should wear suitable clothing, seek shade where possible and apply sunscreen regularly.

Dog walkers and people exercising outdoors are being encouraged to plan activities for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.

The alert has been given a medium impact rating on the UKHSA risk matrix, with authorities warning the spell of hot weather could place additional strain on services if temperatures remain high over several days.

If forecasts hold, it could become one of the warmest periods of the year so far across the South West.

( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )

An Axminster man has admitted fraud offences after accessing his vulnerable sister’s bank account and transferring himself more than £5,000.

James Wood, 47, of Cloakham Drive, appeared before Exeter Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation between 22nd March and 10th October, 2024.

The court heard that Wood used his younger sister’s account to make purchases and transfer money to himself, totalling £5,005.

Prosecutor Werjinder Baines said the victim is particularly vulnerable due to learning difficulties and relies on her father to manage her finances.

In a victim personal statement read to the court, the woman described the emotional impact of the offence.

She said: “I just want to know why he did it and where the money has gone. He wouldn’t do it to his wife, so why his own sister?

“I don’t want to see him or speak to him because I will just get upset.”

District Judge Smith adjourned sentencing to allow the probation service to prepare a pre-sentence report.

Wood was granted unconditional bail and is due to appear again before Exeter Magistrates’ Court on 30th July.

The case was reported as part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Criminal Justice Court Reporting Scheme.

Hundreds of motorists in Devon and Cornwall are being caught speeding each year because of a little-known rule affecting caravans, motorhomes and vehicles towing trailers.

New DVLA figures reveal the two counties recorded more SP20 speeding endorsements than almost anywhere else in Britain between 2022 and 2025 - despite accounting for a relatively small proportion of the population.

The SP20 offence applies when drivers exceed speed limits set specifically for larger or towing vehicles, rather than standard car limits.

In total, 806 drivers from Devon and 598 from Cornwall received the endorsements over the four-year period. Together, the counties accounted for 1,404 offences - more than one in five of the British total.

The figures were obtained through a Freedom of Information request submitted by Select Car Leasing.

Many motorists appear unaware that caravans and motorhomes are subject to lower national speed limits under the Highway Code. Vehicles towing trailers or caravans are restricted to 50mph on single carriageways and 60mph on dual carriageways, compared with 60mph and 70mph for ordinary cars.

The South West as a whole recorded 1,883 SP20 endorsements between 2022 and 2025 - almost 30 per cent of all offences issued nationwide.

Industry experts believe holiday traffic and rural roads may be contributing to the high numbers across Devon and Cornwall, particularly during the busy tourist season.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, said many drivers simply do not realise the rules change once a caravan is attached or a motorhome is hired.

“Devon and Cornwall have exactly the kind of long, open roads where it is easy to drift above 50mph without thinking,” he said.

“These figures suggest thousands of drivers are doing exactly that.”

Nationally, SP20 endorsements rose sharply during the period covered by the data, increasing from 1,103 in 2022 to 1,999 in 2024 before dropping back to 1,489 in 2025.

The statistics also showed men accounted for around 95 per cent of offences, while drivers aged between 35 and 44 formed the largest group penalised.

Mr Conway said the figures suggested many experienced motorists were being caught out by regulations that are not widely understood.

“These are experienced motorists, the kind of people who have held a licence for decades and consider themselves perfectly safe behind the wheel,” he said.

“But the rules around towing and specialist vehicles are not well publicised and that is when endorsements happen.”

The DVLA said it does not hold detailed data showing which types of vehicles were involved in individual SP20 offences.

( Photos: Unsplash 📸 )

The Church of England has issued a prayer for national unity amid growing debate over the use of Christian symbols and language at political demonstrations.

The prayer, released by the Church’s newly formed Bishops’ Working Group for Promoting Unity in our Nation, asks for God’s protection from “the perils of division and hatred” and gives thanks for those who “build up our common life”.

Its publication came shortly before a large London rally organised by Tommy Robinson, which drew tens of thousands of people to the capital over the weekend.

Some demonstrators carried wooden crosses and chanted “Christ is king”, while gospel music and public acts of worship also featured during the event.

The march took place alongside a separate pro-Palestinian demonstration. The Metropolitan Police said both events “proceeded largely without significant incident”, although a number of arrests were made.

Martyn Snow, who leads the bishops’ working group, said the Church believed it had an important role in encouraging peace and reconciliation during a period of national tension.

“We know that these are anxious and fearful times for many in our country, which makes the Church’s calling for peace and reconciliation all the more pressing,” he said.

“I believe that we have much, as a country, for which we can be proud; much for which we can be grateful; and much to look forward to, if we learn from one another, respect one another, and work together for our shared future.”

The rally has intensified discussion among Christians about the relationship between faith, nationalism and politics.

A recent poll by Premier Christian News suggested around a quarter of British Christians identify as nationalists or are sympathetic to nationalist ideas.

During his speech, Robinson referenced the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and urged supporters to become more politically active ahead of the next general election.

“Are you ready for the battle of Britain? 2029 we have an election,” he told the crowd.

“We’re not asking anyone to go out and fight, but this is the most important moment in our generation.

“If we don’t send a message in our next election, if you don’t register to vote, if you don’t get involved, if you don’t become activists, we are going to lose our country for ever.”

He added: “We have to get political, we have to get involved. I’m not going to tell you which political party you need to join.

“I don’t care if it’s Reform, if it’s Advance, or it’s Restore, or it’s the Conservative Party. We have to locally get involved in politics.”

The Church of England’s intervention comes amid wider concern among some church leaders that Christian imagery and language are increasingly being drawn into political and nationalist movements.

( Photos: Unsplash 📸 )

The Devon County Show is set to return next week, bringing with it a packed programme of farming, food, countryside traditions and rural debate - with a Royal visit among the highlights.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh will attend this year’s show, continuing a long tradition of Royal involvement in one of the South West’s biggest annual events. In previous years, the show has welcomed members of the Royal Family, including Anne, Princess Royal, who visited in 2025.

Running from Thursday, 21st May to Saturday, 23rd May at Westpoint Arena, Exeter, the show will once again feature livestock competitions, countryside displays, food producers and family attractions, with gates opening daily from 10.00am.

One of the standout attractions this year will be the Heavy Horse Festival, which returns in association with Whistlefish and will be officially opened by actor and countryside advocate Martin Clunes.

A passionate supporter of traditional heavy horse breeds, Clunes said working with the animals has become a central part of his life.

“Heavy horses have been part of my life for many years now, and I’m endlessly moved by their gentleness, their intelligence, and the sheer presence they always bring to an occasion,” he said.

“To see these magnificent breeds celebrated here at the Devon County Show - and to meet the people who care for them with such passion - is a real privilege.”

Visitors will be able to get up close to some of the UK’s rarest working horse breeds, including Shires, Clydesdales, Suffolks and Percherons. The festival will include expert demonstrations, dray-pulling displays and working exhibits showcasing traditional rural skills.

Show Secretary Lisa Moore said the Heavy Horse Festival has become a firm favourite with visitors.

“We are thrilled to welcome Martin Clunes back to open the Heavy Horse Festival for the second year running,” she said. “His genuine love for heavy horses and his advocacy for their preservation makes him the perfect figurehead.”

Alongside the celebrations of rural heritage, this year’s event will also honour long-time visitor Malcolm Batten, 94, whose lifelong connection with the show spans back to childhood evacuation during the Second World War.

Organisers say Mr Batten has attended around 80 shows over his lifetime and will be recognised during the Duchess of Edinburgh’s visit on Thursday, 21st May.

He will be presented with a specially made cake shaped like his restored RAF jeep, a vehicle he rebuilt using skills learned during his service as an RAF mechanic. He will also take a ceremonial lap of the Main Ring in a vintage tractor following the traditional parade.

His enduring enthusiasm for both modern and historic machinery has made him a familiar face at the show, with organisers describing him as embodying its spirit of “heritage and progress”.

Elsewhere, John Lee OBE DL has been announced as President of the Devon County Show for 2026. A respected figure in British agriculture, he has deep family roots in Devon farming and said he felt honoured to take on the role.

“Having been involved with the Devon County Show for so long there can be no greater honour than being elected President,” he said. “The Show is powered by an incredible team of volunteers and staff, and I look forward to supporting them as we showcase all that is best in Devonshire food, farming and rural life.”

Looking ahead, a major rural policy discussion will take place on Friday, 22nd May, when the Devon County Agricultural Association hosts “Rural Matters: Question Time”. The debate, held in the President’s Pavilion, will bring together leaders from farming, finance and food sectors, with topics expected to include agricultural policy, rural crime and economic pressures facing the countryside.

The Devon County Show runs from 21st – 23rd May. Tickets are available via - www.devoncountyshow.co.uk

( Photos courtesy of Devon County Show 📸 )

Axminster Town Council has issued a stark warning following another spate of vandalism and anti-social behaviour across the town, saying the cost of repeated damage is increasingly falling on local taxpayers.

Council staff arriving at work last week discovered a series of incidents affecting public spaces and property, including damaged signs, uprooted plants and litter strewn across the Minster area.

According to the council, signs had been defaced, moved or thrown into hedges, while barriers had also been damaged. Officials say the ongoing destruction is placing growing pressure on already stretched resources.

In a statement released on Friday, 8th May, the council said: “It is fast reaching a tipping point where this Council, and every other Council at every tier of local government, simply cannot fix the things being destroyed as fast as they are being broken and wrecked.”

The authority warned that the financial impact of repeated vandalism is ultimately being borne by residents.

“We all love to live in this beautiful part of the UK but there is a small section of our community hell-bent on making things worse for all, and the costs to fix it - day in and day out - are coming straight from the pocket of every taxpayer in the town,” the statement continued.

The council said it continues to work closely with local police, although it acknowledged that policing resources remain under pressure.

Residents are now being urged to help tackle the problem by remaining vigilant and speaking out when they witness damage to public property.

“Perhaps, the time has come to ask everyone - please be vigilant, be aware and be confident to tell someone smashing up a bench, a sign, a flower-bed or a bus-shelter - STOP!” the statement added.

Despite the frustration, the council ended with a rallying call for community pride, saying: “Together, we can make Axminster shine.”

The warning comes amid wider concerns across many towns and villages about the rising cost of repairing vandalised public spaces and maintaining community facilities.

( Photo: Pulman's Weekly News 📸 )

There is a growing sense that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD - has gone from being a relatively niche medical diagnosis to a defining feature of modern life. On TikTok, Instagram and Reddit, millions of people now describe themselves as “neurodivergent”, share ADHD memes, or discuss executive dysfunction as casually as they once discussed stress or tiredness.

To some, this represents long-overdue recognition of a condition that was historically misunderstood and underdiagnosed. To others, it feels like a cultural overcorrection - a moment in which ordinary human distraction is being medicalised and amplified by the internet.

The truth is likely somewhere in between.

ADHD is real, clinically recognised, and often profoundly debilitating for those who live with it. Yet it is also true that modern digital life increasingly rewards fragmented attention, compulsive stimulation and emotional impulsivity - behaviours that closely resemble ADHD symptoms.

This is particularly relevant for people with highly addictive personality traits. Individuals who are naturally novelty-seeking, impulsive, emotionally intense or dopamine-driven are often more vulnerable to compulsive behaviours - whether that involves gambling, social media, shopping, gaming, substances or endless scrolling.

Many of these same traits also overlap with recognised ADHD symptoms.

That overlap has created an important and increasingly controversial question: are some people genuinely discovering previously undiagnosed ADHD, or are modern digital environments conditioning millions of people into patterns of behaviour that mimic it?

The uncomfortable reality may be that both things are happening simultaneously. The uncomfortable question, then, is whether society is merely discovering ADHD more effectively, or whether our technological environment is actively manufacturing ADHD-like behaviour in people who may never previously have struggled in this way.

A GENUINE RISE IN RECOGNITION

One reason ADHD appears more prevalent is simply that awareness has improved dramatically.

For decades, ADHD was stereotyped as a condition affecting hyperactive young boys who disrupted classrooms. Girls and women - who often present with inattentive rather than disruptive symptoms - were routinely overlooked. Many adults who spent years struggling with organisation, concentration, emotional regulation and chronic overwhelm were instead labelled lazy, anxious, depressed or simply incapable.

This has begun to change.

Recent data in the UK shows a sharp rise in adult ADHD diagnoses and medication use, particularly among women over 25.

Many clinicians now refer to women diagnosed in adulthood as the “lost generation” - people who would likely have been identified years earlier had diagnostic frameworks not been so male-centred.

In that sense, part of the apparent ADHD “explosion” is not an epidemic at all. It is delayed recognition.

Social media has undeniably played a role in this. For many adults, seeing others describe lifelong patterns of forgetfulness, overwhelm, sensory issues or executive dysfunction has provided the first language they have ever had for experiences they previously thought were personal failings.

And that matters.

For countless people, an ADHD diagnosis has been transformative - offering explanation, treatment and relief after decades of confusion.

THE SOCIAL MEDIA EFFECT

Yet there is another side to this phenomenon that deserves scrutiny.

Platforms such as TikTok are uniquely engineered to reward rapid emotional engagement and fragmented attention. Short videos, endless scrolling, algorithmic novelty and constant dopamine stimulation create an environment that trains the brain to seek perpetual distraction.

This matters because many ADHD symptoms - difficulty sustaining focus, impulsivity, emotional dysregulation and restlessness - are also predictable outcomes of excessive digital stimulation.

Modern technology may not “cause” ADHD in the clinical sense, but it can absolutely produce ADHD-like cognitive patterns.

A person who spends six hours a day rapidly switching between apps, notifications, videos and messages will naturally find deep concentration more difficult. Attention, like fitness, deteriorates when constantly interrupted.

In previous generations, boredom was unavoidable. Waiting in a queue, sitting on a bus or spending an evening without stimulation forced the mind to develop patience and sustained attention. Today, every idle second is filled by scrolling.

We are living through the first era in human history in which billions of people are voluntarily subjecting themselves to continuous cognitive fragmentation.

That cannot be psychologically neutral.

TIKTOK AND THE RISE OF SELF-DIAGNOSIS

Social media has also changed how people interpret themselves.

The hashtag #ADHD has generated billions of views across TikTok and Instagram, with creators presenting lists of “signs” that viewers may have ADHD: procrastination, zoning out during conversations, struggling to reply to messages, becoming obsessed with hobbies, or feeling mentally overwhelmed.

The problem is that many of these traits are not unique to ADHD. They are also common human experiences - particularly in an overstimulated, sleep-deprived and digitally addicted population.

Several recent studies have raised concerns about misinformation surrounding ADHD content online. Researchers found that many of the most-viewed ADHD videos online did not align properly with established diagnostic criteria.

This creates a powerful feedback loop.

A person who already feels distracted or overwhelmed encounters relatable ADHD content online. Algorithms then feed them more of the same material, reinforcing identification with the diagnosis. Over time, ordinary lapses in attention begin to feel clinically significant.

This does not mean people are “faking” symptoms. In many cases, the distress is genuine. But there is a difference between recognising oneself in a broad online narrative and meeting the threshold for a neurodevelopmental disorder.

The danger lies in collapsing that distinction.

ADDICTION, DOPAMINE AND THE ADHD CONNECTION

One reason ADHD diagnoses may appear especially common among people with addictive tendencies is because both are closely linked to dopamine regulation.

Dopamine is often described as the brain’s reward chemical. It plays a major role in motivation, pleasure, anticipation and attention. People with ADHD are widely believed to have differences in how dopamine systems function, which can contribute to impulsivity, novelty-seeking and difficulty sustaining focus on unstimulating tasks.

The problem is that modern technology exploits these same reward pathways.

Social media, online gambling, short-form video, pornography, gaming and app notifications all operate on variable reward systems - the same psychological mechanisms used in slot machines. Each scroll, like, message or video delivers small bursts of novelty and anticipation.

For people already predisposed towards addictive behaviour, this environment can become neurologically consuming.

Over time, constant dopamine stimulation may reduce tolerance for slower, less stimulating activities such as reading, studying, deep work or sustained conversation. The result is a population increasingly conditioned towards distraction, impatience and compulsive behaviour - traits strongly associated with ADHD.

This does not mean addiction causes ADHD in a strict medical sense. But it does mean the behavioural overlap between the two is becoming increasingly difficult to separate.

DIGITAL CULTURE REWARDS ADHD TRAITS

There is an irony at the centre of this conversation.

The same digital ecosystem that helps people discover ADHD may also be worsening the very symptoms associated with it.

Social media platforms are effectively attention extraction machines. They monetise interruption. Their business model depends on preventing sustained focus.

Notifications, autoplay, infinite scroll, algorithmic novelty and dopamine-driven engagement are not accidental design features; they are engineered behavioural hooks.

For individuals with clinically diagnosed ADHD, this environment can be particularly destructive. Research increasingly suggests that people with ADHD may be more vulnerable to compulsive internet use and manipulative digital design.

But even for people without ADHD, constant digital overstimulation can erode concentration, memory and emotional resilience.

In other words, we may be creating a society in which ADHD-like behaviour becomes increasingly normal because the environment itself encourages it.

This complicates the modern narrative considerably.

UNDERDIAGNOSIS OR OVERDIAGNOSIS?

The debate is often framed too simplistically.

Some insist ADHD has always been massively underdiagnosed and society is finally catching up. Others argue it is being wildly overdiagnosed due to social contagion and online influence.

Both positions contain elements of truth.

There is little doubt that many people - especially women and those diagnosed later in adulthood - genuinely slipped through the cracks for years. Equally, there is growing evidence that social media can encourage overidentification with psychiatric labels and blur the line between pathology and normal human struggle.

The reality is that modern life itself is becoming cognitively dysregulating.

Sleep deprivation, chronic stress, information overload, fractured work patterns and constant digital stimulation all impair attention and executive functioning. A society built around interruption will inevitably produce more people who feel unable to focus.

That does not invalidate ADHD as a legitimate disorder. But it does mean we should be cautious before interpreting every concentration problem through a purely medical lens.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

Perhaps the most important question is not “Why is everyone suddenly ADHD?” but rather:

What kind of society have we created that makes sustained attention so difficult for so many people?

Technology has given us extraordinary convenience, connection and access to information. But it has also transformed human attention into a commodity - bought, sold and manipulated by algorithms designed to keep us perpetually stimulated.

The rise in ADHD diagnoses may partly reflect improved medical understanding. But it may also be functioning as a warning signal: evidence that our environment is increasingly incompatible with deep focus, patience and mental stillness.

In that sense, the ADHD conversation is not merely about psychiatry.

It is about the cognitive consequences of modern life itself.

( Image: Pixabay Library 📸 )

A thriving community music group in East Devon is marking its ninth anniversary, celebrating nearly a decade of bringing people together through a shared love of brass music.

The East Devon Daytime Brass Band, founded and led by musical director Trevor Jones, has grown steadily since its launch and now boasts a strong and welcoming membership drawn from across the local area.

The group has built a reputation not only for its performances but also for its inclusive approach. It actively encourages new members, particularly those who may have played an instrument in the past and are keen to return.

A spokesperson for the band said: “We actively encourage lapsed players - perhaps those who played a brass instrument in their youth - to return and enjoy the proven social and health benefits of playing in a musical group.

“Anyone who thinks it is too late to learn may be inspired to know that several of our players only started on reaching retirement, with one still playing into his 80s.”

Musicians of all backgrounds are welcome, including complete beginners interested in learning a brass instrument for the first time. A limited number of instruments are available to loan, helping make the group accessible to those starting out.

Rehearsals take place every Wednesday morning at the Sidmouth Rugby Football Club pavilion in Sidford, offering a relaxed and friendly setting for players to develop their skills.

The band performs regularly at venues across East Devon, including care homes, fêtes, garden parties, schools, churches and retail spaces, helping to bring live music into the heart of the community.

Anyone interested in joining or booking the band for an event can find further details online or by contacting the group directly.

As it celebrates its ninth birthday, the band is looking ahead to another busy year of performances - continuing to prove that it is never too late to pick up an instrument and be part of a musical community.

( Photo: EDDB 📸 )

A vital community lifeline in Chard is inviting residents to see its work first-hand as it celebrates four years of supporting local people.

Chard Community Hub will open its doors on Saturday, 30th May, for a special exhibition highlighting the wide range of services it now offers from its base at the Boden Centre.

Since its launch on Fore Street in May 2022, the Hub has expanded significantly, growing from modest beginnings into a central support network for people across the town. Run by a dedicated team of volunteers, it now provides everything from food support and wellbeing groups to practical advice and early years services.

The exhibition will give visitors the chance to explore the Hub’s work in detail, with displays and information stands showcasing different projects and partnerships.

A number of organisations regularly working with the Hub - including health visitors, social landlords, Reach, the RSPCA and the NHS - will also be represented.

Chair Serena Wootton ( pictured ) said: “This event gives the public a chance to see everything that we offer and ask any questions about what we do.

“We’re incredibly proud of the last four years of hard work and want to celebrate with our supporters.”

The Hub supports people at all stages of life, from ante and post-natal support for parents to groups aimed at tackling isolation and improving wellbeing. Visitors to the exhibition will be able to learn more about these services, as well as meet some of the volunteers and groups involved.

There will also be a variety of activities on show, including contributions from the Youth Hub, early years provision and creative groups. The popular Repair Hub will be demonstrating its work helping residents save money by fixing everyday items.

The event runs from 9.00am to 1.00pm, with free refreshments available throughout the morning.

Organisers hope the day will not only celebrate the Hub’s achievements, but also encourage more people in the Chard area to make use of its services or get involved.

( Photos: Chard Community Hub 📸 )

Concerns are growing over the future of Devon’s historic churches after a local MP warned that a new “church tax” could leave many facing closure.

Martin Wrigley has called on the Government to reverse recent changes to funding for listed places of worship, arguing the move could place an unsustainable financial burden on communities across the county.

The warning follows the decision to scrap the long-standing Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme, which allowed churches and other historic religious buildings to reclaim VAT on essential repairs and maintenance.

In its place, a new capital funding scheme has been introduced - but, crucially, it is subject to VAT, meaning churches could now face significantly higher costs for vital upkeep.

Mr Wrigley said the changes risk putting some of Devon’s most valued buildings in jeopardy.

“Our historic places of worship are a vital glue that binds our communities in Devon together,” he said. “Churches are more than places of worship - they are hubs for food banks, youth groups and local support.”

He warned that removing the VAT relief would lead to a sharp drop in available funding, leaving local congregations to shoulder rising bills for repairs to ageing buildings.

The concerns are echoed by National Churches Trust, which has warned the new funding arrangements may not go far enough. The charity estimates that one in 20 churches across the UK needs urgent work to roofs or gutters this year alone.

Without additional support, the total tax burden on places of worship could exceed £120 million over the next four years.

Mr Wrigley added: “We won’t stand by while our heritage is taxed into dereliction.

“The government must reimburse churches for all VAT on repairs. We are calling for an immediate reinstatement of the grant scheme to protect these iconic buildings for future generations.”

Liberal Democrat MPs are now urging ministers to fully reinstate the previous scheme without a cap on claims and to increase funding back to earlier levels of around £42 million a year.

Campaigners argue that without swift action, many churches - particularly in rural areas of Devon - could struggle to remain open, risking not only the loss of historic buildings but also the community services they provide.

( Photo: Christian Free Press 📸 )

A popular celebration of miniature railways is returning to Axminster this month, with organisers promising its largest and most family-friendly event to date.

The Axminster Model Railway Exhibition will take place at Axminster Guildhall on Sunday, 17th May, from 10.00am to 4.00pm. This year’s expanded show will feature more than 20 model railway layouts and nine specialist traders, making it one of the biggest exhibitions of its kind in the area.

Visitors can expect a wide variety of layouts, with exhibitors travelling from across the country to take part. The displays will fill the Guildhall, showcasing a diverse range of scenes, scales and styles designed to appeal to both enthusiasts and newcomers.

A strong emphasis has been placed on making the event accessible to families and younger visitors.

Children will be able to enjoy hands-on activities, including interactive layouts, while demonstrations throughout the day will offer practical insight into building realistic structures and maintaining model railways.

Specialist traders will also be available to provide advice and supplies for those interested in starting or developing their own layouts. Refreshments will be served at the venue.

The exhibition is co-organised by For the Love of a Railway, which will present a detailed model of Axminster station. Its nearby Depot visitor centre will also be open, giving visitors the opportunity to explore a large-scale model of the Axminster to Lyme Regis branch line, alongside historical displays and exhibits.

Co-organiser Jack Price, of the Railway Kitchen, said: “We’ve been fortunate to attract some very high-calibre layouts that will inspire anyone with an interest in model railways.

“However, this is very much a family event. We want people of all ages to come along, have a go, and enjoy the day. There really is something for everyone.”

As well as celebrating the craftsmanship behind model railways, the exhibition aims to highlight the enduring local interest in the historic Axminster to Lyme Regis line.

Further information is available at www.fortheloveofarailway.co.uk

( Pictures: For the Love of a Railway 📸 )

Discarded vapes are being blamed for a growing number of fires in household rubbish collections across East Devon, according to council officials.

East Devon District Council (EDDC) says it has already recorded three fires linked to waste collections in 2026 - including two at council depots and one inside a bin lorry.

The figure is close to the total for the whole of last year, when four similar incidents were reported.

Officials believe the increase is being driven largely by vapes and other items containing lithium-ion batteries being thrown into general household waste.

A spokesperson for EDDC said: “All were dealt with quickly so were small scale.

“However, without the depot staff and crew’s quick reactions these could have been worse.

“The fires do cause disruption [though] most so far have been extinguished in the vehicle but then crews need to travel back to the depot and offload.

“Numbers are rising, primarily due to vapes.”

Last year, Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service attended a fire involving a bin lorry at Millwey Rise Industrial Estate in Axminster after smoke was spotted coming from waste collected by the vehicle.

Biffa, which operated the lorry, said at the time that while the exact cause was unknown, it had seen a “growing number” of fires involving lithium-ion batteries.

Similar incidents involving refuse vehicles have also been reported in Exeter and Plymouth.

The fire service previously said it would carry out a detailed review into fires involving lithium-ion batteries, including those linked to electric vehicles and disposable vapes.

Residents are being urged not to place vapes or battery-powered devices into household bins because of the fire risk they pose during waste collection and processing.

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

More than 4,500 people have already expressed interest in joining a new NHS dental practice set to open in Crewkerne, highlighting the strong demand for local services.

Somerset NHS Trust is working in partnership with DentistryForYou to launch Crewkerne Dental Care at 22 Market Street in the town centre. The practice is expected to open in late May 2026, although a confirmed date has yet to be announced.

An online registration portal, along with a phone option for those without internet access, opened on the morning of 22nd April. Within hours, thousands had signed up.

Initial figures show around 75 per cent of those registrations came from Crewkerne and nearby areas, underlining the level of need locally.

However, due to the high volume of responses, DentistryForYou has temporarily paused the expression of interest process. The company says this is to “ensure patient safety and fairness”, but hopes to reopen registrations in the future.

Dr Bernie Marden, chief medical officer at NHS Somerset, welcomed the response. He said: “I’m pleased to say that three quarters of the people expressing an interest came from the Crewkerne area and surrounding postcodes.

“This practice on its own won’t solve all the issues facing local people, but it is great news for the town and will help thousands more people get to access NHS dental care in the county.”

Elizabeth Fernandez, group manager for DentistryForYou, said the team is looking forward to opening the new site. She said: “We are looking forward to welcoming patients to the new practice in Crewkerne.

“Interest has been high, and we have to limit expressions of interest to ensure that numbers do not exceed capacity. Once the practice is established, we hope to be able to reopen the opportunity for people to express an interest, and we will work with NHS Somerset and other local partners to keep people up to date.”

The practice will not accept walk-in registrations.

Crewkerne Town Council also issued an update on social media, confirming the temporary pause. In a statement, it said: “We’d like to share a brief update regarding the proposed new NHS dental practice.

“DentistryForYou has currently paused the expression of interest process. This is a temporary step, and the firm has indicated that it hopes to reopen the process in due course.

“We understand how important access to NHS dental services is for our community and will continue to share updates as soon as more information becomes available.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding.”

Crewkerne was selected as a priority location for the new practice due to a shortage of NHS dental appointments in the area.

( Photos: Pixabay Library 📸 )

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.

( Photo: Pulman's Weekly News 📸 )