In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast we welcome Michael Westcott and Mark Bowes-Cavanagh, co-chairs of Torquay United Football Club to talk about the club’s remarkable renewal. After navigating one of the most challenging chapters in its history Torquay United is now firmly focused on its future on and off the pitch.

Michael and Mark share their vision for a financially sustainable club with the community at its heart.

They discuss the journey from administration to stability their relationship with the club’s Trust and how they are balancing ambition with sustainability. We celebrate record season ticket sales, the innovative use of the Plainmoor stadium and new partnership opportunities for local businesses.

Plus they take on our light hearted game Match Day or Rain Delay for a fun insight into life behind the scenes at the Gulls.

Learn more about Torquay United Football Club and check out their new website coming soon: www.torquayunited.com
See upcoming fixtures and events www.torquayunited.com/fixtures
To enquire about partnerships and sponsorship opportunities, contact Commercial Manager Sharon Musker on 07949 005832 or via
sharonm@torquayunited.comLike and subscribe for more insights from Torbay's business community. Don't forget to book your stand at the Riviera Connect Expo. Visit https://riviera-connect.co.uk/

Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we are joined by Tarah Gear, Director of Brand and Place Futures, and Martin Tresidder, Development Director at Milligan. Milligan has been appointed as a development partner to work alongside Torbay Council and Willmott Dixon to help deliver long-term regeneration across the Bay.

Tarah and Martin share how Milligan approaches placemaking and development with a strong focus on community involvement, local identity and the natural rhythm of each town. They reflect on the importance of creating neighbourhoods with the right balance of homes, commercial spaces and adaptable hospitality. From The Torbay Story to the transformation of Union Square and the Strand, they explain how each site fits into a wider vision for Torbay’s future.

What We Cover
• Placemaking as a process of revealing local character
• Building resilient commercial and leisure space
• Vision-led development shaped by The Torbay Story
• Projects like Union Square and the Strand as signals of long-term confidence

Public Consultation Events
Milligan is inviting local residents and businesses to take part in their upcoming consultation event:
📅 Monday 22 July
📍 Former Shoe Zone unit in Torquay
Drop in to view the proposals, speak with the team and share your views on the future of the town. View the plans online:

The Strand on Torbay.gov.uk

Union Square on Torbay.gov.uk

🎧 Listen and Subscribe
Find this episode and more at riviera-connect.co.uk

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we speak with John Baker, Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse, whose lifelong love for horse racing began with Red Rum’s legendary Grand National win. From his career beginnings in journalism to leading Aintree Racecourse and now guiding one of Britain’s oldest independent courses, John shares a powerful vision for the future of Newton Abbot, aiming to make it the best racecourse, pound for pound, in the UK.

We explore how the racecourse is evolving to meet modern expectations, welcoming new audiences, and strengthening ties with the Torbay community as it approaches its 160th anniversary.

What We Cover:

We talk with John Baker about what it takes to create a standout visitor experience at Newton Abbot Racecourse, from themed events and local engagement to celebrating 160 years of history. John shares his thoughts on leadership, legacy, and the future of business in Torbay. Plus, we throw in a Grand National challenge and a fun quick-fire game of Race Day or Rain Delay.

Join the Business Club at Newton Abbot Racecourse:

Choose from membership packages that include sponsorships, tickets, discounts, and more! Email Jenny Paton, jenny@newtonabbotracing.com for more details.

Guest Bio:
John Baker is Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse and former Managing Director of Aintree Racecourse. With a 30-year career spanning journalism, sport and venue leadership, John is a respected figure in UK racing. His work now focuses on delivering outstanding visitor experiences and keeping Newton Abbot at the heart of regional culture, heritage and entertainment.

Special Segment:
We close the episode with a few words from Alison Upton, Philanthropy and Engagement Manager at RowcroftHospice, highlighting the essential work they do in our region and how businesses can support their mission with their new Accumulator Challenge.

Email Lisa Whittaker to see how your business can get started! Lisa.whittaker@rowcrofthospice.org.uk or call 01803 217628

Resources and Links:
🏇Explore Newton AbbotRacecourse
🎧More episodes: RivieraConnect Podcast
💛Support RowcroftHospice