As June comes to a close, I’ve continued to spend time in our communities – celebrating our local heritage, supporting community efforts, and listening closely to the concerns that matter most.
Whether it was working with the police and residents to address anti-social behaviour in Mount Batten and Hooe, meeting with an RAF veteran and Invictus Games champion, or listening to staff during a visit to Plymstock School, I’ve seen just how much people care about the place we call home.
The unveiling of a plaque commemorating Sir Charles Lock Eastlake served as a powerful reminder of South West Devon’s rich cultural and historical contributions to our national story. The warmth and generosity of our local community shone through at the Elburton Church Summer Garden event, while the National Prayer Breakfast in Parliament provided an opportunity to reflect with church leaders on the vital support they offer those in need.
And of course, National Fish and Chips Day was a joyful celebration of one of our most cherished traditions, as well as a chance to support the local businesses that serve our community so well.
As always, if you’d like to share your concerns with me over email, please do get in touch at rebecca.smith.mp@parliament.uk
Read on to hear about my work for our area in more detail!
Read The Previous Rebecca Smith Column Here
Taking action to address vehicle-related anti-social behaviour in Mount Batten and Hooe
After hearing from over 250 residents through my recent survey on vehicle-related anti-social behaviour in Mount Batten and Hooe, I have been working with both Plymouth City Council and the local police to take action and address this ongoing issue.
Many of you shared concerns about car cruising, youth disturbances, and other disruptive activities linked to vehicles. Following my meeting with them, I’m pleased that both the Council and police are now working towards introducing a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO). The PSPO will specifically help target issues such as youth anti-social behaviour, car cruising, and vehicle-related disturbances.
Alongside this, I’m also supporting the Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Case Review process which was triggered by Councillor Steel. This review allows residents to request a formal look at how their previous reports of anti-social behaviour have been handled, making sure agencies work together to resolve ongoing problems effectively.
I’m aware that loud and disruptive noise continues to be a major concern for many residents. The Council has advised that one of the most effective ways to tackle this issue is for residents to keep a detailed diary of any noise incidents over a minimum period of two weeks. These records should include times, dates, specific locations, and the nature of the disturbance.
This information plays a vital role in helping the Council build a clearer picture of when and where noise issues are taking place and may also support the case for installing noise detection equipment.
If you are already keeping a diary, or would be willing to do so, please do let me know.
Meeting with local Church leaders at the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast!
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast in Westminster Hall – an annual event that brings together MPs, Peers, and Christian leaders from across the UK to share in fellowship and prayer.
I was delighted to be joined by Rev James Croucher from St. Matthew’s Church in Elburton, who travelled up from South West Devon for the occasion. It was a real privilege to share breakfast with him and reflect on the important role faith plays in our communities.
We were also joined on our table by the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch!
Events like this are a valuable opportunity to build relationships between Parliament and our local faith leaders, and to reflect on how we can serve our communities with compassion, integrity, and purpose.
Meeting with Steve Hooper, RAF veteran and Invictus Games Champion!
At my recent advice surgery in Plymstock, I had the privilege of meeting Steve Hooper, an extraordinary RAF veteran and an inspiring Invictus Games Champion.
Steve served as an ambulance driver in Iraq and, like many veterans, has faced the difficult challenges of PTSD. His story of recovery is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience shown by so many in our armed forces. Through that determination, Steve not only overcame personal adversity but went on to captain Team UK at the 2025 Invictus Games earlier this year.
Competing in a range of events, including wheelchair rugby, snowboard slalom, and skeleton racing, Steve represented our country with great pride. He kindly brought along some of his medals to show me, including two special golds awarded to individuals who embody the spirit of the Invictus Games Foundation. It was a moving moment, and a real honour to hear first-hand about his journey.
We also spoke about some exciting plans to support the children of serving personnel and veterans in Plymouth and the surrounding areas. Supporting service families is a cause close to my heart, and I look forward to working with Steve and others to explore how we can provide better support and opportunities for those families.
Celebrating the life and legacy of Sir Charles Lock Eastlake
I was delighted to join local representatives at the recent unveiling of a new plaque at Hillside Court in Plympton, commemorating Sir Charles Lock Eastlake, one of Plymouth’s most remarkable historical figures.
The plaque marks the site of Eastlake’s former home and celebrates his legacy as a pioneering Victorian art scholar and the first Director of the National Gallery. We were honoured to be joined by Sir Gabriele Finaldi, the current director of the National Gallery, whose presence made the occasion even more special.
Sir Charles Lock Eastlake’s contributions to the art world were truly groundbreaking, and this plaque stands as a lasting tribute to his influence and his connection to our local heritage. It’s a proud reminder that Plympton has played an important role in shaping our nation’s cultural story.
It was a privilege to help celebrate Eastlake’s life and work, and to ensure that his legacy continues to inspire future generations in Plympton and beyond.
Championing education and student wellbeing at Plymstock School
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Plymstock School on a non-pupil day – and despite the quiet corridors, the school was still full of energy and dedication from its fantastic staff.
It was a real privilege to speak with Mr. Koehler-Lewis about some of the key challenges facing schools today, including the needs of SEND students, the increasing impact of mobile phone use in the classroom, and ongoing concerns about road safety on Church Road. I’ll be raising the latter with the Council once again to seek an update and push for a clear timeline for action.
What stood out most was the passion and commitment of the team at Plymstock School. Their focus on student wellbeing, personal development, and inclusive education is truly inspiring. It’s clear they are doing everything they can to support every young person to thrive.
A big thank you to all the staff for your warm welcome and for the vital work you do for students and families across our community.
Sunshine and Smiles at St. Matthew’s Summer Garden Party
It was a real pleasure to attend the St. Matthew’s Church Summer Garden Party in Elburton this month. The sun was shining, and the church grounds were full of colour, laughter, and community spirit.
I was honoured to be invited to officially open the event alongside the wonderful Elburton Brownies and Rainbows. From games and crafts to delicious cakes, stalls, and a BBQ, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Events like this are a great reminder of the vital role local churches and community groups play in bringing people together. It was lovely to meet so many members of the congregation and wider Elburton community throughout the day.
A special thank you to everyone who helped organise such a joyful afternoon – and to H. Watts Florist for the beautiful flowers!
Celebrating National Fish and Chips Day at Plympton Chippy!
This month, I had the pleasure of visiting Kingfisher Fish and Chips in Plympton to mark National Fish and Chips Day which was a great opportunity to celebrate one of our brilliant local businesses.
It was a great opportunity to show support for the hardworking team behind this much-loved chippy. I really enjoyed chatting with Liza, seeing the hard work of the team, and of course, eating a delicious portion of fresh fish and chips!
It’s always encouraging to see local businesses championing other local producers too – Kingfisher is now serving ice cream from Surfing Cow Gelato, making it the perfect spot to grab both lunch and dessert.
Thank you to everyone at Kingfisher for the warm welcome and for all you do to keep a great British tradition alive and thriving in Plympton.
