Victorious Clyst Vale Community College captain Kelsea Purchall believes their success at the Rosslyn Park HSBC National Schools Sevens proves how first impressions can be misleading. Clyst Vale's girls under-18 team celebrated the 75th anniversary of the world's largest schools sevens tournament in style in west London. They won all three of their group games before beating Christ's Hospital 22-17 in the semis and Yeovil College 15-12 in the final. "It's brilliant to win because I think people really under-estimated us as a team," she said. "We kind of just rocked up wearing hoodies and everyone looked down at us a bit, but we went on and won, which is great. "I think we knew we had it in us but we know that it would all depend on how we performed on the day. "It means the world for me as a captain considering we've brought this team through and we started off thinking that we were not going to get anywhere. "It's a really great tournament and the atmosphere is amazing. I've never been in an area that is so rugby-orientated and especially for girls' rugby." Uffculme School's under-13 junior outfit made the last 32 where they lost 31-19 to John Fisher, while their under-16 colts failed to progress out of the group stages. But pupil Dan Mark insists the experience gained will only make them stronger as a team. "It would have been nice if we could have got out of the group like our year eights did as they were the first team from our school to achieve that," said the 15-year-old. "Unfortunately we weren't able to copy them but hopefully we will be able to learn from this so we can progress in future tournaments." Trinity School's Will Smale says they won't be taking their failure to advance to heart. Smale was part of Trinity's under-16 colts side, but two wins and two defeats in the group was not enough to go through. They were far from outplayed though, beating Bishop's Stortford College 19-12 and Prior Park College 42-17, with 31-7 and 21-12 defeats to Yarm School and Olchfa School respectively. "It's a huge tournament and there were a lot of players who are clearly very good. We are a small school and we don't come to win but we do try to see all the different types of rugby from all over the place," said Smale. "It's good to see the different styles and test ourselves against other teams and have fun when we are doing it. We were a bit disappointed but we knew our limitations coming in and knew it would be difficult to go far." England player Danny Care was at the Rosslyn Park HSBC National Schools Sevens to help run HSBC coaching clinics for schools during the tournament. For more information visit www.rpns7.co.uk.

MANSONS guitar shop is joining in with the third annual National Learn to Play Day which allows people to get a free 20 minute lesson. Collaborating with Exeter's Academy of Music and Sound the event will take place on Saturday, April 12, at the shop's store in Fore Street. With an estimated 15 million people in the UK wanting to play an instrument or start playing again, Music for All charity, the UK musical instrument industry, has organised this event around the country. The event will run from 11am to 3pm, and discount vouchers on starter packages will also be provided. Those who are interested should call 01392 496379 or email surfer@mansons.

EXETER will feature in a new television series promising to unlock the doors on the professionals many people love to hate – estate agents. Under Offer: Estate Agents On The Job will air its first of six episodes on BBC Two next week to give viewers access to the working lives of 11 estate agents, including one from Exeter. Lewis Rossiter, 31, branch manager of Bradleys Estate Agents in Cowick Street, will be seen juggling two deadlines: a pregnant wife and a demanding client who wants her house sold – fast. Lewis, who lives in St Thomas with wife Vanessa, 32, and their three children: Sophie, for, Ada, two, and six-month-old Cohen, was filmed over a period of eight months until December. "I've watched the whole series, and it was surreal seeing myself doing what I do every day," he said. Exeter – regarded as one of the country's most desirable places to live – is given plenty of air time. Lewis said: "Exeter comes across really well, as a city that's absolutely booming. It's a great advertisement." Viewers will see how the estate agents combine market and location knowledge with the sales technique – to achieve success. Lewis was chosen to take part in the series following a short telephone conversation with the producer after recommendation from Bradleys managing director Francis Marshall. "I had a 30-minute telephone call, and then a few months later I was being followed," Lewis said. The first episode to be screened on Wednesday shows Lewis attempt what turns out to be his "most stressful" sale in more than two years of work. The question is whether or not the birth of baby can wait until after Lewis has completed the deal. "I told my wife not to have the baby until it was finished!" he said. The cameras recorded hundreds of hours of footage, but the editors could only feature a fraction in the final cut. Lewis said: "The series is very entertaining. Of the 11 estate agents, I feature prominently. The editors obviously went for the most extreme footage, but I'm not upset or disappointed about that." The final episode will see Lewis discover if he has won an accolade at the company's annual awards night, attended by 130 staff and the TV cameras. The first episode of the BBC Two series will be screened on April 9, at 8pm.

Chastity belts, phallic amulets and an ivory copulating couple are among the objects put forward for a new way to tackle sex education in school. A ground-breaking initiative from the University of Exeter, the Sex and History project is offering schools a new way to tackle difficult topics in sex education. It is linked to a new exhibition, Intimate Worlds, at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery (RAMM) in Exeter. This will be the first ever dedicated display of billionaire Sir Henry Wellcome's collection relating to human sexuality, including Chinese erotic glass painting, Greek vases and African fertility dolls.. The Sex and History project, led by Professor of History Kate Fisher and Classicist Dr Rebecca Langlands, has produced a new "taster" teaching resource for secondary schools Designed for young people aged between 14-19, the resource utilises objects such as an 18th century chastity belt, Roman phallic amulets worn by soldiers and children, and an ivory copulating couple from late 19th century China, amongst others. The artefacts are from the vaults of the Science Museum, collected by Sir Henry Wellcome from across the globe and never been on public display. Dr Langlands said the objects were found to be the perfect way for getting young people to talk openly about the issues that mattered to them when it came to sex. She said: "They immediately kick started conversations with young people in a way that is usually very difficult to achieve in a classroom context. Traditionally sex education can be uncomfortable for teachers and pupils alike, and the availability of internet pornography poses new challenges. Professor Fisher said: "These intriguing artefacts from ancient cultures act as a productive and challenging stimulus, but they also providing a safe distance to discuss sensitive subjects. Using them encouraged young people to find new ways of discussing relationships and sex without embarrassment. They were talking about history, about places and times far away. It was no longer sex education or about putting them in the spotlight, but it was about broader cultures." As part of the Sex and History project a group of Exeter College students aged between 16 and 17 were involved in a workshop that used illustrations of the sexual objects from the Sir Henry Wellcome's collection as a basis for exploring ideas around sex and sexual relationships. Laura Kerslake, a lecturer in Ethics at Exeter College said: "The objects allowed them to talk about sex without feeling self-conscious or thinking about themselves. Especially because they are ancient erotic objects, not a modern cultural image, but from different cultures that are far removed from young people's own lives, which helps to make them feel safe whilst participating in the discussion. This approach takes the embarrassment out of it and reduces the possibility of students putting up barriers to learning." The 'Intimate Worlds' exhibition opens on the 5th April Despite the challenging theme, 'Intimate Worlds' is no "shock horror" display. Instead, this is precisely the kind of serious educational and socially beneficial exhibition that the original collector, pharmaceutical billionaire Sir Henry Wellcome dreamed of for his collection. The exhibition provides an insight into the cultural diversity of attitudes and practices towards sex and prompts questions about modern attitudes towards censorship, the boundaries between childhood and adulthood, control of sexuality, fertility and contraception, pleasure and power relations. The exhibition runs until 29 June at RAMM in Exeter

WITH the county council saying it can no longer afford to provide non-statutory services like youth clubs, the question has to be asked: What happens to the buildings such as the 100 Club? A spokesman for the county council has told The Echo that it is not in a position to say what will happen to the 100 Club, nor with any certainty about it becoming an asset used by the community for the purpose of continuing a youth club. The building is owned by the county council and they are inviting people to talk to them about it. A county council spokesman said: "Many independent and voluntary groups already provide excellent youth services throughout Devon and, as part of the consultation process, we are inviting people to come forward with fresh ideas for services they could provide, possibly using our premises, for which some limited support from the county council may be available."

CRITICS have branded the decision to build 1,230 houses on green wedge land dubbed the "lungs of Exeter" as premature as the ruling came just days before a planning inspector's report on development across the district. At a special meeting of East Devon District Council's Development Management Committee, councillors voted in favour of two separate applications, by two different applicants for a total of 780 houses between Pinhoe and Westclyst. Building is already under way on a 450-home development, including shops, a primary school and a 250-space park-and-ride on fields at Old Park Farm, Pinn Hill. In total, the developments are for 1,230 homes yet only 800 were recommended in East Devon District Council's Local Plan. The document outlines plans for around 15,000 homes across the district between 2006-26. Residents and councillors have voiced concerns that the two developments were considered a few days before a Government inspector made his ruling on the document public. The 350-house development for phase two of Old Park Farm at Pinn Hill has been submitted by Stuart Partners. Meanwhile, the 430-house development including retail space of up to 240sqm and a 60-bed care home at Pinn Court Farm, Pinncourt Lane, has been submitted by Millwood Homes Devon Ltd. The application is a resubmission of a similar scheme submitted last year which was rejected by councillors because of "excessive queuing" it would cause at the double mini roundabouts in Pinhoe, and because it was offering 30 per cent affordable housing rather than a preferred amount of 40 per cent. A spokesperson for the council previously explained that it "made sense" for the applications to be heard together. He said that whereas before, the "limiting factor" on the sites has been the surrounding highway infrastructure, the applications have "overcome" that restraint and proposed alterations to the Pinhoe roundabouts "have freed up greater capacity on the highway network to accommodate additional dwellings". At the meeting Liberal Democrat East Devon district ward member for Broadclyst, Councillor Derek Button said: "This land is the lungs of Exeter and should never be built on." Prior to the meeting, the Devon branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England raised concerns about the scale of the applications in the green wedge. Member for Broadclyst, Conservative Councillor Peter Bowden, questioned why the plans could not have been heard after the Local Plan inspector's ruling. "It would have been perfectly in order to extend the time for the applications to be heard in order for the Local Plan inspector's report to have been published first," he said.

A retired couple in Devon have been duped out of £30,000 by fraudsters posing as police. Police are urging everyone to be on their guard against phone fraud after the Bideford couple were tricked by someone claiming to be from the Metropolitan Police. The bogus officer said someone in possession of the woman's bank card had been arrested and told her to phone her bank. But when she made the call the con man kept the line open, pretended to be the bank and confirmed large-scale fraudulent activity on her account. He claimed her account was being used fraudulently by bank staff and she should withdraw the cash and send it to him as evidence. The couple realised something was wrong when the bogus officers failed to turn up to an agreed appointment at their home. They then reported the offence to Devon and Cornwall Police. Detective Constable Dave Major from Bideford CID said: "This is a despicable fraud with the offenders targeting elderly and vulnerable people who are trusting and were willing to help who they thought was a bona fide police officer. "We would urge people to be aware of this scam and not to go along with it. "The police would not phone members of the public in this way and we would ask anyone who is contacted by these people to phone police and report it straight away." Detective Inspector Praveen Naidoo called phone fraud a "national problem", warning that real police officers never ask for bank details or to be sent money in the post. Anyone with information can contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

APPROVAL for a total of 800 homes on the eastern outskirts of Exeter will change Pinhoe for ever, residents have claimed. The plans have been approved by East Devon District Council on condition that the double mini roundabouts in the centre of the village are enlarged and the top end of Langaton Lane is rerouted. And Pinhoe has been further rocked by the news that an appeal has been launched against Exeter's refusal for planning permission for 120 homes in Church Hill, Pinhoe. Residents and councillors have reacted with dismay to the permission for the homes –the city council was consulted about the plans and objected. And although it will again be consulted about the demolition of the Poltimore Arms necessary to make way for a re-routed Langaton Lane the scheme does not need permission from the city council. Moira Macdonald, city councillor for Pinhoe, said: "The changes to the roundabouts are not a gain. I don't call it an improvement as it will simply maintain the congestion we have now, although there will be more traffic, so it will in effect be standing still." One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "There no longer seems to be any incentive for local people to try to defend their locality or to have any influence or say in what is built around them. "In a couple of years time, it'll be as if the village of Pinhoe never existed as it will have been overwhelmed."

Tiverton Town are looking to keep the pressure up on second-placed Cirencester Town when they host Godalming Town at Ladysmead tonight. Follow the live updates below to see how the Yellows manage against the 18th-placed Godalming.

An Exeter escort will feature in a new documentary on prostitution featuring Rupert Everett and Russell Brand. The English actor, 54, will question the comedian about his own experiences as part of forthcoming two-parter Love For Sale. The Channel 4 show includes interviews with people who buy and sell sex in locations including Tel Aviv, Paris and Exeter. Other interviewees will include a young rent boy in Tel Aviv, a Brazilian escort who charges £700 an hour, a single mother from Exeter who insists she enjoys her work and the women who work the notorious Bois de Boulogne in Paris. Everett, who has recently spoken out against police raids on brothels in central London's Soho, said: "Prostitutes are the world's unacknowledged experts on our most intimate desires." Brand has spoken openly in the past about being treated for sex addiction and his encounters with prostitutes and wrote about it in his memoir, My Booky Wook. Sara Ramsden, a commissioning editor at Channel 4, said: "Rupert has a unique authorial voice and his opinions range from the theological to the idealogical. It's great to see someone stand up so strongly for the dignity of women living with very difficult choices." The programme is part of a raft of new shows announced by the channel including 24 Hours in Custody, which is filmed inside a Luton police station, a documentary about a group of Royal Marines new recruits and My Last Summer which follows the lives of five terminally-ill people and their families.

A man has admitted assaulting his ex partner after a terrifying incident involving a chain saw. Nigel Reeby did not start the saw during the affray at a farm near Okehampton which happened shortly after victim Rosalynd Davies was assaulted. Reeby was due to stand trial at Exeter Crown Court but admitted the offences and his case was adjourned for reports by Judge Erik Salomonsen. Reeby, aged 46, of Catalina Close, Dunkeswell, near Honiton, admitted affray and assault causing actual bodily harm on two dates in June last year. A more serious charge of wounding was dropped. He was released on bail on condition he does not contact Miss Davies or visit her address at a farm at Okehampton. Mr Jonathan Barnes, prosecuting, said Reeby's pleas are acceptable because he now admits the full facts of the assault. He said:"The charge of affray is accepted on the basis he used the chain saw in the manner alleged but had no intention of causing really serious harm and he never started it." Mr Joss Ticehurst, defending, asked the judge to adjourn the case for pre sentence reports and said Reeby has no previous convictions, although he has one caution for common assault dating back to 2002. The Judge told Reeby:"You have made the very realistic and sensible decision to acknowledge your guilt on the day of your trial. I am not making any promises about the eventual sentence."

Motorists are being warned of major traffic problems in Exeter this evening after traffic lights have become stuck on red on a busy road. Devon County Council said motorists may experience traffic problems in Exeter caused by traffic lights at the junction of Heavitree, Fore St & Butts Road which are stuck on red The council said an Engineer has been informed and will try to resolve the issue as quickly as they can.

Heavitree Fore St & Butts Rd traffic lights have been switched off waiting for Engineer to attend #devonroads

— Hugh Griffith (@hughHocc) April 2, 2014

Traffic lights stuck on red on the crossroads on heavitree and one old man and his dog are doing the traffic control #hero

— Andrew Einchcomb (@AndrewEinchcomb) April 2, 2014

IT has been the bloodiest 13 years of fighting since the Second World War with a human cost of nearly 450 British servicemen and woman. And the faces of these 21 young men from Exeter and the surrounding area are a stark reminder of the cost and human sacrifice of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. All of them; sons, fathers and husbands, went to fight for their country – but tragically returned home to Devon in coffins. Today, a symbolic day, marking the end of British military command in Afghanistan, the Echo is paying tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Yesterday, in the the latest drawdown of troops, British-led Task Force Helmand came to an end after eight years of front line military operations involving tens of thousands of servicemen and women. For those left behind – the "unique family" as they have been described, brought together by a united tragedy – the pain and grief is with them every day. But they have told of their pride as the nation recognises the sacrifices their loved ones have made. The following died serving in Afghanistan. John Sanderson, Exeter, died August 2010. Former University of Exeter student Lt John Sanderson, 29, from 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment, was injured in an explosion in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province on July 13 2010. He was given medical aid at the scene before being flown to the UK for further treatment but died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham after failing to recover from his wounds. His family, who were by his side when he died, paid tribute to him, describing him as "a brilliant and loving son and brother". They added: "John loved his Army career and was enthusiastically committed to his men and particularly his and their role in Afghanistan. "He believed he was contributing to a better life for the Afghan people. We will miss him tremendously but we will never forget him and what he gave to us."Stephen Curley, Exeter, died May 2010. Corporal Stephen Curley, 26, of 40 Commando Royal Marines, was conducting a foot patrol through Sangin in Helmand Province to reassure the local population and understand their concerns about living in the area when he was killed in an IED explosion. His colleagues have described him as the "best of his generation". At the time of his death his wife Kirianne said: "It is impossible for me to express what my husband meant to me, daddy to our 18-week-old son William and my partner in crime, Stevie was my purpose, what makes me tick.. "Stevie was a quietly proud man, proud to be a Royal Marine, proud to be my husband and proud to be a daddy. "He loved his family, and would be so proud of his mother and brother. "We will carry your heart with us always. "Engraved in my wedding ring are the words 'Kirianne, my one, my love, my wife. Stephen, sleep well my love.'Stephen Walker, Exmouth, died May 2010. Leona Walker led the tributes after her husband Corporal Stephen Walker had died in an explosion in Sangin in Helmand province. He was conducting a joint foot patrol with the Afghan National Army when the explosion occurred. The 42-year-old was born in Northern Ireland but lived in Exmouth with Leona and their daughter Greer. He also had a son, Samuel. She said: "Steve was passionate, loyal and determined. He enjoyed the role he had in the Marines but he was a family man at heart. "He was a fantastic dad to Greer and he was the perfect soul mate to me. "Although this is a very sad time, Steve would want us to be positive and remember the good times, the happy times. "A lot of people's lives will be deeply affected by Steve's all-to-early departure. Life goes on, but it will never be the same for us."Stephen Thompson, Bovey Tracey, died March 2010. Corporal Stephen Thompson, 31, from 1st Battalion The Rifles (1 Rifles) died as a result of an explosion in the Sangin district of Helmand province. He was a former pupil at Chudleigh Knighton Primary School and Teign School who spent 13 years in the armed forces. He was also the father of a seven-year-old boy. Speaking at the time from the family home in Bovey Tracey, his mother, Carol, said he was an inspiration to his son, his father, Peter, brother, Philip and sisters, Clare and Helen. She said: "He was a hero who achieved his dream of serving his country. To lose him is completely devastating. "He was in the Army for a long time and served all over the world. It was his life really. "He was last home at Christmas and for New Year. His plan was to stay in the Army. He had recently taken his sergeant exams and wanted to stay in and be promoted. "An Army captain came to tell us the news on Sunday afternoon. It's been shattering."Kinikki Griffiths, Exmouth, died July 2010. RAF Senior Aircraftman Kinikki Griffiths. known to his friends as Griff, died in a road crash on patrol near Camp Bastion, Helmand province. Kinikki, who grew up in Hampshire before moving with his family to Exmouth three years before his death, was due to celebrate his 21st birthday in three weeks. His grandad Peter Griffiths, 78, led the tributes to his grandson, who leaves behind his girlfriend Chloe Gunn, parents Tracey and Nick, two sisters aged 18 and 15, and a 12-year-old brother. He said: "I am so proud of him. The news has devastated all of us. "He was a smashing nipper who was loved all round." His aunt, mother-of-two Ann Jenner, added: "He was a smashing boy. He was very loveable, very caring, very cheeky, and had a beaming smile which could light up any room. "They say He takes the best and He did that day. "It will take a long time for the pain to go — if it ever does." Carlo Apolis, Exeter, died March 2010. Rifleman Carlo Apolis, 28, from A Company 4 Rifles, was described as an "outstanding soldier" following his death. He was wounded during small arms fire near a patrol base north east of Sangin. Originally from South Africa, he came to Exeter in 2004 where he worked in a hotel before joining the Army three years later. Carlo's girlfriend Rebecca Williams, who met Carlo when they both worked at the Devon Hotel in Matford, said at the time: "Carlo was my best friend and we shared everything. I miss him so much and he will always be with me in my thoughts. "Most people will have known Carlo as fun loving and highly entertaining; someone who could make you smile and motivate you when you were feeling down. "But outside work he also had a much quieter and more reserved side that not many people would have seen."Mark Marshall, Exeter, died February 2010. Territorial Army soldier Mark Marshall from Exeter was killed in an explosion while on a routine foot patrol in Helmand. Rifleman Marshall, who was also a police community support officer in the city, was described as an "absolute gentleman" who was "always smiling". Rifleman Marshall joined the police in 2006 and worked initially in Exeter's Priory ward before joining policing teams in Countess Wear and Topsham. His mother Lynn Marshall said: "I am hugely proud of my dear and beloved son; he lived life to the full and will be sorely missed by all." He also leaves behind brother and sister Alex and Jo and girlfriend Hayley. Exeter Neighbourhood Inspector Brent Davison said the PCSO and soldier would be missed by all who knew him. "Mark was an absolute gentleman who always surpassed expectations," he said. "He was an excellent PCSO and would have made a superb police officer which he aspired to. Mark was always smiling and particularly enjoyed helping young people."Sean Birchall, Exeter, died June 2009. Major Sean Birchall, of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, was killed in an explosion while on patrol near Lashkar Gah. Despite immediate assistance from the patrol medic, Major Birchall died as he was being extracted to the helicopter landing site. The officer, who died four days shy of his 34th birthday, had started his career as a member of the University of Exeter Officer Training Corps. He later attended the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1999 before joining the Welsh Guards. Maj Birchall, who commanded Number IX Company leaves behind his wife, Joanna, and their 18-month-old son, Charlie. Mrs Birchall said in a statement: "Sean was a wonderful husband, a doting father and a much-loved son and brother, who cared deeply for his family and friends. "He has been described as 'devilishly fit, stylish and energetic' and he was so very proud to be a Guards officer."Chris Reed, Exeter, died January 2009. Territorial Army soldier Serjeant Chris Reed was killed in an explosion in Afghanistan on New Year's Day. Known as 'Reedy', he was killed while on a vehicle patrol in the Garmsir district of Helmand province. The 25-year-old served with the Exeter-based 6th Battalion The Rifles and in his civilian career worked for Babcock Marine based at Devonport Dockyard. Sjt Reed had got engaged to his fiancée Heather Crosby on the day he was posted to Afghanistan. The couple were due to marry shortly after his return. Sjt Reed's parents described him as a man who 'touched the hearts of all he came into contact with'. In a statement, Joy and Brian Reed said: "Chris was in the Territorial Army and doing a job he believed in. He did that job with pride and honour and with people he respected. He believed he was making a difference. "Chris will be sadly missed by his mother, father and brother Andrew, his fiancée Heather, all of his family and friends and all who knew him. "We are very proud of what he has achieved and what he was trying to achieve."Jason Barnes, Exeter, died July 2008. Brave Exeter soldier Corporal Jason Barnes was killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan after saving the life of a comrade. The 25-year-old died when a bomb exploded as he drove an ambulance back to his Helmand base. The former St James School student, whose parents Stephen and Beverley live in Exeter, belonged to the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) attached to 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment. Cpl Barnes saved the life of a 2 Para soldier immediately before his death, after his comrade lost both his legs to a land mine. After helping evacuate the victim and other injured soldiers by helicopter, Cpl Barnes was driving a Vector army ambulance back to base when it was hit by a suspected insurgent explosive device. Despite medics' efforts, he died a few minutes later. His wife, Diana, speaking from their home in Colchester, Essex, the town where 2 Para is based, said: "He was a loving husband and will be sadly missed." His parents said: "He served all over the world, including Kosovo, Northern Ireland, Germany, two tours of Iraq and two tours of Afghanistan. "Jason proudly served as part of the British Army — he was always determined to achieve his full potential and make his family proud. He accomplished so much in a life so tragically cut short. "He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him, his wife, mum and dad, brother and sister."Darryl Gardiner, Uffculme, died January 2008. Corporal Darryl Gardiner, 25, of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, died nearly two weeks ago when the armoured vehicle in which he was travelling was hit by a mine, near the town of Musa Qala. Attached to Fifth Regiment Royal Artillery and 52 Brigade's Reconnaissance Force, based in Lashkar Gar, he was taking part in an operation to disrupt enemy forces when the mine detonated. Speaking from his home in Uffculme, near Cullompton, his father Mark Gardiner said: "He joined the army about eight years ago and he absolutely loved it.. "Since it happened, we have heard from his peers and former officer in command and they've all said Darryl was confident and mature beyond his years. "He was destined to go places in the Army or in the forces generally. "He was very well liked and he could talk to anyone, whether it was a high ranking officer or just someone on the street. He was respected for that quality. "He power-packed a whole lot of things into his life. He's done more in 25 years than most people would do in twice that time. He was fearless, but that was tempered by common sense."Jack Sadler, Clyst St George, died December 2007. Former Exeter School pupil Trooper Jack Sadler, lost his life in Afghanistan when his patrol vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb. Trooper Sadler died on December 4 in the field hospital at Camp Bastion, in Helmand Province. He was 21 years old. The popular soldier, a former Exeter School pupil who had recently moved to London, was serving with the London Honourable Company Territorial Army unit as part of the 4/73 Special Observation Battery, Brigade Reconnaissance Force. Trooper Sadler this year graduated with a 2:1 degree in war studies at the University of London and then volunteered for deployment to Afghanistan. His parents Jeannette MacDonald and Ian Sadler said Trooper Sadler, who was destined for officer training at Sandhurst, thrived on challenges. Ms MacDonald, who still lives in the village of Clyst St George, where Trooper Sadler grew up, said: "He loved life and excitement and he liked to do things really well. He was exceptional at what he did [but] he was very unlucky." "I was always really supportive of Jack. It was Jack's adventure. I want people to remember him as a wonderfully humorous bright comet that had a very happy and successful life, and died too soon." Jonathan Kitulagoda, Exeter, died January 2004. Young TA soldier Private Jonathan Kitulagoda, 23, was killed in a suicide bomb attack near a military base in the capital Kabul where he was taking part in peace-keeping operations. Four of his colleagues were injured. A student in Plymouth, Jonathan was a member of the Rifle Volunteers, a Territorial Army battalion based at Wyvern Barracks in Exeter. Jonathan, whose family live in Bedfordshire, was believed to have been serving with the TA during a year off from studies. Speaking at the time from the Exeter barracks Lieutenant Colonel Ian Blewett, the then commanding officer of The Rifle Volunteers, led the tributes. He said: "Pte Kitulagoda was a young man who played a full and professional role as a TA infantryman, and was a popular and committed member of E (Devon and Dorset) Company. "It was with immense sadness that we learnt of the death of one of our soldiers, and injuries suffered by his colleagues, while on peacekeeping duties. "My thoughts, and those of the entire battalion, are very much with Pte Kitulagoda's family, and the families of those injured, at this dreadful time." The following servicemen were killed in Iraq: Daniel Coffey, Cullompton, died March 2007. Rifleman Daniel Coffey, 21, was shot dead as he returned to his base at the Shatt-Al-Arab Hotel in Basra. The former Cullompton Community College student joined the Army two and a half years ago to help his country. At the time he was fatally wounded,, Daniel was serving with 2nd Battalion, The Rifles. He was providing cover for his colleagues while they battled with insurgents when he came under fire and was shot. His tour of duty had been due to end in two weeks' time. His grandfather David Godfrey, of New Street, Cullompton, said: "The family are devastated and cannot comprehend the loss of their son. He lived and died for the service he loved." The popular Rifleman was a big role model to his six younger brothers, who range in age from two to 19. Just before his death, Private Coffey had been training Iraqi security forces ready for the time when they would take over police operations in Basra He was on "top cover" — providing protection for patrol vehicles — at the time. This means he would have been leaning out of the Bulldog armoured vehicle, scanning the surroundings. After being shot, he was evacuated by helicopter to a field hospital and it was there that he died. Mr Godfrey said Rifleman Coffey "lived and died for the service he loved". "Daniel would have been with his regiment three years in August, and this was his second tour of duty in Iraq. "It was his wish to go back there to see this through. All he wanted to do was to make Sam and his dad proud of him, and he did just that."John Johnston Cosby, Exeter, died July 2006. Tributes were paid to an Exeter soldier who was killed in Iraq following an operation to capture a terrorist leader. Exeter soldier Corporal John Johnston Cosby, 27, of the 1st Battalion, The Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry, came under small arms fire when he and his team were ambushed in a suburb of north Basra on Sunday following an operation to capture a terrorist leader. Cpl Cosby, of King Arthur's Road, in Beacon Heath, was wounded and died soon after being evacuated by helicopter to a field hospital. Another soldier suffered gunshot wounds. Cpl Cosby's family today remembered him as a loving man with a sense of humour and bubbly personality. His mother Jean, of Mincinglake Road, Exeter, said on behalf of his family: "He was a great and loving family man. An amazing son, brother, uncle and nephew. "His sense of humour and bubbly personality will be missed by all of his family and everyone who knew him. His memory will live in all our hearts forever."Paul Collins, Dawlish, died May 2006. Devon Royal Marine Paul Collins was killed in a helicopter crash in Iraq. The former Dawlish Community College pupil, 21, an air door gunner with 847 Naval Air Squadron based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset, was one of five killed when their chopper came down. It is believed their Lynx helicopter was fired on and plunged into a two-storey house in Basra on Saturday. His parents, Michael and Deborah Collins, from Broom Close in Dawlish, said: "Paul was a wonderful young man and so full of potential and zest for life. "He was physically and mentally strong, though this was tempered by an intelligent, thoughtful and caring nature. "He loved outdoor pursuits and from an early age of 10 wanted to be a Royal Marine. This dream was nearly spoilt by injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. However, he fought back, recovered and fulfilled his dream. Although his time with the corps was only short, he made many good friends and was never happier than being with his 'brothers in arms'."Ben Nowak, Lympstone, died November 2006. Flags flew at half-mast at Lympstone's Commando Training Centre in honour of Corporal Ben Nowak, 27, who was killed in Iraq. After completing his training there he had returned to spend two years as a physical training instructor at Lympstone Commando Training Centre before volunteering for a tour of duty in Iraq. He was among four commandos killed on Remembrance Sunday when their patrol boat was hit by an "improvised explosive device" in the Shatt al-Arab waterway in the southern city of Basra. While stationed at Lympstone Cpl Nowak, from Liverpool, turned out for Sidmouth Town football team, after being recruited by fellow marine and then team manager Jason Margrett. Jason, of Sidbury, said: "It is a sad loss. Ben was very popular."Stephen Enright, Exeter, died January 2006. A former Paratrooper from Exeter was killed in an attack in Iraq. Stephen Enright, 29, of Exeter, was working as a civilian for a US-based military operation. He was killed when an explosive hit the vehicle he was travelling in. Another worker was injured. Mr Enright's parents, Gloria and Daniel, of New North Road, Exeter, paid tribute to their son. Mrs Enright said: "I was very proud of my son. He was in the Paras for nine years and served in Iraq for a while." Their son left the Paras at the end of last year but continued to work in Iraq as a civilian. "He did speak of the dangers, especially when he was in the Paras in danger zones," said Mrs Enright. But he felt safer while working as a civilian. "I spoke to him the other day, and he said he was in an area where there had been no trouble, he told me 'at least I haven' t been shot or blown up'. "I am not sure about what really happened, only that there was an explosion." Mr Enright had a girlfriend, Charlotte, who he had been with for two years. His mother said: "He had planned to propose to Charlotte when he came back on leave. They had only just bought a house together in Exeter." Andrew Wilson, Exeter, died March 2003. Exeter serviceman Lt Andrew Wilson died alongside five colleagues when two Royal Navy helicopters collided over the Arabian Gulf during the Iraq war. The 36-year-old was among six members of the Royal Navy's 849 Squadron who were killed in a mid-air collision between two Royal Navy Sea King Mk 7 Airborne Early Warning helicopters five miles from HMS Ark Royal on March 22, 2003. His wife Sarah Wilson described her husband as "one of life's givers" and spoke of his "room-filling laugh". She also spoke of her husband's "precision" in every task he chose to undertake.Jason Ward, Exeter, died March 2003. Major Jason Ward, 34, of Heavitree, became one of the first victims of the Iraq war when his Sea Knight helicopter crashed in Kuwait His family said: "Jason was the epitome of a Royal Marine. He was respected and revered by all who knew him. He volunteered for any type of active service and had worked all around the world. "As a consequence we have had condolences from every continent. The message was the same on all of them – 'Jason was truly an amazing man, an inspirational leader, dedicated professional and the best friend that you could wish for'. "He revelled in his job and would not have swapped his place on board the helicopter with anyone. He was proud to lead his troops into battle rather than follow from behind. We truly believe that the success of the operation was, in part, due to his involvement, in its planning, and that many marines owe their lives to his committed leadership." Philip Guy, Okehampton, died March 2003 Captain Philip Guy, 29, was one of eight servicemen who died in the helicopter crash over the Kuwaiti crash alongside Major Jason Ward. Speaking at the time Helen Guy, who was due to give birth to their second child in two weeks, paid tribute to her "perfect, loving, special husband". Mrs Guy, from Yelverton, near Okehampton, said he was the best husband and father she could have wished for. The couple also had a 20-month-old son, Henry. "He was the most brave, courageous man you could ever imagine; tough and steadfast, honest and true," she added. "All he ever wanted to do was to provide for us, to be a good husband to me, and father to Henry and our unborn child. "I know he died a true hero. He died for his Queen and country and to make the world a safer, better place for us to live in, for his children to grow up in. "Our love and pride was always with him and he knew that. He died surrounded by our love and we will never ever forget what a truly wonderful man he was."

The work of an Exeter charity has been brought to life through theatre. A group of six students from the University of Exeter drama department worked closely with Exeter YMCA during the first quarter of this year to support its work through the genre of 'clowning'. The 'Sleep Easy Clowns' – Dan Jones, Ellie Bookham, Katy Dash, Michael Gear Smith, Nikki Wilkes and Tom Myles – produced a final performance on March 24 to celebrate the charity's work supporting homeless young people in Devon. The evening consisted of a number of stories, skits and acts – tracing the journeys of many YMCA clients who had typically experienced homelessness. Residents of the charity also showcased their own songs, poems and monologues on the issue. Sophie Hodge, of Exeter YMCA, said: "For the last three months 'The Clowns' enthusiastically embedded themselves in the life of the charity, learning first hand who they are and what the issues are they are working to tackle. "They bought their creative talents and 'clowning' genre of acting to each of the projects, bringing the learning to life for the young people." Despite the project officially being over, several of the clowns are continuing their involvement with the YMCA through volunteering on their projects. The clowns also performed at Exeter YMCA's Sleep Easy event held on March 15 to raise money and awareness of youth homelessness. Sophie Hodge, event organiser, said: "The clowns were creative, powerful, funny and poignant in the way they communicated the issues of homelessness and the work of YMCA to the general public. We so appreciated their amazing contribution." Around 200 people took part in the 'rough sleeping' event, raising more than £21,500 in the process and putting the issue under the spotlight. The clowns' took to the stage before city singer Adam Isaac performed a live set including the title 'Sleep Easy' song that he wrote with the help of youngsters at the charity. The Exeter YMCA as been in existence for more than 160 years in the city. The Christian charity aims to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ in practical and tangible ways to young people and the wider community. Homelessness affects at least 80,000 people aged under 18 every year in the UK – often through no fault of their own. The most common cause of youth homelessness is family breakdown, usually with parents or step-parents.

A jilted boyfriend has been jailed for taking revenge on his partner by breaking into her house and flushing her clothes down the toilet. Anton Burnett ransacked his ex girlfriend's home on New Year's Eve, cutting up her clothes, splashing Coca Cola on the floor and soaking her underwear in the bath. He then made off with his favourite leather armchair, the widescreen television, and most of the cooking equipment from the kitchen. He trashed every room in Mosa Lockley's home in Newton Abbot, South Devon, except that of his young daughter, Exeter Crown Court was told. Burnett, who has a history of domestic violence, was jailed after a Judge told him his attack was motivated by 'domination, control and revenge'. He went on to break into the home of his ex partner's best friend and take her laptop and diary. Burnett, aged 38, of Mill End, Kingsteignton, admitted two burglaries and was jailed for two years. He was also banned from contacting Miss Lockley or going to her home in East Street, Newton Abbot, for five years Judge Phillip Wassall told him:"You ransacked the property and made an untidy search which involved going through her belongings. "You put her underwear in the bath with shampoo and cut up her clothes and put them in the toilet. The background to both burglaries is your history of domestic violence with former partners. "On this night, being unable to get what you wanted in terms of child contact, you had feelings of control and abusive behaviour. This was not a burglary for financial gain but one on domination, control and revenge. "It was motivated by your views towards your former partner and her friend and with regards to the way the relationship came to an end." Mr Gordon Richings, prosecuting, said the burglary happened on the night of New Year's Eve when he got into Miss Lockley's home through a bathroom window. He said:"The drawers were emptied out and he threw Coca Cola on the kitchen floor. Clothes were ripped up and stuffed in the toilet. The stolen property was found at his home." Mr Francis Segan, defending, said Burnett would benefit more from work in the community to change his behaviour within relationships than from jail. He said:"None of the stolen property was destroyed or given away or sold. It was stored by him although he must have known the finger of suspicion would fall on him."

The pavement dubbed the worst in Exeter is set to become just a grim memory. The strip of pathway in Cowick Street, St Thomas, between Isabel Court and the entrance to Tesco, has been a source of concern – and worse – for scores of pedestrians who had to negotiate its cracked, uneven and sloping surface. Now it is to be redesigned and resurfaced following the intervention of St Thomas city councillor Rob Hannaford. Cllr Hannaford said: "This has to be one of the worst pavements in Exeter and also one of the busiest . Local residents and businesses started to raise this issue during the public meetings about the Cowick Street improvements works several years ago, and it has become even more severe as it continues to collapse , and another three indentations have appeared nearby. "The unevenness , steepness and poor condition of the path at this location makes it very difficult to use. This is a special concern in this part of St Thomas as we have Isabel Court, Carousel Court , Browning Court , Buller Court , Prospect Place and the Age UK Centre all nearby , with many older people with mobility problems , and also mobility scooter and wheelchair users who are finding this area a challenge. "Some times elderly people with walking frames have to wait for other pedestrians to actually help them over this area safely." " After I continued to raise further complaints I understood that the long awaited works had been put back until at least next year. However I am very please to announce that our local highway officer has now confirmed to me that works will now be completed in the next few weeks. Its essential that it is finally sorted out without any further delays." If anyone has any pavement problems in Exwick or St Thomas they can email rob.hannaford@devon.gov.uk

The jury have been discharged n the case of a dog owner who denied groping a 17-year-old girl on a riverside footpath in Exeter. Ryan Willdigg was accused of putting his hand inside the woman's top and trying to force her hand into his trousers but said said he had only kissed the alleged victim. The jury at Exeter Crown Court were discharged after failing to reach a verdict in the case and the prosecution will decide if they want a retrial. The complainant said she was assaulted on a footbridge near Salmon Pool Lane as she walked into Exeter to meet friends in August 2012. She said Willdigg jogged past her with his Rottweiler dog at his heel but then turned and stopped to talk to her, despite them never having met before. She told the jury he started kissing and touching her and she was able to text a friend using one hand to call for help as she tried to fend him off with the other. Her account was that she kicked him in the genitals and ran off to tell her friends what had happened. He said the girl had started talking to him and initiated the kissing but he was uncomfortable about it as he had never kissed a girl before and had broken off and gone home without touching or assaulting her. Judge Erik Salomonsen discharged the jury and gave the prosecution two weeks to decide if to pursue the case further. Fast food worker Willdigg, aged 19, of Ivy Close, Exeter, denied the sexual assault.

With the Crabbie's Grand National just days away, we take a look at some of the leading contenders and lively outsiders for World's Greatest Steeplechase on Saturday and assess their chances for the Aintree showpiece. Tidal Bay – At 13-years-old and carrying top weight, Paul Nicholls' entry does not fit the usual profile of a National winner. But recent stats have shown that heavy weight is not the scratcher it once was. Tidal Bay has already defied his advancing years and if anything seems to be improving with age. An impressive third in the Welsh National and second in the Irish Hennessy Gold Cup already this season, he would become the first top weight to triumph in the race since Red Rum. But don't put that past this quirky performer. 16/1 Triolo D'Alene – Champion trainer Nicky Henderson is still looking for a first win in this race but fields a strong hand with Triolo D'Alene arguably the pick of the bunch. The seven year old winner of this season's Henessey disappointed in the Gold Cup at Cheltenham but didn't have too tough an outing and should be fresh enough to go well here. Having Barry Geraghty on-board is a big plus. 20-1 Long Run – A former Gold Cup and double King George winner, Nicky Henderson's star bypassed Cheltenham for Aintree and that could prove a great benefit to the nine-year-olds chances. He always had the feel of a National Horse and looks a solid stayer. Amateur jockey Sam Waley-Cohen will again talk the ride and has been in bullish mood talking up his chances in recent days. 16/1 Burton Port - Fourth in the 2012 Cheltenham Gold Cup, Burton Port is showing glimmers of his former self under the stewardship of Jonjo O'Neill following the move from Nicky Henderson's yard. Second in the Betfred Bowl at the National meeting last year, demonstrating an aptitude for the course, Burton Port is now off his lowest mark in years. A recent second at Newbury indicated he could be approaching old form and if he can maintain that, he should go close. 20/1 Teaforthree – Rebecca Curtis' likeable ten-year-old looks sure to run a big race again after coming third in last year when 2lbs higher. A consistent performer, Teaforthree was also runner-up in last year's Welsh National and would become the first Welsh trained horse to win the race in more than 100 years. But there will have been few in that time with better claims and even fewer with louder cheers should jockey Nick Scholfield bring him back to the winner's enclosure. 10/1. Monbeg Dude – One for the Royalists, Monbeg Dude is part owned by Mike Tindall, the husband of Zara Phillips, and is sure to have a number of backers on the day. Winner of the Welsh National last year, beating this year's Grand National favourite Teaforthree in the process, Monbeg Dude has long been targeted for this race and at nine-years-old is the right age on current trends. 14/1. Prince De Beauchene - Should line up for the third time of asking after two injury hit challenges. Now aged 11, Prince De Beauchene is not the kind of form that saw him places as favourite for the race two years ago but has been dropped 8lb from his peak rating as a result. With an injury free build-up and a clean round of jumping it may be a case of better late than never for the Willie Mullins trained horse. 22/1, Double Seven - The likely mount of champion jockey AP McCoy, will see his odds tumble if this is confirmed tomorrow. But the eight year old looks to have been prepped for this race for some time and a winning run of five last summer showed marked improvement. Too much rain would be a concern but his trainer Martin Brassil, already has one National winner under his belt with Numbersixvalverde in 2006. 22/1. A COUPLE OF LIVELY OUTSIDERS: One Night in Milan – A 66/1 shot for Evan Williams, trainer who has had a very solid record in the race with top-five finishes in the last five years. Inexperience over the bigger fences may count against this nine-year-old in the Aintree cauldron but a credible fourth in the Welsh National has shown a liking for longer distances. Worth an each-way nibble at such a large price. 66/1 Hunt Ball – It has been a colourful few years for Hunt Ball, now part of Nicky Henderson's strong quartet of entries. A huge rise through the weights two years ago included a victory at the Cheltenham Festival, followed by a fall-out that eventually saw Hunt Ball taken over to America, which didn't suit. Whether he handles the distance is an unknown, yet it is for many contenders, and now back settled has the undoubted quality on the right day to mount a strong challenge. And what a story it would be. 66/1. Check back tomorrow after final declarations when we will publish a sweepstake to print off. We will also be running tips on all races for the three day festival that starts tomorrow.

Exeter City Council has successfully prosecuted Shantelle Bennett for three breaches of a noise abatement notice. Bennett of Rydal Mews, Windermere Close pleaded guilty at Exeter Magistrates Court on Wednesday 2 April. The council received reports from nearby residents that Ms Bennett was regularly playing very loud music late at night and during the early hours of the morning. The noise was so loud that it prevented residents from sleeping. The Council's Environmental Health Service carried out an investigation, recording the noise levels on tape and witnessing the noise pollution at first hand in the evening. Bennett was issued with a number of warnings before being served with a Noise Abatement Notice in September 2013. She failed to modify her behaviour and three breaches of the Noise Abatement Notice were recorded by Council officers, who also confiscated her stereo equipment under warrant. At Exeter Magistrates Court, Bennett pleaded guilty to all three breaches and was sentenced to a fine of £150 per offence. She was also ordered to pay court and prosecution costs which with fines totalled £570. The court also made an order that the stereo equipment seized by officers on 6 February 2014 should be forfeited. Keith Owen, Lead Councillor for Environment, Health and Wellbeing said: "Persistent noisy neighbours can make life intolerable for families and other residents living nearby and this is unacceptable. The Council takes the issue of statutory noise nuisance seriously and will take action against those that decide to ignore warnings and continue to make the lives of their neighbours a misery."

Top band Elbow have added a second date at the Eden Project. The five-piece will be playing at the Eden Project on Tuesday July 15 in addition to their already-announced Monday July 14 show and, as with the first date, tickets will initially be available only to residents of Cornwall and Devon. Rita Broe, Eden's Marketing Director, said: "Demand for tickets for the first Elbow announcement was incredibly high so we're very pleased to be able to offer a second date to fans who weren't able to get tickets for the first show. "The Eden shows are part of just a handful of gigs Elbow will play in the UK this summer." The concert will follow the recent release of their hotly-anticipated sixth studio album The Take Off and Landing of Everything, which was their first ever UK number one album.