myCornwall April/May 2020

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SUBLIME STAYCATIONS

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NEW EATS

CORNWALL’S

CHAMPION

CHOCOLATE

PIONEERS

KNIGHTS OF THE

SKY CORNWALL AIR AMBULANCE

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Gardens & Grandeur Enjoy the Pace of Nature myCornwalltv APRIL / MAY 2020 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 59 £3.25 t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 1 n

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Hello and A warm welcome to all you readers in the April/May issue of myCornwall. Before you start getting stuck into this jam-packed issue, we’d like to make a short statement. With the sudden and very recent announcements regarding the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak, Cornwall is understandably buckling down to weather through this particularly difficult storm.

As daily announcements were released whilst this issue went to print, some of what you may read will have undoubtedly changed since then. This may be that events have been postponed or rescheduled, cafes, restaurants, bars and attraction sites may have changed opening hours or have temporarily shut their doors and exhibitions and galleries will also be altering their opening times or rescheduling events. It’s an uncertain and difficult time for many of us small businesses, but despite the hardship we’re faced with, there has also been an incredible amount of support and versatility shown by so many of Cornwall’s creative communities over the past week alone.

So, with that being said, there is still an abundance of Cornish goodness to discover in this issue and enjoy. Plenty to plan for, plenty to explore for yourself online and still plenty of businesses who are open in one way or another. Now is the time to support locality more than ever, whether it’s a small purchase or a social media shout out, and in this issue of myCornwall you will find hundreds of talented makers, artists, small business owners, designers, chefs and more.

Plan a warm summer’s afternoon exploring the grand gardens of Cornwall and delve into the rich history of Porthcurno’s Telegraph Museum as it celebrates its 150th anniversary. Read all about the brave ‘knights of the sky’ who work with Cornwall Air Ambulance to save thousands of lives every year and meet Cornwall’s pioneering chocolate creators, one of a select handful of real chocolate makers in the country, to discover why Chocolarder needs to be your go to sweet treat from now on.

Together, we can get through this. As well as our stylish magazines as guides, you’ll be able to find masses of cheerful Cornish content on our website online, with stories and updates from local businesses who are adapting to still offer you delicious food, art, drink and more.

Champion what’s close to you, admire the blossoming of spring and relish in every ounce of warm weather that passes across our wild and windy county. Keep safe, keep healthy and we’ll come out of this stronger than ever.

Find us at www.thatsmycornwall.com Facebook at myCornwall Instagram at mycornwall Twitter at myCornwall_ Gans Kerensa, (With Love) Alex, Editor

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News A round up of all the latest happenings Old Cornwall Cornish Memory 10 Things To Do myCornwall's top suggestions Dog Friendly Cornwall The Lost Gardens of Heligan Adore My Store Rustic House The Want List Uneeka Design Hub Wendron Stoves A&E of the Skies The Cornwall Connection Gardens and Grandeur Rambling Through the Rame

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My Cornish World Oliver Williams Let's Speak Cornish

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Art News A round up from the creative world VIP Newlyn School Interiors Through the Eyes of... Suki Wapshott Art Focus Art. Music. Activism: Kurt Jackson Maker's Focus Catch the Wave Artist Profile Roger Curtis Meet The Maker Julia Mills Gallery Of The Month The Stable Yard Gallery, Lizard Art

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Bites Dish of the Month From Sands Resort Meet the Chef James Heath Places to Eat New Bites on the Block Cornwall's Chocolate Pioneers Weekend Away Fowey Hall Hotel Experience A Day at Budock Vean

EDITOR Alex Saunders alex@mycornwall.tv

CONTRIBUTORS

01209 314147

thatsmycornwall.com myCornwall magazine, Krowji, West Park, Redruth, Cornwall, TR15 3AJ

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Elizabeth Dale

DESIGN Paul Blyth

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

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CONTRIBUTORS

myCornwall magazine welcomes contributions. We reserve the right to edit, amend, correct (or not use) anything submitted. Contributors must obtain all necessary permissions and credit all sources. All rights to works submitted are supplied for use by myCornwall and its parent company in all media (present and future). Whilst reasonable steps are taken to check the accuracy of work contained within the publication we cannot take responsibility for mistakes or the views submitted by contributors. Unsolicited contributions that fail to state they require payment or do not have a payment agreement in place will not be paid for but may be published. In order to avoid any confusion please state if you seek payment.

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New Festival of Art to Come to Penzance this Summer, 6th - 21st June 2020 To celebrate Penzance as one of the most vibrant and innovative artistic towns in the country, Penzance BID are gathering up to 1,000 of its local artists and creative organizations to stage exhibitions, workshops, pop up galleries, talks and lectures. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the art and beauty of this historic coastal town.

of Artists, Space for You, Penzance

The partners of the festival, Penlee Museum and Gallery, Newlyn Art Gallery, The Exchange, Newlyn School of Art, Cornwall Art Society Newlyn Society

and this festival gives the opportunity to

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Studios and Penzance BID have come together to collaborate on a wide programme of workshops, lectures, talks, meet the artists, and exhibitions showcasing the diverse range of art produced and showcased in the area.

Throughout history, Penzance has been a destination for art and creative culture truly celebrate that talent. l www.penzanceartfestival.co.uk

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

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Coronavirus Causes Disruption to Porthleven Food Festival As the novel coronavirus COVID-19 hit the UK around late January, efforts have since been taken to stop the spread of the virus across the country.

As one of Cornwall’s busiest events in April, the team behind the Porthleven Food Festival made the difficult decision in mid-March to cancel the 2020 event following the continued rise of coronavirus cases across the country, the first time the event has even been cancelled in its 12 year history.

With the consideration of public safety and the future of the community-run event to take into account, which brings in an

Win Big at Jo Downs this Easter!

This spring, Jo Downs Handmade Glass has teamed up with Beach Retreats, Cornwall's premier self-catering holiday agency, to bring you a fantastic prize draw worth £1000.

Buy any piece at Jo Downs Handmade Glass between 1 April and 31 May for a chance to WIN £500 worth of Jo Downs gift vouchers, PLUS £500 towards a luxury Beach Retreats holiday.

Jo Downs' beautiful glasswork is synonymous with the beauty of the Cornish coast, while Beach Retreats specialise in luxury self-catering properties within walking distance of Cornwall's most beautiful beaches, from pretty cottages to penthouse apartments and spectacular ocean view houses. l

estimated 40,000 people over the course of the three day celebration, Chairman of the festival, Alec Short believes the correct and safest choice was made, “Much of the demographic for our event in the daytime is 60+ and the World Health Organisation has already advised people in this age bracket not to attend public gatherings.

The committee has been monitoring the situation in the UK as it worsens, and we all believe it is the right decision to cancel.

“With less than five weeks to go, any additional restrictions on the movement of people, or a nationwide ban on events being enacted in the coming weeks,

would be financially catastrophic for us.

Coupled with the current public health concerns, we feel that we must cancel the event this year in order to guarantee its future survival.”

Members of the public are currently being advised to avoid large gatherings, crowded spaces and to maintain regular hand washing. Whilst most people infected with coronavirus will experience a mild form of the disease, those with underlying health conditions and the older population are at risk of developing more serious conditions.

“We hope everyone will support our decision and come back and join us in 2021.” l

More Trees Planted Across Cornwall Cornish residents are to benefit from new tree sites in 19 locations across Cornwall as part of the Forest for Cornwall programme.

Planting for 13 of the sites will be part funded by the Government’s Forestry Commission after the council won an £87,000 bid under the Urban Tree Challenge Fund, which aims to expand woodlands and tree cover across England.

The Forest for Cornwall campaign is also co-financing the sites alongside funding the remaining six sites.

A total of 208 native and non-native trees are due to be planted with Forestry Commission support across areas such as Torpoint, Bodmin, Callington, Camelford, Hayle, Indian Queens, Liskeard, Newquay, Penzance, St Austell and Truro. Meanwhile, 76 trees funded by the Forest for Cornwall will be planted in areas such as Callington, Illogan, Pool, Redruth and Torpoint. l For more information on Forest for Cornwall and how to get involved visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/forestforcornwall

Enter the prize draw with any purchase at Jo's galleries in St Ives, Padstow, Fowey, Tintagel and Launceston, or online at jodowns.com.

An Announcement from Redruth Regal Theatre In light of the announcements made by the government on the 16th March, alongside daily changes that are currently taking place across the country, many of Redruth Regal Theatre’s upcoming performances have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

from July, so do check ahead and keep up to date online before travelling to ensure that a particular show is going ahead and don’t forget to contact your ticket supplier if you have tickets.

Thank you everyone continued support! l

for

your

Travel

THREE REASONS TO TRAVEL TO FALMOUTH THIS SPRING/SUMMER! Celebrate creative culture to its fullest in the heart of Falmouth town, where food, drink, music, poetry and more take centre stage in this bustling Cornish port.

A Summer in Scotland

Following the sudden, but not so surprising collapse of Flybe airlines earlier last month, many were left wondering what lay next for Cornwall Airport Newquay, where a large number of Flybe flights connected the county to many UK destinations and beyond.

Whilst British Airways are already offering summertime services between London Heathrow and Newquay, there are still several key routes that are yet to be taken up by alternative airlines.

One of CAN’s newest collaborative airlines, Loganair, has already taken over 16 routes formerly flown by Flybe, however none of these are former routes including Cornwall. A fast-growing regional airline, Loganair previously announced it would be working alongside Cornwall Airport Newquay to offer flights to Aberdeen, Glasgow and Edinburgh, launching in April, May and June respectively. Whether it’s a weekend exploring the rich cosmopolitan of Edinburgh city or a road trip adventuring through Scotland’s breathtaking highland region, Scotland is undoubtedly a must-visit any time of year.

As Cornwall Airport Newquay bosses continue their discussions to find replacement airlines for some of their key routes, you can keep up to date with all the latest news via their website, www.cornwallairportnewquay.com and to find out more about trips to Scotland, visit Loganair.co.uk. l

Fowey Hall Re-Opens After Multi-Million Refurb Fowey Hall Hotel has recently reopened after a multi-million-pound refurbishment that has seen a total redevelopment of the 36-bedroom hotel.

With sweeping sea views over Fowey and its iconic estuary and harbour, Fowey Hall Hotel has long been a staple part of Fowey’s community and as a result it has adapted to modern times. The public rooms now offer additional seating for visitors to relax, dine informally and enjoy a drink. Furnishings have received a major overhaul whilst some of the hotel’s best known original features have been retained to keep the atmospheric character that exudes from this Grade II listed building.

In addition to the revamped lounge and lobby complete with their cosy open fires, Fowey Hall’s ground floor also boasts an

extensive library home to photographic collections as well as a children’s game room and cinema room.

Built by Charles Hanson, a local of Fowey who made his fortune in Canada, he returned to Fowey a rich man, intent on adding a sense of exuberance to his beloved fishing town. His dream was realised and the hotel has since played host to a range of notable characters throughout history, including Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame, who was a regular guest that took inspiration from Fowey Hall for the infamous Toad Hall in his books.

A place that combines historical wonder with modern comfort, Fowey Hall once again holds a proud residence in south east Cornwall’s best and beloved establishments. l www.foweyhallhotel.co.uk

The Working Boat Beer Festival 22nd – 23rd May Watch the wonderful spectacle of the beer fleet which kick-starts the Fal River Festival, where a flotilla of boats from Falmouth, Truro, Mylor and St Mawes will join each other in a convoy across the river. Where better to celebrate the arrival of The Greenbank Fal River Festival than at the launch party? Head to the Working Boat’s events marquee on The Greenbank quay for a jolly shindig later, with foot-stomping music from Jonah’s Lift.

And as part of the festival, The Working Boat team will be throwing their annual Mini Beer Festival, featuring their favourite local beers, ales, ciders and more! Moor up on their pontoons, sit yourself in the beer garden, and sink a few cold ones. Their chefs will be preparing home-made pizzas in the outdoor oven, as well as plenty of pub grub from midday until late. Enjoy free entry and plenty of brews from some of the Working Boat’s best-loved suppliers, including Verdant Brewing, Sharp’s, Brew Dog, Harbour, Beavertown, Sharp’s and Jubel.

The Working Boat’s Beer Festival and launch party are free, but if you’d like to book a table, please call 01326 314283.

Tarquin’s Gin Club: 24th May A G&T by the sea, what could be more perfect on a bank holiday weekend? Join in Greenbank Hotel’s gin-tastic event to wrap up their bank holiday weekend festivities, hosted by the wonderful Tarquin’s Gin. Enjoy a gin and tonic on arrival, discover the history behind one of Cornwall’s most successful gin distilleries and get involved with gin cocktail demos as Tarquin’s take over the events marquee for the afternoon. Tickets to the Gin Club are £25 per person (including gin samples, two homemade gin cocktails, a G&T on arrival, and nibbles): www. greenbank-gin-club.eventbrite.co.uk Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival 12th – 14th June Get ready to sing along to the songs of the sea at the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, which The Working Boat is a key sponsor for this year. Warm up those vocal chords and get ready for a classic Cornish knees-up in the sun.

The Working Boat’s marquee on the quay will host over 20 shanty groups from around the world from Friday – Sunday, and all performances are free. l

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Obby Oss Day Padstow 1900 © Artist’s Estate

Carnival, Redruth, 1960s

Harbour Beach at Summer, 1974 © Andrew Besley

Prince and Princess of Wales at St Mary’s, Isles of Scilly, 1982, Andrew Besley

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

This issue we look at the archives of fascinating images from Cornish Memory. www.cornishmemory.com

carbisbayholidays.co.uk/myc | 01736 630015

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10 THINGS TO DO DOG FRIENDLY CORNWALL THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN ADORE MY STORE THE WANT LIST DESIGN HUB A&E OF THE SKIES THE CORNWALL CONNECTION GARDENS AND GRANDEUR RAMBLING THROUGH THE RAME

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Things to Do 1. EASTER CLAY MODELLING Monday 6th April At Wheal Martyn in St Austell from 10.30am to 3.30pm, in celebration of renowned artist and occasional ceramicist, Kurt Jackson, visitors will be able to learn more about Wheal Martyn’s connection to the ceramics industry as well as the chance to have a go at some clay modelling to create the perfect memento to take home. Cost: 50p, suitable for all ages and no booking required! www.wheal-martyn.com

2. ANTIQUE FAIRS CORNWALL Friday 10th & Saturday 11th April Discover

an

antique

treasure

Enjoy artisan food, a gin bar and an entertainment corner for children. www.antiquesguidecornwall.co.uk

3. WILD SPRING HARE Friday 3rd – Monday 13th April It’s the return of the wildly entertaining and enchanting Rogue Theatre spring show, Wild Spring Hare. Journey into Tehidy Woods at the North Cliffs this Easter for an immersive trail where your imagination can run wild. Follow to Hare to meet the Woodland King, who will be waiting with stories and chocolate Easter treats for everyone. Show times vary so please visit the website. Tickets cost: £9.50 www.roguetheatre.co.uk

trove

at Wadebridge Showground in this

4. THE ACORN PENZANCE

two-day fair. Hundreds of stands will

Changing Dates Due to the recent coronavirus outbreak.

Many of the Acorn's early planned dates

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have been cancelled. However, much of their shows have been rescheduled for later in the year, tickets are still valid and the team are on hand to talk you through any updates and questions. Check them on out on Facebook to keep up to date with new show dates and more. www.theacornpenzance.com/events/folklore

5. KING EDWARD MINE OPEN DAY Sunday 26th April From 10am, this free Cornish Mining Heritage event will present demonstrations of Camborne’s King Edward Mine’s history equipment and experience the sounds of tin mining 120 years ago from unique Californian Stamps. There will also be plenty of Cornish musical entertainment, children’s activities, knowledgeable guides and delicious food from the Croust Hut café. www.kingedwardmine.co.uk

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6. ROSELAND FESTIVAL

8. ST IVES FOOD FESTIVAL

Saturday 25th April – Saturday 9th May

Friday 15th – Sunday 17th May, 6pm

Various locations across the Roseland

Having grown from strength to strength,

peninsula will be offering cultural events to

the St Ives Food Festival is now one of the

delight both residents and visitors. From

most anticipated food festivals in west

folk and jazz music to history and art, films

Cornwall. With dozens of local food stalls,

and photography, walks and talks, this high-

chef demonstrations, music, activities and

quality festival celebrates diverse creativity

plenty of food and drink to try, this year’s

and offers something for everyone.

St Ives Food Festival is looking to be one

www.roselandfestival.co.uk

of their biggest and best yet.

7. ENYS GARDENS BLUEBELL FESTIVAL

9. HALF TERM AT HEALEY’S CYDER FARM

2nd – 10th May

May Half Term

Kick off May by witnessing the stunning

Enjoy a day at Healey’s Cornish Cyder

carpets of bluebells that cover the

Farm

gardens of Enys House. A craft fair on the

everyone. Take a tour of the farm and

2nd & 3rd May and spring art exhibition

discover all about cyder making, rumble

from the 5th - 10th also taking place.

around the orchard on the vintage tractor,

Opening hours are from 11am–5pm, entry

sip the samples and meet the farm animals

fees apply.

as well as treating yourself to a delicious

www.enysgardens.org.uk

lunch and afternoon tea. Dogs on leads

that’s

offering

something

for

are welcome and there’s free parking and free entry into the farm. Charges for some activities do apply. www.healeyscyder.co.uk

10. OPEN STUDIOS CORNWALL Saturday 23rd – Sunday 31st May It’s Cornwall’s biggest art event as Open Studios presents hundreds of creative outlets as artists, potters, printmakers, illustrators, sculptors, textile artists, silversmiths, jewellery makers and many more throw open their doors to offer visitors a chance to get a behind the scenes look and snap up some unique, high-quality work. Keep an eye out for the orange ‘O’ and don’t forget the grab and Open Studios guidebook to plan your trails and travels. www.openstudioscornwall.co.uk

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In January this year, Cornwall Council made the happy announcement that following the biggest public consultation ever on the topic, they were going to reduce the time that dogs are banned from some Cornish beaches. They also wanted to make the rules simpler and easier to follow. Here, Victoria Carpenter from Dog Friendly Cornwall explains everything you need to know about the new rules on dog beach bans in Cornwall…

Cornwall has more than 300 beaches, most of which come under the control of Cornwall Council, and in recent years, just over 40 beaches had regulations banning dogs from beaches during the summer season. Previously, the dates varied a little, some bans started on Easter Day, others on 30th April, for example and the bans ran until around 30th September.

Now Cornwall Council has changed the regulations. From April 2020, the beach ban regulations will be simplified and harmonised.

Rob Nolan, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Public Protection, has decided that restrictions will be in place only in July and August, except on beaches with Blue Flag status where they will apply for four and a half months.

The hours of the day when beach bans apply has also been reduced. Previously many beaches had bans running from 7am to 7pm. Now bans will be enforced from 10am to 6pm during July and August, adding one hour in the evenings, until 18.00, will match most lifeguard hours.

These new restrictions will apply to 41 beaches, and will stay in place for three years unless reviewed.

In a nutshell: The dog beach bans will all run from 1st July to 31st August (two months) between 10am-6pm daily.

Except where a beach has Blue Flag status in place, when restrictions will apply for longer, from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm.

There is an exception for Porthchapel Beach near Land’s End where current restrictions will be lifted, as requested by the private beach owner.

The decision follows the largest ever consultation response, with over 13,128 replies, 78% from residents and 19% from visitors.

Rob Nolan of Cornwall Council added this note to dog owners: “We will be monitoring whether dog owners honour these relaxed

restrictions by cleaning up after their pets, and keeping them under control.”

“I’m sure with common sense and mutual respect we can allow everyone to accept differing viewpoints, and all enjoy the beaches.”

New signs will be created underlining the responsibilities of dog owners. Council officers will monitor the effect of these changes, and it is proposed that a review take place following the 2020 summer period in order to assess their impact. A new ‘We are watching you’ poster and online campaign to counter dog-fouling is already underway, and will have an extra boost next week. This will give information on reporting dog related issues to Cornwall Council.

Here is the list of Cornish beaches that have dog bans from 1 July to 31 August (two months) between 10am-6pm daily.

This applies except where a beach has Blue Flag status in place, when restrictions will apply for longer, from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm.

• Cadgwith Cove, Cadgwith • Carbis Bay Beach, Carbis Bay (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm.

• Castle Beach, Falmouth • Cawsand Beach, Cawsand • Chapel Porth Beach, St Agnes • Church Cove, Gunwalloe • Crackington Haven, Bude • Crooklets Beach, Bude • Gyllyngvase Beach, Falmouth (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15 May to 30 September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm) • Harveys Towans – Godrevy Point • Housel Bay, The Lizard • Kennack Sands Beach (West Part) • Kynance Cove, The Lizard • Maenporth Beach, Falmouth • Mousehole Beach to Skilly Beach • Newlyn Beach to Battery Rocks (excluding Wherrytown)

• Marazion to Longrock • Perranuthnoe • Poldhu Beach, Mullion • Polurrian Cove Beach, Mullion • Polzeath Beach, Polzeath • Porth Beach, Porth • Porthcurno Beach, Porthcurno • Porthgwarra Beach, St Levan • Porthgwidden Beach, St Ives • Porthleven West, Porthleven • Porthmeor Beach, St Ives (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm) • Portminister Beach, St Ives • Porthpean Beach, St Austell • Porthtowan Beach, Porthtowan (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm) • Portmellon Cove, Mevagissey • Portreath Beach • Praa Sands Beach, Praa Sands • Readymoney Cove, Fowey • Sennen Beach, Sennen • St George’s Well, Padstow • St Ives Harbour Beach, St Ives • Summer’s Beach, St Mawes • Swanpool Beach, Falmouth • Tattam’s Beach, Portscatho • Trevone Beach, Padstow (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm) • Tunnel Beach, Falmouth • Widemouth Beach, Bude (Blue Flag dogs banned from 15th May to 30th September (four and a half months) between 10am-6pm) Here at Dog Friendly Cornwall we will be producing a guide in April to dog friendly beaches with information about the best beaches where dogs are allowed all year round and the beaches where there are summer bans. Please visit our website or follow us on social media @dogfriendlycornwall if you’d like to be updated or just get ideas on dog friendly adventures in Cornwall. www.dogfriendlycornwall.co.uk l

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The 30th Anniversay of On Sunday 16th February the The Lost Gardens of Heligan marked the 30th anniversary since Tim Smit and John Willis first pushed open the creaky door to the then bramble covered Flower Garden.

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hat followed is a restoration project that captivated the hearts of garden lovers, celebrated the lives of the working men and women of the Heligan Estate and became pioneering in the horticultural world.

Throughout the last three decades, Heligan has continued an organic evolution by preserving traditional gardening and farming methods, whilst combining them with modern techniques to transform the 200-acre estate back to good heart. Native and rare breed livestock has been returned to Heligan’s pasture, inviting visitors to connect further to our cherished countryside, whilst being able to make the links between sustainable quality food production and the journey from soil to plate.

To celebrate their landmark anniversary, Heligan is offering a series of unique events throughout the year, designed to bring a community together to celebrate, contemplate and appreciate everything The Lost Gardens have achieved over the past 30 years and anticipate for the future.

In April, they are welcoming one of Britain’s most well-known chefs and presenters, Jimmy Doherty, to host two very special events alongside Sir Tim Smit. Jimmy is the president of the Rare Breed Survival Trust, the organisation that awarded Heligan with official Rare Breed Farm Park status in 2018, making it the first rare breeds park in the South West.

The duo will be hosting an exquisite Friday Feast with a three course meal using Heligan produce, opportunities to ask Tim and Jimmy questions and the chance to win fantastic prizes in the raffle. The following day, the pair

will sit down for a ‘Yarn in the Barn’, discussing topics such as the restoration of landscapes, the future of native breeds and landscape biodiversity.

To mark each season, there will also be four exclusive tours of The Lost Gardens with Tim Smit himself guiding the tours. Hear about the tales and secrets of the restoration in the most authentic way possible.

The story of continued restoration has respectively inspired Heligan’s whole narrative for the year. An increasing body of scientific evidence supporting the idea that immersing yourself in nature improves mental and physical wellbeing has lent itself perfectly to Heligan’s principles for the year.

In 2020, Heligan looks to restore the public’s connection to the natural world and embark on restoring human health through the power of nature.

Driven by the beauty the different seasons offer, Heligan are working alongside Dr Lucy Loveday to provide seasonal wellbeing walks.

Each walk will be full of sensory and interactive moments, encouraging you to smell, listen and feel as you explore the Gardens.

The whole balance of the natural world is considered and protected as Heligan strives to create not only a quality and fun visitor experience, but also a meaningful and uplifting one, that reconnects us to our food, horticulture and nature. As Heligan continues to thrive in its restoration, this year, they encourage you to explore a sense of restoration in your own lives and rediscover a love of the outdoors and the benefits it can bring to your life. l For more information about Heligan’s events and how to buy tickets, please visit www.heligan.com

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

RUSTIC HOUSE

Rustic House burst onto Cornwall’s ‘interiors’ scene a few years ago as an exciting development from a small family business in Cornwall who pride themselves on their keen eye for dreamy wooden furniture that’s designed to transform living spaces into homey havens.

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t was during a trip to visit suppliers in Indonesia that the idea for Rustic House was born, to expand their successful teak garden furniture business into something bigger, “We built our business importing ourselves from manufacturers in Indonesia and selling directly to our customers online,” explains Emily, manager at Rustic House and Patio Furniture. “On our travels to visit suppliers we saw these incredible pieces of teak root and liveedge wood slabs that were crafted into fabulous dining tables. It inspired us to take the plunge and start Rustic House.

Our small selection of beautiful one of a kind dining tables soon grew into a range of furniture, lighting and accessories and we’re continuing to expand and add new products and designs each year.”

The clue is in the name, Rustic House offer an extensive range of truly unique furniture, lighting and accessories, all under a ‘rustic’ umbrella. Each piece is crafted to the highest standard and finished to perfection; think of enchanted woodland feasting, classy country chic or stylish beach side living. Direct sourcing is a key part of what Rustic House do and they work closely with manufacturers who create products that highlight the individual character of the natural materials used. As a result, like with all natural things, each piece is completely one-off and no-one else will have one exactly the same, “There is so much depth and character in the grain of the wood, each one is its own work of art,” says Emily. “The live-edge tables are

what we’re really known for, they are such dramatic pieces with big, chunky wood slab tops and bases, they make an incredible eye-catching feature. They’re versatile too, from traditional farmhouse kitchens, to contemporary open plan living spaces, they just seem to fit right in.”

Whilst the store’s wide variety of reclaimed wood lamps have proven a popular choice for customers, for Emily, picking a favourite from their varied range of furniture and homeware products is hard, but she always finds her eye being drawn back to one particular piece, “Our teak root tables have to be the stars of the show. Each one is so unique, that’s why it’s great to have a showroom where our customers can come and see everything. They’re able to pick exactly the one they want and put it all together with chairs and cushions, playing around with different combinations to get a real feel for the furniture in person before they buy.”

After establishing themselves online, Rustic House threw themselves into running their store. Designed so that customers can easily envisage pieces within a home, the Rustic House store also helps them to keep in touch with its customers' needs when it comes to furnishing a home, as Emily describes, “By listening to our customers' demand for cost effective services, we developed an innovative new fixed-fee home staging package to help homeowners and property developers furnish their homes for sale without having to pay for an

interior designer, or shell out on buying or renting expensive furniture packages.”

The developments don’t stop there as this spring Rustic House will be welcoming in a new range of bedroom furniture, following a

successful

collaboration

with

their

manufacturers to design a Rustic House range of wardrobes, bedside tables, chests of drawers and much more.

“We love being able to offer a personal service to our customers and helping them find something truly unique for their home.

Listening to our customers' ideas and finding out exactly what they’re looking for has helped us design our own bespoke pieces you won’t find anywhere else.”

Whether you’re eager to pick yourself up a cosy new lamp, or find the perfect statement piece that’ll bring an entire room together, Rustic House are ready and waiting. Wander the impressive showroom and browse their extensive collections before finishing it all off with a visit to their coffee shop to enjoy a locally hand roasted organic coffee and a piece of home made cake to mull over it all. l Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5pm Sundays 10am – 4pm Rustic House, Par Moor Road, Par, PL24 2SQ T: 01726 817 567 www.rustichouse.co.uk

GA

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THE WANT LIST

Uneeka

1

2

3

4

5

6

1. Seaside Chic & Country Chic Dining Tables starting from £599 2. Star table lamps, available in Black or Gold. Small £62 - Large £69 3. Analine Leather and Harris Tweed 3 seater sofa - £2299 4. Handmade, hand-printed wrapping paper £2.99 per sheet or 2 for £5 5. Kantha Stitch, 100% Silk, scarf. Handmade in India - £32.99. Silver Plated Abstract Earings - £25 6. Fair trade pom pom velvet and hand printed cushions - £19.99 each An independent company who have both Home and Lifestyle stores as well as a popular café, Uneeka’s bright, busy and eye-catching store fronts are stand out features in Truro city centre. Across their entire business they strive to work with fair trade, ethical and economical suppliers as well as sourcing close to home to support their local community and farther afield to support trade and workers overseas. Priding themselves on offering quality products and delivering fantastic service, Uneeka’s passionate and dedicated team are ready to help you create the home of your dreams.

Uneeka.home - Princess Chula House • City Road • Truro • Cornwall • TR1 2JL - 01872 888538 Uneeka.life & Cafe.Uneeka - 5 Boscawen Street • Truro • Cornwall • TR1 2EL - 01872 888530 / 888532 Find us on Instagram, Facebook and at uneeka.com

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

A carefully curated selection of affordable gifts, cards, kitchen and homeware, alondside a selection of Cornish makers and designers.

4 High Street, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 2AB Tel: 01326 618240 Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10.30am-4.30pm

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Design Today, a wood burning stove is far more than a way to heat a home.

Creating atmosphere, complementing architectural designs and acting as a central focus point of a room has resulted in wood burning stoves advancing into the realms of contemporary style as well as flexible efficiency.

A

hub for stoves of all shapes, sizes and styles, Wendron Stove is Cornwall’s first point of call when it comes to all you need to know about stoves, and no stranger to the need for individuality, Wendron have an exciting range that allows customers to really put their own stamp on their stove. Featured in this issue’s Design Hub is Wendron’s range of Hase stoves, an effortless balance of form and function that allows for originality and customisation.

With the ability to change the ceramics to incorporate different colours, the super efficient Asmara, Lima and Elvas range from Hase is available at Wendron Stove in a range of colours, alongside Zafra, Hase’s gas stove range.

Wood burning stoves are an idyllic addition for any Cornish home.

Having worked in the stove industry for over 30 years, Wendron certainly know a thing or two when it comes to making a stove work for your home. With placement flexibility, a wood burning stove can be installed virtually anywhere in the home providing there is a way to run the vent pipe. Economical, convenient and often a complementary feature to a room, more and more people are welcoming wood burning stoves into the house.

Visit Wendron at either their Helston or Truro Showroom, where you’ll be met with quality, personalised service and specialist advice that will guide you on the journey to discovering a wood burning stove to suit you. l Helston Showroom Unit 4, Water-Ma-Trout Industrial Estate, Helston, TR13 OLW T: 01326 572878 Truro Showroom Unit 2, 6 Quay Street, Truro, TR1 2HD T: 01872 520010 www.wendronstoves.co.uk t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 25 n

Get 6 issues for £14.95* when you use code: SPRING2020 UK: 6 issues (1 year) £20 | 12 issues (2 years) £40 EU: 6 issues (1 year) £45 | 12 issues (2 years) £80

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Download a digital edition for £2* from iTunes Newsstand, Google Play Newsstand and Amazon *For the individual digital edition the price may vary due to fluctuations in currency exchange rates

*NORMAL PRICE: £20. OFFER ONLY AVAILABLE TO UK RESIDENTS

Online: www.thatsmycornwall.com Call Us: +44 (0)1442 820581 n 26 |

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

The New Generation of Cornwall Air Ambulance Living in a beautiful rural region such as Cornwall is a blessing but it also comes with its own unique challenges, especially for our emergency services. Our topography and geography can mean that if the worst should happen getting help can be a struggle. Elizabeth Dale takes a look back at the history of the Cornwall Air Ambulance and the exciting new developments taking to the Cornish skies.

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C

ornwall Air Ambulance has truly become an indispensable service and a reassuring presence in the skies above Cornwall since it was first introduced in 1987. Our narrow roads, isolated communities and far-flung beaches, not to mention those summertime traffic jams, can mean that getting a casualty the medical support they need by road can be a challenge.

For the past 33 years Cornwall has been lucky to have our own air ambulance which has flown an amazing 28,000 missions across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, 1,144 in 2019 alone, saving countless lives. When every moment counts, this vital service can shave critical minutes off the journey times to hospitals across the region. Amazingly the helicopters can reach the accident scene on mainland Cornwall in an average of just 12 minutes. Saving time literally means saving lives.

Stuart Beveridge, who has been Communications and Marketing Manager for Cornwall Air Ambulance since 2018, is continually inspired by the difference the charity, which is largely supported by public donations, makes.

“I’m lucky to actually see the difference this charity makes to real people. I often meet ex-patients and their families and it is something that never gets old, it’s always an emotional experience. Everybody knows someone who has been airlifted and no-one knows who might need that mission next.”

From road traffic accidents to trauma injuries and inter-hospital transfers, the helicopter and its team are there 365 days of the year. The wonderful words of thanks on their website from the countless people the service and their highly trained crew have helped are testament to their invaluable work. Sometimes, however, investment is needed to keep this service functioning at the top of its game.

In early 2018 the Cornwall Air Ambulance launched their ‘New Heli Appeal’. The charity set a very ambitious fundraising target of £2.5 million to help fund a brand n 28 |

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new, next generation air ambulance helicopter for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Remarkably the money came pouring in and the target was reached months ahead of schedule!

“We were overwhelmed by the support of the Cornish people and beyond, who have not only reached the target, but smashed it.” Stuart tells me proudly, “As a charity, we are incredibly fortunate to have such strong support from our local communities and businesses, who understand how vital the air ambulance service is here in Cornwall. The total was reached by the generosity of individuals, community groups, trusts and grants, corporate support and major donors. There are too many names to thank...”

Besides the dedicated team of charity staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this appeal such an amazing success, funding for the new helicopter came from many different sources and certainly showed us all the strength of our community here in Cornwall. From children who donated their pocket money to much larger individual contributions, every penny counts. There were cake sales, dinner and art auction events and some rather more ‘creative’ fundraising efforts too. A custom-made gin was produced called the ‘New Heli Gin’ and one intrepid fundraiser even drove a tuk-tuk across India in aid of the campaign!

The appeal was launched as a two year fundraiser in April 2018 and was supposed to run until April 2020 but the Cornwall Air Ambulance reached their target early, so what now? Stuart assures me there is still plenty to do.

“It is fantastic that we have reached our target ahead of schedule and we are very excited to see what the final total will be.

The helicopter is costing the charity £7.4m, so while we have surpassed the public fundraising target of £2.5m, any extra money will be going towards the costs associated with bringing the helicopter home to Cornwall. Our crew of pilots, paramedics and doctors will undergo a

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

period of training on the new helicopter to get them ready to fly missions by April.”

The new helicopter, the AW169, was built in Milan and will actually be owned outright by the charity. It replaces the familiar MD902’s which were only ever on lease. The AW169 arrived in Cornwall in February after having its medical interior fitted in Gloucestershire.

The aircrew, which consists of two pilots, two doctors and eight paramedics, are now commencing training, getting the experience they need with the new aircraft before it goes into operational service.

And this new helicopter really is the next generation of emergency aircraft! The AW169 is more fuel efficient, meaning it can fly more missions without the need to return to base, and it is faster, travelling up to 145 knots (160mph). The helicopter also has more space and vitally will be fitted out with more advanced medical equipment. The helicopter and crew can also fly after dark as they use Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) goggles, specially adapted cockpits, a 30-million candle power searchlight as well as advanced mapping systems. This equipment enables the crew to be on call for 12 hours per day, 365 days a year but all these advances, while undoubtedly saving lives, can be very costly.

“We know we can reach more people and save more lives – but we are limited by the aircraft we fly and what equipment it can carry.” Stuart tells me, “This medically advanced helicopter will enable the crew to fully exploit their life-saving skills. It will allow us to take the skills and equipment of a hospital emergency department to the patient on a clifftop or by the roadside – it’s a real A&E for the skies.”

If you would like to support the Cornwall Air Ambulance there are lots of ways that you can get involved. Pop into one of their six charity shops and snap up a bargain or go to their website and donate (cornwallairambulance.org) or perhaps even consider becoming a volunteer or taking part in one of their events. Every little helps! l

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

The Cornwall

CONNECTION This June, a Tall Ship, a Sea Monster and other attractions will arrive at Porthcurno to celebrate its unique place in world communications

Switch board operators at the General Post Office's International Telephone Exchange circa 1950s. Image courtesy of the PK Porthcurno Archive

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The shop front of a Cable & Wireless Telegraph Office circa 1930s. Image courtesy of the PK Porthcurno archive

replaced by co-axial cables and co-axial cables replaced by the fibre optic cables that we rely on today.

O

The Cable Ship 'Electra' all steel band, December 1951 Image courtesy of the PK Porthcurno Archive

n 10th June this year, a spectacular Tall Ship will drop anchor at Porthcurno as part of a month of celebrations around the amazing history of this quiet little cove.

That, however, is only one in a fabulous series of events being laid on for locals and visitors alike this summer, to mark a truly historic anniversary. If you’ve spent time at Porthcurno, you’ll know it for its beauty and tranquillity, but did you know that the beach and valley are one of the world’s most important sites in the story of global communications? In June 1870, the final section of a telegraph cable was landed at Porthcurno, enabling the very first telegraphic communications between Britain and India, with intermediate connections in Portugal, Gibraltar, Malta and Egypt. From this time forwards, messages that might have taken weeks, or even months to arrive by post, could be sent in a matter of minutes. This landmark development was the brainchild of visionary entrepreneur John Pender, founder of The Falmouth, Gibraltar and Malta Telegraph Company. As the Cableship Investigator sailed into Porthcurno, teams of men were there to haul the hefty undersea cable

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ashore. The very first test message sent to Bombay was 'How are you?’. The reply 'All well' took just five minutes to arrive.

John Pender and his wife Emma DenisonPender, who had made their fortune in the textile industry, were among the first people to recognize the potential of undersea cable telegraphy, and Pender had invested his considerable business skill and large amounts of money in their vision to create a worldwide submarine cable system. With the successful landing of the cable at Porthcurno, John and Emma hosted a celebration at their home in Piccadilly, London, which was attended by both English and Indian royalty in recognition of this hugely significant achievement, a moment that marked the beginning of our modern communications network.

Pender’s pioneering telegraphy network rapidly expanded around the world, making Porthcurno the world’s first global communications hub, and by the 1920s Porthcurno was home to largest telegraph station on earth, housed initially at Zodiac House, and later in the purpose built, broad white edifice of Eastern House. Over the next century, telegraph cables were

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

During World War II, the Porthcurno Telegraph Station was deemed so vital to Allied communications that it was moved lock, stock and barrel underground, to a bunker dug into the hillside by workers who claimed, for the purposes of secrecy, that they were building a new footpath to the local pub. Throughout the war, the telegraph station was hidden away and protected by armed guards, bomb-proof doors, and a wall of flamethrowers lined up along the beach, a concept which is hard to imagine when you sink your toes into Porthcurno’s soft white sand today.

After the war, the Porthcurno Telegraph Station, known by its call sign ‘PK’, became a specialist training college for telegraphy and communications engineers, operated

by Cable & Wireless, the communications giant who had acquired the Falmouth, Gibraltar and Malta Telegraph Company.

Known collectively as ‘The Exiles’, engineering students from around the world came to Porthcurno to study, before being sent to their telegraphy posts in far-flung locations like Singapore, the Caribbean and Ascension Island. In order to ‘maintain good fellowship' and morale between telegraphy staff ‘exiled' around the world, Cable & Wireless created an annual programme of sporting events, at which teams from different locations could meet up to play games like cricket, football, and golf. It even provided sterling silver golfing trophies to tempt its staff teams, including the ‘John Denison-Pender Esq MP Cup', the ‘Exiles Challenge Cups' for a foursome's golfing competition, and later the ‘Dan Godrich Cup', named for a renowned Cable & Wireless staff sportsman of the early 1900s.

Cable and Wireless, it seems, were ahead of their time when it came to the wellbeing of their staff, even supporting the creation

Students of the Cable & Wireless Telegraphy Engineering School playing leapfrog on Porthcurno Beach circa 1965.

Image courtesy of the PK Porthcurno Archive

of musical bands and other forms of entertainment on board its hardworking fleet of cableships.

The training college remained open until 1993, while the telegraph station itself closed in 1970, but the fibre optic cables still come ashore at Porthcurno today, running beneath the feet of holiday-makers on the beach and carrying nearly all of the day-to-day phone, email and internet communications between the Britain and the rest of the world. Today, PK Porthcurno (known until recently as the Telegraph Museum Porthcurno) occupies the former site of the telegraph station, including Eastern House and the secret underground bunkers. It offers one of Cornwall’s most unique museum experiences, telling the story of the people who came to train at the telegraph station, the friendships and romances they formed, the extraordinary lives they led as Cable & Wireless employees in far-flung locations across the British Empire, and the vital role they played in defining the Allies’ communications strategy during World War II.

Cable Ship 'Retriever' standing off Murawai Beach, Australia, with three surfers in the foreground, March 1962. Image courtesy of the PK Porthcurno Archives

Local schools will create processional

Cableship Investigator and an imagined

images

of

scene of the 1870 cable landing, complete

communication, and local artist Graham

with mini figures, to be displayed in the

Jobbins will create a spectacular 3D

museum from May half term.

based

processional

on

piece

the

theme

called

Mercury,

Messenger of the Gods, for the event.

The museum gardens meanwhile will

That same week a new play will take

play host to Morgy the giant squid, an

place on stage at the Minack Theatre,

interactive

commissioned by PK Porthcurno and

by Italian/Portuguese design collective

Now, in 2020, PK Porthcurno is celebrating the 150th anniversary of that historic first cable landing with a series of exhibitions, experiences and events in and around the museum and Porthcurno Valley. Chief among these, on 10th June there will be a spectacular re-enactment of the 1870 cable landing, when the Cableship Investigator will be represented by the Tall Ship Pelican of London.

written by playwright David Lane.

Moradavaga, which explores ideas of

As part of the re-enactment, local gig rowing clubs will be invited to race out to the Pelican to bring the cable ashore, while local dance and theatre companies, including the Minack, will be involved in performances and visitor experiences on the beach. A fortnight later, the Golowan Festival Penzance will be themed as Golowan Gets Connected in honour of the 150th anniversary of the cable landing.

onwards, PK Porthcurno presents Cable

David’s play, The Valley, begins in 1870 just hours after the first telegraph cable linking Britain to India has been laid in Porthcurno, when a farmer finds an abandoned child on his doorstep. 150 years later, her great-great-great-granddaughter returns to the valley, in a story of submarine networks, power and politics, that spans two centuries. In the museum, from May King, an exhibition telling the life story of Sir John Pender, and The Red Sea Line, which tells the remarkable history of that very first undersea telegraphy cable.

sound-experience

created

human connectedness. Visitors can even download Morgy’s adventure app and follow a digital undersea trail around the Porthcurno Valley to win prizes including discounted entry to the museum. Titled Porthcurno 150, this June’s programme of celebratory events offers a really special moment to participate and take pride in one of Cornwall’s little known, but most significant histories. We really think you should be there! l For further information on all these events visit: www.porthcurno150.com

Alongside these exhibitions in Eastern

PK Porthcurno,

house, and sure to attract an army of little

Eastern House, Porthcurno,

Lego fans, will be a new creation by world

Penzance, Cornwall, TR19 6JX,

famous Lego designers Warren Elsmore

info@pkporthcurno.com

Studio, who have built a scale model of the

www.pkporthcurno.com

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SAMVADO WOOD STUDIO Bringing the local landscape home

Wood, Stone & Metal Sculpture for house and garden.

Hundreds of works to view, or commission from your tree Wood Studio, Rosuick, by Goonhilly, Lizard Peninsula, TR12 6DZ

Tel: 01326 231 783 • www.samvadosculpturecornwall.com

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Gardens and Grandeur Whether you want to wander through rose bushes like Mary Lennox or soak in historical grounds like Elizabeth Bennet, Cornwall caters to every fancy when it comes to gardens. The diverse terrain, everchanging weather and renowned micro-climates give Cornwall a variety of sub-tropical jungles and glorious curated estates that allow all manner of flora and fauna to flourish. Here, we explore some of the very best and most enchanting‌ t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 35 n

St Michaels Mount

F

rom Cornwall’s iconic Champion Magnolia trees signalling the sign of spring to the first buds of sea thrift peppering the coastline with pink, Cornwall’s broad variety of plants and flowers range from cliff to countryside and where better than to experience Cornwall’s versatility at plant cultivation than at one of the many gardens and estates that reside countywide.

St Michael's Mount Perhaps one of Cornwall’s most challenging garden destinations, managing the sprawling, sub-tropical paradise of St Michael’s Mount is no easy feat, but one that Head Gardener Darren Little manages to accomplish year on year. Living on the Mount with his wife and children, Darren spends his time scaling difficult terrain to tend to the Mount’s breathtaking gardens. As well as the rich history and heritage that surrounds this world renowned destination, for plant enthusiasts there’s also an eye-catching selection of species to observe, “One of the most interesting and enchanting things to see in our garden would be the Aloe Polyphylla,” says Darren, “it’s endemic to the Kingdom of Lesotho in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. As I am aware, we are one of the only places in the UK to have this plant n 36 |

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flowering outside in the gardens and you can catch them flowering around July.” www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/explorethe-mount/garden

The Japanese Garden This family run slice of tranquillity rests on the outskirts of Newquay and embodies all the peace, tenderness and beauty a Japanese garden has to offer. From bright Japanese maple trees to cherry blossoms and bonsais, this Japanese garden offers the refinement of nature and a place to pause and think. Run by Natalie and Stuart, the couple took over the garden from Natalie’s parents, Robert and Stella, who imagined and built the garden. Now Natalia and Stuart are continuing their legacy to maintain and develop a place of peace, artistic vision and sensitivity, “A lovely thing to do at The Japanese Garden is to sit at the Zen garden,” explains Natalie, “this is a very serene part of the garden and provokes contemplation. It’s also wonderful to stand on the Tea-House balcony and listen to the waterfall and watch the koi carp swimming in the water.” www.japanesegarden.co.uk

Pencarrow House A gorgeous Georgian house, Pencarrow House has been home to the MolesworthSt Aubyns for nearly 500 years and as a

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

result a rich tapestry of history and heritage with Georgian and Venetian inspired architecture make this intricately and expansively decorated house a real delight to view. Having opened to the public in the 1970s, the house is still very much a family business and includes a café, gift shop and perhaps most notably its extensive 50 acre grounds that include a landscaped garden and ancient woodland, which were designed and laid out between 1831-55 by Sir William Molesworth and head gardener at the time, Thomas Corbett. In fact, it was during this time period that Pencarrow became renowned for one particularly unusual contribution to the tree world, “There are so many interesting things about Pencarrow,” says Tracy Davis, a staff member at Pencarrow, “but one of the main interesting features in our gardens is the monkey puzzle tree, which was named as such here in 1834.”

It’s easy to spot a monkey puzzle tree (or Araucaria Araucana if you want to be specific), it’s a tall pine with slender branches that emerge from the trunk in long whorls and are clothed in sharp needles. It’s a slow growing tree and can live for hundreds of years and whilst native to Chile, can be found in many places across the world, including Cornwall, as Tracy explains, “During a ceremonial planting of a specimen of the Araucaria

The Japanese Gardens

Araucana from Chile, Charles Austin, a friend of our Victorian Baronet Sir William Molesworth, exclaimed ‘That tree would puzzle a monkey!’ and since then it was nicknamed the monkey puzzle tree.”

There are plenty of walks that offer ample exploration of the gardens and perfect photo opportunities (including a stopoff to see the monkey puzzle tree) with some wheelchair access, and dogs are also welcomed on site. Bluebells and wild garlic are a real highlight from May to June as they cover acres of ground in purple and white, and the Memorial Garden offers a spectacular summer display. There’s also a sunken Italian garden to wander through, an Iron Age hill fort to visit and the Peacock Café for some delicious light lunches, home-made cakes and Cornish cream teas.

For those keen to make Pencarrow a truly memorable place, the house and gardens also cater to wedding parties. A perfect balance of formal opulence and festival chic, our couples have the use of the wonderful gardens and house, and also our beautiful Indian Marquee and boutique camping field, with Night-Cap bar in the woods. From large sit-down meals to acoustic music around a fire, we can cater for it all. www.pencarrow.co.uk

the end of September on Wednesdays and

Lamorran Gardens Small, but perfectly formed, Lamorran Gardens is tucked away in one of south Cornwall’s most idyllic spots, overlooking St Mawes to St Anthony’s Headland and set into a south facing cliff. Protected from the worst of Cornwall’s frostier months and tempestuous seasons, Lamorran is a haven for plants and flowers of sub-tropical species to flourish. 90 percent of the garden’s four acres are covered with evergreens, including over 200 palm trees originating from 40 different species. In April, the gardens' enchanting rhododendrons catch the senses, whilst the ponds, waterfall features, streams, bridges and temples encapsulate a temple of tranquillity that harnesses its influences from gardens across the globe and is a real celebration of foliage.

Of course, one of Lamorran’s most recognisable features is its picturesque Temple, a pavilion type structure overlooking the ocean, covered by a canopy of trees and plants. Due to the location of the gardens, access can only be reached through a series of small and variously located steps, making it unsuitable for those in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. However, the top of the gardens offers a beautiful terrace where visitors can enjoy the views with a tea or coffee. The gardens are open twice a week from the beginning of April until

Fridays, from 10am to 5pm.

A true utopia that allows visitors a real sense of escapism, Lamorran is certainly a south Cornish garden gem worth visiting. www.lamorrangardens.co.uk

Lost Gardens of Heligan Obviously, we couldn’t do a piece on gardens

and

grand

houses

without

mentioning one of Cornwall’s grandest gardens of them all. That’s right, the award winning Lost Gardens of Heligan. From the incredible sculptures amongst the daffodils such as the Giant’s Head, Mud Maid and the Grey Lady to Britain’s longest Burmese Rope Bridge in its outdoor jungle.

Heligan is a kingdom of jungle pastures and wildflower blooms for the whole family to get lost in.

Spring and summer are perfect times to visit Heligan. The Rare Breed Park, the only of its kind in the South West, will be welcoming new arrivals of Devon and Cornwall Longwool lambs and Tamworth pigs, whilst 15 acres of wildflowers will be filling the mild air with sweet scents. Every year the exceptionally talented gardening team at Heligan bedazzle and delight visitors with plants, vegetables, flowers and CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

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© Bodmin Camera Club Photo by Paul Hockaday

more and this summer Heligan wanderers will be able to see the gardens' home grown super sweet pineapples, produced using traditional Victorian gardening techniques.

Antony House

www.heligan.com

mansion and landscaped grounds that lead

An 18th Century house located between the village of Antony and the town of Torpoint, Antony House comprises a stunning period toward Lynher estuary. A formal garden area

Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens

including a knot garden, topiary, modern

For those outside the West Penwith area, Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens remain somewhat of a hidden gem. A gallery, kitchen and extensive sculpture garden comprise the Tremenheere grounds, where visitors can enjoy a decadent lunch and a wander in the gallery’s latest art exhibition before entering into the extensive gardens. With a range of large-scale subtropical plants, it’s the perfect background for a collection of contemporary sculpture work gathered from internationally renowned artists, many of whom have created site specific, permanent works that embody this beautiful and unusual environment. Dramatic, inspirational and eye-catching, this is a garden that combines the beauty of natural and handmade forms together harmoniously.

sculptures and the National Collection

From Tim Shaw’s ‘The Minotaur’ and Tom Leaper’s ‘Agent Orange’ to Penny Saunders’ iconic ‘Restless Temple’ that sits overlooking Tremenheere’s grounds, this bicoastal botanical paradise is perfect for greenfingered artists looking for some inspiration. www.tremenheere.co.uk n 38 |

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of Daylilies make Antony House a real serving of opulence. Having been home to the Carew Pole family for generations, Antony House is also best known as the famous location for Tim Burton’s 2010 Alice in Wonderland, chosen by Disney for its captivating beauty and atmosphere, and today visitors can find many clues to the film and its presence there throughout the gardens. Discover all about the house's rich history that spans centuries and take part in the many activities and events that occur across the season, perfect for children and families of all ages. Wander amongst the rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias and camellias in the Woodland Garden and even see if you can spot your very own white rabbit.

Antony House will be reopening for spring on Wednesday 1st April 2020. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/antony

Trelissick Gardens Nestled atop the head of Fal Estuary,

| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Trelissick House and Gardens is a stone’s throw away from the King Harry Ferry and is made up of a countryside estate with a neoclassical house and woodland garden full of rare and exotic plant life. With spectacular maritime views of the River Fal and 300 acres to explore, this 125 year old estate also offers a wealth of Cornish craft, with their own Trelissick Gallery and Cornwall Crafts Association taking residency in the grounds and offering an abundant array of high-quality craft from renowned makers from across the county. An on-site café offers fresh, seasonal food in the form of homemade cakes and light lunches. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/trelissick

Gyllyngdune Gardens Constructed in 1907, the Gyllyngdune Gardens are an integral part of Falmouth’s unique botanical heritage. Newly restored, this picturesque garden offers an Edwardian veranda, a bandstand, a shell grotto, a greenhouse and a year-round programme of events that make this photogenic garden a real hub for Falmouth’s community.

Adjacent to the Princess Pavilion, visitors to the gardens can get some of the best views Falmouth Bay has to offer in The Garden Room Bar before spending a sunny spring afternoon enjoying this seafront spectacle. w w w. b e t t e r v e n u e s . o rg . u k / v e n u e s / princess-pavilion. l

Great Cornish Gardens Cookie Scottorn

COOKIE SCOTTORN is a Cornish based ceramic sculptor who is inspired by the natural world and especially Cornwall with its layers of myth and history She aims to convey a feeling of stillness and contemplation with the sculptural heads, planters and animals.

The larger sculptures are designed to work in the natural environment to enhance any path, patio or garden space.

Wenford Bridge Pottery and Gallery is a working studio and small gallery in beautiful north Cornwall. The Camel Trail starts just across the road from the pottery following the river Camel to the sea, with the off grid Snailspace Café available for refreshments and bike hire during the season.

Visitors are welcome, please call first to make sure Cookie is there to welcome you.

Wenford Bridge Pottery St Breward, Bodmin, PL30 3PN T: 07920282423 W: www.cookiescottorn.co.uk G Cookie Scottorn Ceramics A Cookie Scottorn

Gyllyngdune Gardens

Enjoy the award winning sub-tropical Victorian gardens, packed with rare and exotic plants from all over the world, overlooking sea views across the Falmouth bay. There is something for everyone from a sheltered Edwardian veranda to the distinctive grade II listed cast iron bandstand, working glasshouse, quarry gardens, shell seats and grottos, large herbaceous borders, succulent planting, wildflower walk and natural play area. Exhibitions, talks and garden tours available.

Gyllyngdune Gardens, Princess Pavilion, 41 Melvill Road, TR11 4AR. www.princesspavilion.co.uk G @princesspavilion

Pencarrow House & Gardens

Pencarrow, the much loved home of the Molesworth-St Aubyn family for nearly 500 years, is set in 50 acres of Grade II* woodland and gardens where dogs and children are most welcome.

The Georgian house boasts an impressive library with secret door, elegant but ‘lived in’ reception rooms, period bedrooms and collections of family prams, dolls, oriental porcelain, fascinating antique furniture and portraits. In the gardens there are superb conifers that tower over azaleas, magnolias and camellias, with many varieties of rhododendron adding to the blaze of spring colour; blue hydrangeas line the mile long carriage drive throughout the summer. Discover the ancient Celtic cross, Iron Age hill fort, Victorian lake and icehouse, grotto, restful Italian gardens with fountain and enormous rock garden.

Visit the Peacock café and enjoy the delights of a home-made cream tea and then browse in the Pencarrow shop for that perfect gift.

Pencarrow, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30 3AG www.pencarrow.co.uk Open from 29th March - 1st October 2020, Sunday to Thursday.

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Through the Rame The oasis of calm experienced when watching something as simple as sunrise over the Rame Peninsula is a feeling rarely rivalled elsewhere. A sweet sliver of serendipity overcomes the senses and surroundings as the first light of a clear dawn sets the quiet dewdropped Rame Head ablaze. With a silence interrupted only by the livening daytime wildlife it’s clear to see why Cornwall’s northernmost south east corner is a sanctuary for natural beauty.

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ou’ll often hear the Rame Peninsula described at Cornwall’s ‘Forgotten Corner’, famed for its relatively low status on the county’s most sought after destinations for visitors. Just across the Devon border, the peninsula is flanked on three sides by water, the River Lynher, Tamar and the Plymouth Sound. With one of the most picturesque cycle routes in the county alongside an abundance of scenic clifftops and sandy beach coves, the Rame has made a name for itself a rural retreat full of hidden gems, historic attractions and everything one could want from a compact Cornish getaway.

An Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty, the Rame Peninsula is perhaps most notably known as the home to the 885acre spread of Mouth Edgcumbe Park. A first grade listed park under the National Register of Historic Parks and Gardens, one of four in Cornwall, it’s easy to see why this spectacular stretch of formal gardens, temples, follies, woodlands, wild heath and iconic Tudor house are so revered.

The Formal Gardens include all manner of garden, from English to Italian, as well as an orangery. In the park’s wilder parts, visitors will have to relinquish some of the woodland to the local Wild Fallow Deer, who often seek shelter under the impressive trees. The park gained its status during the 18th Century, when the Edgcumbe family created the stunning grounds; however despite its large governing area much of the land receives minimal maintenance to allow the raw beauty of nature’s own maintenance methods to take hold. The famous Mount Edgcumbe House was constructed shortly after World War II and is open to public viewing from April until September. There are plenty of options to stay at the park, from a cosy lodge at the Orangery to atmospheric vintage feel shepherds’ huts with views over the River Tamar and Plymouth Sound.

Earlier this year, the Rame Peninsula welcomed the addition of a brand-new cycle route, opening up the region to avid cyclists and hobbyists alike who wish to experience the Rame’s beauty with the wind in their hair. Launched between Cremyll and Cawsand, the new route offers picturesque views for cyclists and walkers alike and offers plenty of new waymarking alongside cycle parking facilities. Those who don’t own a bike can hire one at Edge Cycles at Mount Edgcumbe for a few hours, a day or even a week and even offers electric bikes for those worried about the Rame’s hills.

The South West Coast Path already runs along nine miles of coastline around Rame, ideal for hikers and experienced walkers who are keen to soak in all the spectacular scenery the peninsula offers. For those exploring by car, there are plenty of car parking options at both Kingsand, Cawsand and Rame Head. However if there is one way that really sets arriving at the Rame a cut above the rest - for those coming from Plymouth, or if you’re willing to go that little bit further and are keen to see the Rame on foot, one of the most delightful ways to reach the peninsula is by the Weston Maid boat trip, a summertime service that takes passengers from Mayflower Steps on the Barbican across the Sound to land on Cawsand Beach. Spend the short trip doing a spot of bird-watching before enjoying the unspoilt villages of Kingsand and Cawsand - once former haunts of smugglers and complete with colourwashed cottages and pokey narrow streets. Overlooked by Rame Head and its iconic St Michael’s Chapel, is Whitsand Bay, a three mile sandy beach stretching from Rame Head to Portwrinkle, accessed by steep paths and steps that wind down through ample vegetation. The beach is rarely crowded, boasts rock pools, is idyllic for rambling and even has a surge of swell for eager surf seekers. However do take note that the strong currents make the

beach notoriously dangerous for swimmers.

Lifeguards are on station at various points along the beach between May and September.

Undoubtedly an inspiring place, the Rame has been attracting creative minds to its pastures for centuries and its stimulating allure still stands today as a host of creative people call the their home. Many who will have visited Maker Heights will be aware of its historical significance as a heritage site including 12 hectares of rare grassland, four Scheduled Ancient Monuments and its impressive Grade II Listed barracks.

Yet now Maker Heights has adapted to house Cornwall’s ever growing creative and entrepreneurial communities, offering affordable art, music, gallery, studio and work spaces, and also a camp site and music venue that can allow the peninsula’s far-flung occupants to create and thrive.

Maker Camp is set amongst the acres of the natural landscape, designed to respect the natural environment and offers campers a rustic, affordable experience surrounded by stunning views with local shops, pubs, galleries, cafés and attractions all nearby as well as on-site hot showers and free entry from children under 16. As a nonprofit-making organisation, all the money received from the camp site is reinvested into the Rame Conservation Trust and, in an attempt to be as mindful as possible of their eco footprint, all pitches are grass and do not offer electric hook-ups.

For a night under the stars appreciating the magic this underrated region has to offer, it’s the perfect opportunity to witness the Rame’s sunrise with your own eyes. l

Points of Interest

www.makerheights.org.uk For Maker Heights Events and more! www.makercamp.org.uk For Maker Camp and cycle information www.mountedgcumbe.gov.uk For Mount Edgcumbe House and Park and accommodation opportunities. www.plymouthboattrips.co.uk For information on the Weston Maid boat trips and Cawsand Ferry.

Edge Cycles at Mount Edgcumbe are open daily from 10am – 4pm Monday to Saturday and 11am – 4pm on Sundays. With traffic free bike trails catered to varying levels of difficulty and bikes available to suit all ages, the entire family can get out on two wheels to make the most of the Rame Peninsula.

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

© Tim Woolcock Photography

Scorrier House is a family run country house and estate in the very heart of Cornwall where weddings unfold in a mystical setting. Couples getting married at Scorrier can choose from several ceremony settings indoors and out, while the grand hall can seat 120 for the reception and on site accommodation can sleep up to 20.

Tel: 01209 820264 info@scorrierhouse.co.uk www.scorrierhouse.co.uk

© Jack Westhead Photography

Say Yes AT

KILMINORTH 32 acre estate encompasses an orchard, wild meadows, enchanting woods, and a cluster of Cornish holiday homes set in beautifully landscaped gardens.

Whether you see yourselves as traditional or alternative, elegant or extravagant, our venue gives you the scope to create a wholly original wedding, that you and your guests will never forget.

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.kilminorthcottages.co.uk • Email: info@kilminorthcottages.co.uk • Tel: 01503 262832 / 07850 553280 t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 43 n

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Part of one of Cornwall’s oldest families, Oliver ‘Ollie’ Williams and his family join the long ancestral line of Williams who have been caring, developing and maintaining the enchanting realm of Scorrier Estate for over 250 years. From the historic and stunning curated grounds to the more recent alternative Bohemian music festival, Scorrier truly is a Great Estate that’s unafraid of change...

Q

entirely. However, it remains family run and What have you got planned for The many of the old quirks will never change, Great Estate 2020? from cider making to figuring out how on There is so much - we have three new venues earth 19th Century plumbing works! for 2020 and a ton of music: Razorlight, Sugarhill Gang and Goldie Lookin Chain Can you tell us about some of Scorrier are headlining. This year we also have Estate’s unusual facts and history? so many non-music happenings: a new The house was first built in 1778 by my talks and food demo venue, the Lords of five times great grandfather. The family Lightning (look them up!), incredible food back then were entrepreneurs in the then and, of course, the Secret Gin Garden (the thriving mining industry. In fact, they were name has stuck for that area of the garden so business minded that during a national - we now all refer to it as ‘the gin garden’!) currency shortage in the early 19th Century they even minted their own money - the As with previous years, the event takes Scorrier Penny - to pay their workers with. place over the second weekend of summer

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They were also avid speculators, so when one day in the mid-1800s the price of tin Firstly, please tell us a little bit shot up, Michael Williams (the then owner about yourself and your connection of Scorrier) rode almost non stop from to Cornwall...

Exeter to beat the horse-drawn Quicksilver I was born and raised in a part of Cornwall coach carrying news of the increase. On where my family has lived and worked arriving in Redruth, he bought as many for the best part of a quarter millennium. mineral rights as he could lay his hands on Though various work and studies have and made a small fortune by the time the taken me away from the county, I always news finally arrived. enjoy that moment of crossing the Tamar Tell us about The Great Estate Bridge back ‘home’.

Festival, it’s become a very popular What was it like growing up at festival with locals, how did the concept Scorrier House and what role do you come about? play with the estate now?

The Great Estate Festival was probably My parents were farmers, so my childhood around five years in the making before we centred around the farming calendar: launched the first one in 2017. We knew the lambing, foaling, harvest, auctions, etc. As kind of festival we wanted at Scorrier, so a family, we were very much involved in all putting all this into motion as well as the of these. Add to that all the quirks of living essential infrastructure took time. in a big old house - draughty rooms, leaky roofs and ample room for hide-and-seek - Then - together with Ian and Ben from Quick Panda - we hit upon the idea of and there was never a dull moment! the ‘great’ estate. Scorrier is, after all, an All that has slightly changed in that the ancient estate full of the history and relics farming has pretty much disappeared (apart that lend themselves so well to a Bohemian from my uncle’s heard of cows), the house is music festival. Ever since that first year we a little bit warmer thanks to a new biomass have been blown away by the response boiler and I am now working with my and feedback we have received. While parents running the events business that has that is enormously gratifying, it also comes become so popular. People love coming to with constant challenges ranging from the Scorrier for weddings, parties and festivals mundane (finding more car parking) to the so the nature of the business has changed creative (planning quirky new venues).

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half term (29th to 31st May) and really is something for everyone: There is loads of entertainment for kids, late night venues for the party crowd and, of course, the all essential G&Ts.

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What do you love about working with the estate and what do you find challenging?

The Estate is a beautiful place to work and putting on events where you’re able to give so much enjoyment to so many people is amazing.

The challenges are numerous though. The house is nearly 250 years old which means things break or leak all the time. Then there are the dozen or so other businesses that run on the Estate all requiring constant attention.

The long-term challenges can be the most interesting, like how to preserve the beautiful nature we have alongside a music festival? The old trees, bird-life and wildflowers are here thanks to years of careful conservation. How do we keep that as the world changes around us?

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When you’re not busy, what do you like to do to relax in Cornwall?

Sailing, surfing and riding are my things. I’m extremely lucky that Cornwall is the best place for at least two of these! l

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GWREN NI KEWSEL KERNEWEK Let's Speak Cornish Spit dhe vos gwlas ‘pell’, dell yw supposys y’n brys a lies den, Kernow re warias rol revedh ha posek dres istori dhe’n kres a geskomunyans ollvysel. Yn dyllans ma, ni a dhysk a dhevedhyans an kynsa kapel sedhys dhe Porth Kornow nans yw kans ha hanter blydhen, ow junya Breten Veur dh’y drevesigel yn Eynda. Pella yn istori, penn a rosweyth keskomunyans kenedhlek aral o Kernow seulabrys. Rag ensempel, yn mis Gortheren 1588, golowhes o golowva war an Lysardh rag dannvon an messach gwarnyans dhe Loundres re beu an Morlu Spaynek gwelys dhyworth an arvor kernewek Despite supposedly being a ‘remote’ land in the minds of many people, Cornwall has played a surprising and important role throughout history at the centre of worldwide communication. In this issue, we learn of the arrival of the first submerged cable to Porthcurno one hundred and fifty years ago, connecting Great Britain with its colony India. Further back in history, Cornwall was already at the head of another national communication network.

For example, in July 1588, a beacon was lit on the Lizard to send the warning message to London that the Spanish Armada had been sighted from the Cornish coast.

spit dhe in spite of gwlas land, country pell far, remote revedh surprising, astounding keskomunyans communication ollvysel world-wide, global ni a dhysk we learn devedhyans arrival trevesigel colony Eynda India rosweyth network kenedhlek national rag ensempel for example golowva beacon messach message gwarnyans warning Morlu Navy (Armada) arvor coast

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Gonis Fardel Packet Service ow telivra delivering lytherow letters fardellow packages delvrysek ideal dremen passage gorholyon ships skav fleet, nimble an Kresvor the Mediterranean Goon Helghi Goonhilly gorsav lorell satellite station darlesans broadcast daromres traffic kesrosweyth internet kolon heart skudel dish “A wruss’ta godhvos bos Porth Bud kevren posek a’n rosweyth aspiyas keskenedhlek?”

“Did you know that Bude is an important link in the international spy network?”

“Wel, ny welyn bythkweth Jamys Bond war’n treth mes, yn sur, pubonan a aswonn an skudellow lorell PPKO?” “Well, I never saw James Bond on the beach but, of course, everyone knows the GCHQ satellite dishes.”

Dhyworth an 1600ow dhe’n 1800ow, an Gonis Fardel, rann a Sodhva an Post, a oberas ‘mes a Aberfalla ow telivra lytherow ha fardellow Breten der worholyon skav oll a-dreus an bys dhe leow kepar hag Evrek Nowydh, Amerika Soth ha’n Kresvor.

Porth delvrysek o drefen bos y dhowr down hag y dremen dhe’n Atlantek moy salow, dhe ves a gasworholyon frynkek.

Hag ena, y’n 20ves kansvlydhen, drehevys o gorsav lorell an brassa war an planet dhe Woon Helghi, onen a’n kynsa dhe dhegemeres darlesansow pellwolok treusatlantek. Y’n jydh

For general enquiries: maureen.pierce@kesva.org For enquiries about publications: roger.courtenay@kesva.org For enquiries about examinations: tony.hak@kesva.org

hedhyw, meur a dharomres kesrosweyth an bys a bass dres an Dhuketh. Dell yllowgh gweles, nyns yw Kernow pell mes dhe’n golon a geskomunyans an bys!

From the 1600s to the 1800s, the Packet Service, a part of the Post Office, operated out of Falmouth delivering British letters and packages by fleet ships all across the world to places such as New York, South America and the Mediterranean. It was the ideal port because of its deep harbour and safer passage to the Atlantic, away from French warships. And then in the 20th Century, the largest satellite station on the planet was built at Goonhilly, one of the first to receive transatlantic television broadcasts. To this day, much of the world’s internet traffic passes through the Duchy. As you can see, not remote but at the heart of world communication!

“Henn yw prag y gewsav marnas Kernewek der pellgewser. Ny gonvedh PPKO ger vyth!”

“That’s why I only speak Cornish on the phone. GCHQ don’t understand a word at all!”

“Tybyans da! Mes yn gwiryoneth, yma den vyth y’n bys a gonvedh dreylyansow Kernewek yn gwiw!”

“Good idea! But in all truth, there isn’t a person in the world who understands Cornish mutations properly!”

For enquiries about the language correspondence course: kernewekdrelyther@hotmail.co.uk For more Cornish Language visit: www.kesva.org

CREATIVE & CULTURAL LIVING

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADVERTISE IN OUR 2020 ART GUIDES PLEASE CONTACT MELANIE WINN

TEL: 01209 314147 • EMAIL: MELANIE@MYCORNWALL.TV t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 47 n

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

@ SAMVADO

50 55 58 60 62 64 66 68

ART NEWS ART VIP THROUGH THE EYES OF ART FOCUS MAKER'S FOCUS ARTIST PROFILE MEET THE MAKER GALLERY OF THE MONTH

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CIRCA 21’S SPRING REVIVAL! Local Penzance based gallery Circa 21 is kicking off the new season with two exciting developments.

The first, will be artist and maker Emily Barker's second show with the gallery, and will be a humorous take on a serious subject. Running from the 20th March to the 20th April, Emily’s innovative work aims to raise awareness to plastic pollution and hopefully prompt viewers to reconsider their own plastic use.

The second development is an exciting exhibition curated by owner Esme Burton for a fresh and dynamic reinvention of the gallery space. ‘A Beautiful Room’, from 1st May to 18th July, will feature original fine art that has been specifically created for Circa 21 from local artists Stephanie Croydon, James Eddy, Tara Leaver, Tanya McBride, Theresa Shaw and Andrew Wilkey, all under the inspiration and conception of visualising art in an interior setting. l UPSTAIRS GALLERY, Circa 21, 21 Market Jew Street, Penzance, TR18 2HR Tel: 07876124449 • circa21pz@gmail.com www.facebook.com/circa21pz

COVER ARTIST: MATT JOHNSON This issue’s cover artist is Matt Johnson, an illustrator based in Falmouth. Matt’s day job is senior creative designer at the Cornish fashion brand Seasalt, creating prints for scarves, bags, tea towels and so on. Outside his work he makes collages inspired by the natural world and sells prints on his website.

“The walk through the pines at Carricknath Point is a favourite of mine and, I think, a special place for many people. I like to include a lot of details I’ve seen, for example the tree stumps, pine cones, bracken, blackthorn blossom and the pair of little goldcrests.” l “St Anthony Goldcrests” A3 print available from Seasalt Cornwall at seasaltcornwall.co.uk/art More prints and illustrations by Matt available at mattillustration.uk

SUMMER EXHIBITION AT TRELISSICK GALLERY On Saturday 25th April Cornwall Crafts Association will be opening their Summer Exhibition at Trelissick Gallery. This will be full of contemporary craft delights from their brilliantly creative and talented membership, something to tickle the fancy of any discerning customer. They will also be showing a Focus on renowned ceramicist Mary English, whose fabulously distinctive pit fired collection will be exhibiting in the Foyer from 25th April - 11th June. This will be a full selection of Mary’s unique work, from her stunning pendants to her large and imposing urns. l Trelissick Gallery, Trelissick, Feock, Truro, Cornwall TR3 6QL Tel: 01872 864514. Open Daily: 10am-5.30pm February - October and 10am-4.30pm from October - February Email: elinor@cornwallcrafts.co.uk • www.cornwallcrafts.co.uk G cornwallcrafts A cornwall_crafts n 50 |

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

Improve your skills and meet like-minded people with pottery classes and workshops in Redruth, Cornwall.

TRELISSICK

Summer Exhibition

General Exhibition of CCA Members’ work.

Open 25th April - 20th September

Focus on Mary English 25th April - 11th June

TRELISSICK HOUSE

Collaborative exhibition with the National Trust to celebrate 125 years of the National Trust.

Open 14th March - 15th November

www.cornwallcrafts.co.uk

These sessions are a great way to further explore the world of pottery.

everything and those who just want a few fun hours making a mug, plate or bowl.

I have three types of weekly workshops; on the wheel, for those who want nothing more than to learn to throw and are focused solely on that; general, for those who want to try

My studio has a relaxed and happy atmosphere, under 18s only Saturday morning. Regular workshops 10am-12noon and 1pm-3pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday

G10 Percy Williams Building, Krowji, West Park, Redruth, Cornwall TR15 3AJ Text: 07855 102 598 Email: susywardg10@yahoo.com www.susywardceramics.com

The Customs House Gallery Harbourside - Porthleven

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ARTIST PHIL WARD JOINS THE CUSTOMS HOUSE GALLERY The Customs House Gallery is delighted to announce that a new artist is joining their talented and eclectic collection of artists and makers. Phil Ward began as an artist in London, studying at the St Martin’s School of Art before going on to have a successful career as an Art Director. Now, the west Cornwall based artist is more focused on capturing the world around him through painting, from land and seascapes to people and life drawing. Phil’s rich, semi abstract work is full of movement and delicate touches executed perfectly through his palette knife. His bold strokes and keen eye for a colour palette create dramatic and atmospheric pieces that capture some of Cornwall’s best scenes in a totally fresh light.

Phil is currently developing a new series of paintings for the gallery based on his incredible Mackerel Sky painting (pictured above). The new work is expected to launch in April, so keep an eye out for updates on The Custom House Gallery’s new website and social media accounts. l www.cornwall-art.com A customshousegalleryporthleven

THE ARTISAN MARKETS CORNWALL TAKEOVER Artisan Markets Cornwall are at the St Ives Guildhall during the St Ives Food Festival, with 40 stalls of high quality craft, art, food, drink and even shanty singers on the opening Friday night to kick off what will be a fantastic weekend of creative culture.

The Artisan Festival is the next exciting event to add to the diary, which takes place at Heartlands in Pool, with bookable craft workshops (organised in conjunction with The Craft Collective Shop), a craft market, singing workshops, farmers market and more to be announced closer to the time. l

SARAH EDDY CORNWALL LAND AND SEA EXHIBITION 2020 ATRIUM GALLERY, 4TH - 25TH APRIL

Cornish land and seascape artist Sarah Eddy returns with a new exhibition in April at the Atrium Gallery, Truro.

This three week exhibition of new work will be upstairs in Lemon Street Market, a superb venue with generous space and natural light, independent shops and a wonderful café.

Sarah’s love of her Cornish heartland is deep set and inherent in her observations of the ever changing light and colour.

Her process begins with walking the coastal paths, sketching and photographing and returning to her studio in Truro where she expresses those experiences and composition through oil.

Sarah’s original oil paintings will be for sale with prints and greetings cards. l All displayed artworks will be available to view online at Atrium Gallery www.atriumgallery.co.uk and www.saraheddyart.com The Atrium Gallery will be open Monday to Saturday 9am5pm. Lemon Street Market, Truro. TR1 2QD

JEREMY GARDINER: SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST, COASTAL LANDSCAPES FALMOUTH ART GALLERY, 28TH MARCH - 13TH JUNE

To book a workshop and discover more, visit the website: www.artisanmarketscornwall.com

Jeremy Gardiner has spent the last five years exploring locations on Britain’s south coast from Kent to Cornwall. Gardiner has taken his inspiration, not only from the natural world which has long been a feature of his work, but from popular portrayals of the coastal landscape in travel posters, guide books and postcards. The exhibition features Gardiner’s new body of work hung alongside a selection of railway and Shell posters, illustrated guidebooks and postcards.

A touring exhibition from St Barbe Museum, curated

by Steve Marshall and accompanied by a fully illustrated catalogue. l

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Municipal Buildings, The Moor, Falmouth TR11 2RT www.falmouthartgallery.com

The Artisan Festival – Heartlands, 18th-19th July

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Image: © Markéta Luskacová – Whitley Bay, 1978

Sarah Eddy

Cornwall Land and Seascapes

Cornwall Land and Sea Exhibition 2020 Atrium Gallery

Preview and Prosecco: 3rd April 6pm-8pm. Everyone welcome 4th-25th April Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm (Closed Sundays and Easter Monday.)

First Floor Lemon Street Market, Truro. TR1 2QD Tel: 01872 273631

Markéta Luskacová

By The Sea Photography exhibition Kestle Barton Manaccan Helston Cornwall TR12 6HU

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4 April - 21 June

01326 231 811 info @kestlebarton.co.uk www.kestlebarton.co.uk

VIP

A VERY IMPORTANT PIECE

NEWLYN SCHOOL INTERIORS

Penlee House Gallery & Museum in Penzance’s new exhibition: Newlyn School Interiors provides a rare opportunity to see paintings that have not been exhibited in West Cornwall for many years.

The Newlyn School painters were a group of artists who settled in Newlyn in the 1880s and painted scenes of life in the local fishing community. Although the artists were most famous for painting out of doors - ‘en plein air’ - they were also highly skilled at painting behind the closed doors of Newlyn, which included cottages, schools, sail lofts, workshops and scenes posed in the artists' own homes and studios. The exhibition will explore the lives of Newlyners through these unique and special paintings by artists such as Stanhope Forbes, Frank Bramley, Elizabeth Forbes and Harold Harvey.

Alongside the exhibition, Penlee House will be running free family activities every Saturday afternoon from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. There is no need to book, just drop in and create a unique artwork to take home.

The exhibition runs from 21st March until 6th June 2020.

Penlee House is owned and operated by Penzance Council.

Penlee House Gallery & Museum, Morrab Road, Penzance, Cornwall, TR18 4HE www.penleehouse.org.uk | Tel. 01736 363625 | Email info@penleehouse.org.uk Opening hours: Until 1 April: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 4.30pm (last admission 4.00pm).

From 1 April: Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 5.00pm (last admission 4.30pm).

Admission charges apply.

Artwork: Frank Wright Bourdillon 1851-1924, The Jubilee Hat, 1887. Oil on canvas, 92 x 68cm. Private Collection, on loan to Penlee House Gallery & Museum

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BACK ROAD ARTWORKS

COWHOUSE GALLERY Situated in the Downalong area of St Ives is a unique large gallery & working studio space displaying original work by seven local artists: Jenny Frey John Greig - Kathryn Loveluck - Karen Taffinder - Sally MacCabe - Sharon McSwiney Susan Barraclough Paintings, sculpture, metalwork & jewellery unique to St Ives often inspired by Cornish surroundings. Meet the artists who create and run the gallery.

Open daily throughout the year Back Road East, St Ives, TR26 1NW T: 01736 791571

THE CUSTOMS HOUSE GALLERY

Standing on Porthleven’s harbour side, the Customs House Gallery showcases a diverse collection of work by some of Cornwall’s finest artists. The gallery is an established member of the Own Art scheme and all paintings are available to buy from their website.

Top: David Gray - Melancholy Man Bottom: Jack Davis - Sennen Serenity Commercial Road, Porthleven TR13 9JD. Winter opening: 10.30-4pm Tuesday-Sunday (closed on Mondays) T: 01326 569365 W: www.cornwall-art.co.uk

The gallery is run by a group of local artists and craftspeople and offers a wide range of original arts and crafts at very affordable prices.

A stroll away is Perranuthnoe Cove with breathtaking coastal walks looking towards St Michael’s Mount in one direction and to Prussia Cove the other.

Lynfield Craft Centre, Perranuthnoe TR20 9NE T: 01736 710538 • www.cowhousegallery.co.uk

JACKSON FOUNDATION Art. Music. Activism. Kurt Jackson, Glastonbury Festival and Greenpeace.

Glastonbury Festival Artistin-Residence Kurt Jackson shares his paintings of some of the worlds most famous musical acts in this show that also raises money for Greenpeace.

North Row, St Just, TR19 7LB. www.jacksonfoundationgallery.com

Open March 21st - August 15th, Tuesday - Saturday.

10am – 5pm.

PENLEE HOUSE GALLERY & MUSEUM

JULIA MILLS

CREATIVE & CULTURAL LIVING

Penlee House’s new exhibition ‘Newlyn School Interiors’ provides a rare opportunity to see paintings that haven’t been seen in Cornwall for many years. The Newlyn School artists were famous for painting outdoors, but they were just as accomplished in depicting life behind closed doors in Newlyn and the surrounding areas, as shown in this fascinating exhibition which runs from 21 March – 6 June.

From intricate decorative pieces to large panels and wall hangings, Julia’s bright and contemporary glassworks capture the colour and light of Cornwall in all its glory. With her workshop on-site, Julia regularly takes on commissions. Her new workshop is at 5 The Beehive, Bread Street, Penzance. Please call or email to make an appointment.

T: 07875279751 E: juliamillsgallery@gmail.com www.juliamillsgallery.co.uk

SHARON MCSWINEY

Image: Frank Wright Bourdillon 1851-1924, The Jubilee Hat, 1887, Private Collection, on loan to Penlee House Gallery & Museum

Morrab Road, Penzance, TR18 4HE Open Mon-Sat 10am – 4.30pm T: 01736 363625 E: info@penleehouse.org.uk W: www.penleehouse.org.uk

THE STABLE YARD GALLERY, LIZARD ART A stunning gallery located at the heart of the timeless Trelowarren Estate, run by a co-operative of exciting and diverse professional artists all sharing an enthusiasm for living and working on the Lizard peninsular. Seascapes to abstracts, printmaking, crafts and cards with various media to suit all tastes. Visitors are welcomed by the artists themselves who will share their knowledge and passion for their work.

Sharon creates a unique & distinctive range of metalwork & jewellery inspired by the sea. Working in copper & brass she handcrafts decorative wall pieces featuring seaweed & sea creatures. Local beach combing providing endless inspiration for limpet & seaweed jewellery. Crafted in St Ives into silver pieces which evoke Cornwall. Soft verdigris finishes & colouration making each creation a one-off.

Unit 7, The Drill Hall, Chapel Street, St Ives TR26 2LR • T: 01736 448293 info@sharonmcswiney.co.uk • www.sharonmcswiney.co.uk

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Open every day from March until November with four exhibitions a year. 11am- 4pm LIZARD ART, Trelowarren Estate, Mawgan-in-Meneage, Cornwall, TR12 6AF T: 01326 221778 E: admin@lizardart.co.uk W: lizardart.co.uk G lizardart A @lizardartgallery

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THROUGH THE EYES OF...

SUKI WAPSHOTT Firstly, tell us about your chosen location and why it inspires you...

Polzeath beach is where I stand and stare.

Infinite variety in any location inspires one to paint whether it is a grain of sand, a mussel shell, a thumping great storm cloud or a drop of rain. We live on an island where weather is inconsistent, changeable, where the elements carve their own art - rills of water leaving corrugation in the sand, wind throwing seawater high above the rocks, gulls calling and so much more, all of which can be found on the beach of Polzeath.

When painting your location, is there anything that really catches your eye that you enjoy focusing on?

It could be the shaft of light catching the tip of Pentire or the myriad of colour in the shells and pebbles in the sand. Every day there is a new scene and every day the chance to interpret through paint how the view appears in my mind. Light as always is of primary importance and with directional light the shadows which appear on rock faces, on the side of a pebble or the belly of a cloud.

Describe the sounds, smells and feelings you experience in your location…

Spending hours on the beach heightens the senses. Aromas of coffee, fish and chips, the sounds of the sea, slippery strands of seaweed, wet rocks and the feel of the sand on a warm day beneath my feet. On the quieter days of the year there’s an experience of feeling complete peace and awe.

What colours do you like to use when painting your location?

I have been asked what my palette is for painting Polzeath beach, but I don't have a fixed colour selection. There are periods of having an obsession with a certain pigment; this obsession will be later replaced by another. The most important aspect of colour when painting different works, is to capture sensory awareness of the season, time of day and weather pattern. Favourites at the moment are unbleached titanium, all the earth colours, possibly tiny touches of magenta, violet grey, Kings blue light, Naples yellow, Payne’s grey and white.

When doing 'en plein air' what do you think about and what are your processes when painting this way?

As I am primarily a studio painter my 'en plein air' work is limited to visual recollection and iPad drawings, pencil sketches for form and light directions and very small oil sketches for tonal qualities. When I am sketching total concentration on the subject fills my thoughts but if I am watching and absorbing my surroundings fragments of poetic works may come to mind. Words create form for me, and I see the colour of the moment. Also, my subconscious focus will be on movement, shape, formation of rock strata, structure of waves and clouds, long straight horizons, feathering edges of clouds and oncoming slants of rain.

What challenges do you face when conveying your location onto canvas?

Although I do little en plein air work, when I do I tend to choose days when the weather is conducive to sitting and standing outside. I paint much similarly to the way I do in the studio, with a palette knife, brush, rags and hands; reeds and sticks are also very useful. This year I have worked on very small linen boards which are quite manageable. The biggest challenge for me is to restrict my palette due to ease of portability.

Finally, what do you love most about your location?

“Aren't you lucky?” is a comment I hear during the busy season in Polzeath. Yes, I am; I live minutes from the beach, I have two studios, one at the back of Whitewater Gallery and a large space next to our house. When I need to remind myself of something, I am able to walk a few yards and there is the glory of Polzeath with Stepper and Pentire points, the islands of Gulland and Newland and the ever changing sky and ocean. l You can find more of Suki's work at Whitewater Gallery: Polzeath Wadebridge PL27 6SR Tel: 01208 869301 www.whitewatergallery.co.uk

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ART FOCUS

Art. Music. Activism: Kurt Jackson, Glastonbury Festival and Greenpeace From 21st March - 9th May, then 19th May - 15th August 2020

With his customary immersive approach towards his subjects, Kurt Jackson is no less involved amidst the masses of Glastonbury revellers as he captures the festival on canvas, be it amongst the vibrant crowds or at the side of the main stages as performances from some of the world’s biggest music artists and speakers take place to throngs of thousands. As a result, the movement, colour and essence of the festival’s free-spirited, eclectic atmosphere is transferred effortlessly into Kurt’s work.

The Jackson Foundation will be holding a captivating exhibition that will share a selection of Kurt’s Artist-in-Residence work as well as celebrating the 50th anniversary of both Glastonbury Festival and Greenpeace.

Having consistently worked with charities and organisations throughout every one of the Jackson Foundation’s exhibitions, the team will be welcoming Greenpeace into their upstairs gallery in an aim to raise awareness and funds for this pioneering environmental charity that has been fighting for our natural world for five decades. In the upstairs gallery, visitors will be able to view, ’50 Years of Making Waves’, a historic photographic exhibition that showcases Greenpeace’s work over the years as well as sharing their more current and future campaigns. n 60 |

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Art. Music. Activism: Kurt Jackson, Glastonbury Festival and Greenpeace will highlight the power of channelling change through art and is something Kurt has brought consistently to his exhibitions year on year. Expect an eclectic range of artistic expression spanning painting, virtual reality, poetry, sculpture and film.

Throughout the course of the exhibition, the Jackson Foundation will also be fundraising in a number of engaging ways through a host of special events, including running a prize draw with a chance to win an original Kurt Jackson Glastonbury Festival painting, with all proceeds going towards Greenpeace. l www.jacksonfoundationgallery.com www.kurtjackson.com Spring Opening Times: 21st March - 9th May Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm Summer Opening Times: 19th May - 15th August Tuesday to Saturday 10am-5pm Jackson Foundation, North Row, St Just, Cornwall, TR19 7LB T: 01736 787638 Keep up to date with The Jackson Foundation Gallery via their Instagram account @jacksonfgallery

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MAKER'S FOCUS

Catch the Wave 30th May to 5th June 2020

Metalwork, Textiles & Artwork Inspired by the Sea. A collaborative exhibition with Sharon McSwiney and Alison Dupernex.

Two makers, both specialising in a

colour play an important part in Sharon’s

dyed in Italy to make sure that the perfect

completely different craft medium, are

work, with each piece embodying the rich

colour is achieved.

coming together for a unique exhibition

and earthy colours of the sea and coast,

“The colours I choose are suggested by

taking place in the heart of St Ives. Set

including Cornwall’s mineral rich heritage.

natural things, such as the crashing waves

to be the fourth of its kind, metalsmith,

More recently, Sharon has expanded her

on the Cornish coast, the ripples in the

jeweller and painter Sharon McSwiney

mediums to include painting and her

sand as the tide recedes, bright sparkling

will be hosting Catch the Wave alongside

abstract pieces incorporate acrylic, ink,

rock pools and the ambers and yellows

friend and collaborator Alison Dupernex,

layer building and mark making to capture

seen in the seaweed.”

a textile artist and regular visitor to

the dynamic movement of Cornwall’s

Cornwall. Following previous successful

rugged coastal landscapes, “Working in

bringing a plethora of mediums and works

shows together, Sharon and Alison will be

different disciplines is beneficial as one

that capture Cornwall’s tempestuous sea in

bringing their beautiful, distinctive and

always feeds into the other. Jewellery

artform to the St Ives Arts Club to kick off

captivating works into the historic space of

is sometimes scaled up to become wall

an exciting season of art events. ‘Catch the

the St Ives Arts Club.

pieces and vice versa. With painting, it’s a

Wave’ will be open daily at the club and

real joy to be able to explore colour and

both Sharon and Alison will be in residence

movement in such a free way.”

during the exhibition, creating pieces

A full-time professional designer and maker for 30 years, Sharon McSwiney has a reputable stronghold in St Ives, with her

Joining Sharon is her friend and fellow

Together, these innovative makers will be

throughout the show and offering visitors the

own gallery store in the creative space

maker, Alison Dupernex, a textile designer

ideal opportunity to witness the processes

that is the Drill Hall alongside a wealth of

who finds solace, inspiration and wonder

involved in the eclectic body of work created

galleries that stock her varied work across

in Cornwall on her regular visits. Creating

by these two well established makers. l

Cornwall. Sharon’s enchanting designs

wearable textile pieces, Alison’s designs

capture the rustic beauty of the ocean

are works of art in themselves in the

and her silver jewellery, wall sculptures

world of textile design, “I am constantly

and framed metalwork pieces have

experimenting by mixing fibres to capture

collectors worldwide.

the spirit of a place or object and build a

‘Catch the Wave’ Metalwork, Textiles & Artwork inspired by the sea will be running from 30th May to the 5th June, open daily from 10am to 5pm.

sculptural fabric by using different felting

St Ives Arts Club, Westcott’s Quay,

to have such an ever changing source

techniques and working with the yarn. I

St Ives TR26 2DY

of inspiration surrounding me,” explains

like to juxtapose my pieces by mixing my

Sharon,“I have been creating for 30 years

materials, from fine silk, rugged tweed and

and have never felt short of ideas to explore;

soft cashmere, to Donegal wool and camel

the only problem is finding the time!”

hair. Very often the texture and colour

“Living in St Ives, I feel extremely blessed

When Sharon isn’t busy in her studio, she can be found roaming Cornwall’s coastline and beaches in search of the

of the yarn acts as a catalyst for me to collaborate with.

Colour is an integral part of Alison’s

ocean’s treasures to use for her work.

work as she looks to reflect the natural

From limpet shell necklaces to framed

world into her designs. Such is her passion

seaweed metal sculptures, texture and

for colour, that Alison has her silk custom

DISCOVER MORE FROM SHARON MCSWINEY Visit Sharon at her gallery in the Drill Hall, Chapel Street, St Ives, TR26 2LR Opening times: 10.30am-4.30pm You can also find Sharon at: www.sharonmcswiney.co.uk

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ARTIST PROFILE

Roger Curtis

When it comes to capturing Cornish spirit, Roger Curtis has a knack for bringing the vibrancy of west Cornwall’s land and seascapes to life on canvas. Here, Roger describes his ultimate goal in creating work that encapsulates a sense of place.

“The landscape of west Cornwall is the

from his studio at home, where he’s lived

inspiration for most of my work. I’ve

with his wife for nearly 25 years, having

painted in other parts of the world, but

studied at an arts college and enjoying a

this has only served to make me realise

career as an art teacher before his move

just how special this place is.”

to Cornwall.

Be it a jam-packed beach or a quiet

Painting and working with a brush was

cove, a blustery moorland or a busy

something that naturally came as a source

harbour, Roger can be found, easel and

of intrigue to Roger since his earliest

brush at the ready, eager to capture the

years, “My mother maintains that from a

day’s events. His versatility is dependent

very young age, I could be entertained

on one thing only; the light.

for hours with an old brush and a bucket

“Above all it is the light that inspires

of water. I was fascinated by making

me,” explains Roger, “surrounded as

marks in the back garden on the wooden

we are by the Atlantic, it often acts as

fence or concrete paving.”

a mirror, reflecting light up into the salt

Of course, now in his seventies, Roger

laden atmosphere. It is both intense yet

is still just as fascinated by the magic

soft and enveloping, I love it.”

of painting, “Here I am, 70 odd years

Light plays a delicate but imperative part in Roger’s works, and in many ways contributes heavily to the sense of place

later, still captivated and spending hours happily making marks with a paint brush!

“Working in the way I do gives me

Roger seeks to evoke in each piece, “I

the opportunity to be in places most

try to capture the essence of a place and

people can only dream about. Painting is

celebrate the way I feel. For example, my

sometimes hard work and a struggle, then

enjoyment of Porthleven Harbour as a

other times it just all falls into place, but

place as well as a its physical appearance.

it’s always rewarding. I am forever trying

I hope anyone looking at one of my

out new ideas and know that I will never

paintings experiences that feeling of

reach the day when I have nothing new to

‘being there’.”

learn. I consider myself a lucky man.”

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Roger’s vibrant outlook and perpetual

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pursuit of discovering art’s endless qualities is evident in his work. The richness of everyday life in Cornwall is heart-warmingly portrayed through effective light play and an in-depth use of colour. Ultimately, it’s hard not to smile at Roger’s paintings, filled with nostalgia and charm, and a perfect encapsulation of Cornish life.

As a resident artist for The Customs House Gallery in Porthleven, you can find a selection of Roger Curtis’ work available at the gallery all year-round and from the 23rd May into the first week of June, the gallery will be holding a special exhibition of Roger’s work for visitors to view. l Discover more about Roger at The Customs House Gallery online at www.cornwall-art.co.uk or pay the gallery a visit at: Harbour Road, Porthleven, Helston, TR13 9JD T: 01326 569365 Open 7 days a week 10.30am-5pm The Customs House Gallery is part of the Own Art scheme, which spreads the cost of buying original art over ten months by using an interest free loan.

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MEET THE MAKER

A talented glass maker for over two decades, Julia Mills talks to myCornwall about her unique and complex craft.

“Glass is always changing. Depending on the time of year and time of day,

colours together in a satisfying way, glass.”

Julia harnesses her inspirations from

the amount of light travelling through

the natural world, her pieces are filled

causes constantly moving shadows and

with flowers, plants, animals and trees

reflections.”

whilst others depict shells and fish or

When it comes to the glass work of

seascapes of Mount's Bay and other

Julia Mills, it’s all about transforming

landscapes. Julia etches these forms,

light into a colourful work of art, passed

keeping her pieces contemporary and

through some intricately designed

fresh, “Clients often send me images of

glass works. With a history in working

their local landmarks,” Julia describes,

with complex material, Julia spent her

“or ideas that are special to them, so it’s

youth working alongside her father,

a challenge to translate this onto their

John Fox, a successful wood sculptor in

commission. If they live local to Cornwall,

Cambridgeshire. The work not only acted

I often go and visit their area and make

as a stepping stone for Julia to explore

sketches to take back to the studio and

her creativity, it also provided her with the

work them into a design. I love doing

skill and understanding of how to run a

commissions as each one has its own set

craft business and sell her work.

of challenges.”

“When my father died, I realised wood

Julia uses mouth blow glass, admiring

was not for me,” explains Julia, “so I took

the beauty and movement she feels gives

a break from making. It wasn’t until a few

the glass a sense of life and highlights

months after my daughter was born that I

the handmade, high quality feel of

found a medium which allowed me to put

each piece. Her growing range includes

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framed glass panels, wall hangings and stained glass commissions, with each one bringing together a harmonious blend of colours, natural lines and a captivating sense of Cornish culture.

Having spent much of her career in Newlyn, Julia has recently moved up the road to a new workshop in Penzance, “I share the building with Catherine Harvey Jefferson and Felicity Robertson, who are both painters,” says Julia. “It’s also the hub for a new group of artists and makers called Penzance Studios.

We even have a small gallery area downstairs, although it is advisable to call ahead before making a visit, as we currently don’t keep regular hours.”

You can find Julia at her workshop studio at the top of Arcade Steps as well as at her website online. l Tel: 07875279751 juliamillsgallery@gmail.com www.juliamillsgallery.co.uk

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GALLERY OF THE MONTH

THE STABLE YARD GALLERY, LIZARD ART Perhaps one of Cornwall’s most off the beaten track galleries, The Stable Yard Gallery has been the platform for the far reached western based troupe that is the Lizard Art Co-operative for the best part of 18 years, bringing together the works of some of the country’s most southerly based artists.

Settled in the heart of Trelowarren’s enchanting estate, the Stable Yard Gallery resides in the courtyard and was formerly the original stable houses of the Estate, which is home to the Vyvyan family, one of the oldest families in Cornwall. Within the bright, character filled space, the gallery offers a collection of work by professional artists all based within the Lizard Peninsula, who make up the Lizard Art Co-operative.

Formed in 1995 by graduate art student Leigh Gilbert and international artist Barrie Cook, the co-operative was created with the aim of offering artists who worked in the isolating realms of the peninsula, to come together to organise regular meetings, occasional exhibitions and a chance to meet like-minded people where they could reflect and discuss their work. Over the years, various exhibitions, friendships and developments have shaped the group, including discovering the Stable Yard Gallery space in 2002 which has been the primary hub for this unique co-operative ever since.

Maxine Hart is one of the co-operative members and a contemporary painter, “We all have various medias and styles, from exciting seascapes that capture stormy weather to gentle watercolours inspired by the warmth of summer. We also have woodcuts and cyanotypes that pick out the details of nature, then abstracts that evoke how we feel as artists. It’s a privilege to experience the ever changing weather and history of the peninsula.

“The gallery has tastes and prices suitable for everyone. There is always a collection of originals and prints from each artist and a variety of cards. All our members are professional artists, many currently have work exhibited in London galleries or have had work accepted at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.

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the Newlyn Society of Artists and Penwith associates, The Royal Photographic Society, the RWA and artists who also teach throughout the South West. It’s a real high-quality, eclectic mix.”

With at least three completely new shows each season, the gallery not only has a consistently fresh feel, but it also allows the artists to experiment, develop and push their work. Each artist is free to hang new work, whether it’s from one of their established practices or an explorative style they’ve recently been developing. The exhibitions are seasonally inspired, with Spring, Summer and Autumn, each lasting two months before a re-hang. There’s also the Little Picture show, an intimate exhibition of smaller works to conclude the season.

Together, the collective curates and organises each exhibition to create cohesive and immersive shows that allow each member’s work to shine, “The gallery is manned by the artists themselves,” adds Maxine, “which gives them the opportunity to share their enthusiasm about their own work and those of their colleagues, it’s something our visitors love about the gallery.”

Another captivating aspect is undoubtedly the gallery’s location.

Trelowarren’s historic estate exudes grandeur and transports visitors back to an era long gone from the moment they enter the grounds, as Maxine describes, “As you drive through the woodland you finally reach the collection of old buildings and ancient walls, directing you to the secluded cobbled courtyard with statement olive trees. The gallery is situated amongst the old converted stable barns, which also house a restaurant and pantry selling coffee, lunches and afternoon tea. The Helford River is a few miles away and the harbour village of Coverack and St Keverne

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is just down the road. There are lovely walks for your dog down to Tremayne Quay from Trelowarren.”

As the gallery enters into its spring season, it’s an exciting time for the Lizard Art Co-operative, as they’ve recently released a new, illustrated book, featuring a compilation of images and words from each of the current Lizard Art members.

Then, the gallery’s Spring Exhibition will open its doors, officially kicking off the 2020 season, “We’re also beginning to collaborate with a local sculptor and makers from the area, who will display their work throughout the year,” Maxine adds.

For a true taste of Lizard’s creative culture, this is certainly an idyllic place to start. l Book Launch exhibition 22nd March until 5th April, 11-4pm.

The Stable Yard Gallery’s Spring Exhibition will be running from the 7th April until the 26th June.

The Stable Yard Gallery is open 10.30am to 4.30pm every day and 11am to 4pm in the months of March and October.

Further Dates Summer Exhibition 27th June – 21st August Autumn Exhibition 22nd August – 23rd October Little Picture Show 24th October – 1st November (Private view 12 – 2pm) LIZARD ART Trelowarren Estate, Mawgan-in-Meneage Cornwall, TR12 6AF T: 01326 221778 E: admin@lizardart.co.uk W: lizardart.co.uk Facebook: lizardart Instagram: lizardartgallery

@ Lesley Treloar, Lizard Art Member

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72 BITES 74 DISH OF THE MONTH 76 MEET THE CHEF 79 PLACES TO EAT 84 CORNWALL'S CHOCOLATE PIONEERS 88 WEEKEND AWAY 90 EXPERIENCE

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bites

Beer Tours Now Open!

Michelin-Starred Celebrity Chef takes over The Cove Maenporth based restaurant, The Cove, has welcomed a revered cooking star into its kitchen for an exciting overhaul in time for the summer season.

as a relaxed and informal approach

Renowned celebrity chef, Michael Caines, recently unveiled his exciting new menu and development of the kitchen, after taking over the beachfront restaurant earlier in the year in what will be his first Cornish venture. The Cove at Maenporth will champion Cornish producers and will see Michael bring his talent and flair for innovative cookery to the pass, with his new menu featuring a brasserie style à la carte menu as well

tasting menu (£75) for evening service

to dining designed to attract families, locals and holidaymakers alike.

The restaurant will also offer a six course that will showcase some of Michael’s more signature dishes. The Caines collection now comprises Lympstone Manor Hotel, who have been training up The Cove’s new staff, as well as another exciting new establishment launching in Exmouth this summer. l To find out more and book your table, visit www.thecovemaenporth.co.uk

Cornish Coffee Scales Up Redruth based coffee specialist, Cornish Coffee, is meeting increased demand for hand roasted coffees with the launch of a new on-site roasting facility and the installation of an additional roaster, increasing production capacity by 500%.

which are sourced responsibly from select

With its iconic monochrome packaging, a nod to the Cornish flag, that has become a staple part of households, cafes and restaurants across the county and beyond, Cornish Coffee was established in 1985 with the goal to supply the South West with premium 100% Arabica coffees

required. Plus, the additional resource

Get a glimpse into what goes on behind the scenes at the renowned Skinner’s Brewery, as their Brewery Tours are now officially up and running for the 2020 season. Taste the brewery’s best beers in their tap room and be led by an experienced guide who will teach you all about the brewing process, share stories of this iconic family run brewery and offer a immersive insight into their delicious products. There are exclusive group tours and brewery parties and with the brewery just a short walk from Truro city centre, it’s the perfect hub for a day of quality Cornish beer and food. l www.skinnersbrewery.com

farm around the world before being hand roasted in Redruth.

The new roastery will enable Cornish Coffee to compete for larger contracts where higher volumes of coffee are will allow greater scope for sourcing new bean varieties and experimenting with bespoke blends for customers who are looking for exclusive coffee options. l www.cornishcoffee.co.uk

Cornish Sea Salt Launches Refill Station at Truro Farmers Market With a renewed focus on sustainability alongside reducing waste and plastic consumption, Cornish Sea Salt are responding to local demand, having launched a Salt Refill Station at the end of March.

Kicking off at the Truro Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday, customers can now visit the Cornish Sea Salt Refill Station with empty pots and jars to refill with Cornish Sea Salt flakes and crystals at £4.50 for 500g and £2.00 for 225g. The well-known, ethically sourced local sea salt brand has made it their mission to improve sustainability for 2020 and also have 100% biodegradable and compostable packaging. You’ll also find refill stations at the Porthleven Food Festival (17th-19th April) and The Royal Cornwall Show (4th6th June). l

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| Volume 2 Issue 59 | April - May 2020

This issue’s Dish of the Month comes from the creative minds at the Sands Resort kitchen. With a menu that changes daily, we decided to give you a little taste of what to expect from this innovative foodie hub. Plan your meal around one of their sumptuous spa days or a night away and indulge the very best Sands has to offer...

CHOSEN DISH The Piña colada (Dessert special)

DRINK RECOMMENDATION? Classic Mojito – to get that party started!

WHY THIS DISH? With summer just around the corner we wanted to offer something light, fresh and tasty. Our Piña colada dessert is vegan friendly, so everyone can enjoy it. We make our own sorbet and use local suppliers. A dessert that ticks all the boxes (yum yum).

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT FROM THIS DISH? Piña colada is a composition of roasted rum, pineapple, home-made coconut sorbet and a delicious coconut cream and garnished with passion fruit and a heart shaped slice of watermelon. The dessert combines sweet crisp flavours with smooth creamy textures and a colourful expression to look at. l Sands Resort Hotel & Spa, Watergate Road, Newquay, TR7 3LX T: 01637 872864 www.sandsresort.co.uk t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 75 n

MEET THE CHEF

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Hi, thanks for being our Meet the Chef!

Please tell us your name and a little bit about life at the Mullion Cove Hotel & Spa...

My name is James Heath, I’ve been Head Chef here at Mullion for six months now. I started working here in 2016 as Sous Chef so have been here for a little while now.

It’s a great place to work, with a good atmosphere between the staff across all the different departments. It’s also been really exciting watching the development and growth of the recently finished spa.

Tell us about your menu, what were you thinking when you devised it and what are your key focuses?

Our menu changes daily so that our guests can experience a different range of foods across their stay here. When we come up with dishes our first thought is seasonality and locality; we are lucky on this island to have some of the best seafood available so we do try to highlight that. We also try not to overcomplicate things, relying on a few ingredients cooked well that really work together.

How would you describe your cooking style?

What can visitors to Mullion Cove expect from your food?

Simple and uncomplicated. Just classic cookery really, with an eye out for new techniques. I don’t like to use micro herbs or flowers just for the sake of it.

A fresh seasonal meal that focuses on local produce wherever possible.

What rules do you live by in your kitchen?

Onions, Butter, Salt and Garlic. But I also love fresh mackerel. l

What ingredients couldn’t you live without?

Prep is key, the majority of stressful situations in service come from being under-prepared. I’m fairly OCD when it comes to prep lists etc. t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 77 n

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NEW BITES ON THE

BLOCK As Cornwall starts to enter its busiest time of year, many foodie hubs are preparing for the new season with fresh menus, new looks and some entering into the foodie scene for the first time ever. Here, we’ve rounded up 10 of the most exciting new foodie hubs to hit Cornwall just in time for summer!

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New Yard Restaurant and The Pantry, Trelowarren Estate After a full refurbishment and a menu rehaul, the New Yard Restaurant and The Pantry are officially open at Trelowarren Estate.

At the New Yard Restaurant, diners can experience an à La Carte and tasting menu alongside plates that are inspired by innovation and creativity when it comes to making flavours and local produce sing.

Meanwhile, The Pantry is open for morning coffee and cake as well as relaxed lunches cooked in the wood fired oven, with produce from the local area and the estate’s walled garden. www.newyardrestaurant.co.uk

Caffé Rojano, Padstow Caffé Rojano was originally set up in 1974 by Stanley Rojano, who brought his unique blend of traditional Spanish and Italian dishes to the streets of Padstow, making Rojano’s a firm local favourite that’s stood the test of time. Recently, the Ainsworth family, who run Paul Ainsworth at No.6, took over the reins of Rojano and are proudly continuing his legacy with their family run approach, serving a menu of seasonal small plates, deli sandwiches, sourdough pizzas and fresh pasta dishes. www.paul-ainsworth.co.uk/caffeerojano

Restaurant Four, Falmouth Formerly the local favourite, Oliver’s, Restaurant Four took over the establishment in June 2019, then in the New Year changed to its current name. Headed by chef Matthew UnwinSpringett, Restaurant Four is passionate about keeping its menu fresh and ever changing, using the finest ingredients to create a symphony of flavour combinations and unique twists.

Their next special Tasting Menu day is on 2nd May for those who are keen to sample a range of what this creative kitchen can cook up. www.restaurantfour.co.uk n 80 |

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The Ethicurean Cornwall at Trevibban Mill, nr Padstow For 10 years, The Ethicurean has been a part of Bristol’s foodie scene and in celebration of their 10th anniversary the brand is branching out to Cornwall, setting up at Trevibban Mill Vineyard to offer an 80 cover restaurant that champions vegetable led cooking whilst supporting local fishmongers and pasture rearing farms.

Expect enticing daytime menus and evening refinery perfectly matched with the vineyard's stunning range of wines. Opening in spring 2020 so keep your eyes peeled!

@ Ruaraidh Monies

Moomaid at Zennor, Zennor The award winning ice creamery Moomaid already has popular parlours in St Ives and Porthtowan as well as their pop-up Moomaid in the Field throughout summertime, but recently the family run team have finally welcomed a third parlour in their hometown of Zennor. Offering home-made cakes, light lunches, drinks and of course a fantastic selection of their mouthwatering ice cream, this is the perfect stopoff on your West Penwith road trip.

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@ Simon Burt

Appleton’s Bar & Restaurant, Fowey Our February/March Meet the Chef saw us get the lowdown on Andy Appleton’s latest venture that is his brand-new restaurant, which he set up alongside wife Lyndsey in their hometown of Fowey. Originally Appleton’s Restaurant was born in 2016 at Trevibban Mill Vineyard, but after relocating to Fowey to open their own, solo establishment chef Andy’s skill and talent is set to reach new heights. Appleton’s will feature an ever changing menu championing hyper local produce cooked in a way that lets each element shine. They officially opened in March, so now is the perfect time to make a reservation. www.appletonsrestaurant.com

Kuki, Truro From the ingenius mind of Jude Kereama, the star chef of Porthleven responsible for renowned restaurants Kota and Kota Kai, comes his third exciting venture in the Kota Collective range. Tucked away in a luxury holiday hamlet, The Valley in Carnon Downs will act as the new countryside location for Kuki and will be open for lunch and dinner to the public as well as holiday guests. With Maori and Chinese Malay heritage, Jude takes the name Kuki from the Maori language, meaning ‘cook’ or ‘chef’. Expect a menu of small plates, plenty of seafood and shellfish cooked to perfection with Asian twists that Jude is so famous for. Kuki is due to open in April, just before Easter.

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Ben’s Kitchen, St Ives In October 2019, diners across Cornwall were saddened when acclaimed chef Ben Prior announced the closure of his acclaimed Marazion restaurant, Ben’s Cornish Kitchen. Thankfully, Ben didn’t stay out of the foodie limelight for long as in mid-March he opened his new restaurant in St Ives, titled Ben’s Kitchen, to the delight of his fans and followers. Previous regulars will also be delighted to hear that Ben plans to continue using the same suppliers and keep a similar style menu that saw him rise to Trip Advisor fame. www.bens.kitchen

The Fox’s Revenge, near Newquay Having closed towards the end of 2019, The Fox’s Revenge, a 400 year old pub set in Carvynick Estate, returned with an exciting bang in February under new management from former Longstore Head Chef, Ben Ambridge and his fiancé Evie, who decided to spread their wings and take on their very own project. Ben’s renowned style of cooking high quality pub classics to perfection, expertly seasoned and bursting with flavour have proved a success. www.foxsrevenge.com

Stones Krowji, Redruth The Nook, the Krowji based café which launched in September last year, was a fantastic success that set a precedent for a new era at the cultural hub, but sadly due to unforeseen circumstances, it became impossible for the talented Nook team to run the café alongside their primary business, The Hungry Horsebox and so the search was on for a new foodie team who could carry on the incredible work that had been achieved in making the Krowji café such a success. Enter renowned Falmouth eatery, Stones Bakery, something of a café legend in south Cornwall, whose pink décor, delectable sweet treats, wholesome lunches and infamous sourdough bread has been drawing in locals and visitors for years.

Stones Krowji is the next step for Stones Bakery owners Rosie and Oliver Kingdon, who will be bringing their wealth of experience and delicious pastries to Krowji in April.

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Chocolate with a conscience; that’s the phrase that seems to stick when it comes to talking about Falmouth based chocolate makers, Chocolarder. The award winning small batch bean-to-bar artisan maker is the creation of Mike Longman, who launched the brand in 2012, and loves nothing more than to take today’s foodie norms and turn them completely upside down. Here, myCornwall meets Mike and steps into one of the country’s most innovative and feel-good chocolate factories to discover what makes Chocolarder so special. n 84 |

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Slavery, poorly paid farmers and low quality ingredients pumped with a long list of E numbers, additives and excessive sugars have turned the chocolate making business into a cheap art dominated by large conglomerates. It may seem like a discussion too big for a small artisanal chocolatery tucked away on the south coast of Cornwall, but in order to understand what makes Chocolarder so different from its convenience competitors, a little digging is essential.

n a small and unassuming industrial estate just outside of Falmouth, Chocolarder has recently set up its exciting new venture. Having finally made the push to upsize towards the end of 2019, the new space is bigger, better and ready to meet the growing demand of Chocolarder’s loyal following. Currently, they’re in the throes of one of chocolate’s busiest times of year – Easter. However, as with all things Chocolarder, there are no plastic wrapped rows of oval shaped treats to be found lining this factory floor.

“In many ways, we’ve hindered ourselves with the way we work. Our eggs aren’t easy, off-the-shelf products where hundreds are wrapped in plastic, placed in a box and a logo slapped on the front. None of that is sustainable and none of that fits into chocolate,” begins Mike Longman, founder of Chocolarder.

A former chef who loves nothing more than experimenting with the science and flavours of food, Mike is one of the driving forces behind Chocolarder's innovative and eclectic spread of products today.

“Out of the thousands of chocolate brands in the country, there are only 20 of us actually making chocolate from scratch,” explains Mike, “so, all the brands that are ‘handmade’ chocolate actually buy from the same manufacturers in Belgium, which is all made from the same ingredients that come from the Ivory Coast, which is a pretty dire place to get your ingredients. The only way to have any sense of traceability between the cocoa bean growers and you as a producer is to go directly to them, and even then there are plenty of people in between and many governments have created purposebuilt barriers to limit traceability between farmers and customers. In many ways, it makes the chocolate industry an awful one to be in, but this is exactly why we make it the way we do.”

Traceability and hyper locality are something that rank high on the list of Mike’s priorities when it comes to making Chocolarder chocolate.

Everything imported is sourced directly from farmers who are paid well and can grow sustainably, which not only allows their communities to thrive but also keeps the local environment healthy as well. When

it comes to his flavouring pairings, that's where Cornwall comes in and from Sea Buckthorn to Wild Gorse Flower and Cornish Honeycomb, it’s all about using Cornwall’s larder to infuse and flavour some of their most iconic bars.

“I suppose it all stems from me being a chef, where I try to find something that’s good quality and being unable to, I just throw my hands up and say, ‘I’ll just make it myself then’.”

A former pastry chef, Mike spent the earlier years of his foodie career working in Michelin star restaurants and high rosette rated establishments across the country.

It was here Mike was trained to make food from scratch, to discover why things worked a certain way, to challenge his taste buds and his skills in the complex world of pastry and desserts and ultimately to appreciate local, seasonal food, sourced with total transparency.

However after several years of exceedingly late nights, long shifts and fast-paced city living, Mike and his wife, who also worked in hospitality, found themselves longing for a change of scenery and a new direction, “I still remember the night, we’d both finished really late and were sat at either end of our sofa just utterly exhausted, desperately trying to hold our heads up. We were both so done. We ended up having a conversation about what we were going to do and it was a coin toss between moving to Cornwall or moving to New Zealand.”

Evidently, Cornwall was the winner and it wasn’t long until Mike and his family CONTINUED OVER THE PAGE

In true Chocolarder fashion, the brand’s own egg is wrapped in plastic free, recyclable packaging that’s not only good for the planet, but looks good too. It’s the latest in a long line of conscious creation that sees Chocolarder as one of the only true guiltfree chocolate producers in the country.

Why? Because behind the bright adverts, whimsical branding and endless range of chocolate products, the underbelly of the world’s oldest and most beloved sweet treat is undoubtedly a dark one. t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 85 n

had relocated to start a new life. Being a chef, it was almost instantaneous for Mike to obtain a position at a local restaurant nearby, but it was soon clear that Mike’s unwavering ethos when it came to food was going to be a struggle in a busy high street establishment,

most natural level and incorporating that into his cookery. Ultimately, it would be one product more than most that would capture Mike’s imagination.

“I did get hooked on one product, but that one product is an entire universe within itself.”

“We’re in Cornwall, with a view of the sea, and we were buying in Greek sea bass. I was certain a mistake had been made and sent the fishmonger away only to find the Head Chef turn up and ask where the sea bass was... It was what he’d worked his numbers out on, and Greek sea bass was cheaper. As you can expect, I didn’t work there for very long, which I think in some sense they were quite glad about.”

Mike’s raw passion for exploring the ‘local larder’ was finally allowed to flourish at Trelowarren Estate, where he found himself working as a chef at the New Yard Restaurant. Suddenly, Mike’s obsession with hyper locality and pure creation was free to roam, as long as 90% of it was within a 10 mile radius of the restaurant. Foraging for local and wild herbs, vegetables, locally reared meat, butter, milk and even flour, sparked a competitive streak in Mike.

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coming into industrial fruition. In Mike’s eyes, each machine that provides a stage of the chocolate’s development has its own unique personality, be it the newly acquired French roaster that’s over 100 years old and the only one of its kind in the world, to a former Terry’s of York press (that’s Terry’s Chocolate Orange to most us), “If you had the money, you could go out and buy an entire brand-new factory, where if you put some beans in one end, you’d get chocolate coming out the other.

We didn’t want to do that, we wanted to do something that has soul and passion.

“As a result, it means that there’s not just three of us working here, there’s a bunch of other characters here, all antiques, that have a unique chocolate heritage. It’s such a nicer way of making chocolate and it adds so much charm to what we’re doing.”

Mike’s penchant for food and science marry perfectly within the Chocolarder business and the factory alone is an incredible display of Chocolarder’s views

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The chocolate itself is something to behold, rich, sweet and fruity flavours toil within the factory room. Like the variety of grapes for wine, a similar experience is found in cocoa beans for chocolate, where a single region or a particular grower can offer beans that combine the aromas and essences of cherry, raisin and nuts, whilst others bring out vanilla and citrus fruits. When it comes to flavourings, everything is natural, organic and pesticide free, with many of the bars

containing just two or three exceptionally high-quality ingredients.

Each bar, whether it’s an 80% Millot Farm Dark, a 40% Pure White (which if you’re wondering, resembles and tastes like caramelised white chocolate, except completely natural), or a Cornish Honeycomb 50% Milk, there’s a distinct smoothness that melts heavenly on the tongue and and a mirage of accompanying flavours resides in every mouthful.

“When we say we’ve got a £5 bar of chocolate, obviously people raise their eyebrows,” Mike says, keenly aware that his product is not an everyday sort of treat, “however when we start talking about everything that we do, that we’re plastic free, that we’re ethically made and slave labour free, people start to understand.

“You don’t need all these fabricated, chemical emulsifiers. People are starting to understand this more and more and we feel that in Cornwall, local people are so clued up to this, which is essentially why the business works…We want to reinvent chocolate to be a more ethical, sustainable and high-quality product... Everything we do is done to the highest of standards and our costs reflect that, there’s no dark underbelly to our business.”

most admirable efforts to run as low carbon as possible is their transportation method to get the beans to the factory.

“We use sail ships to transport our raw ingredients to us, our next shipment is arriving at Penzance in May. We’ve been bringing beans in from a lot of different sources over the last four years and it’s totally doable. For a small company it’s difficult, there are a lot of logistics and guesswork of how much we need.”

Frankly, when questioning Mike on Chocolarder’s strong ethical and environmentally friendly morals, it garners a mixed response, and rightly so. In his mind, this is how all chocolate makers should work. Countless E numbers, additives, sugars and a system that leaves farmers and producers across the globe in poverty, shouldn’t be something to compromise on and yet it’s managed to become the norm for so many massproducing companies and consumers.

“There are some things where we are going above and beyond, like the sail ships... but the way we work shouldn’t be unique, it shouldn’t be revolutionary,”

Mike says, “really, it’s the bare minimum.”

As the last of Chocolarder’s Easter eggs are wrapped and prepped, Mike is excited to continue developing the new factory and shop space and experiment with limited edition flavours that satisfy his perpetual hunger for exploring the expansive universe of chocolate making.

“The point we’re trying to make is that we want to make chocolate without hurting anyone, or anything, and we want to make some pretty cool stuff in the process too.”

A small team evidently ahead of the curve, it seems that Mike and his team are finally realising the extent of the hard work they do to create a meaning and mindful product people can feel good about not only when buying it, but ultimately when eating it too. As a result launching this summer, Chocolarder will be opening its doors for the first time ever to the public to offer tours, tastings and a true insight into the magic that takes place in order to create these effortlessly stylish and tantalisingly tasty chocolate bars. l www.chocolarder.com

Sourcing direct from small sustainable farmers has allowed Mike the luxury of being able to select rich, well grown beans that as a result make for an exceptional chocolate. Despite the long distance, language barriers and logistics of transporting large quantities of raw ingredients across the world, the process has allowed the Chocolarder team to hold the bar high when it comes to paying for the right bean and ensuring that the money paid goes directly to the people who’ve earnt it. There’s no exception when it comes to the sugar either, sourced close to their cocoa beans the team choose raw cane sugar, believing it to be the best accompaniment to the cocoa flavour as well as having a lesser impact on blood sugar levels and making it easier for the body to digest.

Better yet is the team’s approach to running their business as eco-friendly as possible. The plastic free Easter eggs are just the tip of the iceberg, all the bars are securely wrapped in recycled and recyclable material and any beans that don’t quite hit the mark are used to make bakers chocolate. Perhaps Chocolarder’s t @myCornwall_ | G myCornwalltv | w www.thatsmycornwall.com 87 n

WEEKEND AWAY

Fowey Hall Hotel Fowey Hall never fails to impress. Boasting a superb position above the historic, waterside town of Fowey, the hotel has far-reaching estuary views, picturesque gardens and luxury, family-friendly accommodation.

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riginally built as a mansion for local boy-made-good Charles Hanson, who became MP for Bodmin in 1916 and

Lord Mayor of London in 1917, Fowey Hall has welcomed many famous figures through its doors over the years, including Wind in the Willows author Kenneth Grahame. The author is said to have reimagined the estate as the well-loved Toad Hall of popular literary fame and it’s certainly not hard to imagine Ratty and Mole messing about on the river below and irrepressible Toad himself swaggering around, obsessed by his latest fad.

Walk up the steps and through the grand front door of Fowey Hall and there is a very clear sense of being somewhere quite extraordinary. A family home until the late 1950s, it became part of the Luxury Family Hotels group in 1998 and has since gained a reputation for relaxing family breaks in spectacular surroundings. Now, thanks

to a multi-million-pound refurbishment and a team of staff who couldn’t be more welcoming and friendly, the hotel’s status as one of Cornwall’s must-see places to visit is even greater than before.

Hall is passionate when it comes to

Nor is it just visitors from across the Tamar who are enjoying a range of facilities that includes free childcare activities, a library, open fires, fantastically squishy sofas, stylishly comfortable rooms, excellent Cornish cuisine in the 2 AA Rosette restaurant, fabulous flexible function rooms, a spa that offers what must surely be one of the best panoramic views in the country and a new bar with a terrace and outlook to die for.

some family-time in the fresh air, Fowey

As well as looking after humans, hotel staff pride themselves on being very dog focused. Beds, bowls and even a tennis ball are all provided for canine companions – plus useful information on dog-friendly places to explore nearby. Whilst exuding oodles of character and grandeur, Fowey

providing its guests with an environment that feels homely, cosy and comfortable.

From perfectly curated rooms designed to welcome in guests to outdoor spaces for Hall is always looking to cater for everyone.

There’s also an option for two hours of free childcare so parents can enjoy some time to themselves.

Fowey Hall was built to impress Charles Hanson’s social connections and 120 years on, now a Trip Advisor rated ‘Excellent’ establishment, Fowey Hall continues to wow guests with its idyllic location and captivating ambience. l Fowey Hall Hotel Fowey, Cornwall, PL23 1ET T: 01726 833866 E: info@foweyhallhotel.co.uk www.foweyhallhotel.co.uk

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A DAY AT BUDOCK VEAN Budock Vean is a four-star resort hotel on the banks of the Helford River but you don’t need to be staying there to enjoy all it has to offer. With leisure facilities, wonderful food and a spa, this is a place you can easily enjoy in a day.

Many local people head to Budock Vean for lunch on the sun trap terrace, a great place to get together with friends while you look out over the golf course and gardens. It’s also an ideal venue to celebrate a special birthday or anniversary, perhaps with an afternoon tea, or just cosy up in the lounge with a coffee and book and enjoy some quiet time for an hour or two.

Budock Vean is also known for its challenging nine hole/18 tee golf course – designed in the 1920s by five times open winner James Braid. Daily green fees start from £16 and the hotel has a golfers bar, ideal for a sandwich and a pint afterwards.

The hotel’s in-house Natural Health Spa does great value spa days from £59 including lunch, a treatment and use of the leisure facilities including the spectacular indoor pool with its beautiful open fire, or just pop in for a one-off treatment.

A short stroll through the hotel’s beautiful valley gardens leads you to their private foreshore where river expeditions depart daily. Get closer to nature with Koru Kayaking and paddle up to Frenchman’s Creek, enjoy the stillness and if you’re lucky you can spot egrets, kingfishers and maybe even a pod of dolphins. For those of you less athletically inclined, there’s a great one and half hour boat cruise with Helford River Cruises.

All that fresh air should build up an appetite and non-residents are welcome at the hotel for lunch, afternoon tea or dinner.

Budock Vean, Mawnan Smith, Falmouth, TR11 5LG T: 01326 250288 www.budockvean.co.uk

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