Royal Cornwall Magazine 66 by Event Partnership Publishing

ISSUE 66 / FEB 2016

FORESTRY COMPETITION RETURNS / DOG SHOW CLASSES ADDED

Relive WW1

trench life

We give smart advice to help you thrive No matter how big or small your business, we are here to support you through an ever changing rural environment. We advise over 350 farms and 30 landed estates across the South West, on how to minimise their tax burden and maximise their business opportunities. With an award winning tax team we can advise you on personal tax issues as well, including capital gains and inheritance tax.

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2 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

Supported By

Media Partners

Secretary’s

Notes

Contents 06

Poldark power

View from the fields

Forestry competitions

New equine classes

Official show charity

Made in Cornwall

Annual report

Event Listings

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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 - Engine House Media - 01326 574842 - jonathan@enginehousemedia.co.uk Published by Event Partnership Publishing Limited, Holbrook, The Moors, Porthleven, Cornwall TR13 9JX - 01326 388083 - www.eventpp.co.uk

ell, another year has passed and may I take this opportunity of wishing you all a belated happy

New Year. As you will see, contained in this issue is notice of the Association’s AGM in the Pavilion Centre on Monday 21st March at 3.30pm and the abbreviated accounts for the year ended 30th September 2015. As you will see the Association has experienced another very successful year with a good surplus. This allows continued investment in the show and facilities and in fact several projects are due to be undertaken prior to this year’s show to include, for instance, the re-cladding of the original Exhibition Hall and the installation of new lighting. Full accounts for the year are available from the office on request. Again, the showground has experienced a very busy and varied year with wide ranging events making use of both the new Exhibition Hall and the numerous other facilities. Planning is also well underway for the very popular Farm & Country Days which will again take place over two days (8th & 9th March), welcoming some 750 primary school children on each day for an action packed experience. You can find out more on page 11 and new stewards for this most worthwhile activity are welcomed. Please let us know if you would like to become involved! The 2016 Royal Cornwall Show (9th - 11th June) offers another action-packed event. Equine and livestock prize schedules will be available soon and forwarded automatically to all 2015 competitors. Anyone else wishing to receive entry forms, should contact Myra Langdon on 01208 814489 or email; livestock@royalcornwall.co.uk. May I take this opportunity to remind members that subscriptions were due on 1st January with early renewal being much appreciated.

Christopher Riddle Secretary

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 3

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1/7/16 5:32 PM

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 5

Poldark Horses set for the

main ring B

reath-taking Cornish scenery combined with Aidan Turner playing the dashing Ross Poldark ensured the latest television adaptation of Winston Graham’s Poldark tales has been a big hit. Arguably Aidan Turner’s most notable co-star is his trusted steed, Darkie. Ross and Darkie, played by Seamus an Irish draft horse, are often seen galloping along Cornish clifftops heading from one crisis to another in the popular series. The devious Warleggan family keep this dynamic duo firmly on their toes (and hoofs). Seamus is no stranger to the limelight having made his TV debut in 2009 in Channel 4’s Norman invasion drama 1066, before debuting on film in Wuthering Heights. His first major role came in the BBC’s previous Cornish epic, Jamaica Inn. Poldark’s 15 year old dark bay is one of many horses that feature heavily in the series, helping to create an authentic onscreen setting evocative of the late 1700s period in which the story is set. This summer Seamus and some of his stable mates, along with their stunt riders, will be returning to Cornwall. This time they’ll be bursting in to the main ring at the

6 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

Bursting in to the main ring at the Royal Cornwall Show with a very special show!

Royal Cornwall Show with a very special show. Be prepared for your heart to be in your mouth as the riders demonstrate astounding acrobatics normally reserved for TV and the big screen. These talented horses and riders will perform their repertoire of tricks that include drags, falls, pick-ups, flips and rearing horses. The show will also include a short but stunning section dedicated to the art of Liberty, displaying the seamless harmony between the horses and their on-screen trainers. The horses are owned and trained by Atkinson Action Horses who have prepared horses and riders for film & TV for more than 20 years. Other recent credits include Victoria, Peaky Blinders, The Living and the Dead and Hippopotamus; it is highly likely this elite equine force has at some point invaded your TV screen! The 9th, 10th and 11th June will be time to saddle up, strap in and hold on tight and watch this fearless team of stunt horses and riders bring their unique display to entertain the crowds at this year’s Show. Make sure you don’t miss it.

News

Farm diversification competition

opens for business

armers based in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly successful at ‘thinking outside of the box’ are invited to enter a competition that offers the winner a cash prize of £1,000. The Duke of Cornwall’s award was established ten years ago to encourage and celebrate entrepreneurial local farmers who have developed innovative means of generating additional income. The competition is run by the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association (RCAA) and they are seeking entries from farms that have successfully diversified their agricultural business. Last year it was Nancarrow Farm near Truro, run by Pete Mewton and his family, who were the winners of the award. They created a venue for weddings and corporate events by tastefully renovating disused farm buildings, and adding a new oak-framed barn. As an added bonus catering for these events, along with their in-house feast nights, provide an outlet for their home reared meat and produce. A farm-based education unit, a thatcher, a bakery and a sewing enterprise are among the list of former winners of this coveted award. They highlight the diverse range of money spinning ideas that

2015 President, Major Charles Edward-Collins, presents the Duke of Cornwall’s Award to Nancarrow Farm.

farmers have come-up with to supplement their agricultural income. The winner will be presented with a signed certificate and prize money provided by His Royal Highness The Duke of Cornwall during this year’s Royal Cornwall Show (9 – 11 June). Entries for the competition close on 1 March 2016 and applications are encouraged from relevant individuals, businesses or organisations. Third parties are also welcome to make nominations. Christopher Riddle, RCAA Secretary said: “It’s something that is well worth winning, not just for the financial reward, but the awareness and networking opportunities that taking the top prize offers is invaluable. “We received a record entry last year and we look forward to seeing another array of interesting and innovative farm-based enterprises for this year’s competition.” Full details and an application form can be downloaded by visiting www.royalcornwallshow.org/competitors. Or call 01208 812183 or email: info@royalcornwall.co.uk.

Cornish woodland celebrated in competition

HRH The Countess of Wessex presents the forestry competition prizes the last time it ran in 2014.

he Forestry Woodlands Competition is run by the forestry section of the Royal Cornwall Show (9th-11th June) and is designed to draw attention to the county’s need for a healthy and developing woodland estate. All aspects of forest and woodland operation are covered in the biennial competition – amenity, landscape value, new planting, recreation, management, broadleaved and coniferous plantations. While the county’s woodland coverage is the smallest in percentage terms in England, it is nevertheless an important asset, and there are woodlands of great antiquity and heritage value to be found. A new class added the last time the competition ran, in 2014, was for any

business operating in Cornwall with the primary objective of using and adding value to round timber produced in the county. In this particular class judges will again be looking for examples of value-added products and take into consideration the efficiency of the business, environmental factors, quality of workmanship, local marketing, simplicity or complexity of the process from timber to end-product. Entries are now open for all of the five classes and will close on 1st March. Judging will be completed and results announced before the show in June. For competition further details and entry forms, please visit www.royalcornwallshow.org/competitors

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 7

The Cornwall office in Truro provides local access to the Bonhams network of national and international salerooms.

Bonhams, your local gateway to the international Fine Art and Antiques Market London - New York - Paris - San Francisco - Los Angeles Hong Kong - Melbourne - Dubai

8 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

Through our wide range of specialist sales in London we offer the ideal market place for any items you may be considering selling at auction. In addition Bonhams provides formal valuations for insurance, probate, family division and tax purposes.

For further information or to make an appointment please call the Truro office on 01872 250170 or email truro@bonhams.com Illustrated: Félix François Georges Philibert Ziem (French, 1821-1911) Le bassin, Venise. Consigned by Bonhams Cornwall and sold in New Bond Street for £31,250. 36 Lemon Street, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 2NR www.bonhams.com

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House for

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Plus much more...

News

OFFICIAL CHARITY PROFILE

Lesley Ross, volunteer Chair of Trustees at Cornwall Hospice Care meeting HRH The Earl of Wessex at Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in St Austell. Standing in the background is Dr Debbie Stevens, the charity’s Medical Director and lead Consultant.

his year Cornish charity Cornwall Hospice Care will celebrate its 10th anniversary. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge the specialist care the clinical teams provide to patients and their families in its two hospices in St Austell and Hayle, in Cornwall’s hospitals, care homes and in the community. Hospice Care in Cornwall actually began 35 years ago when the charity’s Mount Edgcumbe Hospice opened. Last year the occasion was celebrated with a visit by HRH The Earl of Wessex whose wife was President of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association in 2014. During his visit he met an amazing group of people who all shared their very personal stories to help others understand what Cornwall Hospice Care does to support people with life limiting illnesses. Among them was ardent Cornishman Keith Ferris, also known as the Oggy Oggy man because of his St Piran flag waving and shout outs at major events. Keith’s wife Margaret was cared for by Cornwall Hospice Care when she was diagnosed with bone cancer; “She was the nicest person, and the bravest person I have ever come across. When she arrived at St Julia’s Hospice in Hayle she was asked how she felt and she said something that really stuck with me, she said I feel safe. The care was absolutely fantastic, not only for Margaret, but for the whole family. After she died and at her request, we held a concert in Margaret’s memory and we raised £3,515.50 for Cornwall Hospice Care to say thank you.” Lesley Ross is the volunteer Chair of Trustees at Cornwall Hospice Care; “To be one of the show’s chosen charities this year is an absolute honour for us all. We are extremely proud of our Cornish credentials and what we do in and for Cornwall and this is the ideal event at which to meet people.” Cornwall Hospice Care’s ever popular charity shop will be open as usual on our stand at the show and we’ll also be entertaining people with a range of fundraising activities, as well as encouraging visitors to share their stories as part of our #HospiceStories project.

Pupils from Ladock Primary School learn about flour and bread making with Baker Tom.

Farming and food education takes

centre stage

rimary school children from across Cornwall will once again head for the Exhibition Halls at the Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge to learn about farming and food this spring. This year’s Farm & Country Days, jointly organised with the Cornwall Food & Farming Group, will take place on Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th March. It’s the fourth year of the event and a further 1,500 pupils, aged seven to nine years of age, will find out how

various aspects of how their food and drink is made. The day will see the children coming faceto-face with cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry; discovering soils, crops, machinery and seeing how food producers turn locally sourced raw materials into the end products. The event is only possible with the help of many local businesses and food producers, along with an army of volunteers who generously give up their time. More

volunteers are always required so if you’d like to find out more about getting involved in this enjoyable event please contact Steve Michell on 01208 817010 or stevemichell@ royalcornwall.co.uk. Generous sponsorship pledged so far for this year’s event has been provided by Dartington Cattle Breeding Trust, Consols Oils, Mole Valley Farmers, Harpers Feeds, Philip Warren Butchers and Wadebridge Prime Stock Show Association.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 11

Coodes - supporting rural services For generations land owning clients have trusted Coodes with their legal work, and the firm has taken great pride in watching those rural businesses develop, diversify and succeed. There are challenges which are unique to the industry and not only do we offer specialist legal advice, we also understand these challenges and are able to provide business advice and friendly support. Our experts are Fellows of the Agricultural Law Association with experience throughout rural services. ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

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Why not celebrate your big day at the Royal Cornwall

Pavillion Centre S

ince it was built in 2008, the comfortable and contemporary surroundings of the Royal Cornwall Pavilion Centre has played host to numerous wedding receptions. It’s the perfect setting and you’ll have sole use of the entire building. There’s no sharing your special day with anyone else. The Pavilion Centre seat up to 160 guests and you can choose from a selection of quality caterers to serve up a delicious and memorable wedding breakfast. What’s more there are rural views and a lake on hand to act

as superb backdrop for stunning photographs. Located in an easily accessible location with ample free parking on-site. Our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will ease you through the process to make your wedding reception with us as an enjoyable and stress-free experience. Why not come and take a look around for yourself? To arrange a viewing and for more information about what we can offer and availability please contact Kirstie Parr on 01208 893089 or email: kirstieparr@royalcornwall.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 13

Feature The story of one man’s journey from a motorbike and chainsaw to one of Cornwall’s largest landscape design and build contractors. Words by Mandy Milano

The biggest mistake

I nearly made

Jacques back in the day

Working on a tree in a remote location

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hether it’s fantastic design ideas and build to redesign your garden, landscape design for commercial use, to maintenance or a fabulous natural swimming pool we have always loved MidCornwall Landscaping. So it seemed only right, at the start of their 30th year, to chat to owner Jacques Egbers about their story… and, it turns out that it could have all been so very different as he and his young family ended up in Cornwall by mistake! Jacques was born and educated in Holland; he has a degree in Organic Horticulture. Then deciding on a new life in Europe with his young wife and two very young children they opted for the South of France. So they set off with all their belongings and no real idea of what awaited them at the other end. “It was a complete mistake. What really happened is lost in time and family legend.” Jacques tells me with a smile. “But we got our directions a bit wrong and ended up by sheer chance and a lot of luck in Cornwall! I found work on an Organic Farm in St Mawes where we were welcomed as immigrants with open arms, and our love for Cornwall and its fantastic landscape really began. We have never looked back or had any regrets that we didn’t end up in France!” Over the next 6 years Jacques started to use his degree and training, and slowly drifted into landscaping in and around St Mawes. “Then in 1986 I decided to take a leap of faith and leave the farm and its tied cottage to start Mid Cornwall Landscaping. The motorbike with chainsaw strapped onto the back was my only mode of transport in the early days, and just a bit hairy on the narrow lanes!” Jacques adds: “So we moved to a cottage in Tregony and I worked for the first three years on the Roseland, designing and building landscape projects mainly for private homes. The business grew by word of mouth and I was soon employing two other landscapers.” Their reputation grew and Jacque explains that the company expanded by establishing relationships throughout Cornwall, and building trust with local and national companies as well as in the domestic market. “We slowly expanded year on year,

Jacques and the team

growing organically; starting by working over the whole of Cornwall, and expanding into commercial contracts with Local Authorities and the construction industry in all aspects of garden design, landscaping and maintenance. More recently we have branched out further and been involved in the design and construction of many natural swimming ponds and pools, which fits well with the ethos of the business.” Then Jacques adds with a smile. “But, of course, our success is mainly due to our wonderful, reliable, extremely skilled staff, many of whom have been with MCL for over 20 years. We offer ongoing training, which keeps the staff interested in their job whilst improving their skill sets. We are proud to be members of highly regarded landscape Association BALI. And… the health and safety of our employees is very important to us so we are fully accredited members of CHAS and Construction line.” The whole team are involved in the 30th anniversary celebrations and looking forward to the future. Jacques went on; “we thought it would be a great idea to give back to Cornwall and some of the companies and people we have worked with. So we decided on 30 trees; one for each of our 30 years in business, and we want to link the symbolic process of planting these trees to promoting sustainability. We are planting old Cornish varieties (for example Cornish Aromatic and Cornish Gilliflower) that are sadly dying out due to the influx or more well known brands.” Mid Cornwall Landscaping will be donating the trees to schools, carehomes and community based projects. So if you would like to receive a donated tree, do get in touch with them. And one day you might have the joy of picking and sampling your very own true Cornish apples courtesy of the lovely team at Mid Cornwall Landscaping. MID CORNWALL LANDSCAPING Tolgarric Farm, Coombe, St Austell PL26 7LR 01726 884040 info@mc-landscaping.co.uk www.mc-landscaping.co.uk

Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association Summarised Annual Report 2015 Notice of Meeting

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be held at the Tregothnan Suite, The Pavilion Centre, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, on Monday 21st March 2016 at 3.30pm.

AGENDA 1. To confirm the Minutes of the last Annual General Meeting. 2. Business arising from the Minutes. 3. Apologies for absence. 4. To receive the Financial Report for the year ended 30th September, 2015. 5. To confirm the appointment of the Auditors 6. Election of President for 2016. 7. Election of President Elect for 2016. 8. To elect 12 persons to the Council to serve for the ensuing three years. 9. Any other business. C P RIDDLE Secretary The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge November 2015 Registered Charity No. 250312 ROYAL CORNWALL AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION MEMBERS OF COUNCIL 2015 – 2016 PRESIDENT Major Charles Edward-Collins DL PRESIDENT ELECT The Rt Revd Tim Thornton VICE PRESIDENTS His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, KG, KT Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, GCVO Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal, KG, GCVO Her Royal Highness, The Countess of Wessex, GCVO His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, KG, GCVO Her Royal Highness, Princess Alexandra, The Hon. Lady Ogilvy, KG, GCVO

Lady Banham MBE, JP., Penberth, St Buryan, Penzance. P M Bickford-Smith Esq., Trelin, Chynhale, Helston. Colonel E Bolitho OBE, Trengwainton, Penzance. Mrs Simon Bolitho, DL, Hendra Farmhouse, Tremethick Cross, Penzance. The Hon Evelyn Boscawen, DL, Tregothnan, Truro. Sir Richard Carew Pole, Bart, OBE, DL, Clift Barn, Antony, Torpoint. Lady Carew Pole CVO, JP, Clift Barn, Antony, Torpoint. J A Coode Esq., DL, Trebyan House, Lanhydrock, Bodmin. The Rt Hon The Viscount Falmouth, The Estate Office, Tregothnan, Truro. A D G Fortescue Esq. (Deceased), The Estate Office, Boconnoc, Lostwithiel. A M J Galsworthy Esq., CVO, CBE, FRAgs, DL, Trewithen, Grampound Road, Truro. R J Gilbert Esq., Lancarffe, Bodmin.

Lady Mary Holborow, DCVO, JP, The Coach House, Ladock, Truro. The Rt Rev Bill Ind, 15 Dean Close, Melksham, Wiltshire. E M L Latham Esq., DL, Trebartha Lodge, Nr Launceston. Iona, Lady Molesworth-St Aubyn, DL, Pencarrow, Washaway, Bodmin. The Earl Peel, GCVO, DL, Eelmire, Masham, Ripon, N Yorkshire. P J N Prideaux-Brune Esq., Prideaux Place, Padstow. The Rt Hon The Lord St Levan, St Michael’s Mount, Marazion. Lt Cmdr N J Trefusis, RN, DL, Tregew Vean, Flushing, Falmouth. Sir Ferrers Vyvyan Bt., DL., Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. (Vice Chairman). F J Williams Esq., CBE, JP, DL, Caerhays Castle, Gorran, St Austell. J P Williams Esq. DL, Tregullow House, Tregullow, Scorrier, Redruth. J M Williams Esq., DL, Werrington Park, Launceston. (Chairman).

ELECTED MEMBERS EASTERN DIVISION ELECTED AGM 2012 (Retire AGM Spring 2015)

WESTERN DIVISION

C B Bunt Esq., Woodlands View, Loveny Rd, St Neot, Liskeard. W R Davey Esq., Little Trewirgie Farm, Probus, Truro. J V Davey Esq., Kellywell, Station Rd, St Mabyn, Bodmin. W D Elliott Esq., Boswague Farm, Tregony, Truro. J W Eustice Esq., Treglinnick Farm, St Ervan, Wadebridge. A L Pascoe Esq., Chy-an-Gweal,19A Hayle Rd, Fraddam, Hayle. P J Lobb Esq., Bofarnel, Respryn, Lostwithiel. M G Pryor Esq., Homefield, Perranwell Station, Truro. Mrs A Melhuish, Trewolland Farm, Liskeard. P W Pryor Esq., Rosemerryn, Perranwell Station, Truro. D Selley Esq., Stolford Rise, Exton, Dulverton. ELECTED AGM 2013 (Retire AGM Spring 2016) E G Bailey Esq., Plane, Werrington, Launceston. W Brent Esq., Brentholme, Linkinhorne, Callington. (Retired Autumn 2014) A R J Bunt Esq., Lampen Farm, St Neot, Liskeard. P E Roose Esq., Higher Hendra, St Teath, Bodmin. E G Sleep Esq., Copper Meadow, Trevadlock, Congdon Shop, Launceston. J L Stanbury Esq., Lady Cross Farm, Yeolmbridge, Launceston.

G Blight Esq., 11 Pendeen Parc, Helston. Mrs E Bowden, Cogegoes House, Penponds, Camborne. W T Burley Esq., Trelewick, St Allen, Truro. R A Edmond Esq., Saveock Manor, Kerley, Chacewater, Truro. R H Olds Esq., Merry Meeting Farm, Roseworthy, Camborne. H S Williams Esq., Parkwithian, Treswithian Downs, Camborne.

ELECTED AGM 2014 (Retire AGM Spring 2017) Mrs C M Andrew, Penwith, St Gennys, Bude. N J Bersey Esq., Predredda, 47 Morview Rd, Widegates, Looe. R Biddick Esq., Med-A-Way, Rumford, Wadebridge. Mrs H C Eustice, Hay Barton, St Breock, Wadebridge. C B Mutton Esq., Higher Coldrenick Barn, Helland, Bodmin. R D Nancekivell Esq., Heatham Farm, Kilkhampton, Bude.

C J Benney Esq., Medlyn Cottage, Porkellis, Helston. M Bowden Esq., MBE, Woodcock Corner, South Drive, Tehidy, Camborne. A G James Esq., Springfield, Riverside, Angarrack, Hayle C P Richards Esq., Splattenridden, Hayle. H M Richards Esq., Pine Hill, Tregony, Truro. M J Simmons Esq., Pencoise Cottage, Tregony, Truro.

ELECTED AGM 2015 (Retire AGM Spring 2018) C B Arthur Esq., Grove Parc, Merrymeet, Liskeard. R G C Hancock Esq., Sudcott Park, Week St Mary, Holsworthy. P W Hodge Esq., Pengelly Farm, Burlawn, Wadebridge. A Lutey Esq., Trenithon, Summercourt, Newquay. R A Sloman Esq., Roscarrock, St Endellion, Port Isaac. R H Truscott Esq., Carnsews, St Winnow, Lostwithiel.

E Bowden Esq., Gwealavellan, Gwithian, Hayle. F J Dyer Esq., MBE, Penventinnie, Kenwyn, Truro. R F Knowles Esq., Trink Farm, St Ives. R J Laity Esq., Lower Goneva Farm, Gwinear, Hayle. J L Richards Esq., Trembethow Manor, Lelant Downs, Hayle. K R Williams Esq., Magor Farm Cottage, Camborne.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 15

IRRESPECTIVE OF LOCALITY P D Hardaker Esq., Penhayes, Old Hill, Grampound, Truro. G W Tucker Esq., Tinney Hall Farm, Lewannick, Launceston.

ELECTED AGM 2012 (Retire AGM Spring 2015) B Trewin Esq., Middle Tremollett, Coads Green, Launceston. W Tucker Esq., Pinslow Farm, St Giles on the Heath, Launceston.

ELECTED AGM 2013 (Retire AGM Spring 2016) E M C Bax Esq., Tregorden, Wadebridge. R H Osborne Esq., Ty-Gwyn, Trevenen Bal, Wendron, Helston. Mrs V G Daniel, Keepers Lodge, Trebursye, Launceston M P Roberts Esq., Blable Farm, St Issey, Wadebridge. ELECTED AGM 2014 (Retire AGM Spring 2017) A J Brewer Esq., Trewince Farm, St Issey, Wadebridge. A H Oatey Esq., Primrose Farm, Penstraze, Chacewater, Truro A J Geake Esq., Appleton-Lea, Tregorrick, St Austell. N C P Phillips Esq., Higher Bodieve Farm, Wadebridge. P M Richards Esq., Bandowers Barton, Castle Kayle Farm, Hayle. S L Edmond Esq., Birchmans Farm, Colebrooke, Crediton. P Vincent Esq., Vincent Tractors, Fraddon, Truro.

ELECTED AGM 2015 (Retire AGM Spring 2018) Mrs A James, Rosehill Farm, Alverton, Penzance. J Walkers Esq., Roscarnick Farm, Threeburrows, Blackwater, Truro. BAGMA REPRESENTATIVES A Snow Esq., Alan Snow Agricultural Engineers, Paddon Gate, Sutcombe, Holsworthy.

REPORT OF THE COUNCIL FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH SEPTEMBER 2015 REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS Name: Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association Registered Charity No: 250312 Principal Address: The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, Cornwall. PL27 7JE Patron: His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, KG, KT President: Major Charles Edward-Collins DL Council Members: Council consists of the President, President Elect, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Vice-Presidents and Elected Members. Their names are shown on pages 15 & 16. Chairman: J M Williams Esq., DL, Werrington Park, Launceston. Vice Chairman: Sir Ferrers Vyvyan Bt., DL, Trelowarren, Mawgan, Helston. Treasurer: R A Sloman Esq., Roscarrock, Port Isaac. Secretary: C P Riddle Esq., The Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge. Director of Showyard: R Knowles Esq., Trink Farm, St Ives, Cornwall. Bankers: Lloyds Bank PLC, 7 Boscawen Street, Truro. Auditors: Francis Clark LLP, Chartered Accountants, Lowin House, Tregolls Road, Truro. Solicitors: Foot Anstey LLP, High Water House, Malpas Road, Truro. Surveyors: Savills incorporating Smithsgore, Lemon Villas, Truro. Investment Advisors: Quilter Cheviot Limited, One Kingsway, London.

STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT GOVERNING DOCUMENT The charity is an unincorporated association created under a Trust Deed dated 30th December 1926, but originally established in 1793. ELECTIVE PROCESS The President, President Elect and the other Elected Members of the Council shall be elected at the Annual General Meeting. The other Elected Members of the Council consists of 48 members, 18 drawn from the Eastern Division of the county, 18 from the Western Division and 12 irrespective of locality. One third of the Council shall retire by rotation each year, and be ineligible for re-election for one year. To be eligible for election a candidate must have paid his subscription when due, for two consecutive years and must be proposed and seconded in writing by two members of the Association, with the nomination forwarded to the Secretary by 1st September. All other positions are determined by the Council. The Council are also the trustees for the purposes of charity law. INDUCTION AND TRAINING OF COUNCIL MEMBERS New Council members have normally previously acted as show stewards for a number of years, gaining knowledge and experience of the running of the show. They are provided with copies of the minutes of previous relevant meetings and with training publications as published by the Charity Commission. The large number of Association Council members also provides an ideal mentoring body for new members. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE The day to day operations of the Association are overseen by the Secretary, with the assistance of a small team of staff. The Secretary is supervised by the Officers, consisting of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer and Director of Showyard. The Officers of the Association report back to the Council, via the General Purposes Committee. The charity has also set up the Prize Schedule Committee, Judges Selection Committee and Investment Sub Committee, who also report back to the Council. The Council consists of the President, President Elect, Chairman, Vice Chairman, Vice Presidents, Treasurer, Honorary Director of Showyard, such representatives appointed by the Council and up to 48 Elected Members. RISK MANAGEMENT The Council acknowledges their responsibility to assess and manage the risks that the organisation faces and to review them at least annually. However, such systems can only provide reasonable and not absolute assurance against errors, fraud, operational failures and the impact of external events. Council have considered and identified major risks facing the charity and the establishment of controls to mitigate them. A risk register has been established and was approved by the Council on 3 December 2002. During the year the risk register was reviewed and updated. The latest update was approved by the Council on 12 March 2015. OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES The Association is established: (a) to promote agriculture, horticulture, forestry, conservation and industry for the public benefit (in particular but not exclusively in the County of Cornwall); and to improve and advance them in all their branches and in all trades, crafts and professions with them in an exclusively charitable manner. (b) to advance science, research, and education in connection with agriculture, horticulture, forestry, conservation and industry for the public benefit; and (c) to promote the improvement of all forms of livestock and the prevention and eradication of diseases in all forms of livestock. The Association’s offices are at the showground. The Association has ten regular members of staff. They are assisted by part-time staff and outside contractors during the busy periods leading up to, during and immediately after the Royal Cornwall Show. When planning the Association’s activities for the year the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit are borne in mind by the Council. REVIEW OF OBJECTIVES FOR THE YEAR AND THE STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THEM Objective - To successfully stage the 2015 Royal Cornwall Show with a continued strong emphasis on agriculture (including livestock), horticulture, forestry, conservation and related industries, including their improvement / advancement in terms of science, research and education. Strategy - The use of well-established structures and systems developed over a significant number of years and continued close relationships with a wide range of related bodies (i.e., Breed Societies etc). Objective - To further develop the Royal Cornwall Showground for the benefit of those using it. Strategy - A continuing development programme which for 2015 included the design and purchase of new pig penning and additional sheep penning, the replacement of underground water pipework, the renovation of the exterior of toilet blocks, the installation / upgrading of Exhibition Hall and Pavilion Centre wifi facilities, the construction of a concrete access area for the Exhibition Halls and various coppicing / clearing / maintenance work to generally improve the showground and its surroundings.

16 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTION OF VOLUNTEERS The Association is greatly indebted to a very large number of volunteers, in excess of 600, who act as Stewards and in other capacities to ensure the smooth running of the show. ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERFORMANCE Review of charitable activities The 2015 Royal Cornwall Show, held on 4, 5 and 6 June enjoyed good weather and achieved an excellent attendance of over 126,000, the fourth highest in its long history. The show was delighted to welcome one of the Association’s Vice Presidents, Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra, on the second day when a tour of the showground was undertaken and numerous exhibits visited. The livestock and equine sections again attracted excellent levels of entries from many parts of the UK. The horse section achieved an increased entry as did the cattle section which also hosted a very successful National Devon Cattle Show as well as playing host to both the Beef and Dairy ‘Burke Trophies’, formerly such a pinnacle of the Royal Show. The sheep section again proved extremely busy with the second highest entry ever received with the pig section increasing in numbers over the previous year and having the third highest entry of all time. It is encouraging that the livestock sections continue to thrive and to promote improvement through competition as they have through the very long history of the show. The very strong demand for trade stand space at the annual show was again very evident with all stands fully let several months beforehand with, as previously, a very heavy emphasis on agricultural, horticultural, forestry, conservation and related businesses and organisations and waiting lists for any last-minute cancellations. The Royal Cornwall Show continues to provide a top-quality showcase for the region with an agricultural content of national repute and, as previously, very high levels of business activity were subsequently once again reported following the event. Large numbers of individuals, families and school and other groups attend the show annually, allowing continued educational opportunities from the wide ranging displays and exhibitions on agricultural, horticultural, forestry and conservation topics on show. An excellent example of the public benefit to be achieved from such events. Earlier in the year, on 10 & 11 March 2015, the Association again joined forces with the Cornwall Food and Farming Group to stage the third extremely successful discovery event for schools entitled ‘Farm and Country’ in the Exhibition Halls. Extended for the first time to two days for 2015, this event was attended by some 1,500 primary school children and teachers and was again widely regarded as an extremely worthwhile project. The Association were delighted, on the second day, to welcome their then President, Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex, who toured the event, meeting large numbers of those attending and took part in numerous hands-on activities. Plans for the 2016 event on 8 & 9 March are already well in hand with all available places for visiting children fully booked. The Royal Cornwall Events Centre and the Pavilion Centre have again experienced a very busy year, providing a venue for a wide range of events/meetings etc., both large and small, and continues to provide Cornwall with excellent facilities for activities appealing to a wide cross-section of the county’s population and interests. The Pavilion Centre continues to prove to be a very popular venue for both business and social events, providing a top-quality facility for the county. Full details can be seen on the website at www.pavilioncentre.co.uk. INVESTMENTS During the year the charity purchased additional investments of £168,557, and disposed of investments with an original cost of £36,289. Proceeds received for the disposals were £36,322 giving a realised gain of £33. There was a small increase in the value of the investment portfolio over the year of £2,469. This gives an overall gain on investments of £2,502, compared to last year’s unrealised gain of £20,767. FINANCIAL REVIEW Total income from showground admissions increased this year by 15.97% to £916,196, which was partly due to the good weather conditions. Income from trade stands increased by 4.1% to £573,986 and show entry fees have increased by 8.9% to £74,732. Total income from the Pavilion Centre decreased by 10.1% to £73,712. Related expenditure incurred in running the pavilion increased by 5.2% to £63,770, resulting in a surplus for the year of £9,942. This is a decrease on the previous year surplus which was £21,413. Annual membership subscriptions increased by 2.9% to £195,642. Overall there was an increase in incoming resources of 8.4% from last year which resulted in a total income for the year of £2,296,176. Costs for the year have also decreased by 1% to £1,968,524. Show expenditure has decreased by 0.5% on the prior year to £1,331,556. Other charitable expenditure totalled £544,652, a decrease of £16,912 on 2014. The overall effect of this was an increase in net incoming resources from £150,032 in the prior year to £330,154 in 2015. RESERVES The Council have continued to review the reserves policy taking into account the nature of the Association’s current activities and its future plans. At 30th September 2015 the Association held £4,231,884 in unrestricted and designated funds. The Association’s reserves are primarily invested in the Showground at Wadebridge and in investments. The investments could be realised if necessary and are regarded as an ‘insurance policy’ against any day or days of the show having to be cancelled due to exceptional weather conditions or other extraneous factors, as happened in 1993, as well as amounts set aside for future capital expenditure. One day’s admission charges, based on this financial year could be up to £305,399. INVESTMENT POLICY AND OBJECTIVE The investments are managed by Quilter Cheviot Limited who are also the holding trustees. An investment sub-committee has been established by Council which meets periodically with the investment advisors and which authorises any strategic changes to the portfolio. The fund manager has specific terms of engagement set on an annual basis, and the investment policy of the charity is to stay with ‘safe’ investments, which provide a balance of income and growth in listed equities and government stocks in line with the Trustee Investments Act 2000. PLANS FOR THE FUTURE The staging of successful future Royal Cornwall Shows continues to be of the highest importance to the Association and linked to this is the continued improvement of the showground facilities plus continued and possibly extended involvement in educational projects. STATEMENT OF COUNCIL'S RESPONSIBILITIES The figures on page 18 are a summary from the audited annual report and accounts which were approved by the Council on 15 December 2015. However, they may not contain sufficient information to allow for a full understanding of the financial affairs of the Association. For further details, the full annual accounts and the auditors’ report on those accounts should be consulted. A copy of the full annual report and accounts has been submitted to the Charity Commission and may be obtained on request from the offices of the Association On behalf of the Council on 15 December 2015 and signed on its behalf by: J M Williams, Chairman, R A Sloman, Treasurer

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT TO THE COUNCIL OF ROYAL CORNWALL AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATION We have examined the summary financial statement for the year ended 30 September 2015, which comprises the statement of financial activities and the balance sheet. RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF COUNCIL AND AUDITORS Council members are responsible for preparing the summary financial statement in accordance with applicable United Kingdom law and the recommendations of the charities SORP. Our responsibility is to report to you our opinion on the consistency of the summary financial statement within the summary annual report and with the full annual financial statements and the Report of the Council. We also read the other information contained in the summary annual report and consider the implications of our report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the summarised financial statement. BASIS OF OPINION We conducted our work in accordance with Bulletin 2008/3 issued by the Auditing Practices Board. Our report on the charity’s full annual financial statements describes the basis of our opinion on those financial statements and on the Report of the Council. OPINION In our opinion the summary financial statement is consistent with the full annual financial statements and the Report of the Council of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association for the year ended 30th September 2015. We have not considered the effects of any events between the date on which we signed our report on the full annual financial statements on 18 January 2016 and the date of this statement. FRANCIS CLARK LLP Registered Auditors, Lowin House, Tregolls Road, Truro, Cornwall TR1 2NA Date:- 18th January 2016

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 17

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES (incorporating the income and expenditure account) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30TH SEPTEMBER 2015 General Fund Restricted Funds Total Funds 2015 Total 2014 INCOMING RESOURCES £ £ £ £ Incoming resources from generated funds Activities for generating funds 259,679 5,377 265,056 247,308 Investment income 17,334 - 17,334 15,764 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ---------------- 277,013 - 282,390 263,072 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------Incoming resources from charitable activities Show income 1,807,690 - 1,807,690 1,654,862 Annual member’s subscriptions 195,642 - 195,642 190,187 Life member’s subscriptions 10,454 - 10,454 9,588 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------Total incoming resources 2,290,799 5,377 2,296,176 2,117,709 ========== ========== ========== ========== RESOURCES EXPENDED Costs of generating funds Costs of activities for generating funds: goods sold and other costs 65,449 538 65,987 62,041 Investment management costs 3,977 - 3,977 3,115 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ---------------- 69,426 538 69,964 65,156 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------Charitable activities Show expenditure 1,331,556 - 1,331,556 1,337,732 Costs in support of the Show 544,423 229 544,652 561,564 Primary purpose donations 860 860 800 Governance costs 21,492 - 21,492 23,192 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ---------------- 1,898,331 229 1,898,560 1,923,288 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------Total Resources Expended 1,967,757 767 1,968,524 1,988,444 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------Net Incoming/(Outgoing) Resources for the Year Gain on the revaluation and disposal of investment assets Net Movement in Funds

323,042

4,610

327,652

129,265

2,502 - 2,502 20,767 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------325,544 4,610 330,154 150,032

Transfer between funds Fund balances brought forward at 1st October 2014

3,891,205 10,525 3,901,730 3,751,698 ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------

Fund balances carried forward at 30th September 2015

4,216,749 15,135 4,231,884 3,901,730 ========== ========== ========== ==========

The Association’s income and expenditure all relate to continuing operations. The Association has no recognised gains or losses other than the net movement in funds for the year. The net movement in funds has been calculated on the historical cost basis as modified by the annual revaluation of listed investments to market value. BALANCE SHEET AT 30TH SEPTEMBER 2015 2015 £ £

2014 £ £ Fixed Assets Tangible Assets 3,294,888 3,372,469 Investments 761,066 626,329 ------------ ---------- 4,055,954 3,998,798 Current Assets Stocks 2,001 2,298 Debtors 114,764 75,101 Cash at bank and in hand 616,185 408,692 ---------- --------- 732,950 486,091 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (96,952) (87,358) ---------- --------Net Current Assets 635,998 398,733 -------------- -------------Total Assets less Current Liabilities 4,691,952 4,397,531 Creditors: amounts falling due after more than one year (460,068) (495,801) -------------- --------------Net Assets 4,231,884 3,901,730 ======== ======== Funds Unrestricted fund: General fund 4,216,749 3,891,205 Restricted funds 15,135 10,525 ---------------- --------------Total funds 4,231,884 3,901,730w ========= ======== Approved by the Council on 15th December 2015 and signed on its behalf by: J M Williams, Chairman & R A Sloman, Treasurer

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Rodda’s forging closer links with West Cornwall Rodda’s Managing Director Nicholas Rodda.

farmers

leading milk processor in Cornwall is celebrating 125 years of business with the introduction of direct milk supply contracts to local farmers. Rodda’s, the leading producer of Cornish clotted cream and the county’s second largest processor of milk in the county, is introducing the new scheme to strengthen its links with the local farming community. Looking to give long-term security to both parties, the scheme will reward farmers for high butterfat and hygiene levels. It will also provide a quality supply of milk with the perfect properties for making Cornish clotted cream. Managing Director, Nicholas Rodda, comments: “Our farmers have been integral to the success of our business over the last 125

RODDAS

20 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

years, so the natural next step is to further strengthen our links with our local farming community, securing the future for Rodda’s and our farmers for the next generations. “The success of our business relies on our milk supply. In order to make our worldfamous Cornish clotted cream our milk has to be of the highest quality. And what better way to guarantee this than to work closely with our farmers through direct-supply contracts, rewarding them for their best possible milk. We are very excited about the benefits that these closer links will provide.” Rodda’s is looking for farmers located within a 30 mile radius of their creamery to supply them with approximately 50 million litres of quality Cornish milk a year.

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VIEW FROM THE ROSTRUM BY EDWARD BUCKLAND

s 2016 starts we find ourselves in the opening throws of the 2015 Basic Farm Payment window which opened on the 1st December and closes on the 30th June. To date only 20% of our clients have received their payment. This is a long way short of the RPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s declared majority of 51%. The sceptic in me would suggest that we are being fed political spin. We are already bracing ourselves for the 2016 BPS application window which will allow a paper application but we will favour the online route in whatever form it takes. I am strongly of the view that the manual mess we ended up with in 2015 meant that it was inevitable that payments would be delayed because of three basic points. Firstly, the month long delayed deadline, secondly, a reduced RPA workforce to process applications. Finally, every character of data had to be manually entered. This alone has taken us over 15 years back in time and cost the RPA an extra ÂŁ60 million in third party costs this year. On a brighter note we anticipate further capital grant opportunities this spring with the water catchment grants and there are also many opportunities with the LEADER program locally. January is the month when we return from our festive break and start planning for the year ahead. Our stand is already booked for the

Royal Cornwall Show and plans well in place for our now annual show charity auction. Charity auctions and community service is a big part of our work and I often consider it is the very least we can do to help support many good causes throughout the year from selling all sorts from Fine Art to Partridge Shooting to Slaves to the fish at Newlyn fish festival. Our very popular machinery auctions start again in March and it never fails to amaze me where everything comes from each time. When people ask me what do we sell I always reply anything I can stick a number on! This December the business celebrated its seventh year in business, a particular milestone as this is my lucky number. I am incredibly fortunate to work with other great young people who are all focused on the best interests of our valued clients. We were also delighted to announce that our very own Sarah Moyle was promoted to the role of associate partner. Indeed a tremendous achievement for Sarah who started with us five years ago, has worked hard to gain her qualifications and has proved to be a key member of the team. The vision for the business from day one has been to build lifelong relationships with our clients for whom we will create and maintain value. It is very much within this thought that we look forward to the next seven years and many more anniversaries!

Edward Buckland was brought up on the family dairy farm in West Cornwall which now farms a Pedigree Simmental Beef suckler herd. After studying Rural Estate Management at Seale-Hayne he returned to Cornwall to work for Cornwall Farmers Ltd before becoming a Livestock Auctioneer and Chartered Surveyor in Truro. Since establishing his own business, Edward has become a well know face in the rural community and now lives at Probus with his wife, Naomi, and two children Abigail and Harry.

What do you think? Send your letters to Steve Michell, RCAA, Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge, PL27 7JE or by email: stevemichell@royalcornwall.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 23

24 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

30 years serving

Feature

Cornwall

onsols Oils was founded in late January 1986 by former fisherman Kevin Bennetts after he was told by another local supplier that if he didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the price being asked for a five gallon can of diesel then perhaps he should start his own oil company. The rest as they say is history from the most humble beginnings with one tiny truck tackling the small difficult deliveries that others were then shying away from. Indeed given that it was founded on small tankers Consols oils now operates 3 very small specialist tankers busy serving those outpost locations that Cornwall is renowned for. The company has grown organically year on year until it now operates a varied modern fleet of eleven trucks ranging in capacity right through to a large artic more than capable of handling any job that arises. Virtually all fuel is sourced from the World Fuels Terminal in Falmouth which keeps business local and heavy traffic off the increasingly congested A30/A38

corridor helping the environment by cutting truck miles. Fuel can be ordered online 24/7 via the company website www.consolsoils.co.uk where customers can also settle accounts easily via a secure card payment system. There is always the increasingly popular Facebook page where comments and banter can be exchanged to maintain that personal touch. Any business is only as good as its staff. Consolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; staff are among the best in the business some having been with the company for in excess of 25 years. Drivers tend to work specific areas building strong relationships with customers many of whom date almost from day one. Consols Oils being deeply rooted in the

local community it serves is happy to support a number of local events and good causes in the firm belief that it is only right to put a little back. The Royal Cornwall Show has always ranked high on our list of favourites, in 2013 the company was very pleased to have been allowed to donate a new trophy which is awarded to the best interbreed beef cow with calf at foot. CONSOLS OILS Plots 3 - 6 United Downs Industrial Estate, St Day, Redruth TR16 5HY 01209 820274 sales@consolsoils.co.uk www.consolsoils.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 25

26 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

News

Made in Cornwall

We take a look at local enterprises who are making the best of quality Cornish grown and reared produce.

New Donkey classes and horse trophies

he Donkey section will boast two new classes at this year’s Show. A class for young handlers, aged three to ten years of age, has been introduced as has a class for long reining around a course. New silverware will also be won at this year’s show within the equine section. The first of two new cups that will awarded for the first time in 2016 is the Miners Town Trophy. The trophy will be presented to the winner of the small ridden hunter class and has been given to the show by Annette Buckingham. The Carnmellyn Memorial Cup will make its debut this year. It will go to the best foal from the lightweight and heavyweight broodmare classes. The cup has been presented to the show in memory of Kate Downie. It is possible at this year’s event for nonBritish Show Pony Society (BSPS) members to enter all of the pony competitions, except the Mountain & Moorland classes. If any non-BSPS member wins a qualifier class they will have seven days to be able to register to validate their qualification. Entries open for the equine and livestock sections in March and close on Monday 18th April. Show jumping entries close on Tuesday 3rd May for those requiring stabling or without stabling the deadline is Monday 16th May.

E-ticketing comes to the Royal Cornwall

he Royal Cornwall Show is in its 223rd year but it has always embraced change. Barcoded e-tickets will be introduced for the first time at this year’s Show. Show-goers will be able to buy tickets via www.royalcornwall.co.uk and have their ticket emailed directly to them. Tickets are to be printed at home and they will be scanned at the entry gates on arrival. Visitors will also be able to buy grandstand seats, general campsite pitches and memberships and purchase vouchers for official Show programmes and catalogues in advance online. Tickets purchased online or by telephone can still be posted if required. For these orders a small charge will be made to cover postage costs.

estled on the sloping pastures on the outskirts of Par, is Kilhallon Farm. It’s the home of award winning Kittows Butchers, run by James Kittow and his family. Supplying high quality Cornish meat products is their game and James is passionate about providing his customers with the best locally produced food to choose from. The butchery all takes place on the farm, including the creation of Mr Kittow’s Famous Sausages. Pen’n’tinny Porkers, Squire Trelawney and Country Pork are among their range of mouth-watering sausages they make, not forgetting the popular Cornish hogs pudding. “Over the years we’ve made thousands of sausages,” said James. “With today’s equipment we can produce hundreds of quality sausages every hour.” Customers can choose from a wide range of locally sourced meat and game products. Plus there’s an amazing delicatessen selection created on site as well. James and his team of five staff are kept busy supplying products to other butchers and local restaurants and shops. The public also pop in to the site to pick up their favourites. The business offers a bespoke butchery service to other local farmers, providing opportunity for them to retail their own meat products to the end consumer and add value to their operations. James is just as at home in his boiler suit and boots behind the wheel of his tractor as he is in his butcher’s apron. Not only does he serve up the finest meats to his customers but also rears some of what he sells himself. He’s one of the many farmer producers that Cornwall is blessed with, seeing the process through from field to plate. “We graze our pedigree herd of Red

Rubies here at the farm,” adds James. “More recently we’ve introduced a herd of pedigree Dexter cattle as well.” The butchery business is nothing new to the family. James represents the fifth generation of Kittow’s to embrace the profession. It’s something of a family tradition and they’ve been supplying local meat in the area and farming the land at Kilhallon since 1880. It is certainly an enviable history. 136 years of experience in the trade has certainly paid dividends. A plethora of nominations for awards for their products over years is testament to that. The most recent silverware secured was the title of Best Butcher in Cornwall Life magazine’s 2015 Food & Drink Awards. The perfect way to round off another successful year and springboard for more of the same in 2016. You can find out more by visiting www.kittowsbutchers.co.uk.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 27

Somme trench set for show-goers

to discover

he Somme was just one of the numerous bloody battles that played out during the First World War, but it is probably the best known. This year will mark 100 years since this historic battle began. So it is fitting that the WW1 Living History Group are returning to the 2016 Royal Cornwall Show to create a trench from this era that show-goers will be able to explore. Cornwall’s farmers were still working flat out, doing their bit for the war effort by feeding the nation and the armed forces during 1916. The agricultural industry didn’t have its annual respite in June at the Royal Cornwall Show. After the 1915 show it was resolved to stop holding them until hostilities had ceased.

28 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

Cornishmen were at the sharp end of the conflict as well. The local regiment, the Devon & Cornwall Light Infantry, were very much involved in the offensive at the Somme. The Duchy’s other primary industry was also set to play a pivotal role in proceedings. Cornish tin miners were recruited to fulfil a very important role at the front line. In fact, they were actually far beneath it. Their world renowned mining skills were put to good use, with tin miners specifically joining the 252nd Tunnelling Company, which was part of the Royal Engineers. They were instrumental in tunnelling under enemy lines and detonating explosives to gain all important ground. The miners’ finest hour was the creation of

the Lochnagar mine, in Northern France. The mine was packed full of 50,000lbs of explosives. They were meant to use 40,000lbs but in the true Cornish spirit of doing a job properly, they added an extra 10,000lbs for good measure. The resulting explosion, at 7.38am on the 1st July 1916, was heard as far away as London, the damage inflicted on the enemy significant. It signalled the start of the five month long Battle of the Somme. You can find out much more about this story and what life was really like on the front line during the Somme at this year’s show.

Canine section classes set to

News Events Centre Diary Visit www.rcaa.org.uk for full listings, contact details for future events or bookings please call 01208 812183 FEBRUARY 7

Western Hunt Point to Point

Jefferys Auctions Sale of Poultry and Farm Machinery

MARCH 1-3

ExpoWest Cornwall Show

Cornwall Business Show

Camel Valley Endurance Ride

25 -26

Antique Fairs Cornwall

25 -27

Kernow K9 Dog Agility Club Show

Cornwall Gundog Show

APRIL 2-3 3

ncreasing demand within the ever-popular dog show that forms part of the Royal Cornwall Show will see an expansion in the number of classes within many of the breed sections. Jennifer Hick, secretary of the Canine Section, said: “The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Alaskan Malamute, Belgian Shepherd Dog, Pug and Chow Chow breeds will all see the introduction of additional classes for this year’s show.” The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed will again have eight classes at the forthcoming show. Three further breeds have been added to this year’s canine section as well. The Hungarian Puli, Beagle and the Hamiltonstövare, a hunting breed developed in Sweden, will become part of the competitive event in June. Thursday 9th June will see the Terriers, Pastoral & Working dogs judged. Friday 10th will be the turn of the Utility & Toys section groups followed on Saturday 11th by the Hounds & Gundogs. Please visit www.royalcornwallshow.org/competitors/dogs for full details of the dog show and how to enter.

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16 -17 23 30 1 May

Cornwall Agility Dog Show St Agnes Dog Show The Wedding Alliance Show Jeffereys Auction Sale of Poultry and Farm Machinery Cornwall Home & Lifestyle Show

MAY 1

Cornwall Tor Cycling Event

Kernow Farm Plastics Ltd The efficient way to dispose of and recycle your waste plastic See our website for: Lambing pens, chicken houses and other products

brushsbroomcupboard.com Water-Ma-Trout Ind Est, Helston TR13 OLW

01326 562 226

Tel: 07899 966055 Eve: 01208 851970 www.ker nowfarmplastics.co.uk

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 29

Solo Building Supplies and Showrooms Long Rock Industrial Estate . Long Rock Penzance . TR20 8HX . Tel: 01736 365176

30 ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE

How can we save some cash? 2016 is upon us and a new year can give cause for optimism, however, the harsh reality is that financially the recent months in most farming sectors have been extremely tough. For the lucky ones, basic payments have now been received but for many these funds have been earmarked to pay last year’s patient creditors. With continued low farm gate prices, for the next few months at least, cash flow will remain particularly tight. Ultimately cash remains king and a lack of cash can ultimately prove fatal.

We give smart advice to help you thrive

Given this, how can a farm business generate additional cash? Our experience is that to date the banks have remained supportive and it is essential that they are kept in the picture at all times, however the support of a bank should not be taken for granted and I can only see more farmers seeking short term cash fixes to keep the wolves from the door.

No matter how big or small your business, we are here to support you through an ever changing rural environment.

Most farmers can think of ways to generate some extra cash, as outlined below,

We advise over 350 farms and 30 landed estates across the South West, on how to minimise their tax burden and maximise their business opportunities.

• E xtended credit terms/direct debit – this can work in the short term and agreeing to pay regular bills over an extended period by monthly direct debit can ease cash flow pressures.

With an award winning tax team we can advise you on personal tax issues as well, including capital gains and inheritance tax. Brian Harvey BSc (Econ) ACA Partner

Truro 01872 276477 brian.harvey@francisclark.co.uk

Brian specialises in advising on a broad range of financial accounting and taxation issues, francisclark.co.uk including IHT, CGT and succession planning for rural businesses.

• C ash-in savings - Can only be done once, and often already done. • B orrow from family members – can be a difficult conversation to go to a family member but often willing to assist. • P ension drawdown - If you are over 55 years old and have not drawn down on your pension fund then you can use the “flexible access” route to obtain a quarter of the pension free of all tax and the remaining 75% residue will then be taxed at the prevailing rate of tax in the year which it is drawn.

• S elling of surplus assets – most farms have surplus kit it has acquired over the years which is not used to the degree is should be. It is worth considering selling this to raise funds and consider the use of a contractor going forward. This may well have tax consequences if assets sold have been fully written down for tax purposes. • R e-finance/Sale and lease back of equipment. If a tractor was bought and paid for when prices were good it could be sold to a finance company and leased back. Whilst this is not an attractive option in terms of the interest rate payable, it does release significant funds which can buy time – often the commodity which is not available if the bank has said no. • S ell an asset – A sale of land, buildings or property can generate potentially a large sum, however this can take some time and may have significant tax implications. • S ale of part of the herd (if you are on the herd basis for tax purposes) – if funds have to be raised it is worth considering downsizing operations and selling an excess of the herd (at least 20%). Sale proceeds are free of income tax or corporation tax, and the herd can be built back up in the fullness of time when prices rise. The above, whilst not an exhaustive list, gives some food for thought. Our experience suggests that prior to making any such key business decisions it is essential to take appropriate advice and consider their full implications. We have become aware of some who, in the difficult climate have looked beyond the bank and have considered the secondary finance market, offering immediate finance without sight of financial results at exceedingly high rates of interest – these should most definitely be seen as lenders of last resort.

ROYAL CORNWALL MAGAZINE 31

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Truro 01872 276477

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