Winter 2010 - Gwennap Parish

Gwennap Parish Newsletter
An Blu Lann-Wennap Derivadow
Winter 2010
Issue 14
1
Serving Gwennap Parish
In this issue…
• Chairman's News
• Parish News
• Local News
• Environment
• Christmas Events
• Lots of other exciting
stuff !!!
• CHRISTMAS
COMPETITION !!
Receive this Newsletter by
email and reduce the
„green‟ burden – send an
email with “News” in the
Subject: box to
[email protected]
By popular demand, an enlarged version of the Cornish Arms around 1912. Photo
kindly lent by Terry Dundon
Welcome to our Newsletter !!
Well, Winter is here, its pouring down, parts of Cornwall are flooded and it‟s dipping to freezing some
nights –lovely– Merry Christmas !! Once again we have a Christmas competition – see Page 8.
There are lots of events during the seasonal period so look inside the newsletter and see where to go.
Please do support the Police Roadshow – see the poster on Page 9.
Thanks for your continued suggestions and offerings – please keep them coming as we are only as good
as our content and we need YOU to give us information on events and local issues.
[email protected]
Alan Blamey, Clerk 01872 864601
Your Parish Website – www.gwennap-parish.net
DOG BINS
There are two dog bins in the parish, one outside Frogpool Cemetery and the other in the parking area outside the
wooded area on United Downs, both areas popular on walking routes.
The paths near both bins are frequently littered by bags of dog mess.
Please, if you can be bothered to pick it up, either take the bag back home with you or deposit it in the bins provided.
It costs the Parish Council over £200 to have the two bins emptied regularly during the year, so make good use of
them! Dog mess seems to be one of the topics most mentioned to Councillors. There have been several complaints of
mess along the cycle trail at Bissoe and also the lane leading to the bottom of the Playing Field at Frogpool.
Crofthandy News
2
CROFTHANDY VILLAGE HALL
The new Crofthandy Village Hall has arrived, it has been a long haul but well worth the wait. As a village we
now have a facility that is up to date and can offer ample parking, disabled access and toilets, fully fitted
kitchen, baby changing facilities and a fantastic large hall for all functions. Not forgetting the huge green
outside space for those children to play, weather permitting.
I must thank once again all those who have contributed in any way towards the construction of this building.
The major financial contributions came from Sita Trust and Cory environmental, sadly not our Parish Council
who felt they were not in a position at this time to contribute anything to our cause, perhaps we will be more
fortunate in the future.
It has been a huge effort by the committee to reach this point and my personal thanks must go to them all. The
hall is now open for hire and I will give you our booking details before I sign off.
We have set a date for the official opening that will be the weekend beginning on Saturday the 4th of
December at 10.00am. If you are working on that day as many of us are, we will be there on Sunday the 5th in
the morning as well.
So to all the residence of our village and to all our neighbours please come and see the new hall and have a
chat and some refreshments. Now those all-important details, to book the hall or to enquire about the costs
please ring Julie on 01209 822577.
Steve Trelease 01209 822153
CROFTHANDY METHODIST CHURCH
Service every Sunday at 3 p.m.
Everyone welcome.
“Carol Service” followed by refreshments on Sunday
19th December - 3p.m.
with the Reverend Danny Reed
Steward (and contact), Richard Snell 01209 820556
Advertising, Comments, Articles, Letters, Pictures ???
We need them all…. Send them to:
Alan Blamey on 01872 864601 or email [email protected]
Commercial Advertising Prices (all of which goes to support this newsletter)
Single Edition - Full Page £50, Half Page £25, Quarter Page £12, Eighth Page £7
One Year - Full Page £180, Half Page £90, Quarter Page £42, Eighth Page £25
Devon and Cornwall Constabulary
To contact your local Police station, or for any other NON-EMERGENCY issues, please
telephone 08452 777444.
Call 999 in an emergency
Parish Council News
3
Chairman’s overview
Welcome to this 13th edition of the quarterly newsletter produced by Gwennap Parish Council as a way of informing
residents of events/news. The Parish Council meets on the third Thursday of each month at the Parish Rooms, Richard
Jory Playing Field, Pulla Cross. The Public are welcome, and can raise issues from 7 – 7.30 p.m.
The last edition of the newsletter carried an article about how the Richard Jory Playing Field was created. What it didn‟t
explain was who Richard Jory was. Quite a fundamental omission, for which we apologise. Richard Jory was a local
resident and businessman who had served on the Parish Council for 49 years, many of them as Chairman. He was also on
the District Council, and fought hard for improvements in Gwennap Parish.
It is good to see the new Parish Rooms in the Playing Field being used. There have been several children‟s parties held
there as well as a regular baby/toddler group and other ad-hoc bookings. The Parish Council also meets there on the third
Thursday of each month from 7 p.m. – why not give the TV a rest and come along to see local democracy in action. You
can raise any matter of local concern in the first 30 minutes.
In the next edition, I hope to be able to report on an agreement between the Parish Council and Natural England covering
the Wheal Maid Valley area. It is anticipated that the agreement will safeguard the area as an amenity for walkers, horse
riders and cyclists whilst protecting the regeneration of the heathland. With the help of Cornwall Council it is also
proposed to consolidate mining features that are in danger of disappearing. More in the next newsletter, after the agreement
details have been signed by all parties.
Regards, Kevin Furnish at Hale Mills (Chairman)
PS. Out of interest, the history of Hale Mills is quite intriguing. Hale, Hayle or Middle Mills was a centre for tin and
copper mining for hundreds (possibly thousands) of years. In ancient times metal ore was found on or very close to the
surface and also streaming was carried out to remove alluvial metal ore from the river which flowed from Todpool to
Twelveheads. More recently (probably in the 17th century) Killicor Mine was created from the many small diggings in the
area. Killicor and its main shaft Goodluck, adjacent to Wheal Henry, is considered one of the most ancient mines in
Cornwall. Even more recently Hale Mills was home to Francis, or New (suggesting there was an old one!), Stamps where
ore was crushed under water and steam power before processing and onward movement to the quay at Bissoe where ships
up to 400 tons (yes 400 tons!) could berth. Hale Mills is the location of the doomed Redruth and Chasewater railway
extension (with its tunnels, embankment and cutting) as well as being the place where the Great County Adit joins before
coming to surface below Twelveheads. Nowaday it is a very quiet place, the central point on the Devoran to Portreath
cycle trail, with the signs of ancient mining all around.
Adult Swimming Class
For Beginners, Improvers and Swimmers
Redruth School Swimming Pool, Tolgus,
Redruth
Every Tuesday Evening 8.00pm to 9.00pm
£4.50 per session
Lifeguard/Teacher Linda Muteham
Contact: Linda Muteham - 01872 865449
Everyone Welcome
Vanessa Stone 01209 820355
General Announcements.
Congratulations to Councillor Mike, Charlotte and Amelia Padmore
(again!) on the birth of their second daughter Lucy Isabella (pictured
right). All are doing well.
General News - Remembrance
4
Remembrance Tour – Egypt October 2010
The British Legion organised a Remembrance Tour to Cairo, El Alamein and Alexandria in October 2010, to
enable veterans and their spouses to revisit the 2nd World War battlegrounds of the Western Desert.
Alison Penaluna, widow of Tom, and previously of South Tresamble House, went on the tour along with Mary
Penna (Tresamble Cottage) as her helper and companion.
Many in the village of Frogpool will remember Tom (and his dog) on their daily walks. Tom was an RAF
Corporal, spending four years as an integral part of the First Army Campaign of North Africa, in Tunisia.
Alison and Mary were given a reception at the British Embassy, and the trip also included a trip on the Nile, a
visit to the Pyramids and the Sphynx. Nothing was too much trouble for the British Legion Officials and
Embassy staff.
In all, there were thirty seven on the trip, which both ladies have described as an unforgettable visit. It was a
particularly memorable experience for Alison to have to opportunity to visit the areas where Tom spent four
years fighting for his Country.
Remembrance Sunday service is always the time to remember people who gave their time, and some their
lives, for those of our parish and beyond. At the time that the Germans were bombing Falmouth in the Second
World War, the search-lights were placed in the Falmouth area searching the skies, and they would reach the
Frogpool area. I always remember that one of the search-lights picked out a German bomber over the
Perranwell area and he immediately dropped his bombs. He quickly disappeared into the clouds for cover. Some
bombs dropped in and around Perranwell, one at Coldwind Cross where Colin Carter‟s Eggs are now produced.
I remember seeing the crater in the field. A traitor…known as Lord HawHaw used to broadcast propaganda on
the radio. In one instance he gave the news that German aircraft had bombed the chemical works at Bissoe. He
must have been working from information of the 194/18 war because it had closed down shortly afterwards!
The end result was that it cost Lord HawHaw his life after the war.
It would be interesting to know how many folk
living in Gwennap Parish actually lived here
during the war.
Derek Richards, Point Mills.
5
General Interest – Hicks Mill/Point Mills Area
HICKS MILL METHODIST CHURCH
Morning Service at 10.30 a.m., except when we join Twelveheads for LPA at 11 a.m. Please see
notices on the Chapel door.
Coffee morning the first Wednesday in the month 10:30am to 12noon
The last coffee morning raised £160 for the Overseas Missionary Fellowship. (John and Paula
Richards are missionaries serving in the Philippines).
December 1st coffee morning is in aid of Action for Children (used to e known as the National
Children‟s Home).
Carol Service December 19th at 10.30 a.m. at Hicks Mill. We will then join Twelveheads at 11.00 a.m.
on December 26th.
LADIES OF THE SHIRE A NOVEL BY PETER WEBB
(A local author)
"........a greedy beast is war...." Spanning three centuries and two countries, "Ladies of the Shire"
weaves together the lives of eight individuals on their unforgettable, epic journey from the haymeadows of Leicestershire, England, to the mud and bloody artistry of 1914-1918 France. From these
trenches, rises a retribution that will claim all they hold precious, demanding a sacrifice none ever
thought would be asked of them.
About the author......A sprightly sixty-two year old, Peter has led a life that resembles a patchworkquilt of experiences. Rock drummer, conservationist, gamekeeper, and theatre production manager, he
is at present performing in Volcano Theatre's production of '1977' (volcanotheatre.co.uk) in Swansea,
then on a UK tour. Back to Cornwall, Peter is a member of the valued and highly skilled technical
team working backstage to ensure the smooth running of this year's pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, at
the Hall for Cornwall, from the 10th December - 3rd January.
Below are two of the many book reviews that we have had from happy readers.....
This book is superb. I have read it twice and been moved to tears each time. It tells, with great
emotional depth, the intrinsic trust between these wonderful giants of the horse world, and the men
who loved, cared for, and respected them. It shows us too, the chasm spanning good and evil in
humans. The book is unputdownable, and you will have an insight into the unimaginable horrors of a
century ago, contrasted by the love and strength of the people involved, which carried them through.
A story filled with all the facets of human emotion and plenty of humour to help lighten the more
serious moments. I can't wait for Peter Webb's new book.
J.E.Rowett.
This is a cracking book. I ran a whole gamut of emotions following the central character as he forged
profound relationships with his beloved work horses and felt the horror in the portrayal of WW1.
There is a strong sense of time and place in this absorbing book and the authors meticulous attention
to detail gives the reader front row access to the diverse worlds of rural life at the turn of the 20th
century. The thread of the 'baddy' running through the story keeps the reader on his toes.
I found "Ladies of the Shire" an utterly compelling read.
Ms Debbie Johnstone
We hope that you will thoroughly enjoy reading the book, and Peter would welcome any comments
and reviews which can be left on his website; peter-webb.com and when his busy schedule allows he
will be more than happy to reply to them.
If you would like to have your copy of the book personalised or dedicated to anyone as perhaps a
Birthday, Christmas, Anniversary present etc., it can easily be arranged by ringing Dawn on 01872
864464.
Signed copies of the book are available at Perranwell Post Office and Stores. Price £8.99p. For each
book sold a £1.00 will be donated to "Help for Heroes" to aid our injured service personnel.
Our grateful thanks to Nigel and Yvonne Banyard for their help.
Dawn Flynne
General News
6
UNITED LANDFILL SITE - with the closure of the Landfill Site on 31st October, another chapter of that area was
completed. Local Carharrack Historian Eric Rabjohns has put together this account of the changes through time of the
United Mines landscape. Many thanks Eric.
My main reminiscences of the area prior to the landfill site set up in 1974 was being able to walk down Sparry Lane and
then proceed along the path through the Poldory Valley bottom to the Sunny Corner - sewage farm road. Banked by lush
green foliage a clear sparkling stream accompanied you on your travels, dissecting an area of overgrown reminders of
bygone mining activities. The hillside to the east being strewn with rocky burrows and mounds with a series of pathways
traversing the scene. The peace broken only by birdsong [ not seagull squawks] and the babbling of the stream‟s waters.
Visually the rugged features of numerous burrows and shaft collars were softened by the seasonal appearances of pinkish
ling merging into the late autumn darker hues of heather with the spring yellows of gorse to follow. Not a picture to
gladden everyone‟s hearts, but all adding an air of serenity to your movements.
This United area, which until well into the 1800‟s was named Cosgarne [Cusgarne] Common, has witnessed many
changes since the advent of mining. Prior to the 1700‟s the first mining activities took the form of tin streamers eking out
a living by diverting and damming waters that served the Poldory Valley. By the mid 1700‟s shafts appeared which were
worked with the intention of seeking out the anticipated metal bearing lodes beneath the surface of the higher ground.
Names such as Wheal Cupboard, Ale and Cakes and Poldory appeared on the mining lists. Little is recorded of these
early ventures until they were amalgamated under the name of United Mines circa 1815, in the ownership of the
William‟s of Scorrier House. United Mines were reworked in the early 1820‟s and with the development of more
powerful and efficient steam engines that could cope with the influx of water at the lower levels, the shaft depths in the
area increased considerably. Apart from a brief ownership by the Taylor family in the late 1830‟s United Mines remained
in the William‟s family through to the late 1870‟s when the more effective and cheaper methods of extraction in other
parts of the world led to the demise of copper mining in this area. Several large pumping engine houses were visible
along with the many supplementary workshops and buildings related to such a large industrial development, which
provided work for at least three thousand souls.
For the next 60 years, reaching into the 1930‟s, most of the mining involved the reworking and treatment of the vast
waste deposits that littered the hillside and valley floors. Previously due to the lack of technical knowledge and suitable
machinery a lot of retrievable minerals were tied up in the waste ore unable to be released. An arsenic works, linked by
ownership to the Bissoe one, was built close to the Sparry Bottom area in the 1880‟s and ran for several years. Around
1910 a major attempt to rework the dumps was made. A small stump of a stack and some concrete loadings were still
visible until the late 1880‟s relating to this concern. The last remaining stack that was buried beneath the waste rubbish in
the early 21st century was the remains of a calciner, part of an ore treatment plant set up by Alfie Burrows and John
Pelmear in the early 1900‟s. Alongside the calciner were several small buildings, launders and some convex and concave
buddles once again visible well into the 1970‟s. Across the valley side was a small set of crushing stamps run by Ernie
Teague of Church Street, Carharrack. This set up was well remembered by older local residents because of the incessant
thumping of the stamp heads in the mortar boxes heard well into the night. To the north of United Downs on the present
industrial site, Whiteworks Mine began in the mid-1930‟s managed by a Mr Kellow. Several local lads remember playing
in the shallow workings in their childhood days. By the early days of the Second World War mining operations had
ceased on the downs.
Summer of 1943 saw the presence of our American allies here. The 29 th Infantry Brigade [the Blues and Grays] moved in
with camps set up to the north east of the area, one serving the black Americans and one for the white contingent. They
used the Downs for training exercises involving target practice; the engine houses proving easy meat for their weapons. It
was at this time that some of the houses were damaged beyond repair and demolished. Until quite recently the concrete
bases of the canteen and stores could be seen on the south-eastern slopes of the downs.
Following the Blues & Grays, departure as part of the Operation Overlord movements in June 1944, the area succumbed
to a restful existence until the early 1970‟s. A time for the locals to wander enjoying its peacefulness. Mabel Thomas
recently recalled on Radio Cornwall picking wild strawberries as she walked there. Drilling rigs moved in after 1970
when Wheal Jane‟s attempt to undercut the United area with a decline shaft, necessitated the need to test drill the downs
using diamond drill rigs to ascertain the mineral deposits below. This proved the last mining activity to be carried on prior
to 1974 when the landfill site came into being. Some drilling work will still be heard to the north of the site now that
permission has been granted for Geothermal Engineering Ltd to build a “green” energy plant. Let us hope in the future
the powers that be uphold, as promised, on the original notices that appeared soon after the area was declared a landfill
site, that when operations cease the numerous footpaths will be reinstated and the site landscaped, thus securing for this
well utilised piece of Cornwall, a time for the locals to once again enjoy its existence.
Eric Rabjohns
General Interest - Frogpool and Cusgarne Area
7
CUSGARNE-FROGPOOL WI
COME AND VISIT US- FREE CUPPA
COME AND VISIT Us
Minister Revd. Peter Facer
Tel: 01326 317427.
Sunday Morning Services 10.45 a.m.
Sunday School 10.45 a.m.
Weekly Prayer & Fellowship Meetings are held on
Mondays at 3.00 p.m. to which you are warmly invited.
Coffee Mornings are held at the Church from
10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. each month
Thursday 16th December for charity.
Thursday 28th January
Thursday 24th February
Thursday 31st March
Come and enjoy a cup of great coffee (or tea) and have a
chat. Bring & Buy Stall.
Frogpool’s Christmas Carol Service
Will be held this year on the 12th December at 4.00 p.m.
Members of the Village and School will be taking part.
Followed by Seasonal Refreshments.
Frogpool Methodist Sunday School Hall and Stable Room
(including kitchen facilities) are available for hire.
Enquiries to Mary Richards 01872 863143.
The National Women’s Organisation at the forefront
of initiatives to improve lives.
To give opportunities to women to increase their
knowledge and skills.
Latest? To urge Payment Council to abandon the plans
to phase out payments by cheques
Local WI details:
When? First Tuesday of every month.
Where? Frogpool Chapel Sunday Schoolroom. .
Time?
7.30pm
We can arrange a lift if transport is a problem.
Here is our programme until March 2011
Nov 2nd
The Saints‟ Way illustrated talk by Peter
Robinson
Dec 7th
Christmas Evening
Feb 1st
A felting workshop with Michelle Dickson
Mar 1st
Annual Meeting
Next year‟s programme may include Floral Art, a Craft
evening, and a visit to the recycling unit at Newham.
We are a friendly Group that warmly welcomes visitors to
any of our meetings.
WI is an influential organisation that makes an impact
locally, nationally and internationally..
THE WI : INSPIRING WOMEN
Phone 01872 864367 Nina Cooper or 01872 862083
Anne Steward.
DROP IN ON US SOMETIME!
Frogpool and Cusgarne Football Club
The first few months of the season are now complete
and both teams are in mid-table of their respective
leagues. This season is more important than
previously, as the two local leagues, (the FalmouthHelston and Mining Division), merge next year, and
the Division a team finds itself in depends on where
they finish this season.
HOME fixtures for the next few months are as follows:
Date
December
4th
11th
18th
January
8th
15th
29th
February
5th
19th
Opponents
Competition
Constantine
St Day
Holmans
division 2
division 2
division 2
Mullion
division 3
Falmouth Ath division 3
Troon
division 3
Culdrose
division 2
West Cornwall division 3
THE CHRISTMAS COMPETITION !!!
8
COMPETITION - WIN A BOTTLE
OF CHAMPAGNE!!!
Each of the four photographs on this page is of signposts
in the parish, in prominent positions, but they have had
their distance hidden. We want you to tell us the total
miles of all the missing numbers – (add them all
together). Deadline 23rd December.
All correct entries will be put in a hat and a lucky
winner drawn on Christmas Eve. Either e-mail the
answer to [email protected] or send in the
post to The Clerk,
1 St Aubyns Terrace, Pulla Cross,
Truro TR48RZ.
Good luck!
Welcombe Conservatories
& Windows
For person and friendly advice contact:
David Watkins on: 01872 863366
Mobile: 07967 204711
Conservatories and Windows
(Match all RAL Colour Chart Number Colours)
Sliding Sash Windows
Doors, Fascias/Soffit and Rainwater products
FULL RANGE OF WOODGRAIN FINISHES
Repairs to windows and doors, replace those broken
hinges and frosted up units
We can help you realise your dream, and design to
suit your needs. With our own renowned stylish high
quality product. In white, all shades of woodgrain or
any colour to match your home in PVCu. All types of
refurbishment work undertaken. No job is too small
for us.
Website www.welcombeconservatories.co.uk
E-mail [email protected]
FENSA Reg Company
General Interest
9
POLICE
ROADSHOW
Come and meet your local
Neighbourhood Police Team
Crime Prevention Officer on
hand to give advice and
showcase devices
Fun packs for children and
fingerprints
On hand to answer your
questions
Wednesday 8th December
7- 9 pm
Parish Rooms, Richard Jory
Playing Field, Pulla Cross
General Interest – Perranwell Post Office & Stores 10
Gwennap must be one of very few parishes not to have a shop in any of its villages. Whilst Gwennap probably looks to
Lanner, and Crofthandy to St Day, Frogpool, Cusgarne and Bissoe tend to look towards Perranwell and Carnon Downs.
Here, the proprietor of the stores at Perranwell sets out just what is on offer:
Perranwell Post Office & Village Stores
Our Shop has just recently undergone a make over and it has been suggested that through your village magazine we set out
our offering.. Our aim in this has been to attempt to provide a friendly relaxed and helpful environment for people to shop
in, retaining the traditional values of a Village Post Office & Store. Our priority is service first second & third, the
customer always comes first.
Our Post Office provides virtually all the services a main office, banking for most high street banks, card accounts, savings
and investment accounts, financial and insurance service and an extensive bill payment service. We are a very substantial,
mail office and our success is in helping people find the most effective rather than the most expensive method for their
posting.
To complement these services, in the shop we have established a busy Pay Point service providing many of the services
lost from the Post Office, including gas & electricity meter charging by key card or e,topup, TV licences, phone top ups,
Pay Point bill payment the list goes on. In addition debit & credit card payments for shopping are available in the shop.
We have all the sections you would expect, we specialise in fresh, local and Cornish Product. We are a lottery outlet, a
tobacconist, off licence, news agent, confectioner; we have a substantial range of greetings cards, stationary and a wide
range of chemist‟s sundries with a prescription collection service for the Penryn Doctors. Our grocery sections are
comprehensively stocked with Premium brands and an own label range that beats most on quality & price, a dairy cabinet
with a full range of creams, Yoghurts, butters & fats, Daily fresh sandwiches and a special line in local handmade cakes,
“local milk” with special pricing on multiple bottles . Our freezer section is well stocked with local meat (John Dower),
frozen veg and a range of ready meals shortly to be expanded. We only buy in local veg grown in the fields around us; our
deli is renowned for its bacons, home cooked gammons, cooked meats & cheeses in additional to the basics there is a good
range of locally produced Cornish specialities. We have an in store bakery, producing fresh bread, rolls and freshly cooked
Rowes pasties daily.
We invite you to give our shop a try, as many from your area have done & been very pleased with quality, range, price and
service. There is a shop save service for newspapers pasties bread rolls etc just a call away, for orders over £15.00 we offer
a free delivery service.
Christmas is now rapidly approaching, by the time you see this, our Christmas Order form giving our full range of
Christmas poultry, our dressed table gammons, cheeses, many local Cornish products and much more will be available If
you haven‟t tried our unique Christmas service and table delights before, have a look at our order form, don‟t assume we
will be more expensive, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Nigel & Yvonne 01872 863059
LJ Richards & Sons
Point Mills Garage, Bissoe, Truro
01872 863 073
Mot : Service : Repairs : Tyres : Courtesy Cars
School News
11
CUSGARNE COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL
A new school year began with a celebration of a new, bigger Library with comfy seating, bright rugs,
and imaginative displays organised by Sandy Adcock a Parent Governor and volunteer who gives so
much of her time, assisted by her family and Governor Jenny Jakeways. A big thank-you to them.
Class 3 went to camp at Okehampton along with pupils from Veryan School. Children
from other classes have visited Trerice where they made musical instruments, Truro Fire Station and
Cusgarne Organics.
The Recorder groups are practising hard, led by Mrs Kurzfield, for the St Austell Music Festival at
which they shone so brilliantly last year. The school very much enjoyed a concert by the peripatetic
music teachers. Several children have private music lessons with these dedicated people. Cross
Country running has attracted increasing numbers of children who have done very well encouraged and
trained by teacher Mr Barnard. The Camera club has begun again under the guidance of Adrian
Rowland, grandparent of an ex pupil
Classes 2 and 3 attend Carn Brea Leisure Centre this term for swimming lessons this term.
Classes 2 and 3 spent an enjoyable day working in teams to construct lanterns for the Festival of lights
parade in Truro. These will be at Gwennap Pit for our Community Carols there in December. The date
is to be finalised; please look out for information.
The Harvest Assembly was most entertaining and informative, followed by an auction of produce by
Charlie Staines, our local Community policeman who skilfully raised £375 for Shelter Box from very
generous parents and friends. They brought a box to show the children and receive the money. PC
Fiona Gamble has also visited school to read stories in each class. Both Police Officers are bringing in
kit for Class 1 children to dress up in and role play. Wendy Barrows regularly conducts an Assembly.
The School Council made up of elected members from each year group have been awarded a Gold by
PADL (Promoting Active Democracy Loudly) conducted by Barnardos. The team will make a
presentation to Councils from other schools this month at County Hall, having been assessed and also
assessing others.
The Parent/Carer Toddler group that meets each Thursday afternoon from 1.30 –3pm is attracting more
members.
The Cusgarne–Frogpool WI whose members help out with reading and craft work will be having lunch
in school one Wednesday soon, being served and waited on by pupils!!
Academically the school has done very well. SATs results were above the national average: children‟s
progress is closely and continuously monitored to ensure that each one reaches their full potential.
Cusgarne Community School happily provides a rich, full and varied education.
The Frogpool and Gwennap Horse (and Dog!) Show.
A few months ago, The West Briton carried a report of the Frogpool and Gwennap Horse and Dog Show. Strange, I
thought. I don‟t recall seeing any signs in parish to this event.
As I read on, it became clear - the event had been held at Mylor Bridge, miles away. Why?
I spoke to the Show secretary, Faith Cox to throw light on what seemed an odd arrangement.
Faith told me that since the Gwennap One and All Show stopped fifteen years ago, the horse side of the event had carried
on. Initially it was in the Frogpool/Gwennap area, but as the use of a suitable field became harder to find, it found a willing
landowner in Trent Meyers at Landerio Farm, Mylor, and has remained there for several years.
It still carries the “Gwennap” name, and many of the cups presented are from the One and All era. The recent event had
over 500 entries in the horse section, indicating a much needed outlet for local horse riders.
The dog show is not a continuation from the One and All days, but is extremely popular.
That solves the mystery!
Tree Wardens and Church News
12
Gwennap Parish Tree Wardens
The tree wardens have purely a voluntary role for the parish, they are:
Ann Gazzard (contact Ann via [email protected] or 07808 393 874)
Robert Cook (contact via [email protected] or 01872 870114)
General Enquiries
Since the previous newsletter the wardens have dealt with the following tree related enquiries.
A contracted Tree Surgeon was unable to make contact with Cornwall Council planning beforehand. Please note that any
contractor / tree surgeon / Arborist must ensure they have communicated with Cornwall Council Planning Department –
Mr Simon Proctor Tel: 03001234151 before commencing work as there are conservation areas and trees with preservation
orders within Gwennap Parish. Cornwall Council holds and maintains tree records; the tree wardens do not have authority.
Planning application for the removal of three poplar trees on a hedge in Gwennap village was reviewed.
Informed of proposed tree lopping for overhead power line work near Cusgarne School.
Check proposed planning enquiry for felling of two trees, Ash and Sycamore for safety reasons on hedge by Gwennap
Church.
Great Trees of Gwennap
The wardens are continually pursuing local trees of interest for adding to the Ancient Tree Hunt website.
For more information on the Ancient Tree Hunt and trees recorded please see www.ancient-tree-hunt.org.uk.
For any tree related advice or issues, please do not hesitate to contact the parish tree wardens who will do their best to
help find information you require.
GWENNAP CHURCH NEWS
Baptisms
25th July 2010 Poppy Ann Barnes : Holly Lydia Sylvia Barnes : Aimee Louise Barnes
17th October 2010 : Cerys Kerenza Pellow
We welcome them into the family of our church.
Wedding
James Thornton and Jennifer Lucas. Congratulations to you both.
Renewal of Vows
Dick and Chania Abrenica This was a very special service.
A NEW PRIEST FOR GWENNAP (and 7 other parishes)
The Rev. Dr Peter Knibbs will begin his ministry in a cluster of parishes – Gwennap, Stithians, Perran-an-worthal, St.
Day Carharrack , Chacewater, Devoran and Feock, in January 2011. He will be assisted in a part time capacity by the
Rev. Tony Neal. This will be a challenge for the 1.5 priests but they have the backing of our retired clergy, our
assistant curate, Rev. Hilary Spong and lay readers and worship leaders. We need not fear that our churches will close.
With God‟s help and our own determination and prayer we shall go forward.
GWENNAP LUNCH CLUB – Christmas Lunch .December14th
If you have not booked already for our traditional Christmas Lunch and want to come, please can you let Sue Martyn
know - 01872 862670. The charge for this lunch is £5.00 The Lunch Club is a non-profit making event for anyone in
Gwennap parish, though several people from other villages come. Although it is called a club, membership is free and
open to all. Come and join us.
We shall be meeting in the New Year on Tuesday January 18th and Tuesday February 15th
GWENNAP CHURCH HALL
The hall now has its own website gwennapchurchhall.webs.com
GWENNAP SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL aims to give support and encouragement to talented young people in
our area.
The Festival will be held at Gwennap Church on 21st and 22nd May 2011.
Interested young performers can contact Mrs Jo Grande on 01209 821814 for details.
GWENNAP HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
We are a growing society, with valuable talks, and outings to gardens that are not always open to the public. Why not
come along? Our AGM is on January 20th and the next meeting February 17th at 7.30 p.m. in Gwennap Church Hall.
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General Interest – Gwennap Area
GWENNAP CHURCH
Services at St Wennap Church
Sundays at 11.00 a.m.
1st and 3rd Sunday, Holy Communion B.C.P.
2nd Sunday All Age Worship
4th Sunday Matins
5th Sunday Holy Communion C.W.
(B.C.P. Book of Common Prayer, C.W. – common Worship)
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS IN DECEMBER
Sunday 12th 11.00am CHRISTINGLE Service, particularly for the young
Sunday 19th 11.00am Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
Friday 24th Christmas Eve 11.30pm Midnight Communion
Saturday 25th Christmas Day 10.00am Christmas Communion
Sunday 26th 11.00am Matins
A very warm welcome to everybody. Do come and join us in celebration.
GWENNAP LADIES GUILD - generally meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. Venue: Gwennap Church Hall,
unless an outing has been arranged. Times may vary according to the season. There will be no meeting in December and in
January we will have our Annual Lunch together. Our AGM will be on February 22nd at 2.30pm in the Hall.
Our March meeting will be on Tuesday 22nd at 2.30pm when Mr Peter Robinson will bring a talk/slide show about a visit to
the Rocky Mountains and Yellow Stone Park. Proceeds will be for Cornwall Hospices so do come along and enjoy this event.
Posters will be available nearer the time. Contact Sue Martyn on 01872 862670 for further details for these and other aspects
of the Guild activities.
Saturday 4th December 10.00am-12 noon - CHRISTMAS FAIR with Coffee, Mince Pies & Sausage Rolls, lots of stalls Bring & Buy, Raffle, Christmas Gifts, Decorations, Cakes & Produce etc.
Venue: Gwennap Church Hall - an opportunity for everyone to meet up and enjoy time together.
2011, Friday 28th January - Quiz Night with Bangers & Mash, Onion Gravy and Puddings. Venue: Gwennap Church Hall at
7.00pm. Cost £6.00 per person. Come and have a fun evening. Again, posters will be available.
FRUGAL LENTEN LUNCHES in 2011 will begin on Friday 11th March and continue on 18th, 25th, 1st April, 8th, 15th &
22nd when we serve Soup & Rolls, Cheese & Pickle, Tea & Coffee. Unless otherwise stated, these will be in the Church Hall
at 12 noon-1.30pm. Posters available nearer the time.
General Interest
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Preparing for winter – Robert Cook
Last winter brought much snow and ice, weather that a lot of us in Gwennap parish had not experienced for a long time,
but were we as individuals prepared enough?
If the weather forecast predicts snow or icy conditions it‟s advisable not to venture out unless absolutely necessary.
Here are some tips that may help avoid risk to personal injury with contingency plans to cope if snow or icy conditions
occur or linger.
In the home
Fuel deliveries – Coal, gas cylinders, oil or wood. Get stocked up in advance, hold an emergency stock
Central heating – Have heating system serviced before winter period
Water – Check all pipes are properly lagged to prevent freezing, do you know where the stop cock is if you need to turn
water off?
Electrical supply – Electrical fuse board to be checked before winter, do you know location of fuse board and know what
to do if a fuse needs mending or the earth trip pops out?
Services failure (Electric or Gas) – Have an alternative cooking appliance to fall back on i.e. Camping gas stove, gas
cylinder and matches
Lighting failure – Have some candles, matches and torch with spare batteries at hand
Food – Have emergency stock of different tinned foods and long life milk. Store in a plastic box with lid, put in loft or
cupboard until spring, then use up.
Baby items – Have emergency stock of disposable nappies, toilet rolls and foods. Store in plastic box with lid, put in loft or
cupboard until spring, then use up.
Medical – Try not to let prescriptions run low before reordering and collecting items. Keep a well stocked first aid kit.
If you have to walk
Clothing – Wear thick warm visible clothing e.g. coat, gloves and woolly hat. If you do have the misfortune to slip or fall
thick clothing can act as padding to protect you. Take a mobile phone. Use a torch, if at night.
Shoes or boots – Good gripping shoes or boots, suggest also purchasing a pair of “Spiky Plus” or similar product to go on
them. “Spiky Plus” price £16.74 available from foothealthcare Tel: 0151 280 4555 or www.foothealthcare.com
If you have to drive
Vehicle Service – Has vehicle been serviced recently? Winter checks and services are offered by many garages.
Battery Condition – Old batteries can fail in cold weather; consider replacing before it lets you down
Locks – Squirt locks with WD40 spray lubricant to prevent them freezing up
Tyre condition – Do tyres have sufficient tread, pressures okay including spare?
Fluid levels – Top up anti freeze and washer bottle
Car electrics – Are fog lights, lights, heater and heated rear windscreen working?
Take in vehicle:
Ice scraper, torch with spare batteries, tow rope, jump leads and warning triangle
Food (bar chocolate), water, flask of tea, blanket, charged mobile phone
Old square of carpet, Wellington boots and shovel
Plan your route - take map, sat nav and listen to weather forecast
Fuel – keep fuel tank topped up
Speed – slow your speed, drive with care and keep you distance
The above is for guidance only and is probably not exhaustive. It‟s best not to wait until stocks run out or supplies can‟t get
through, be safe and start preparing for winter now.
General Interest
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THE CORNISH ARMS, FROGPOOL
TRURO TR4 8RP (01872 863445)
Traditional village pub offering good food, real ales and good atmosphere
Featured events:
Mon - Euchre Drive 8p.m. start
Bingo 8p.m. till 9p.m. - all welcome to come along and join in
Tue - free pool table in evening
Thurs - Curry & Drink special
Friday - Fish, chips and mushy peas special Eat in or Take-away
Sunday - traditional roast lunch
Food available Tuesday-Saturday 12-3 & 6-9, Sunday 12-3 & 6-8.
(Monday no food and not open at lunchtime)
Bookings now being taken for Christmas Lunches - dates available in December (exc. Christmas Day), please call
for your copy of our menu and to check availability.
Friday 10th December Christmas Draw evening + carols.
Christmas Eve - open all day from 11a.m., food 12-8.
Christmas Day - closed
Boxing Day - open 11a.m.-6p.m., bar and Kitchen.
New Years Eve - come along and join in the party and celebrate the coming of 2011. Tickets available for a
Buffet & glass of bubbly at midnight.
Fancy Dress (optional)!
Tim and Jane would like to thank all their customers for their support and wish them the compliments of the
season.
Sue Ferguson
LICENSED CONVEYANCERS
Offering excellent locally-based knowledge and over 20 years' experience
Services provided include:
Sale/purchase Freehold and Leasehold properties (both Residential and
Commercial)
Re-mortgages
Equity Release
Shared Ownership Schemes
Tenancy Agreements
87-88 FORE STREET
REDRUTH
CORNWALL
TR15 2BP
(We are located within the premises of Ezy Move Estate Agents)
Open: 0930 – 1700 (Monday – Friday)
Telephone: 01209 219082
Facsimile: 01209 204458
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sue-ferguson.co.uk
General Interest
BENSON’S
Bed and Breakfast at Primrose Cottage,
Consols Road, Carharrack
Too many visitors and not enough
room?
Perhaps we can help, ring Sue
Beveridge or check out our website
BENSON’s has two en-suite rooms with
TV, tea/coffee making, mini fridge – all
the comforts of home!
Why not call round and see for yourself
Tel: 01209 619382
Email [email protected]
www.bensonsbandb.co.uk
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