'Janner spirit' shown by firms on WW2 bomb repairs

Thirteen firms have offered support to affected residents on St Michael Avenue

Residents of properties in Plymouth are receiving free help to repair the damage left behind at their properties after a World War Two bomb was found and removed earlier this year.

As a gesture of goodwill, Building Plymouth has arranged for contractors, consultants and suppliers to work together to repair some of the damage on St Michael Avenue, Keyham, project leaders said.

Plymouth City Council said it expected the work to be completed by the summer.

Natalie Jary, one of the residents receiving the support, thanked the council for coordinating "such an amazing response".

'Left so exposed'

More than 10,000 people had to move out of the area around Keyham after the 500kg (1,102lb) bomb German device was found in February.

Some properties were damaged by investigation and removal works.

Ms Jary said: “A huge thank you to Plymouth City Council and Building Plymouth for coordinating such an amazing response to secure free labour, materials and equipment to help us restore our gardens.

"After the major incident, it has been really challenging for all of us residents, particularly for those whose gardens have been badly damaged and left so exposed.

"We can now look forward to feeling secure and enjoying the privacy of our gardens once again."

Building Plymouth is a council-led partnership with the construction industry, including more than 60 member organisations.

Council leader Tudor Evans said: “We are aware that the Army did leave a lot of damage in their wake following the incident in Keyham."

He said the local authority had done everything it could to support the homeowners.

"I am thrilled that so many local construction companies have stepped up to the plate to volunteer their time, efforts and materials to help," he added.

'Keen to help'

Luke Pollard, MP for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport, said Keyham had "been through so much" in recent years.

He said: "The generosity of businesses across Plymouth to support residents affected by the bomb is the embodiment of the Janner [local slang for person from Plymouth] spirit.

"I want to offer my sincere thanks to all those businesses who have stepped up to help residents in Keyham and help restore their gardens and privacy with a new wall.”

Steve Warren-Brown, managing director from YGS Landscapes, said the company was "keen to help in any way" it could.

He said: "As a local landscaping contractor, we knew we should play our part in helping to recover the Keyham gardens and it has been brilliant to see so many construction friends stepping up to help too."