Royal Cornwall Magazine 70

Magazine|70 |JUN2017 ISSUE

! e m i t s ’ t I To celebrate Cornish farming and food

Supported by:

South Devon National Show heads West

Record pig and sheep entry /

Earl of Wessex to visit

Fergie Fillies to make show debut

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Contents 09

25

30

Earl of Wessex to visit

Trewithen Dairy

Devon & Cornwall Longwool

23

27

33

New dance festival curator

South Devon National Show

Farm & Country days

he weeks are passing fast and another three days of hot competition, socialising, business and, no doubt, quite a bit of fun will soon be here!

We are again delighted to report that trade stands sold out at a very early stage and that over 1,000 exhibits will be taking part with a vast range of goods and services on offer.

From the very latest agricultural machinery to everything for the home and garden; you name it and it’s likely to be here!

Competition is of course a key part of the show and the quest to win awards dates back to the earliest of shows in the 1790s. Excellent levels of entries have again been seen with both the sheep and pig sections achieving record entries and competition will be as hot as ever amongst exhibits from across the UK. We are also delighted to be hosting the National South Devon Cattle Show as part of this year’s event and look forward to welcoming the very cream of UK livestock.

Entertainment is of course another major element and whether in the Main Arena, on one of the show stages and in other areas such as the CORMAC Countryside Area or the Forestry Ring, there will be an action-packed programme to keep visitors occupied.

For the latest show stories, why not follow us on Facebook (Royal Cornwall Show) and Twitter (@RoyalCornwall) and also tell others what you most enjoy about the show?

May I please remind members that subscriptions were due on 1st January and to ensure receipt of your badges in time, payment should be made immediately if you have not already done so. You can of course pay online (and order print-at-home e-tickets) at the website at www.royalcornwall.co.uk as well as get a real taste of what the 2017 show has to offer.

See you on the 8 – 10 June!

Contacts @RoyalCornwall

ROYALCORNWALLSHOW

RCAA - Mr Christopher Riddle, Secretary - 01208 812183 - info@royalcornwall.co.uk The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge PL27 7JE Editor - Mr Steven Michell - 01208 817000 - stevemichell@royalcornwall.co.uk Advertising - Eleanor Mason - 01209 808118 - eleanor@eventpp.co.uk Published by Event Partnership Publishing Limited, Studio G06, Percy Williams Building, Krowji, West Park, Redruth TR15 3AJ 01209 808118 - www.eventpp.co.uk - hello@eventpp.co.uk

Christopher Riddle Secretary

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 3

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Stand No: 356

Something J

for everyone

ne is almost upon once again and u with it comes another Royal Cornwall Show, crammed full of farming, food, entertainment and so much more.

It always feels like the entertainment is virtually non-stop. Wherever you are on the showground during the three days, there seems to be something going on.

The old adage “there’s something for everyone” certainly rings true when referring to Cornwall’s largest event. Regardless of age and interest, there is a huge amount for those who will make the annual pilgrimage to Wadebridge to enjoy.

The show’s main ring provides the focal point for the entertainment. Once again the line-up will be a mix of headline acts ranging from the educational and awe-inspiring to the daring and dangerous.

Barry the Bald Eagle, Thelma the Hooded Vulture and Camillia the Steller’s Sea Eagle will be among the massive birds of prey that expert falconer Ben Potter will be flying just over the heads of the crowd.

Ben’s obsession with falconry began as a 14 year-old volunteer at a small Yorkshire falconry centre, something which eventually led to a full-time position.

“Since then I have trained and flown Hawks, Eagles, Vultures, Kites, Buzzards and Falcons, as well as some more unusual birds such as Ravens, Kookaburras, Pelicans, Serimas and even Ospreys,” said Ben. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to train his large collection of rare and interesting birds, as Ben explains.

“I now have about 30 birds which are all free flown every day for nine months of the year, regardless of the weather conditions!”

Returning to Cornwall in June, after previously appearing in 2015, Ben will provide a visual spectacle but also offering opportunity to learn more about these fascinating creatures.

“We concentrate on the natural behaviour of our magnificent birds, and show them doing what they do best - flying free - in the most natural displays of their kind,” he concludes.

6 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

News

When it comes to soaring above the main ring, the Bolddog Lings, Honda’s official UK freestyle motocross team, are equally at home.

The nationally acclaimed FMX team boast the largest, highest landing ramp on the planet which enables the team to hurtle a distance of 75 feet and soaring up to 35 feet high. “The riders can truly express themselves” according to team manager, and himself one of the UK’s top riders, Dan Whitby.

Death-defying stunts set to be performed will include freestyle tricks such as the “superman seat grab”,

“Indian air”, “heel-clicker”, “rock solid”, “double-nac”, “switch blade” and the “kiss of death”. Many of these moves see the riders exiting their seat, taking their hands off the handlebars and rotating their body around the bike.

The team will perform in front of three million people at over 40 events in the UK and overseas this year.

Describing the show, Dan adds: “It’s more than just freestyle. It’s a non-stop show that will entertain everyone from off–road enthusiasts to the general public.”

Slowing the pace, and adding some fun, will be the Fergie Fillies. A local, all-female team of 16 novice tractor drivers will perform a formation vintage tractor extravaganza on the main ring turf.

The precision of the Red Arrows will combine with the less than nimble and fairly unreliable 1940’s Ferguson TE-20 tractor technology.

The RAF Falcons parachute display team are also on the bill and will be dropping-in on all three days. As will the Devon & Cornwall Police dogs display team and, on the first day, the Band of HM Royal Marines (Plymouth) will provide the military musical accompaniment.

The usual fast and furious inter-hunt relay and showjumping classes will join the more sedate grand-parades of prize winning livestock and horses to round-off the line-up that will grace the main ring this year.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 7

News

Left/inset: The Earl of Wessex presents trophies to prize-winning horses during his first visit in 2007.

Above: His Royal Highness visiting the Cornwall YFC marquee.

Earl of Wessex to visit H

is Royal Highness The Earl of Wessex will make his second visit to the Royal Cornwall Show 2017.

The visit will take place on the second day, Friday 9th June and it is hoped that the programme for the visit will include as many of the Show’s key elements as possible.

The Earl made his first visit to the Royal Cornwall in 2007. He was due to be accompanied on that visit by his wife, the Countess of Wessex, but unfortunately she was unable to attend due to ill- health. The Countess did, however, visit the show over two days in 2014 when she was President of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association.

The Earl of Wessex, born in 1964, is the youngest child of The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh. He is a full-time working member of the Royal Family and supports Her Majesty in her official duties as well as undertaking public engagements for a large number of his own charities.

The Earl’s work has a particular focus on the development of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, from which he has taken over many responsibilities from his father.

He also works on behalf of a number of charities and organisations, particularly those connected with providing opportunities for young people.

Royal Cornwall Show Secretary, Christopher Riddle, said the show would no doubt give His Royal Highness another memorable day along with a warm Cornish welcome.

“We are very pleased that the Earl of Wessex will be coming to the show. I am sure he will enjoy touring our showcase of the best that Cornwall and the region has to offer, and in particular, our local agriculture and food industry.

“It is with great pride that the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association receives such frequent and interested support from the whole Royal Family, with, of course, HRH The Prince of Wales as our patron.”

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 9

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First in show A

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Why not come and see us on our stand to find out why so many homes and businesses have joined the AvantiGas family? They have chosen to rely on the UK’s friendliest LPG supplier.

Our biggest asset is our people, and your local AvantiGas team will be on hand for all three days of the show, offering free site surveys and tailored energy packages exactly suited to your needs.

You may know us already from our sponsorship of local football team AFC St

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ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 11

News

New pig and sheep section

entry records set

A dramatic rise in entries in 2017 has produced a record field for the competitive sheep and pig sections at the Royal Cornwall Show on 8th to 10th June.

The sheep section saw a total of 1401 entries this year, 107 more than the previous record of 1294 set in 2016.

A total of 39 sheep breeds will be represented among the various classes in the section this year, with a further seven featuring in the rare breed sheep classes.

The Whiteface Dartmoor sheep will have its own classes at the show for the first time. With 32 entries this year, the breed has received strong support, taking it away from the Any Other Pure Breeds category and out on its own.

Other breeds to achieve significant numbers this year are Beltex with 81; Devon & Cornwall Longwool, 57; Jacob, 51; and North Country Cheviot, who achieved their own classes for the first time in 2016, jumping to 54 from 33 last year.

The rare breed sheep classes, despite losing the Whiteface Dartmoor to their own classes, have seen numbers increase by 21 to 62 in total. Entries in the Commercial Sheep, Wool on the Hoof and Young Handler classes have also risen.

12 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

The pig section also enjoyed a significant surge in numbers with 261 entries received.

This figure eclipses the previous high of 222 recorded in 2006.

The Berkshire, British Lop, British Saddleback, Large Black and Tamworth breeds all registered large increases in support this year and more than double the number of young handlers have entered compared to last year.

The Pietrain pigs will have their own dedicated classes, securing 22 entries, which is nearly twice the number required. This is the first time this has happened and is a very rare occurrence in the showing world.

Cattle section entries have also experienced a rise in numbers, with an increase of 53 stalls booked over last year.

In the beef section, South Devon entries have risen from 55 last time to 127 this year; the show is hosting the breed’s National Show which has boosted numbers.

The Dairy Shorthorns lead the way in the dairy section with numbers rising from 14 to 22 this time out. The breed’s recent rise in popularity saw a return to dedicated classes last year after a 44 year hiatus at the Royal Cornwall. The Guernsey, Jersey and Ayrshire breeds have also enjoyed a rise in support.

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ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 15

30 years of

saving lives T

hroughout 2017, Cornwall Air Ambulance is celebrating 30 years of saving lives. Since the original crew carried out their first mission in April 1987, the lifesaving service funded by the people of Cornwall has carried out more than 26,000 missions over three decades.

During that time, countless lives have been saved and families kept together thanks to the expertise of the aircrew and the generosity of supporters whose donations pay to keep the air ambulance flying.

Cornwall Air Ambulance’s first pilot, Geoff Newman, was one of the driving forces behind the pioneering service, which was the first of its kind to operate in the UK. Geoff said; “For the past 30 years, I’ve felt a quiet contentment that the Cornwall Air Ambulance has continued to thrive and inspired other services. We’re very, very proud of what we have achieved.”

In its 30th anniversary year, Cornwall Air Ambulance was delighted to have been chosen as an official charity of the Royal Cornwall Show and hopes as many show-goers as possible will visit the charity’s stands.

The air ambulance helicopter will be on display throughout, accompanied by aircrew, volunteers and charity staff who will be happy to meet show-goers and discuss the lifesaving service.

Alongside a host of fun and games and items for sale, there will be the chance for people to experience an air ambulance mission, thanks to a new 360 virtual reality film, in which they become a member of the aircrew.

16 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

Paula Martin, Chief Executive of Cornwall Air Ambulance, said; “The air ambulance would not have flown a single mission in the past 30 years had it not been for the donations and fundraising efforts of its supporters.

On behalf of every patient and their families, thank you for everything you have done.

“Our challenge now, especially with no government or lottery funding to pay for missions, is to make sure we raise the money needed to help seriously sick and injured patients for the next 30 years.

“So please come and see us at the Royal Cornwall Show, see the helicopter, go on a virtual reality mission and find out how you can help us make 2017 the most successful fundraising year we have ever had.”

As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations, Cornwall Air Ambulance has launched the 30 for 30 fundraising challenge. It involves doing 30 things to represent 30 years, such as getting sponsored to run 30km, bake and sell 30 cakes or swim 30 lengths of your local pool. The possibilities are endless.

If you are stuck for ideas or want to tell the charity what you’re up to, email enquiries@ cornwallairambulancetrust.org. Don’t forget to share your fundraising on social media using the hashtag #30for30 to show the world how you’re supporting Cornwall Air Ambulance in its 30th anniversary year.  This year Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust have three

stands at the show, you can find them on stand number 165, 335 and 471.

News

“Our challenge now, is to make

sure we raise the money needed

to help seriously sick and injured patients for the next 30 years. “

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 17

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Local Knowledge, National Coverage T

he idea of buying or selling by public auction may appear complex but it can be an easy and transparent means of doing both.

We live in a world where we expect everything to be done yesterday. Yet, as the old saying goes ‘all good things come to those who wait’ and that is exactly what property is all about.

Bricks and mortar have traditionally been a medium to long-term investment, not something bought today and sold tomorrow and making thousands of pounds in the process. Although, of course, in recent years that’s exactly what has happened.

It is generally recognised that if the property/ land is sold ‘under the hammer’ on the auction day it has achieved the ‘best possible price’ and is often the reason why lots are offered on behalf of Executors, Trustees, Power of Attorney, Beneficiaries, Receivers, Companies and such like who need to show an arm’s length and transparent sale. But selling and buying at auction is open to everyone!

Auctions are in fact one of the oldest forms of trade with records dating back to 500BC, primarily with sales of women of marriageable age, or Roman soldiers holding auctions of bankrupt goods, auctioneering their loot sub hasta (under the spear) to meet state deficits.

Thankfully, auctions today are more civilised than those earlier sales.

At Clive Emson Auctioneers there are many benefits of buying or selling by auction, the following being just a few.

• Speed; the process can take as little as four weeks from instructions to exchange of contracts.

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Auctions in the past have held a reputation as a place to buy or sell problematic property but, in today’s market, this could not be any further from the truth. While we do indeed sell property that is subject to either legal or structural uncertainties (one man’s junk is another man’s treasure) many of the Lots sold have clean titles and are structurally sound.  For more information please go to our website cliveemson.co.uk by phone 0345 8500333 or by email auctions@cliveemson.co.uk

What makes a Lot suitable for auction?

All properties can be sold by auction, but some are more suitable than others.

Houses, flats, bungalows and cottages for improvement, renovation, restoration, refurbishment and/or repair are some of the most popular lots, with buyers keen to capitalise on the potential added value.

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One of our many strengths at Clive Emson Auctioneers is the ability to provide buyers and sellers with local knowledge, from our strategically placed offices across the south of England, while still having the ability of offering national coverage.

The auction process is of course founded on competitive bidding and therefore, high profile marketing is essential to the success of an auction house.

Along with our traditional ballroom auctions, Clive Emson Auctioneers now offers nationwide online auctions.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 19

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"We're all about identifying exactly which use will add the most value for your particular site, then gaining the planning permissions to unlock that value"

Justin Dodge (left) and John Schuttkacker (right) - Directors of Westcountry Land

Developers with the personal touch

John Schuttkacker and Justin Dodge are the Directors of Westcountry Land, a successful development company based in Devon and Cornwall.

Since starting the company in 2009 the pair have built a reputation among their clients and peers for the bespoke service they provide.

John, whose expertise is in land and property acquisition explains what sets their company apart from others in what has become a highly competitive sector.

John says “All aspects of the business are handled personally by Justin and me. We make sure we treat everyone as we like to be treated.

The complexities and costs associated with building developments can be pretty daunting. Land owners may have been mulling over the potential of their site for several years before even thinking of approaching a developer.

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He says “We're all about identifying exactly which use will add the most value for your particular site, then

20 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

gaining the planning permissions to unlock that value.

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We prepare and present your application in a way that gives it the best chance of success. All the costs of gaining planning permission are paid by us – so we’re motivated to do so!

This is an important point that John and I feel is fundamental to the way we run our company. Once we enter into a partnership agreement with you, we pay all the costs associated with securing planning permission.

It is really important to us that the process is kept as simple as possible. We either put a fixed price on your land or work jointly with you on planning promotion.

You can choose how involved you want to be, but most landowners leave the entire process to us". ► If you’d like to talk to Justin or John then give them a call at their Cornwall office on 01872 248758 or their Devon office on 01752 967616. Visit their website www.westcountryland.com where you can see what their clients have to say about them.

News

The fillies I

take to the fergies

f you are looking for thrills and spills at the Royal Cornwall Show, you’ll usually find it in the event’s main ring. This year will be no different with a fantastic line-up of dare-devil stuntmen and fast-paced horseback competitions.

However, taking the pace down a little this year, but turning the fun up to full, are the Fergie Fillies.

The Fergie Fillies are a group of sixteen novice tractor drivers from Cornwall and they are all set to combine girl-power with horse-power.

Albeit the modest horse-power of the iconic Ferguson TE-20 tractor, or the Little Grey Fergie as it is better known.

Their aim is to create a display of precision all-girl formation driving.

Think Red Arrows on grass and vintage tractors instead of supersonic jets and you are probably on the right lines.

The girls have practised hard to master driving the little grey Fergie which can probably claim to be the world’s most famous mass produced tractor. More than a million were produced between 1946 and 1956,

8

7

half a million each at Harry Ferguson’s factories in Coventry and Detroit, USA and they were exported throughout the world.

1940’s technology takes a little time to get used to but under the tutelage of vintage tractor enthusiast, David Taylor, the team are now ready for action.

The original team of twelve ladies made their debut performance at last year’s St Mawgan Steam and Vintage Rally, but this year David has expanded the team to sixteen to ensure that they can fill the show’s vast main ring with their tightly choreographed performances.

David said: “What the girls lacked in experience is more than made up for by their tenacity and enthusiasm. However, I’m still finding it hard to believe that lipstick and mascara are now an essential part of the tractor driver’s tool kit!”

The team will perform on each day of this year’s show and their act is shaping up to be one that is not to be missed.

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News

New organiser for the Cornwall Festival of Dance Jason Thomas, one of Cornwall’s best known dance teachers, will take the helm of the Cornwall Festival of Dance at this year’s Royal Cornwall Show.

He takes over the reins from Paul White & Sally Hamlyn who were instrumental in setting the dance festival up in 2003. The first year it ran just on the show’s final day but the following year expanded to cover all three days.

Jason has a long, successful dance career. It all began when he started learning the art at the age of nine at the Cornwall High School of Dancing in Camborne, run by the charismatic and inspirational Madam Norman.

At the age of 12, Jason secured a place at the Bush Davies School and The Lagat School of Russian Ballet.

Having appeared with the Northern Ballet Theatre on numerous occasions, Jason moved onto the London Studio Centre, gaining the position of head ballet boy in his second year.

A career performing throughout the world followed his studies, with performances in London’s West End and in Europe and Asia, as well as appearing in productions on cruise ships.

Retiring from performing in 2001, Jason switched his attentions to dance teaching. Today Jason Thomas Performing Arts run dance classes at several locations across Cornwall.

Located next to the Flower Show marquee, the Cornwall Festival of Dance stage offers a full programme of dance acts throughout the show’s three-day run.

The line-up of acts set to perform range from traditional to contemporary dance styles. The Pamela Darlington School of Dance, Tribal Fire, Hevva, Raffidy Dummits and Celtic dance group, Ros Keltek, are among the groups taking to the stage.

Morris dancing sides are set to perform at the dance festival but will also take the showground’s avenues on the Saturday to entertain show-goers.

Looking ahead to this year’s show, Jason said: “We are extremely honoured to have been asked to host the Cornwall Festival of Dance. We have an exciting programme that celebrates the unique diversity of dance in Cornwall.”  For more information about who will be performing please visit www.royalcornwall.co.uk

Live Demonstrations on Stand 580

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Made in Cornwall

story The Trewithen Dairy

T

he Clarke family are passionate about all things dairy.

With over 40 years and three generations at Greymare Farm in Cornwall’s beautiful Glynn Valley, that’s not a surprise.

It’s an amazing story. Back in 1994, Bill and Rachel began bottling milk and cooking cream. The cream would be cooked and potted by hand each night after they had put their young children to bed.

Then delivered first thing to local retailers and farm shops Encouraged and supported by a local shopkeeper who was passionate about local produce, they began selling their delicious products under the Trewithen Dairy label. The public loved it!

Having sold their herd in 2001, the family became fully focussed on processing milk, cream, butter and yoghurt. Further expansion in 2014 saw the development of a brand new world-beating dairy facility that employs 150 full-time employees.

If you talk to Bill Clarke he will tell you that the success of the business is down to the quality of the milk and the close working relationship with the farmers. The Clarke family know each of the local farming families personally, therefore each understands exactly what the other expects from their relationship.

Trewithen Dairy milk comes from only twenty-five farms within twenty-five miles of the dairy. There are a variety of breeds within the herds, including Friesian, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Holsteins and two herds of Jerseys. Some say it’s this interesting blend that gives Trewithen Dairy’s milk its unique flavour.

Trewithen give a clear brief to their farmers on the milk they want to be produced with the focus on quality, not quantity.

Each farmer is passionate about producing the very best quality milk they can in turn, this means it’s perfect for the bottled Milk, Natural Yoghurt, Single, Double and Clotted Cream we all love so much.

As Cornwall and Devon’s biggest bottler of the white stuff, you would think that milk was the focus for the Trewithen Dairy business, but it’s not. The future of the business is built around cream. “Cream is the future,” according to Francis Clarke, Managing Director of Trewithen Dairy. “Our cream is a very special product, our Clotted Cream is made to a traditional Cornish recipe. This means it’s not only delicious but, importantly, it has ‘Protected Designation of Origin’ status, so it can only be made in Cornwall, from Cornish milk. With so much interest in Cornish produce these days, and such large numbers of people visiting from all over the country, we see a huge opportunity to sell our Cream far and wide.”

With contracts in place with major supermarket chains such as Aldi, Asda and Sainsbury’s and daily deliveries to over 700 local businesses, this really is a family success story.

TREWITHEN DAIRY Greymare Farm, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0LW 01208 872214 lovelystuff@trewithendairy.co.uk www.trewithendairy.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 25

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Advance Tickets just £14.50 Children Under 16 FREE visit our web site www.honitonshow.co.uk Acland Farm, Blackwater, Truro TR4 8HP www.aclandplant.co.uk emma@aclandplant.co.uk

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News

National Show of cattle heads to Cornwall

The National Show of South Devon cattle will be hosted at this year’s Royal Cornwall Show.

This will be the eighth National Show the South Devon Herd Book Society has held and will form part of the Royal Cornwall’s everpopular cattle section when the three-day event is staged from 8th to 10th June.

The event heads to Wadebridge in June, returning to the venue of the breed’s first National Show which was held at the Royal Cornwall in 2010.

South Devon exhibitors will be out in force at Cornwall’s flagship agricultural event with a total of 127 stalls booked for South Devon cattle. Competitors will be travelling from across the country to participate.

The South Devon is the largest of the native British cattle breeds and is well known for its beef qualities.

The breed has a long history, stemming back many centuries, originating in the South Hams area of Devon before spreading to the rest of Devon and Cornwall, and then on to become a mainstay in beef production across the country.

South Devon cattle were exported to the North American colonies in considerable numbers, notably some made the trip on the Mayflower which sailed from Plymouth in 1620.

The South Devon Herd Book Society was founded in 1891 and recognised by the Government as an official body. The South Devon became one of the 14 breeds of cattle whose Herd Books date back to the second half of the 19th century.

Until the 1960s, the South Devon stronghold in the UK was in Devon and Cornwall, but since then its popularity spread with the rise in demand for beef. Today approximately half of the breed can be found in the South West with the remainder spread across the rest of the country.

Caroline Poultney, breed secretary for the society said; “We are delighted to bring the National Show back down to Cornwall again.

The strong entry shows the enthusiasm for the South Devon breed and for the Royal Cornwall Show.

“Since 2010 when we last visited Cornwall the geographical area that exhibitors are travelling from has spread, so there’s a real national flavour to it.”

The judge for the South Devon classes at the 2017 Royal Cornwall Show will be Mr Robert Shinner from Buckfastleigh, Devon.

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Advance tickets available online - www.okehamptonshow.co.uk 01837 659965 - info@okehamptonshow.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 27

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News

Royal Cornwall Show 2017 President:

L

Lady St Levan

ady St Levan has been elected by the Council of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association as President for the 2017 Royal Cornwall Show.

Mary, as Lady St Levan is happy to be known, is relishing the role, even though she knows that a busy three days await her in June.

She said; “It is a wonderful showcase and celebration of the rural economy in Cornwall. It gathers together people who choose to live and work in this beautiful landscape and who contribute so much to the economy and the community of Cornwall.

“From the livestock to the food and drink producers and on to the flower tent and beyond, quality and commitment are the hallmarks running through the Show.”

Mary’s husband James, now the 5th Lord St Levan, undertook the role in 1999 and she becomes the seventh member of the St Aubyn family to be elected show president.

“The Show is an absolute highlight of the Cornish year and a great meeting point. I love the sense of arrival and looking forward to meeting up with friends and family as well as the opportunity for chats with business colleagues.”

The St Levan’s are very much in touch with the farming world, despite living on St Michael’s Mount.

The family’s St Aubyn Estate has been part of the West Cornwall landscape for more than 600 years.

Today their land spans more than 5,000 acres, ranking

them among the county’s largest landowners.

“My first point of call is always the cattle lines. It is so evident how well the cattle are cared for and regarded by their owners,” added Mary.

“Another must see is the Grand Parade of Livestock and, for a dash of adrenalin, the Inter-Hunt relay.

“I think we are incredibly fortunate in Cornwall to have such a vibrant and entertaining show,” she concludes.

The sizeable task of organising Cornwall’s largest event hasn’t escaped the new President’s notice.

“The core team at the showground achieve so much and the volunteer stewards make the whole thing possible.

“Last year, I was fortunate enough to visit the new Control Centre which reinforced how much preparation and planning goes into the show from one year to the next.”

Mary’s early career, in stark contrast to her current role as a director of St Aubyn Estates, began as a social worker in London and Plymouth. This was followed by becoming a director of local charities Cornwall Care and Freshfield Service.

Outside of her busy work schedule, Mary spent 12 years serving as a magistrate and is currently a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall. She’s also a great supporter of a number of charities including St Teresa’s Cheshire Home, West Cornwall Women’s Aid and St Petroc’s Society.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 29

News

Devon & Cornwall Longwool Flock Book Association celebrates

40 years T

his year marks the 40th anniversary of the Devon and Cornwall Longwool Flock Book Association which was founded in 1977.

The association holds the studbook for the breed and promotes the breeding and rearing of Devon and Cornwall Longwool sheep, which are popular within the south west region.

The coming together of two dwindling local sheep breeds saw the association’s formation which heralded a brighter future, as association secretary Deborah Custance Baker explains.

“In 1977 the South Devon Flock Book and the Devon Longwool Sheep Breeders Society were rather in bred and again on the verge of extinction. So it was decided by the then committees, of which Melvyn Britton was President of the Longwools, to amalgamate.

“At the time of merging, there were 100 South Devon members and only 50 Devon Longwool members, with

30 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

the majority of flocks between Hale and Kentisbeare.”

There have been dedicated Devon & Cornwall Longwool classes within the sheep section at the Royal Cornwall Show for many years. It is a popular class and attracts sufficient entries to stand alone.

This year 57 Devon & Cornwall Longwool entries were received and competition will be particularly keen in this celebratory year.

To celebrate this milestone the association will have a breed promotion stand at this year’s show. They are also producing a publication devoted to the history of the breed and a special birthday party held at the current president’s farm near Cullompton, Devon.

40 years later and there are flocks across England, from Cornwall to Newcastle.

“They are a fantastic breed, stately and friendly with an impressive fleece and a tasty carcass,“ concludes Deborah.

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News

O

Cornish primary school pupils learn about farming and food production

ver one thousand five hundred school children enjoyed two interactive days learning about farming and food at the annual Farm & Country Days held at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge.

The pupils, aged between seven and nine years of age, came from 40 schools spread across Cornwall. Over 300 farmers, growers, food producers joined representatives from agricultural and food production related businesses to create 60 hands-on exhibits to bring the story food takes from farm to plate to life.

The children came face-to-face with dairy and beef cattle, sheep, pigs and goats. They also discovered how vets care for farm animals, visited a milking parlour to learn about milk production, crimped pasties under the guidance of Warrens Bakery and enjoyed tasting Callestick ice-cream.

They also discovered what lurks in Cornish hedgerows and explored with Elsa and Rona Amis, who farm on the Lizard, the important role dung plays.

Jane Wheeler, year four teacher from Kea Community Primary School said the children

thoroughly enjoyed the event, taking a huge amount away from it.

“The children were really buzzing with new knowledge and ideas when we got back to school. We would like every child in our school to benefit from this experience.”

Kate Cameron, year four teacher from Treverbyn School said: “We had such a wonderful time today. On the coach journey back to school, the children were either totally buzzing, chattering non-stop about their day or fast asleep!

Both testament to the brilliantly organised, varied and extremely interesting experience provided.”

These sentiments were echoed by Theresa Mills, head teacher at South Petherwin Primary School.

“So much work has gone in to the event but every single second of it was worthwhile. A really outstanding day.”

Jacky Cherry from the Cornwall Food & Farming Group said that whilst the event was great fun for all involved it also presents a gilt-edged opportunity to educate the next generation about how the industry works.

“The aim of the Farm & Country Days is to bridge the ever widening gap in the understanding of the care, attention and shear effort our farmers and food producers put into creating our food. Hopefully we’re helping to create better informed future customers and inspire more talent to become agriculturalists in the future.

RCAA Media & Education manager, Steven Michell said: “This event wouldn’t be possible without the army of volunteers who kindly give up their time and expertise. Generous sponsorship from the Dartington Cattle Breeders Trust, Consols Oils, Stephens Scown, Truro Primestock Show, Harpers Feeds, NatWest, Cornwall Council, Mole Valley Farmers and the Cornish Winter Fair helped support schools with transport costs enabling them to access the event.”

Over the past four years more than 6000 pupils have attended the event and it is fully subscribed for 2018 and approaching capacity for 2019, such is the demand from local schools to immerse their pupils in the farming and food topic.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 33

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34 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

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Natural Generation is currently operating close to 100MW of Solar PV O&M contracts covering up to the next five years. and another 100 to 150 MW are currently under negotiation.

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Events

Information correct at time of going to print and please note that non-public events are not normally listed.

Please use contact details below for further information.

Sunday 25 June - Native Pony Association Show Contact: Gemma Trevenna Mobile: 07807 118795 Friday 30 June – Sat 1 July Wadebridge Theatre Company - Romeo and Juliet Contact: Jackie Sharland Tickets: www.crbo.co.uk Sunday 2 July - NPS Area 26 Pony Show Contact: Graham Bunney Mobile: 07528 653069 Saturday 8 – Sunday 9 July - Appletree Exhibitions Contact: Paul Atkins Tel: 01805 603943 Friday 14 July - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk Saturday 15 July - Camborne & Redruth Dog Show Contact: Lindsay Hosking Tel: 01736 753864

Sunday 23 July - Lanivet Show Contact: Tamsin Stickland Mobile: 07876 403569

Tuesday 29 August South West All Breeds Dairy Calf Show Contact: Dawn Coryn Mobile: 07977 449914

Friday 28 July - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk

Friday 1 September - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk

Saturday 5 August – Friday 11 August Creation Fest Contact: Sarah Yardley Email: sarah@creationfest.org.uk

Saturday 9 September - Jefferys Auctions Sale of Poultry and Farm Machinery Contact: Ian Morris Tel: 01208 871947 Mobile: 07825 526546

Thursday 17 August – Saturday 19 August Ockhams’ Razor show Tipping Point Contact: Antony Waller Details: www.dancerepublic2.com Tickets: www.crbo.co.uk

Sunday 16 July - Wadebridge Rotary Club ‘Wheels’ Contact: John Pomeroy Email: stoneydeep@talk21.com

Friday 18 August - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk

Wednesday 19 July to Sunday 23 July Funtasia Circus Contact: Yulian Nikolov Mobile: 07894 504673 Email: circusfuntasia@gmail.com

Friday 25 August - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk

Friday 21 July - Car Boot Sale Contact: Louise Camden-Wiles Mobile: 07807 807888 Website: carbootscornwall.co.uk

Saturday 26 August – Sunday 27 August Antique Fairs Cornwall Contact: Alex Robins Tel: 01872 519011 Mobile: 07887 753956

Saturday 16 September - Sunday 17 September Cornwall Agility Dog Show Contact: Kim Lawer Email: kimlawer28@gmail.com Saturday 23 September - Cornwall Gun Dog Show Contact: Christine Ede Tel: 01736 731473 Sunday 24 September North Cornwall Hunt Pony Club Show Contact: Tamsin Thomas Email: tamsinthomas1961@gmail.com Sunday 24 September - Duchy Canine Show Contact: Tanya Pilgrim Mobile: 07951 023505 Email: Serengetti_Sky@hotmail.com Saturday 7 October – Sunday 8 October Cornwall Home Improvement & Self Build Show Contact: Andrew Weaver Tel: 01872 888733

Visit www.royalcornwall.co.uk for full listings

Yara would like to thank their customers, and wish them an enjoyable Royal Cornwall Show

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ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 37

VAT on farm dwellings Many farmers do not worry too much about VAT. They are VAT registered and if they are charged VAT on expenses they claim it back. Whilst this is true for most day-to–day farming expenses it is not always the case where farm buildings are converted or new dwellings are constructed on the farm.

In this article we will look at the importance of getting a builder to charge the correct rate of VAT on work of this type.

I don’t have to pay VAT on the cost of building a new house – is this correct?

In many cases a builder can zero rate the cost of building a new house, but it is not always possible. Zero rating is the ideal outcome because it means that the builder can reclaim VAT on materials and other costs, but does not have to charge VAT on his bill. However, unless several conditions are met, 20% VAT will have to be charged.

The conditions for zero-rating are: • The house must be self-contained and with no internal access to another dwelling.

• Planning permission has been obtained and the work has been carried out in accordance with the planning permission.

• There is no prohibition in respect of the use of the property.

• There is no prohibition on a future sale of the dwelling separate to the rest of the farm or any land or buildings.

Julie Towers VAT Partner 01872 276477 julie.towers@pkf-francisclark.co.uk Julie heads up PKF Francis Clark’s VAT team offering proactive and practical advice on all matters VAT, ranging from compliance to complicated technical issues.

My new property has an Agricultural Occupancy Clause (AOC) – does this create a problem?

A standard AOC which restricts occupancy to someone “currently or last employed in agriculture” should not affect the availability of zero rating. However a clause within the planning permission which restricts occupancy to an employee of your business or which prevents it being separately sold can mean 20% VAT having to be charged on the entire cost of the work. There have been many VAT tribunal cases on this particular issue. Thus it is essential to know the precise wording of any conditions within the planning permission before work commences.

Can the work on a barn conversion be zero-rated?

Unfortunately not, but the good news is that the reduced rate i.e. 5% VAT may well apply. Similar rules apply as for new houses, in that if there are any restrictions on separate use or separate disposal the 20% rate will apply. Where the conversion is covered by permitted development rights and no longer require planning consent, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) accept that the planning condition has been met.

Does the 5% rate apply to work on a house that has been empty for 2 years?

Yes there is a useful rule which permits a builder to only charge 5% VAT when working on a house that has been empty for at least two years. The rules work in the same way as described above for barn conversions. It is necessary to provide evidence to the builder, normally by obtaining a letter from the Empty Property Officer at the local authority confirming that the property has not been occupied for the last 2 years.

What if I do the work myself rather than using a builder?

In certain situations, but not all, a claim can be made under the DIY VAT scheme which is totally separate to the submission of normal VAT returns. A single claim is made to recover VAT on materials and goods incorporated in a new building once it has been completed, the claim has to be made within 3 months of completion of the build.

As with all matters relating to VAT and construction, the rules are complicated. To put it simply we have seen many examples where VAT has been charged at the wrong rate and VAT claims have been rejected.

It is strongly recommended that advice is sought at the outset of any new build, conversion or self-build in order to ensure that the correct amount of VAT is charged by the suppliers as it is much easier to agree the VAT treatment at an early stage rather than after the work has been completed. PKF Francis Clark having the only dedicated VAT team in Cornwall are always here to help.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 39

We give smart advice to help you thrive The modern farm needs the support and guidance of an accountancy firm that genuinely understands your business and the agricultural industry.

We advise over 400 farms and more than 40 landed estates across the South West on how to minimise their tax burden and maximise their business opportunities.

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We deliver accounting, audit, taxation and advisory solutions by developing strong, partner-led, personal relationships and providing insightful, original thinking.

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We have offices in:

Exeter | New Forest | Plymouth | Poole | Salisbury | Taunton | Torquay | Truro Francis Clark LLP is a member firm of the PKF International Limited network of legally independent firms and does not accept any responsibility or liability for the actions or inactions on the part of any other individual member firm or firms.