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23 Oct 2025

New book brings Paignton’s history to life for next generation

A local heritage society collaborated with Oldway Primary School pupils

New book brings Paignton’s history to life for next generation

Hyde Dendy who built some of Paignton's most iconic buildings and has a section in the book devoted to him

Reporter:

Ella Woszczyk

21 Feb 2025 1:30 PM

A new book, Paignton – Our Home Town, exploring the history of Paignton, was recently showcased at the town’s Palace Theatre.
Paignton Heritage Society received a local heritage grant to fund the book’s creation in January 2024. The society collaborated with pupils from Paignton’s Oldway Primary School to produce it as a teaching resource for primary school children.
Author Karen Chapman wanted to pass her love of Paignton on “to another generation.”
The book will be gifted to every primary school and library in Paignton.
The event, held on Thursday, February 13, was well attended by the community. The Deputy Mayor, local councillors, and special guest Dr Rachel Kiddy, strategic lead for culture and heritage, joined the audience for a presentation by Nick Harman, history lead at Oldway School.
Authors Karen and Lee Hayward also gave an illustrated talk on the history of Paignton from the Devonian Period:
“Four hundred million years ago, a time now called the Devonian Period, Torbay was south of the equator. The world was still cooling down and the continents as we know them were still unrecognisable. On to the time of the Neolithic tomb at Broadsands (the Celtic Dumnonii tribe) … whoosh there goes the Anglo Saxon settlement of Paega - medieval life - the Reformation - Napoleonic wars - Brunel’s railway -the Singer family and the Victorians fly past your head. Duck or you’ll be hit by Paignton in two World Wars!  Peace and we’re slowing down a little - ending with a gentle trot up to the Millennium.”
The society thanked Maureen McAllister of the Palace Theatre for helping make the event a success.
A spokesperson for the society said: “The whole event was very well received and we have had numerous compliments on the book and presentation by Karen and Lee which was interesting and informative.”

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