Democracy & Community | Children & Families | Culture & Tourism | Economy & Business | Environment & Planning | Jobs & Careers | Learning & Schools | Social Care & Health | Transport & Roads |
Press Releases
From Michaila Hill, Exeter 382535, September 01,2008
Local award winning gardener and new BBC Gardener's World presenter Toby Buckland is featured in the latest edition of Devon Talk, currently being distributed to households across the county.
Toby is thrilled to have won gold and best in show for his ethical garden at this year's Gardeners' World Live. The winning garden was sponsored by Devon County Council's Don't let Devon go to waste campaign, and was created using materials picked up from the County's recycling centres.
In a similar vein, East Devon resident Pat Harris shows Devon Talk around her garden. Pat collects disregarded debris washed ashore to adorn her garden. "We usually explore beaches in the winter when they are quiet. But unlike most people who enjoy a walk along the beach, we nearly always have our eyes to the ground!"
It's back to school time for the County's youngsters and a behind the scenes look reveals meals served in Devon's primary schools are top of the class.
There is also a list of events taking place around the county during the next few months including seasonal Halloween, fire works and Christmas events.
The quarterly magazine is produced by Devon County Council with Devon and Cornwall Constabulary and Devon Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. The magazine is distributed through many local newspapers and can be picked up in libraries and County Council reception areas. Anyone who has not seen a copy of Devon Talk can order one on 01392 380101 or it can be read online at www.devon.gov.uk/devontalk
- Leader of the Council - Cllr Brian Greenslade
- Chief Executive -- Phil Norrey
- Budget £800 million
- Key investments include:
- Schools £349 million
- Adult and Community Services £164 million
- Environment, Economy and Culture £106 million
- Children and Young People £101 million
- Other important County Council support includes:
- Building programme: £185 million for new schools, roads, care services, libraries and recycling centres
- Political make-up:
- County Council seats: 62
- 33 Liberal Democrat
- 23 Conservative
- 4 Labour
- 2 Independent
- Next County Council elections: May 7, 2009
- Key stats:
- Population: 741,000
- Schools: 365
- Pupils: 96,200
- Children looked after: 584
- Adults helped to live at home: 17,622
- Residential and nursing care: 4,212 adults
- Libraries and Mobile Libraries: 61
- Roads: 12,831 kms (7,973 miles)
- Bridges: 3,500
- Public Rights of Way: 4,960 kms (3,200 miles)
- Streetlights: 71,000
- Illuminated road signs: 10,917
- Recycling Centres: 20
- Recycling rate: 49.21%
Figures may be subject to change
Next : 01/09/2008 Cycle to work challenge
Previous : 01/09/2008 Exceptional progress at outstanding school with 'family' atmosphere