Community Matters: Keeping it cool this summer

I am thrilled to share that I am now working for Active Devon, as their new Partnership Officer for Torbay.

I am buzzing for this new chapter, as I am very passionate about physical activity and helping others gain access to this. Playing sports to a high standard from a young age, coaching sports, teaching PE, managing leisure centers, personal training- which covers just a snippet of my background.

I love being on the go and how physical activity can come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. It has the power to transform lives for the better. Fantastic work around physical activity is taking place across Torbay and I cannot wait to shout about all of this through the ‘Torbay on the move’ umbrella in the coming months.

I will be working for Active Devon for three days a week and will be remaining as a Community Builder for the remaining two days. I am not leaving community building, just reducing my days, but on the plus side, I have a new addition joining me! Kelly Warner will be arriving in the Cockington, Chelston and Livermead patch from August on three days a week. A very warm welcome to Kelly.

I am really looking forward to having a working partner in the area with a fresh burst of energy. A lot has happened in the last four years that I have been a Community Builder and I have grown very fond of the area and the people. It has been amazing to be a part of all of it and I look forward to what is next. Sticking with my motto, ‘more fun to come’.

A recent highlight for me has been working with Sherwell Valley Primary School, transforming the gardens with the support of the local community. The last community day involved Mark Bell, the artist, and doing a mural and artwork, where the community painted Marks fantastic drawing. It has inspiring to see the gardens evolve through the communities efforts.

If you're looking for a good time this summer, please reach out to hear about local opportunities. Perhaps volunteering at the Cockington Visitor Centre takes your fancy, attending an ABBA-themed Silent Disco outside Cantina in Torquay, exploring the prehistoric sculpture trail at Cockington, or attending a community cinema evening at the Blue Walnut.

There is lots of cool stuff happening across Torbay. Even a Lego themed day at the Unleased Theatre, A youth celebration at Peoples Parkfield and a series of awesome events by Play Torbay, not forgetting a ‘Grease’ themed pool party at the Grand Hotel. 

If you would like more details then feel free to reach out to me (07754 609494 orjoeydamiral@torbaycdt.org.uk) , follow my community building Facebook page or make contact with one of my colleagues who would be happy to help. It’s an exciting time.