'It's great to be home and telling Torbay's story'

For generations, Torbay has been the backdrop for people’s warmest memories. My name’s Julian Barnes, and as Torbay Weekly’s new reporter I’m certainly no different.

Going to school at Churston Ferrers, I grew up on the streets, beaches and parks of Torbay. I have spent more time on the number 12 bus than I’d care to admit, developed a love affair with Squire’s chips and caught my first and only sea bass from the rocks at Babbacombe, only to have it stolen by the resident seal.

After finishing school, I spent time living across England, even spending a couple of years in Sydney. I finally found myself putting down roots in Totnes with my partner Ellie.

After many years away from Torbay, I'm really excited to begin reporting on such an iconic area of England.

Being back in the bay is a strange feeling. Some things change but others remain. The Big Tree in Paignton may be gone, but the strong communities and friendly, outgoing people remain. Walking along Torquay seafront, or watching the sunset at Babbacombe Downs, you can’t help but feel you’re somewhere special.

Taking up this role, I want to meet as many people as possible. Torbay is a diverse place for local residents and for people coming here from a variety of backgrounds for a variety of reasons.

I love to write about charity events, important causes, business ventures, local politics or just sharing someone’s success. I’m also fascinated by history and want to know how Torbay looked and felt in the past. Torbay blends the old and the new. I love the history here but the region is definitely looking to the future.

If you have a story or an idea that you want people to know about, let me know at julian.barnes@clearskypublishing.co.uk.