Dave Thomas: Reasons to be proud of the Bay this Easter

I wanted to begin this week’s column by sharing some encouraging feedback we’ve recently received from the Local Government Association.

Representatives from the LGA visited the Bay to assess how we, as a council, are performing and to identify areas where we can continue to improve.

The LGA conducts what are known as ‘Corporate Peer Challenges’, where councils from across the country invite in ‘peers’ to provide an external perspective on their performance. Around this time last year, we hosted a four-day review, and last week the team returned to assess our progress against the recommendations they previously made.

Whilst their full report will only be published in a few weeks, one key message came through loud and clear: the Council has taken the findings from the previous Corporate Peer Challenge seriously and has made significant strides in driving forward change and improvement across several areas.

There is, of course, always room to do more, but being open to scrutiny, welcoming external perspectives, and embracing the opportunity to innovate and improve are essential if we want to keep moving forward. The LGA’s Peer Review process offers just that—but it does require a willingness to invite honest feedback and, more importantly, to act on it.

As soon as the report is available, I will ensure it is shared—both at an upcoming Cabinet meeting and on the Council’s website.

Looking ahead to this Saturday (12th April), you may have seen our recent announcements about the unveiling of the new bronze Agatha Christie statue, which will soon take pride of place near the Clock Tower in the newly enhanced Harbourarea of Torquay.

This specially commissioned tribute, funded through the Town Deal programme and secured by the Council, was created by local Brixham artist Elisabeth Hadley. Elisabeth’s design was chosen through a public vote, following a call-out in September 2021 and the shortlisting of five talented artists.

Agatha Christie is a global literary icon, and the level of public engagement during the voting process reflected just how much she means to people both locally and internationally. As part of that vote, residents were also invited to choose the title of the book Agatha is holding while seated on the bench, quietly taking in her surroundings. I won’t spoil the surprise here—you’ll have to visit her yourself to find out which book was chosen!

The unveiling ceremony begins at 2pm on Saturday, April 12, and will include live performances, a family-friendly ‘whodunit’ mystery trail, and guided literary walks. It promises to be a memorable celebration of one of our most beloved cultural figures. The International Agatha Christie Festival, which this year takes place from September 13 to 21, is also hosting a special Spring Gathering this weekend, welcoming 130 Agatha Christie enthusiasts to the Bay. We’re delighted to have them join us for what promises to be a memorable occasion.

Guests of the Spring Gathering will enjoy a programme of specially curated events and literary talks from esteemed speakers, including Jeremy Vine, Victoria Dowd, and Robert Thorogood. They’ll also be joining us for the statue unveiling and later, a Celebration Ball to mark the occasion in true Christie style.

I hope to see many of you at the unveiling—when we finally get to see the statue in place and perhaps even snap a photo with the Queen of Crime herself. It’s not just this weekend that the Harbourside will be buzzing with activity - there’s plenty more to look forward to over the Easter weekend! On Sunday April 20 and Monday April 21 we invite you to come down and enjoy a host of free family- friendly events, including street games, live music, creative art activities, street performers, have-a-go sessions, and much more.

One of the highlights I’m told to look out for is an outdoor painting workshop, where local artists will guide you step-by-step in creating your own harbourside-inspired artwork—a fantastic opportunity to get creative in a beautiful setting.

With so much happening over the Easter weekend, the Harbourside is set to be a vibrant and lively hub of activity—so it’s likely to be quite busy! If you’re planning to join us for the festivities, why not take the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful surroundings by walking or using public transport to get there?

We’re proud to continue celebrating the people and places that make Torbay so special, while creating cultural, heritage, and event opportunities for everyone to enjoy.