Probus News Magazine November 2020 Issue No. 251
The Free Magazine For The Community
November 2020 | 1
• Car & motorcycle MOTs • Servicing & repairs • • Vehicle diagnostics • Air conditioning service • • Tyres & braking • Vehicle sales • Performance remapping by Pendle Performance
Tel: 01872 520654 Email: service@collinsofprobus.co.uk Units 1-3, Tresillian Business Park, Probus, Truro TR2 4HF Visit us online at www.collinsofprobus.co.uk for more information
What’s inside
How to contact us... By e-mail: editorprobusnews@gmail.com
Sarah’s marathon
Remembering Steve
Remembrance
Page 9
Page 11
Page 14-15
By hand: Articles for Probus News can be left at Trudgian Farm Shop in Probus Square, or Treviglas Cottage, Treviglas Lane, TR2 4LH.
Management Team EDITOR: John Denyer M: 07824 555519 H: 01726 884531 editorprobusnews@gmail.com
Comrades’ Centenary
A Barnardo’s boy story
From the horse’s mouth
Page 21
Page 28
Page 38
Submissions
deadlines for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month. Items submitted after the deadline are unlikely to be considered for publication. Publication dates December
Friday 11th December
Also available online:
No January issue February 2021
Friday 29th January
March
Friday 26th February
April
Friday 26th March
May
Friday 30th April
June
Friday 28th May
SECRETARY: Peter Clarke 01726 884177 peteclarke1950@gmail.com TREASURER: Terry Hodge 01726 884495 tjhodge321@gmail.com ADVERTISING: Kaye Ludlow 07968 722430 advertisingprobusnews@gmail.com SUB EDITOR: David Meggs 01726 883443 minesaredwine@hotmail.com
www.issuu.com/ probusnews/
Probus News is a non-profit making independent voluntary organisation. Your donations are always welcome.
Public notice
CHAIRMAN: Sheila Bing 01726 883400 sheila.bing@outlook.com
The inclusion of any article or advertisement in this magazine does not constitute any form of accreditation by the editor or management committee. They are unable to vouch for the professional qualifications, etc, of any advertiser. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Descriptions Act 1975, Business Advertisements Disclosure Order 1977 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Readers must satisfy themselves that an advertiser meets all their necessary requirements. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of their authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or management committee.
DEPUTY TREASURER: Eddie Bokas 07758 246673 ecbokas13@gmail.com DELIVERY MANAGER: Tim Joyce 01726 884574 timstravels01@hotmail.com Ian Tumilty 01726 883202 itumilty@btinternet.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Vanessa McGill @probusnews PROOFREADERS: Marilyn Joyce Tania Williams and Teresa Hayhoe Printed by: Printout Ltd, Threemilestone. 01872 242534
Community news and notices Probus Village Hall
P
ROBUS Village Hall reopened on Friday 16th October for NHS bookings, community activities and for some groups. Hirers will be expected to follow government guidelines e.g. social distancing, as well as the extensive precautions put in place by the hall. Details of these will be sent to hirers on confirmation of their booking. They can also be found on the hall noticeboards and on the village hall website: www.probusvillagehall.co.uk or @villagehallprobus Front Cover: Amanda and Olivia riding Poppy and Bayden in Chapel Street. Probus Church Illustration by Paul Lakeman @paullakemanwallart
Do you have a problem? Why not contact one of your local Parish Councillors for advice or visit www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk Kevin Blayney Nik Budden Steve Dalton Liza Deards James Faull Nick Gillard (chair) Ross Goldworthy Malcolm Maskill Larry Saunders-Fern Bill Sutherland
Rosparc Gwell an Nans Ridgeway Holly Farm, Truck Hill Tresowgar Cottage Fore Street Gwell an Nans Lamellyn Vean Rosparc Bosnoweth
01726 882877 07922 155600 01726 884080 07888 684425 07494 756249 01726 883926 07967 125526 01726 884368 01726 882669 01726 884007
There is currently one vacancy for a parish councillor, please contact the clerk or any of the above for details
Remember, if you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then you may contact the Parish Council Clerk Amanda Kendall on 01726 883614 (email probuspc@gmail.com). Cornwall Councillor Bob Egerton on 01726 884451 or 07785 748844 can also be contacted for advice. 4 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Drawing or writing competition
C
ORNWALL Council has launched a competition for children in Cornwall aged 5-11 to draw or write about the Cornwall they want to live in in 2050.
Kresen Kernow
L
OCATED in a state-of-the-art archive centre built in the former Redruth Brewery, Kresen Kernow, is home to the world’s largest collection of documents, books, maps and photographs related to Cornwall’s history.
After a long hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the centre has reopened subject to a few temporary changes. Opening hours are Tuesday to Thursday by appointment only. Each day is divided into two sessions, 9:30am - 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm - 4 pm.
Ask your child the questions below to help them with their entry - either a picture or up to 300 words. Imagine yourself living in Cornwall 30 years in the future. What kind of home would you live in, what sort of job would you have and how would you travel to work? What would you do in your free time? What would you like the planet to look like in the future? You can take a photo of your picture and email it to haveyoursay@cornwall. gov.uk and written entries can also be submitted by emailing haveyoursay@ cornwall.gov.uk. Four lucky winners will win a book token worth £25. You can have your say on the Cornwall you want for the future by visiting https://letstalk.cornwall.gov. uk/the-cornwall-we-want.
Appointments can be booked by emailing kresenkernow@cornwall.gov. uk or telephoning 01209 614430 (during the above hours).
Probus Young Farmers
C
ONGRATULATIONS to Probus Young Farmers Club who won two awards at the recent county AGM.
Probus YFC was awarded the Uncle Hezzie Trophy, awarded to the club which increased its membership, involvement with county events and services to the community; and the 80th Anniversary Cup for successful promotions. Club chairman Sam Oatey also won the Cliffden Challenge Trophy, awarded to the person who has most helped the county, other than a county Officer. Well done to the committee and members. November 2020 | 5
Advertisers Index Building Contractors
Health & Wellbeing
Craig Edwards
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N & S Builders
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PC Doctor Dickson
Beauty, Nails and/or Massage Therapist
Butcher and Farm Shop Trudgian Farm Shop
PC & Network Support
Nicky Waters
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Kayleigh Dingle
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Cleaning Services
Pet Store Fal Valley Pets
12
Plumbing and/or Heating
Counselling Services Andrea Pafford
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8
Paul Ashby Johnson
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Andrew McMonagle
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Honey Bee Cleaning
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Hairdressing
K T Mace Housekeeping
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Hair 4 U
16
Chris Rogers
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Janey Paul
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Roller Bathrooms
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Country Stores 30
M A Grigg
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Physiotherapy
Peter Donnelly
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Podiatry
Karina Lutey MCSP
Digger Hire Phil Dymond
Roseland Podiatry
Electrical Contractors Brightsparks
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J K Electrical
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Recall Electrical/Home Security
43
Roseland Electrical
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Estate Agent/Surveyor Philip Martin
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Independent Financial Advisor Robert Larter
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Locksmith Paul Gagan Paul Mulkeen
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26
Ren’s Carpentry & Property Maintenance
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Alastaire Hambly
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Ben Heather
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KM Paving
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Peter Woolcock
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Alan Woodcock Handyman
35
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Kernow Mixers
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Ed Faull Carlton Cars
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Travel Agency Graham Bishop
Music Lessons 36
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The Cornish Funeral Company
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L A Nolan & Son
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R & S Property Services
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Hawkins Arms
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6 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
4
16 13
TV Aerial & Satellite Services Shane Perry
Painting & Decorating
30
Taxi/Private Hire
2
Probus Parish Counci
35
Stone Mason & Plant Hire
Collins of Probus
Emma Packer
Funeral Directors
Shaun Beresford
Sand, Aggregate, Concrete Suppliers
Motor Servicing, Sales, Repairs
Fuel Supplies Logs ‘n’ Coal
37
Mobile Valeting
Fishmonger Roseland Seafood
Property Maintenance
Optician
D May & Son
27
A-Z of Probus Clubs, Societies, Organisations and some useful contacts Acoustics Night (Comrades Club) Badminton Club Bees (swarms/issues/questions) Bowling Club
Tim Joyce Pauline Partridge Tony Paddock David Meggs
07412 126774 timstravels01@hotmail.com 01726 882649 07486 295414 01726 883443
Church Floodlighting Fund Churchwarden Comrades Club Cornwall Councillor Cycling – Probus Pedallers Dance Classes Children (4Real) Football - Saturday Club Probus Youth FC - Juniors Probus FC - Seniors (First Team) Probus FC - Seniors (Reserves)
Robert Dodd Andy McCartney Bryan Trebilcock Bob Egerton Dave Light Angie Smith Steve Flack Nigel Schofield Tony Paddock Graham Smith
01726 883408 robertjdodd@hotmail.com probus.churchwarden@gmail.com 01726 882747 01726 884451 bobegerton@mac.com 01726 882087 07825234855 contactus4real@gmail.com 07956 049727 Please send updates to 07974 577876
Friends of Probus Church
Richard Heath
07849 315432 geotechrich@gmail.com
Friends of Probus Surgery Hawkins Arms
Anthea Johnson or Verity Allen 01726 882745
Church Bell Ringers
Historic Cornwall Society
Kids Club Breakfast/after-school/ holiday club at Probus School
Knit & Natter Group Ladies Group Little Lights Live at Home Friendship Group Little Acorns Pre-School Martial Arts Group Memory Cafe Mid Cornwall Wood Turners Motion Fitness (Circuit training) Over 60s Luncheon Club Parish Players (Pantomime) Playing Field Mgmt Committee Parish Church Parish Council
Primary School Primary School PTA Probus Club of Probus The Roseland Academy U3A Roseland & District Village Hall Letting Secretary Wednesday Walking Group Yoga Young Farmers Other village
Peter & Anne-Marie
07486 295414 07968 478970
l.com
editorprobusnews@gmai
01726 882208 hello@hawkinsarmsprobus.com
Vince Van Kempen-Wilson 01726 883019 vince.vkw@gmail.com Diane Gibbs
01726 882647
kidsclub@probusschool.org.uk
Eve Richards 01726 882657 or 07767 383982 Pat Gluyas 01726 882978 patgluyas68@btinternet.com Pam Cobbold 01726 882495 jplelissick@btinternet.com Tracy Beavill 01209 719062 camborne.liveathome@mha.org.uk Sarah Brown 01726 882647 Is your group missing? Chris Pearson 01726 883661 Let us know Jill Prisk 01726 884388 Richard Elliott 07980 449305 info@midcornwallturners.com Kay Middleditch 07812 380651 kay.louise81@icloud.com Zena 01726 882751 or Janet 01726 882927 Cathy Cadby 07860 755787 cathycadby@gmail.com Graham Smith 07968 478 970
Rev. Joachim Foot 01726 882218/07930 095687 rector@probusteam.com probuspc@gmail.com Amanda Kendall 01726 883614 www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk Angela Praed 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk Naomi Buckland 01726 882647 Nick Hibbett 01726 883093 nick.hibbett@btinternet.com 01872 530675 www.theroseland.co.uk Terry Neil 01872 530196 probusvillagehallenquiries@gmail.com Frank Fuller 07749 368162 www.probusvillagehall.co.uk Terry Hodge or Tim Joyce 01726 884495 or 01726 884574 Tony Bathmaker
07854 999612 toneupwinddown@gmail.com
Tegan Arthur
07900 797750
pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Rocks
November 2020 | 7
KM Paving Ltd Roseland Podiatry Visiting podiatry/chiropody practice 07813 508740 / 01872 530715 Treatment of nails including conditions such as ingrowing, thickened and fungal nails. Treatment of corns, callus and other skin conditions. Diabetic and high risk foot management. Biomechanical assessments and orthotics. Footcare and footwear advice.
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Andrea Pafford Counselling Hello my name is Andrea. I work locally to provide a confidential, safe and non-judgemental service offering Person Centred counselling in an Integrative way. Combining classical empathic counselling with an understanding of our physical and behavioural reactions to life challenges. Clients are able to explore the problems they face, enabling healing of difficult emotions, acceptance of self, more enjoyment of the present and positivity about the future. I have experience of working for several charities and most recently for an organisation working in local schools. I have experience of working with bereavement, anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, gender identity and living with the impact of a challenging health diagnosis to name a few. We are all living in challenging times which is causing an increase in our sense of fear, isolation and confusion. Due to the continuing prevalence of Coronavirus I’m not offering face to face sessions but will continue to work by telephone or online e.g. face time, skype, zoom. I offer a free 40 min sessions to discuss your needs and answer any questions you have about counselling. If we decide to work together I will discuss my contract with you and my fees. In line with BACP guidelines I am fully insured and maintain good practice through Continuing Professional Development and regular supervision. Concessions are available.
8 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Marathon hero
C
ONGRATULATIONS to the ever impressive Sarah Budden who completed the Virtual London Marathon on Sunday 4th October.
Sarah was supported by local friends Charlottte Chapman who ran the last 16 miles, Jenna Folkard who ran the last six miles and husband Nik who cycled alongside her for logistical support. Well done all.
Sarah started and finished the 26.2 mile route in Probus and finished in an incredibly impressive 4 hours 11 minutes. Just to make it more challenging the very last leg was the old Probus 10km route from Probus to Grampound Road via Ladock - the last part being all uphill. Over the 26.2 miles, Sarah took on 2,100 ft/640 m in elevation, significantly more uphill than the official London marathon route. Images: Sarah, supported by Jenna (left) and Charlotte (right) strides back into Probus after a gruelling 26.2 miles and bottom her route from Probus to circumnavigate Truro, Shortlanesend, Newham, St Clement and Grampound Road.
Sarah took on this challange to raise money for RCHT where she works as a Matron in Clinical Quality and Safety with a focus on reducing avoidable harm for patients. She plans to use any money raised to purchase specialised equipment, and pay for adaptations to the environment that support certain patient groups. If you are in a position to help Sarah, go to her justgiving page uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search for Sarah Budden.
Grampound Road/Ladock 10k loop
Shortlanesend
Probus
Truro St Clement
November 2020 | 9
10 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Remembering Steve Johnson
C
ONDOLENCES to Beverly, Sarah, family and friends of Steve Johnson who sadly died on 24th September aged 93. Steve will be remembered by many in the village. Until not that long ago, he would be seen driving up Fore Street, in his mobility scooter that he called his Maserati. He would park at the farm shop to pick up salt beef which, according to Steve was made especially for him!
Steve was a founder member of the Probus Club of Probus, and the following words are by members Mike Bowen, Ray McVay, Neil Staten and Richard Ludlow. As the Cullen View plots were sold and houses built, Ray McVay first met Steve, his late wife Joan, and Spike their dog across the building site, three plots away. A firm friendship developed with Friday night gatherings in the Hawkins Arms and Monday lunchtime drinks at the Comrades Club. The Hawkins ‘Famous Table’ became the birthplace of our very own Probus Club and it was Steve who arranged the first speaker to give a talk to the club. Over the years the Friday night ‘Dad’s Army’ was delighted to welcome Steve’s family, Beverly, Sarah and Andy and grandson Julio (pictured right). To meet Steve for the first time was quite an experience. A celebratory Spanish
themed dinner at the Lamplighter with everybody seated and waiting was interrupted by the door being flung open. In walked, to rapturous applause, an expensive looking gentleman in a long black overcoat, Basque beret and Valencia FC scarf. He remained the centre of attention for the rest of the evening, especially with the ladies, for whom he had a particular fondness. The irrepressible Steve became a feature of Probus Club of Probus meetings, through arriving late, asking questions at unexpected moments, and on one memorable occasion, having to be woken to give the pre-arranged vote of thanks to the Speaker.
Steve regularly hosted Tapas lunches at home, where fun and wine flowed freely. Once he addressed you as ‘Brother’ you knew you were accepted and took it as a badge of honour. Steve, without a doubt, was a one off, who never forgot his roots in Salford and although we are sad at his passing our memories will always be of a jovial, kind and unique gentleman. Steve was a devotee of Philleigh Folk for a number of years, enjoying a meal beforehand and fully participating in the proceedings to everyone’s amusement – here’s a tribute from Greg to the folk club’s ‘oldest supporter, and most ardent heckler... “He was one of those rare people who could dictate the starting time of an event by the time he took his seat...In a world short of characters, Steve will be sorely missed.” November 2020 | 11
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A message from Rev. Joachim There’s Rosemary, that’s for remembrance. Pray you, Love, Remember.
O
PHELIA’S words in Act 4 Scene V of Hamlet.
As November rolls in, we come to the season of Remembrance. This year we are 102 years from the First World War and 75 years from the end of the Second World War. There are very few, if any, left who actually remember the First World War, and those who remember the Second are an ever-smaller group. As the memory of the two wars fades, our act of remembrance can begin to feel a little remote. It is hard to ‘remember’ something you never actually witnessed.
know people who have died in recent months, be it from COVID-19 or otherwise. We therefore remember our loved ones in a way that is much closer much more intense than remembrance can feel. We remember to keep their memory alive, to bring them closer for a little while longer, and we remember, lest we ever forget. ‘There’s Rosemary, that’s for remembrance. Pray you, Love, Remember’. With every blessing, Rev’d Joachim Foot Team Rector of Probus, Ladock, Grampound with Creed and St Erme rector@probusteam.com 01726 882218 or 07930 095687
The first thing to remind ourselves really is that war sadly continues. The death tolls from modern wars, like Iraq and Afghanistan, mean we are called on to remember things that are within all of our lifetimes. But really, at the heart of remembrance itself is reminding ourselves that the peace we enjoy as a nation has come at a price. In the church there is also a time called All Souls on 2nd November, which is a day traditionally for remembering those who have died. Although, mercifully, Cornwall has so far been spared the worst of COVID-19, I am conscious that there are many who 14 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Image: Dottie and Ariel by Sam Duff
The service will be live streamed via Zoom to enable those who wish to join in remotely to do so: https://zoom.us/join Meeting ID: 813 5712 1425 Passcode: Probus Those wishing to lay a wreath please contact me rector@probusteam.com 01726 882218 to discuss the practicalities.
Shots Against
J.McColl R.Dunbar
7
6
1
0
129
87
13
C.Wyatt R.Danyluk
7
5
0
2
114
82
10
P.Clarke D.Harris
7
4
1
2
124
90
9
K.Azancot P.Wyatt
7
3
0
3
102
101
6
R.Johnson J.Danyluk D.Meggs
7
3
0
4
102
104
6
P.Azancot C.Champion
7
3
0
4
102
115
6
P.Redgewell J.Duff
7
1
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5
70
119
3
D.Redgewell M.Johnson
7
1
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65
114
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Points
Shots For
Social distancing of 2 metres between family groups is required.
Lost
To comply with the law, everyone will be required to be inside the churchyard for the event. Everyone will be required to either scan our QR code or give a name and contact details for the government's Test and Trace system.*
Players
Draw
The event itself will begin at 10:50 am on Sunday 8th November and last around 15 minutes.
T
HE green has now been closed for the winter but we had a very enjoyable Pairs League in September. The winners were Jenny McColl and Roger Dunbar who, impressively, only dropped one point.
Won
W
E are planning to hold a remembrance event this year in Probus Churchyard.
Probus Bowling Club
Played
Remembrance Sunday
Although the green is closed there is plenty of work to be done both on the green and the buildings.
Please note that all plans are subject to change based on government advice. Please check our website/Facebook/ notice board nearer the time for updates. * The details are for the sole use of the test and trace system and will not be used for any other purpose. The details collected will be stored securely for 21 days in line with government guidelines. After 21 days the details will be shredded.
We hope to see you next year when we open in March/April. November 2020 | 15
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November 2020 | 17
The Roseland Academy
T
HE start of this new academic year has been very positive, we have adapted as Team Roseland to ensure that our usual events still take place but in line with government guidelines, such as the launch of our virtual Open Evening! We created a virtual tour to explore The Roseland Academy from the comfort of your own home. All information that we would usually share on the evening available via our website.
who loses her parents and is fostered by a poor German couple, Rosa and Hans Hubermann. After a while, Liesel accepts her new life. Although money and food are scarce, she is treated fairly and finally loved by her foster parents. The little family rely on the money Rosa earns by doing laundry. While delivering laundry to the mayor's house Liesel becomes acquainted with the mayor's wife, who allows her to read books from her library. When the mayor's wife says that she no longer requires Rosa's services, Liesel loses her temper and steals a book from the library.
This term we have also celebrated European Day of Languages, with staff greeting and dismissing lessons in a different language alongside a poster competition and a socially distanced Roseland bake-off. We recently celebrated National Poetry Day, where the theme was 'vision'. We thought it was particularly relevant to consider how poetry (and art in general) can help us to understand and envisage our world during and after the pandemic. This event gave the students a fantastic opportunity to share the poetry they wrote during the midst of the national lockdown and over the summer holidays. To view the virtual tour, visit The Roseland Academy website www. theroseland.co.uk @roselandacademy or see our Facebook page for further information and updates.
Probus Book Club
O
UR book this month was The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. It is about a young German girl Liesel, during the Second World War, 18 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
One day a stranger turns up at their door.He is Max, the Jewish son of a soldier who saved Hans’ life during the First World War. They agree to hide him in the cellar. Liesel reads to Max when he is very ill, and the two form a very close bond. In describing the lives of people in the village, the book shows that ordinary German people also suffered at the hands of the Nazis. One day Max decides he can no longer put the Hubermanns in danger and leaves the village during a bombing raid. Bombs destroy the village, and once again, Liesel is alone. Some members of the Book Club found this book difficult to read because of the subject matter. Others found it a very human story, funny and sad in places. Several had also read it before and seen the film.
My view How I learned to stop worrying and love the virus.
I
HAVE Stockholm Syndrome. Okay, so I probably can’t self-diagnose Stockholm Syndrome, but I certainly think I have it, because, call me crazy, but I am starting to enjoy this pandemic. Before I go any further, I should probably explain my experience with this pandemic. I have had it very easy so far and I will hold my hand up and admit it. Nobody I know is guaranteed to have had it (my father may have but his recovery was quick and simple), it gave me more time to complete my dissertation (although it has caused my graduation to be put on hold) and the world has been filled with only minor inconveniences for me. I also live in Falmouth which has, until now, escaped the worst of the pandemic. I know I’ve had it easy and to those who have not, I can only be sorry and I understand that you will not sympathise with my position.
But about those mild inconveniences I mentioned, I really am starting to enjoy them. Keeping my distance from others, wearing a mask, constantly sanitising my hands. I’m sure I don’t need to list them all, you likely have them memorised yourself at this point, but honestly I love nearly all of them. I have no idea if it is because of my social anxiety, my desire for a more simplified world or simply the experience of living in a moment of history but I am slightly enjoying this.
Keeping my distance from people is a natural urge with my anxiety disorder. I like to have a bubble around me when in public. The difference now is that everyone else likes that bubble too. My anxiety finally feels relatable! Now that may be damning for myself and indeed for society as a whole, but so is eating the last biscuit on a plate, and frankly the two experiences give a similar pleasure of naughty self-indulgence. There is the historical aspect of all this too. Despite being a tiny part of this crazy mixed up world, right now I have never felt more a part of it, despite the distancing. It’s rather similar to belonging to the global community when watching the Olympics. Of course, it’s a load of rubbish but it’s nice to escape for an hour from the horrors of war and violence in the world to imagine us all singing Kumbaya together. I know that my fears are the fears of many others. I see political pundits I have long disagreed with, posting opinions that I find quite sensible and that degree of commonality helps me remember that we are not so different after all. It has made me realise that I am a part of something greater than myself, in a way I always told myself before, but never actually believed. Now as I say, not everyone has been as fortunate as I. Over a million are dead globally and many more grieve. To those in grief I can only apologise for feeling this way. But for those of us who have been fortunate enough to escape this largely unscathed so far, it may be worth enjoying this strange little flux in history before it’s over. The world may never be the same once this is over and we may never experience this again. I am led to wonder, when this is over, will some of us miss it? Jonathan Staten
Jonathan is currently studying for his MA in Professional Writing at the University of Falmouth. Image by rawpixel.com
November 2020 | 19
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Comrades Club Centenary
W
EDNESDAY 7th October 2020 marked 100 years to the day since the Comrades Club formally opened its doors. Thanks to the current COVID-19 restrictions, we haven’t been able to celebrate as we would have liked, but here’s a brief look back at the history of this much-loved Probus institution. Formed by the returning comrades of the 1914–18 Great War, the principal objectives of the club have always remained, and indeed form the basis of the rules of the club - to perpetuate the feeling of comradeship generated in the First World War; to foster good fellowship and social intercourse and to provide facilities for recreation and amusement. It was intended to be a place to reflect, talk, laugh and cry, to celebrate the lives of those who returned and, more especially, those who did not.
1 Cornish Mount on the corner of The Square and Chapel Street, the site of a former pub and now a Grade II listed building and private dwelling. There may be some confusion about what that pub was actually called The Book of Probus, by Alan M. Kent and Danny L.J. Merrifield, lists it as the Cornish Mount, while Historic England’s description of the building identifies it as having once been The Bell public house. Whatever the name, it appears to have closed by the end of 1918.
1 Cornish Mount, the first home of the Comrades Club. While the Comrades Club was initially open only to Probus ex-servicemen, at the opening ceremony the hope was expressed that ‘it would eventually be open to those men of the village who had no opportunity of serving during the Great War’. In time the club was indeed opened for all men of Probus, and by the mid-1930s the membership had grown to such an extent that larger premises were needed.
The notice in the West Briton, published on 14th October 1920. For the first two decades or so of its existence, the club rented premises at
In November 1940, members agreed to buy two parcels of land in Tregony Road, the site now occupied by local businesses, on which to build new premises. Just as the purchase had been agreed, however, the club was offered the chance to buy The Letter B pub on St Austell Road. A ready-equipped pub November 2020 | 21
had obvious advantages over a building plot and, in February 1942, The Letter B was acquired for the princely sum of £450. This was the beginning of the club as it is today, The Letter B being the lower half of the current premises and comprising a downstairs bar and an upstairs snooker room.
Kate Reynolds behind the bar, c. 1950.
The Comrades Club today – this part of the building was formerly Rockery Villa, acquired by the club in 1968. In the mid-1960s Rockery Villa, the residential property next door, became available and it was acquired by the club in July 1968 for £2900.
The groundfloor part of Rockery Villa was opened in November 1970 as a mixed-bar for both sexes. Ladies had been admitted as associate members in 1968, although they were forbidden from using the lower men-only bar. It was not until 1987 that women were admitted as full members, having voting rights and being eligible to be elected to Committee. In 2001 a junior membership was introduced for 16–17 year olds, with younger children admitted when accompanied by parents or guardians.
Interestingly, Rockery Villa had formerly been the home of Thomas and Kate Reynolds – Thomas being caretaker and then steward of the club from 1942 until his death in 1951 - and Kate worked behind the bar in what was, at the time, a strictly male-only bastion. A handwritten note found in the family bible gives an insight into his duties: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Brush and dust the premises daily. Wash downstairs floor – fortnightly. Upstairs when necessary. Lay and light fires when required. Check the delivery of goods. Entrance doors, Reading and Billiard room to be opened 9 am. 7. Sanitary of urinal. 8. See club is not used by unauthorised persons. 22 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Tom and Kate Reynolds with granddaughter Linda Beland, outside the rear of Rockery Villa, c. 1948–49.
Further refurbishments since then have seen the club take on its present form and there are now bars on the two floors, the upper forming a licensed function suite that can be hired for special occasions. Improvements to heating, new carpet and redecorating of the downstairs bar were completed in March this year, just prior to the closure of the club for 16 weeks as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic.
President David Juleff and former steward and long-serving member Bill Pollard, unveiling the centenary commemorative plaque on 7th October.
The Comrades Club and Rockery Villa, July 1965 – this was taken three years before the Club acquired Rockery Villa, creating the building we know today. The club is run, as it has been since its beginning, by a committee elected by the members and is a non-profitmaking organisation, with any money raised from events and drinks sales being ploughed back into maintenance and refurbishment of the building. The steward is the only full-time salaried post, ably assisted by a number of part-time bar staff who keep the place running smoothly. Today, the club has about 200 members, although in normal (i.e. non-COVID-19) circumstances, there are usually 300 or more members. The club plays host to a wide variety of events and village meetings. There are hugely popular monthly acoustics (open-mic) nights where local musicians can showcase their talents, featuring everything from folk and jazz to rock and even poetry
November 2020 | 23
recitations. The Knit & Natter group meets there every week to – well, natter and knit! Bingo nights have been running for many years and the club
also has darts and pool teams who take part in local leagues. And, of course, the club is the only venue in the village that shows live sport on big-screen TVs, which is a major draw for sports fans. A real ale festival is held annually – usually on the last May Bank Holiday weekend - with generous sponsorship from local businesses. More recently there’s been the World’s Hog’s Pudding Championships with butchers from near and far entering puddings for tasting. All this requires a lot of organisation and, over the years, so many people
Some of the current committee who were able to attend the commemoration on 7th October 24 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
have given their time and energy to this community hub that it’s impossible to list and thank them all. It was hoped that the club’s centenary would be celebrated with a variety of events and functions for all the village to enjoy but, for obvious reasons, this has not been possible. Nonetheless, on Wednesday 7th October there was a somewhat muted but poignant commemoration: two plaques, donated by Dennis Keam and hand carved by Roger Gluyas, were unveiled by chairman David Juleff and former steward and long-serving member Bill Pollard. The plaques now takes pride of place in the downstairs bar. Nearby there is a photograph of three local young men dressed as soldiers of the Great War taken during the moving commemoration staged in November 2018 – perhaps, a poignant reminder of the club’s origins and purpose.
Credits: Adapted from The Book of Probus, by Alan M. Kent and Danny L.J. Merrifield (Halsgrove, 2004), with additional material by Sarah Hoggett, David Juleff, Richard Puttick and others. November 2018 Beacon image by Abigail Hobbs.
Cash Draw 2020
T
HE Probus News Magazine is a non-profit organisation that aims to deliver a high-quality village magazine, free to each household in Probus eleven times a year. Our only income is from advertising, the annual cash draw and a grant from the Parish Council with the cash draw being a vital part of our yearly revenue.
4. Drop off the envelope at Trudgian Farm Shop, Probus School Filling Station or directly to the Probus News Treasurer, Terry Hodge, La Chaumière, The Green, Probus. Alternatively, contact any committee members to collection (details on page 3).
of the arrange
Thank you very much for your support. Additional tickets can be obtained from any committee member (see page 3).
Due to COVID-19, we are unable to sell tickets for the cash draw in the usual manner, so have decided upon an alternative approach of including one book of tickets with each copy of the November edition. While there is absolutely no obligation to purchase, we sincerely hope you will support your village magazine. If you are unable, or choose not to, then just recycle this envelope and the tickets within. You will continue to receive your free magazines. Instructions to enter the Probus News Magazine Cash Draw 2020: 1. Write your name and address and a contact number on the ticket stub for each ticket you wish to buy. 2. Insert the completed stubs in the envelope (keep the tickets). 3. Add the matching amount of cash (or a cheque payable to Probus News Magazine) for the number of tickets you wish to buy. 3. Seal the envelope. November 2020 | 25
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A Barnardo’s boy’s story
to lose his young wife, then trying to support seven children alone. This was a long time before a welfare system, as we now know it, was established in the UK
By John Denyer
In February 1935, following the death of his father, three-year-old Richard and four sisters were taken into temporary shelter, the Dr Barnardo’s ‘Ever Open Door’, known as Welby in Plymouth.
I
INTERVIEWED Richard Avery with the intent to hear and write about his memories of active service in the Korean War. However, I discovered that the story of the first 17 years of his life was so challenging, so difficult, that with his kind permission, I have tried to describe it here. I suspect many people of a younger generation would find it hard to image how difficult life could be in the mid 1930s in Cornwall, and across the UK, especially for orphans or those who for whatever reason were reliant on charitable organisations. Richard Avery, who lives in Ashleigh Way, was born in Mevagissey in January 1932, the youngest of seven children. He had a start to life that would be hard to comprehend for many of us when, in 1934, his mother Irene died of cancer aged just 35. If that wasn’t tragic enough, the following year his father Richard Henry died aged 46 from ‘exhaustion and ulcerative colitis’, leaving all seven children orphaned.
The eldest two siblings, Henry (20) and Eva (18) were already working so didn’t go into the care system. Life was always tough as a 'Barnardo's boy or girl’ but even more so during the global depression of the 1930s and in the run up to and during the Second World War. Over the next decade, Richard lived in multiple children's homes from Plymouth to Norfolk, including a military school and one period with a foster family. Initially, all contact with his eldest siblings and the extended family was lost and not regained for many months or years.
One can only imagine how hard it would have been for Richard’s father, first
Image: Richard with his mother Irene 28 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Image: Richard aged four years, with his sisters Kathleen, Rene, Ethel, and Mary and eldest Sister Eva, who was 19 and visiting.
After six months, Richard and four sisters were sent to the 'Girls Village Home' in Barkingside, East London. Six months after that due to ill health he was sent to Syndal Convalescent Home for Girls at Hove, West Sussex. Over the next two years, Richard rotated another three times between the Girls Village Home in Barkingside and the Convalescent Home in Hove. It's unclear why he was kept in girls' homes throughout this period, other than perhaps to have some contact with those sisters also in care.
Image: Richard, aged six at Barnardo’s Girls Village Home
Image: Syndal, Dr Barnardo’s Convalescent Home for Girls in Hove, West Sussex.
In September 1938 at the age of six, with the dark clouds of war looming, Richard was evacuated from Barkingside to Worcester, but this was only for a month. He soon returned to the Girls Village Home in East London. In May 1939, Richard was then fostered to a Mrs Maggs who lived at 40 High Street, Midsomer Norton in Somerset. For the first time in his life, Richard had some stability as he stayed with Mrs Maggs for four years. Richard remembers Mrs Maggs as a wonderful caring person and devoted to those in her care. He recalls that ‘she had up to four boys all from Dr Barnardo’s at any one time. We were always well fed, she was a brilliant cook. She brought us up to be religious, we went to church and Sunday school regularly.
‘She was very well liked in the community and found us Saturday and holiday jobs to earn pocket money. Of any monies earned, half had to be deposited in a money box which we each had. Such money saved could then be spent on day trips to Bath which included a dinner for which she paid. ‘War broke out while I was with Mrs Maggs. During the air raids we had to hide under the large dining table. I do recall that there was a sentry at the bottom of the steps to the house and Mrs Maggs would take him a jug of tea. She made sure we were well dressed for school and Sunday best. Bath night was Friday and in a large tin bath in front of the fire. The hot water came from a large clothes boiler in the kitchen. ‘Mrs Maggs also had a part time job cleaning the large CO-OP store nearby and took us with her which I remember was fun for us. When it came to birthdays and Christmas, she always made it feel special. ‘Another memory of my time with Mrs Maggs was that there was an elderly chap called Frederick Bray who also Continued on page 32 November 2020 | 29
30 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
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lived there. The house had three bedrooms, two at the front and a very large one at the rear. The rear one had two single beds and one double, hence room for four boys. Mrs Maggs had one of the front bedrooms and Mr Bray the other’.
and their boots and socks were locked up. Apart from on Sunday parades and for church services, they would wear nothing on their feet inside or outside the building from April to October regardless of the weather.
In September 1943 Richard left Mrs Maggs and was sent to Barnardo's 'Boys Garden City' in Woodford, London. He was only there for a couple of weeks when, at the age of 11 years, he was sent by train to Watts Naval Training School (WNTS) in Dereham, Norfolk. WNTS was a military school with links to the Royal Navy, and the young boys had to adapt quickly to a strict military-style regime. There aren’t many available records of Watts Naval Training School, but I did find the reminiscences from one unnamed ‘old boy’ who, it seems, was there a few years before Richard: ‘This was a military-style life and training. The boys were given numbers to identify themselves more so than their own names. Their hair was clipped short, and they were rigged out in sailors' uniforms. In a strict regime which seems terribly harsh by today's standards, the boys' lives were now to be governed by bugle calls. The cane was used as a swift punishment for those breaking the rules. The boys' best kit was stowed away,
Image: Boy sailors manning the mast at WNTS, Norfolk.
Their days began at 05:45. The first hour of the day was reserved for cleaning, sweeping, scrubbing and polishing. Next would come breakfast and then assembly. Classes began at 09:15 and would continue through the day till 16:50. The boys would learn seamanship, physical training, gunnery, drill and signals, as well as other lessons. The evenings were busy too – tea, homework, supper and, at 20:00, the teeth-cleaning ceremony when hundreds of boys lined up for a spoonful of cooking salt with which to scrub teeth and gargle. After another assembly, it was time for prayers and 'lights out' at 21:00.’
Image: Friday ‘passing out’ parade at WNTS 32 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
It turned out that a sailor's life wasn't to be for Richard as, after five months, he was sent to the Barnardo's wartime evacuation centre at Honingham Hall - a grand old country house near Norwich. He stayed there for 18 months until September 1945 when he was sent to Spring Hill House East Cowes, Isle of Wight for a month before going on to
Cigarette Co. in their Cannon Street, London EC1 office. That was Richard’s last contact with Dr Barnardo's - he was all alone in an adult world and had to grow up fast.
Image: The ‘Tinsmiths Workshop’, at the Dr Barnardo’s Stepney Causeway childrens home. one of several such vocational workshops where boys and girls could be taught trade related skills.
yet another boys home in Ashdene, Southampton, where he finished school. In May 1946, aged 14, he was sent to Dr Barnardo's centre at Stepney Causeway, East London. Once Richard reached the age of 14, as was the norm in the mid-1940s, he finished school and immediately had to leave the care system. Before leaving, Dr Barnardo's arranged 'digs' (accommodation, a room shared with other boys) in Kentish Town and a job as an 'office boy' at Gallaher's
Images: Top - the entrance to Dr Barnardo’s Children’s Home at Stepney Causeway, East London, and bottom the main building.
Image: Richard aged just 14, as he left Dr Barnardo’s care to start work. To be continued. Next month read how Richard joins the Army, is sent to Malaysia, Germany and then Korea where he meets and is transferred into the unit of Major Tresawna DSO from Lamelyn Farm, Probus. November 2020 | 33
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From the horse’s mouth by John Denyer
T
HERE is a community in Probus that while not large, is very noticeable and arguably, an intrinsic part of village life. The community I'm referring to is the equestrians, the owners and riders of horses. There are paddocks, stables and liveries scattered all around Probus. In fact, there are more horses in the vicinity than you may imagine. Over the past few weeks, I met up and interviewed some of the horse owners and riders at various locations around the village. The intent was to get a better understanding of who these people are, and what motivates them to own and ride horses. It turned out to be a delight, a real education for a townie like me.
38 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
First up was Michelle Way, aged 24, a newly qualified paediatric nurse who works at RCH Treliske. Michelle has owned Bayden, a 24-year-old since she was a child. Michelle usually goes to the stable twice every day, depending upon her shifts. In the summer her horses live in the paddock overnight and are put into the stables during the day. This reverses in the winter. Her routine is to feed the horses, groom them, check them over, muck out the stables (or pick up the poo from the paddock) and walk them either in the paddock or the stable. Michelle says that horses are intelligent animals who thrive on attention and human contact. Each has its own personality. Bayden hasn't had the best of health recently, and Michelle can no longer ride him herself. Instead, you may spot him being ridden around the village by Olivia, the 11-year old daughter of Darren and Andrea from Cuskayne Farm where he stables. Michelle recently purchased Toffee, a three-year-
old who is currently too young to be ridden, so Michelle is gradually training her and hopes to be able to ride her for the first time next year. From Michelle's perspective, owning a horse is a lifestyle choice. It's a significant commitment in time and expense, but also a way of life, it's part of who she is. Michelle says she finds it hard to imagine life without her horses. Sophia Best, age 24, purchased her horse Jack four years ago after graduating. It's the first horse that she's owned having learned to ride at an early age. Jack is 11 years old, 15.2 hands and palominoskewbald in colour. Like Michelle, Sophia believes owning a horse is a big commitment, but predominantly a lifestyle choice.
Images: clockwise from above Olivia and Amanda in Probus Square. Sophia and Wenna enjoying the puddles in Trewithen Estate, and Michelle with Bayden and Toffee in the paddock at Cuskayne Farm.
Wenna Albury, also 24, bought Rosie three years ago. Rosie is 11 years old, and similar size and marking to Jack. Sophia and Wenna enjoy going to horseriding camps, events and competitions together as the image below shows. Like their owners, Jack and Rosie are friends, living most of the year outdoors in adjacent paddocks and enjoy each other's company.
Image with kind permission of www.farlap-photography.com
November 2020 | 39
40 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
When asked, 'Do you have to be wealthy to own a horse?', the consensus from all those that I spoke to was that indeed, some people do own horses just because they are wealthy. Some opt for full livery, never have to muck out and simply sit on their horses for weekend rides. However, the vast majority of horse owners are ordinary people, with regular jobs and regular incomes. Sophia said that many owners she knows are in fact 'not at all well off, they just prioritise their horses over other things, making them just about affordable’. Pictured below passing through Lamelyn, twelve-year-old Elowyn is riding Honey, while seven-year-old Delia is riding Storm. They enjoy hacking out and going through the bridleways before riding through Probus Square down to their green paddocks behind College Close.
One Sunday morning, in Tresowga Lane, I met Hannah and her daughter Millie from Treverbyn Farm (pictured above right). They are regularly to be seen exercising their horses on one of the loops through or around the village. Hannah was riding Cally while Millie was riding Jilly.
Nick James, a nurse at Penrice Hospital owns Doris and Poacher both 16.5 hands and 9-year olds. Nick has owned horses for 40 years and can’t remember ever not having had a horse. He is at the stables two or three times every day looking after his horses and is often seen riding in and around the village. Nick is pictured on the right with Harry on a Sunday morning hack.
Continued on page 44 November 2020 | 41
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Sam Duff, from Tresowga Farm (pictured left), is another keen equestrian in the community. Like several others I met, she started at the riding school at the top of Grampound Road at a young age. As a young dental nurse, she spends pretty much all of her wages and most of her spare time with her three horses, Lottie, Dottie and Dora. Lottie is seven years old while Dottie and Dora are old girls at 22 and 21 years old respectively. When asked about what drives this passion in horses, Sam said that her horses are her best friends, they have a bond which is hard to describe. Clearly, it’s a way of life, a lifestyle choice, and a significant commitment, but also an honourable activity in that it’s an honour when a horse allows you to ride them. Trust is another word often used by horse owners and riders to describe the relationship. Horses are not pets in the same respect as dogs or cats, a horse has to build up enough trust in its rider to keep it safe, while the rider has to trust the horse to do the same. 44 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
Pictured below in blue, Samantha Faull has been riding all of her life and likes to go out for weekend hacks around the village on her pony 19-year-old Ariel, along with neighbour Sam Duff. Over at the paddock behind Lelissick Barn, I met Sam Bray an Agricultural and Compliance Supervisor with her two large horses. Sam owns 12-year-old Stone who may be a Bretton Cob breed
and his larger stable mate 9 year old Ellie, a full shire horse who belongs to Sam’s 17 year old daughter Becky. Both are large, sturdy animals bred as dray or working horses and Ellie has been trained in logging and ploughing. The horses have only recently moved to the village, and Ellie and Stone are not yet ready to go out and about, but they will in time. So look out for them, as they are magnificent animals. When I asked Sam
November 2020 | 45
how much time she spends with her horses, Sam gave me a very interesting response. She said ‘I’m not sure, the clock stops when I’m with the horses, sometimes I come up here for half an hour and before I know it, four hours have passed’. Perhaps that sums up what it’s like to own a horse - you enter another world. Yes, of course, there is the mud, dust and mucking out, but it’s much more than that. It’s a world of devotion, of trust, of honour, friendship and love. Wow - I wasn’t expecting that! Sincere thanks to the many contributors to this article. If you see horses out
46 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 251
and about the village, please slow right down, give the horses and their riders plenty of space, don’t make sudden movements but be sure to say hello. A carrot also works!
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