Author and journalist Maria McCarthy will share the secrets of how residents can get their work published at a workshop in Sidmouth. Read this and more.

THEFT: A briefcase containing a purse and other items was stolen a motor vehicle in Venn Ottery Road, Tipton St John, between 10.15am and 11.30am on Sunday, December 11. Contact police with information on 101, crime reference: KS/11/716.

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SLWC: In a report about Sidmouth Living With Cancer Support Group’s 10th anniversary celebratory service, it was stated that nine of its 96 members at the inaugural meeting still attend. Founder Bill Lankester would like to point out that the group has 96 members now and of the original 20, only three have since died. The Reverend Rik Peckham was one of three clergy to take part in the service, held on the same night as Sidmouth’s late night shopping.

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WRITING WORKSHOP: Author and journalist Maria McCarthy will share the secrets of how residents can get their work published at a workshop in Sidmouth on January 14 at Kennaway House, from 11am to 1pm. For more information contact Maria on 07799 527974.

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DAMAGE: Criminal damage was inflicted on a vehicle on the Sidmouth Road near the A3052, Aylesbeare, between 10am and 12noon on Sunday, December 11. Police have appealed for information and can be contacted on 101, crime reference: KS/11/718.

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SAMARITANS’ CONCERN: Calls in the South West to the Samaritans helpline about financial worries have doubled in the three years since the onset of the financial crisis. One in five people contacting the charity this year talked about job concerns, housing problems, debt and other financial pressures - doubling from one in ten calls in 2008.