Probus News Magazine August 2021
Issue No. 259
The Free Magazine For The Community
August 2021 | 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
Community notices Page 4
Spring daffodils
Panto update
Page 5
Page 11
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
A walk to Resparveth
Community larder
Volunteering
Page 23
Page 32
Page 42
Front Cover: Wagg Lane on the wet morning of 6th July (by the Editor).
Probus Church illustration by @paullakemanwallart
Submissions deadlines
for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month.
Publication dates September
Friday 27th August
October
Friday 1st October
November
Friday 29th October
December
Friday 10th December
January 2022
No edition
February 2022
Friday 28th January
March 2022
Friday 25th March (tbc)
Also available online:
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 Community Memory Café Speed Watch
T
HE Truro Police Neighbourhood Team has been successful in setting up a Community Speed Watch Scheme (CSW) on Tregolls Road, Malpas Road, Feock, Chacewater, New Mills and Ladock. We are now very keen to set up a scheme in Probus. A safe site has been located, and now we just need some keen volunteers to conduct basic online training and be willing to give up 1-2 hours a month. The objective of CSW is to educate drivers rather than enforcement of the 30mph speed limit within the village. For more details, please contact James Hosking on 07725 223170 or via email James.hosking2@devonandcornwall. pnn.police.uk For FAQs and further details about volunteering, check out www.devoncornwall.police.uk/advice/on-the-road/ speed-watch/
T
HE Probus Memory Café is not likely to restart unless new volunteers step forward to help. For 10 years this really important local group has been supporting those with memory loss, as well as their carers. If you are in a position to help, please contact Claire Wright on 01872 520198.
Probus Art Exhibition
G
OOD news for local artists and lovers of art. Get your easels, charcols or brushes out as the popular Probus Art Exhibition is back. It will again be held in Probus Church with private viewing on Thursday 4th November at 7pm and then as in past years it will run from Friday 5th to Sunday 7th November. More on this next month.
Over 60s Luncheon Club
P
ROBUS Over 60s Luncheon Club is restarting at the village hall!
It will be held every other Wednesday from 1st September, so 1st, 15th and 29th September.
4 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
For details contact Zena on 01726 882751 or Janet on 01726 882927. All over 60s welcome, new members as well as old.
Spring daffodils
T
and raise a similar amount as last time, so we can can purchase and plant bulbs in the areas we were not able to get to.
WO years ago, we started a community initiative to raise money to buy daffodil bulbs and plant them in two of the village entrances.
If you are interested and able to help, either with a small donation or to volunteer with the planting, please get in contact with the Editor.
With support from the parish council, this magazine, and several families, we raised around £160 and negotiated with Fentongollan to purchase 225 kg that equalled almost 4000 bulbs. A group of volunteers then gathered over several weeks in the autumn of 2019 to plant them all. The results over the past two winters have been fantastic - a massive bloom of yellow and a boost to anyone passing.
T
Shall we do it again? I’m thinking to try
Post box collection times HE last collection times for the four post boxes in and around Probus are: Fore Street next to Probus School Filling Station (and post office) is 4:45 pm on Monday to Friday and 12 noon on Saturday. Carne View, Tregony Road, near Parkengear and Truck are 9am Monday to Friday and 7am on Saturday.
Do you have a problem? Why not contact one of your local Parish Councillors for advice or www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk Sophie Baker Steve Dalton Liza Deards James Faull Nick Gillard Neil Glasson Ross Goldworthy Malcolm Maskill Larry Saunders-Fern Bill Sutherland (chair) Rachel Tofts
Rosparc Ridgeway Holly Farm, Truck Hill Tresowgar Cottage Fore Street Ladock Road Gwell an Nans Lamellyn Vean Rosparc Bosnoweth Carne View Road
07496 838341 01726 884080 07888 684425 07494 756249 01726 883926 07709 286850 07967 125526 01726 884368 01726 882669 01726 884007 07432 566055
Remember, if you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then you may contact the Parish Council Clerk Amanda Kendall on 01726 883614 or email probuspc@gmail.com. Cornwall Councillor Karen Glasson on can also be contacted on 07980 975527 or email cllr.karen.glasson@ cornwall.gov.uk for advice.
August 2021 | 5
A-Z of Probus clubs, societies, organisations and some useful contacts Acoustics Night (Comrades Club) Badminton Club Bees (swarms/issues/questions) Bowling Club Church Bell Ringers 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)
Tim Joyce Pauline Partridge Tony Paddock David Meggs Liza Deards Robert Dodd Andy McCartney Bryan Trebilcock Karen Glasson Colin Brown Angie Smith Steve Flack Nigel Schofield Tony Paddock Graham Smith
07412 126774 timstravels01@hotmail.com 01726 882649 07486 295414 01726 883443 07888 684425 01726 883408 robertjdodd@hotmail.com probus.churchwarden@gmail.com 01726 882747 07980 975527 cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk 07484 740249 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
Anthea Johnson or Verity Allen 01726 882745 grampoundroadcricketclub@gmail. The Club House 07800 915578 com Peter & Anne-Marie 01726 882208 hello@hawkinsarmsprobus.com
Grampound Road Cricket Club Hawkins Arms
Historic Cornwall Society
Kids Club Breakfast/after-school at
07486 295414 07968 478970
.com
editorprobusnews@gmail
Vince Van Kempen-Wilson 01726 883019 vince.vkw@gmail.com Diane Gibbs
01726 882647
Knit & Natter Group Ladies Group Little Lights Probus Nursery (Little Acorns)
Eve Richards Pat Gluyas Pam Cobbold Sarah Brown
01726 882657 or 07767 383982 01726 882978 patgluyas68@btinternet.com 01726 882495 jplelissick@btinternet.com 01726 882647 issing?
Memory Cafe Mid Cornwall Wood Turners
Jill Prisk Richard Elliott
01726 884388 07980 449305 info@midcornwallturners.com
Over 60s Luncheon Club Parish Players (Pantomime) Playing Field Mgmt Committee Parish Church
Zena 01726 882751 or Janet 01726 882927 Cathy Cadby 07860 755787 info@probusparishplayers.co.uk Graham Smith 07968 478 970
Probus School
kidsclub@probusschool.org.uk
Is your group m Let us know
Wednesday Walking Group
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 Frank Fuller 07749 368162 probusvillagehallenquiries@gmail.com www.probusvillagehall.co.uk Terry Hodge or Tim Joyce 01726 884495 or 01726 884574
Young Farmers
Tegan Arthur
Parish Council
Primary School Primary School PTA Probus Club of Probus The Roseland Academy U3A Roseland & District Village Hall Letting Secretary
Other village
07900 797750
pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Swap and Sell
6 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
A warm welcome awaits at
Probus
Comrades
Club
St Austell Street, Probus New opening times: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 4 pm to 10 pm. Wednesday 4 pm to 11 pm. Friday and Saturday 12 noon to 11 pm. Sunday 12 noon to 10 pm.
Live sport throughout August
British and Irish Lion’s tour of South Africa. Last test on Saturday 7th August at 5 pm. Premier League. New season starts on Saturday 14th August.
Indoor live entertainment will be booked as soon as the government allows. See our notice boards and social media for latest openng times.
New Members always welcome. Contact Bryan Trebilcock at the Club or phone 01726 882747 or 01726 883767 PROBUS COMRADES CLUB August 2021 | 7
A message from Rev Joachim
A
S August rolls in we reach peak ‘silly season’ as it is often called. After what has been a traumatic year and a half or so, we are all very much in need of some rest and relaxation. With the pressure we’ve all been under and the endless barrage of often confusing rules and regulations, it’s most definitely time to head for the beach to unwind. As I reflect on what has been a truly bizarre time, I find that so much of life has been brought more clearly into perspective. I know many people for whom the disruption of COVID-19 has led to a re-assessing of their priorities. If you’ve spoken to a midwife recently for example, you will have heard of the baby boom that seems to be upon us. We’re also seeing a bumper wedding year in our churches as couples have had time to take stock of their relationships and see what really matters to them in life. In amongst all of that, I find myself reflecting on the real blessing of life itself. In what has been a chaotic time, I have been constantly drawn back to God our creator, who guides us through even the darkest of times and holds our hand through it all. I am reminded of William Blake’s Auguries of Innocence: To see a world in a grain of sand And a heaven in a wild flower 8 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand And eternity in an hour God appears and god is light With Every Blessing, Rev’d Joachim Foot Team Rector of Probus, Ladock, Grampound with Creed and St Erme 01726 882218 or 07930 095687
Quiz nights
A
RE back in the Hawkins Arms on the first and third Tuesdays of each month 8 pm start. Next one is Tuesday 3rd August (subject to COVID-19 situation). Check notice board and social media.
Ross Paddock memorial match
S
ADLY, the very popular football competition held in memory of Ross Paddock, traditionally held in August, has had to be cancelled. This was not an easy decision for Tony and Karen Paddock, but there was too much uncertainty around COVID-19 to make it viable this year. They hope to put on a bigger and better competition next summer. In previous years, half of the money raised at the event has gone towards Probus FC funds. Our village team is in urgent need of a financial boost to help prepare for the coming season. Tony asks that anyone who still wishes to support local grass roots football to contact him directly on 07486 295414 or Graham Smith on 07968 478970.
FOOTBALL ACTIVITY DAYS
WHEN
10am—3PM
Friday 23rd July Thursday 29th July Thursday 5th Aug Thursday 12th Aug Thursday 19th Aug Thursday 26th Aug Thursday 2nd Sept
SUMMER 2021 AGES 7-12 PRICE
£15 per child per session PRE BOOKING ESSENTIAL Book for any number of sessions
Sibling discount!
COACHES
WHERE
Jason Chapman Steve Flack
DETAILS
FUN!
Probus Park All abilities welcome Qualified FA coaches Advanced booking required Limited places available COVID compliant
Will Yeomans
Outdoor football skills, drills and matches with experienced coaches. Further details of the days provided after booking.
TO BOOK MESSAGE EMAIL: activefuncornwall@gmail.com
August 2021 | 9
Advertisers Index Accountants/Finance Robert Larter
Haulage 15
Building Contractors
Edwards & Sons
31
N & S Builders
28
Beauty, Nails and/or Massage Therapist
Butcher and Farm Shop 45
10
Care Provider Alexandras Care Truro
Nails by Emily
12
Electrical Contractors
Roseland Podiatry Paul Gagan
Collins of Probus
Roseland Electrical
15
S J Grigg
Logs ‘n’ Coal
47 13
Paul Mulkeen
31
35 2 48
Funeral Directors
Restaurant/Take Away 39
Sand, Aggregate, Concrete Suppliers 34
Stone Mason & Plant Hire Ed Faull
30
Taxi/Private Hire Carlton Cars
15
Graham Bishop
37
TV Aerial & Satellite Services 14
PC & Network Support PC Doctor Dickson
31
Travel Agency 36
Painting & Decorating L A Nolan & Son
12
Peter Woolcock
Kernow Mixers
Motor Servicing, Sales, Repairs
Emma Packer
MB Building & Windows
Tandoori Spice
Music Lessons
35
29
18
45
Fuel Supplies
Shaun Beresford
34
Recall Electrical/Home Security
36
Property Maintenance
Ben Heather
34
Roseland Seafood
36
Alastaire Hambly
28
Fishmonger
Roller Bathrooms
28
Brightsparks
41
34
Janey Paul
J K Electrical
Philip Martin
Chris Rogers
15
Mobile Valeting
Estate Agent/Surveyor
31
Ren’s Carpentry & Property Maintenance
Locksmith 18
14
Andrew McMonagle
12
Peter Donnelly
35
Paul Ashby Johnson
Hair 4 U
Podiatry
Country Stores M A Grigg
29
Optician 39
Cleaning Services Sparkling Gem
Nicky Waters Hairdressing
Cake suppliers Kernow Cups n’ Cakes
30
Health & Wellbeing
Craig Edwards
Trudgian Farm Shop
Plumbing and/or Heating
Shane Perry
29
Will Writing 35
Will Writers Services
7
13
Pet Store
W J Beswetherick
45
Probus Parish Counci
3
The Cornish Funeral Company
14
Fal Valley Pets
Probus Comrades Club
7
L J Tregunna
44
The Hawkins Arms
19
10 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
W
HAT did you do when a nationwide lockdown was announced, and you suddenly found yourself spending far more time at home than you were used to? Cook, of course! So, we thought why not gather all our favourite recipes, and create the recipe book of all recipe books? Introducing the Community Cookbook! Whether that's a new scrumptious sweet you fell in love with during lockdown, or your family's favourite meal that is guaranteed to put a smile on everyone's face, we want to hear from you!
2022 Pantomime
P
ROBUS Parish Players is very excited to announce their 30th anniversary production will be Alice in Wonderland.
s course soups rian vegeta rts desse main
rs starte sides
Probus Parish Players’ Community rish a P s u Prob Cookbook rs’ Playe ity n u m Com ook Cookb
Please send your recipes to info@probusparishplayers.co.uk. The Community Cookbook will be on sale towards the end of the year to raise funds for Probus Parish Players. We can’t wait to try your recipes! pieces, or if you have any questions at all, please email info@ probusparishplayers.co.uk. If you’d like to be involved, but not on the stage, there are plenty of other roles where we need help, so email us or come along and say hello.
Auditions will take place on Sunday 12th September. Children and Adult Chorus Auditions: 10-11:30am Main Cast Auditions: 12pm onwards. We have several speaking parts for children this year. If your child would like to see the lines and audition for a speaking part, please drop us a message. For
all
other
audition August 2021 | 11
Hair 4 U TREGONY ROAD PROBUS
Acrylic and Gel Nails CND Shellac Manicures Pedicures Lash Lifts Qualified, experienced and insured
Probus based
07964 878849
12 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED HAIRDRESSING FOR ALL THE FAMILY OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9 am to 4:30 pm (Except Tuesday 9 am - 4 pm) Saturday 9 am to 1 pm Phone 01726 882888
Established 25 Years
A Great Range of Products For Your Pet Food ● Treats ● Toys ● Collars ● Leads Grooming & Medicinal Products Over 200 Pet Beds In Stock Wild Bird Food & Feeders Logs & Kindling Large Free Customer Car Park Fal Valley Tannery Grampound ● TR2 4RX 01726 883988 www.falvalleypets.co.uk
EVERYONE NEEDS A WILL. IT IS THE ONLY WAY THAT YOUR ASSETS, WHETHER LARGE OR SMALL PASS TO THE PEOPLE YOU WISH THEM TO. DYING WITHOUT A WILL CAUSES HUGE PROBLEMS AND HASSLE TO THOSE YOU LEAVE BEHIND HOWEVER SMALL YOUR ESTATE IS. WILL WRITERS SERVICES offers Estate Planning, Will Writing and Preparation of Lasting Power of Attorney. We visit you in your own home for your convenience. We are a local company and talk in plain language that is easy to understand. Please call for further information or to arrange an appointment. A SIMPLE WILL IS JUST £150 01579383892/07979850128 willwritersservices.co.uk
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.
Julie Moutinho DPodM MCPod Registered Podiatrist Juliemoutinho123@gmail.com August 2021 | 13
Aj Plumbing & Heating • Boiler servicing and Replacements • Air source heat pump installations and servicing • Unvented and gravity hot water cylinders • General plumbing and heating maintenance • Complete heating system installation • Bathroom design and installation Fully insured and certified
07717 712387
paulashbyjohnson@aol.com Based in Probus, Truro
Your local funeral director...
Independent, professional & bespoke. Wide selection of natural coffins, itemised prices with no hidden costs. ‘Simple & Direct’ cremations, green funerals. DIY funeral facilitating & funeral planning.
The Cornish Funeral Company
01872 521172 www.thecornishfuneralcompany.co.uk 14 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
ELECTRICIAN Professional, Reliable Service,
PROBUS BASED TAXI
-No expensive call out fees-Part P Registered-
Discounted return trips
Cal David on 07968 339408 for a friendly reliable service, fair pricing and high quality work.
07968 339408
RoselandElectricalinfo@gmail.com
School and Airport runs Large parties catered for All drivers fully insured, licenced and DBS checked
24/7
4/6/8 Seaters Available
Robert Larter DipFA MLIBF Independent Financial Adviser Ruan Lanihorne 01872 500995 robert@abacusfinancialoptions.co.uk
It’s time to revisit your:
Bathroom Fitting, Plumbing, Plastering, Kitchens, Tiling, Property Maintenance & more
Savings & Investments Retirement Planning & Pension Funds Family & Business Financial Protection Inheritance Tax Planning
City and Guilds Qualified. Professional, Friendly and Reliable
Remove the uncertainty with a free no-obligation financial review
Contact Ben 07972 396137
bheatherrenovations@outlook.com August 2021 | 15
Editorial
H
ELLO everyone and welcome to another busy edition of your village magazine.
I often have a feeling of anxiety in the first week of each month wondering what on earth we will find to fill the magazine. As the days progress, articles and updates appear in my inbox, or people call in or stop me in the street to provide leads that I can follow up on. So slowly, but surely, the blank pages fill up. Occasionally, the anxiety returns as I figure out how to fit everything in, or as happened this month, I find several blank pages just days before print. Therefore, sincere thanks to all contributors for this edition as well as those that help behind the scenes. It’s really appreciated. Please keep your village magazine in mind when you plan events, have news to tell, have something to celebrate, or if you come across a story worth sharing. If you’d like to try writing for the magazine, then please do get in touch. It’s great to see some regular groups restarting their meetings or activities after such a long hiatus. I’m encouraged enough to want to restart our ‘What’s on in Probus’ column in the next edition. So, if you have events planned for September, or the following months, just let me know and I’ll add them to the list. It may seem like a long time ago. but in an active village like Probus, it was often a struggle to fit all the village events onto a single page. Let’s hope we can get back to that soon. In the meantime, enjoy the summer, make memories, and have a great holiday if you are able to take some days out. There are a lot worse places to be right now than in Cornwall. John 16 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
Probus Bowling Club
A
UGUST Home fixtures
Tuesday 3rd vs Men’s County VPs pm
1:30
Friday 6th vs Grampound (Rippon) 2 pm Saturday 14th vs Carnon Downs
2 pm
Sunday 15th vs Falmouth
2 pm
Tuesday 17th vs St. Austell (Rippon) 2 pm Thursday 19th vs Veryan
2pm
Saturday 21st vs Grampound
2pm
Since our open day in June, we have managed to get a couple more members and despite some wet weather the club competitions are being well attended. All are welcome to come along when we are playing, just pop in and have a cup of tea and a chat.
Grampound Road Cricket Club
A
T the time of writing our Ladies XI are preparing to travel to Basingstoke & North Hants CC to play Mildenhall (Suffolk) CC Ladies in the semi final of the Vitality Club T20 Plate Cup. Good luck girls! Our 3rd XI are also through to the finals day of the Rosevear Cup at Lanhydrock
CC when they will play Callington in the second semi-final. The seconds are doing well in Division 2 and the fourths continuing to develop young players alongside the more experienced. Our 1st XI team has been badly affected by injuries and unavailability this season
but the young side is fighting hard to retain their place in Cornwall’s Premier League. The youth teams (U11, U13 & U15) have also had successes reaching semi-finals of their respective cups and leagues. www.grcc.play-cricket.com
Date
Team
Opponent
Competition
Start
Saturday 31st July
1st XI
St Just
Premier League
1 pm
3rd XI
Saltash St Stephens
Div 4 East
1 pm
Sunday 1st August
GRCC Ladies
Redruth Ladies
Cornwall Women’s League
2 pm
Saturday 7th August
2nd XI
Menheniot Looe
Div 2 East
1 pm
Div 6 Central
1:30 pm
4th XI
Camborne 3
Monday 9th August
Cornwall U14 Boys
Somerset U14
Saturday 14th August
1st XI
St Austell
Premier League
1 pm
3rd XI
Menheniot Looe 2
Div 4 East
1 pm
1st XI
Penzance
Premier League
12:30 pm
3rd XI
Milton Abbot
Div 4 East
1 pm
2nd XI
Launceston
Div 2 East
1 pm
4th XI
St Erme 3
Div 6 Central
1 pm
Monday 30th August
GRCC Ladies
Penzance Ladies
Cornwall Women’s League
2 pm
Friday 3rd September
GRCC Ladies
MCC Ladies
Friendly
Time tbc
Saturday 21st August
Saturday 28th August
11 am
August 2021 | 17
Come and visit us instore to see our new extended clothing department with a wide range of products! Not got time to pop in? Why not shop online! Open 7 days a week, including bank holidays!
WWW.MAGRIGG.CO.UK
for country, lifestyle & footwear
WWW.GRIGGSEQUESTRIAN.CO.UK for all your equestrian needs
Offering a large dining area and cosy sofa’s for a relaxed feel as well as the option to dine al fresco on our balcony while you enjoy some stunning rural views of the surrounding farmland.
Pendennis, Lower Sticker, St. Austell, PL26 7JH 01726 65656 online@magrigg.co.uk 18 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
August 2021 | 19
Probus Environment Action Team
I
N April this year, the Parish Council appointed a weed controller to manage weeds growing on the pavements and roads within the village, and also, if time allowed, to address the two overgrown Jubilee gardens. Unfortunately, due to a number of factors, including a late start, unusual weather conditions and some personal circumstances, it hasn’t worked out the way we expected and the person is no longer in post. Since weeds have continued to grow, the Parish Council Chairman and Vice Chairmen have decided to spray the weeds again with herbicide. The Parish Council policy on herbicide use states this would only be done where absolutely necessary, and although the management of the roads and pavements are outside the Parish Council remit, we do receive complaints from some residents when weeds appear and consequently respond to address the issue. It is too late in the year to consider hiring another weed controller and this may be revisited next spring. Our desire to stop spraying with herbicide was part of our drive to establish good green environmental credentials in common with other parishes across Cornwall. This has been a set-back, but it provides an opportunity to explain more about our aims. We believe that there must be many residents who want to do something positive about our local environment. We can’t stop the ice caps melting or halt deforestation in the Amazon, but we can make a difference here in our own village. We want to copy an approach 20 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
which has been successful elsewhere in Cornwall by starting the Probus Environment Action Team (PEAT). This group of volunteers would be selfgoverning but would have the support of the Parish Council who would liaise with Cornwall Council where necessary, and help with organising events, and cover insurance where required. Currently, we are engaged with Cornwall Council to helping to increase the number of trees within Probus and the surrounding area, but we would need volunteers to help plant and maintain them. Also, we must do something about the state of the Jubilee gardens before we celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next year. But what do Probus residents want? Would you help to look after the Jubilee gardens if a suitable support scheme was in place? Some have complained about the wild flower planting in the grassed areas. Admittedly, the weather hasn’t helped germination in this first year, but others have welcomed the prospect of banks of flowers supporting insects and other life. Would you help maintain these where necessary? Do you get annoyed at litter casually dropped around the village? Would you join a litter pick if one was organised? Are you interested? What ideas do you have? What initiatives could you support? Whether it involves flowers or trees, hedgehogs, or birds, bees, bugs or bats, or anything else, we would like to hear from you. A Facebook page – PEAT has been set up, so please join if you feel this is for you. If you don’t use Facebook, please contact the Parish Council clerk by email at probuspc@gmailcom, by phone on 01726 883614, or drop a note into Foxleigh, Treviglas Lane. We really hope this has the support of many residents. Probus Parish Council
RSPB Cornwall By Roger Hooper, RSPB Cornwall Local Group. Marine wildlife is doing well as sightings increase
E
VERYONE likes to sit by the sea and just watch the waves, the seabirds or passing ships and fishing vessels. How many times have you take a second look at that patch of white water? Was that a dolphin? Did a fin break the surface? Then nothing re-appears and you realise it was just a breaking wave. Well, increasingly over the last few years more and more ‘white patches’ have actually been dolphins or harbour porpoises or even more exotic creatures. This is because there has been a big movement of ‘bait fish’ (smaller herring sized fish that are the main food items) into Cornish waters, particularly off the Atlantic coast and around to The Lizard. One of the best ways to see ocean wildlife these days is from the Scillonian on a crossing to Scilly. Lots of passengers are well aware of the likelihood of seeing dolphins, or even whales, and there is great excitement on board when one, or, in the case of dolphins and porpoises, a whole pod is seen. It’s not just one species either. Lucky observers have seen Common, Bottlenosed and Risso’s Dolphin, Harbour porpoise, Pilot whale (really a huge dolphin itself) Minke whale and Fin whale. Also more recently a few lucky ones have seen huge Blue-fin tuna leaping from the water. Then, of course, we have had the recent pair of Killer Whales, or Orcas, which were photographed off the Land’s End peninsular. These were the first in Cornish waters for 50 years and are now, much to the relief of our Grey Seals, back
up around the west coast of Scotland. There is a certain amount of luck involved with seeing creatures out in the sea but birds can give us a huge clue as to where to watch. Predators below the surface, be they dolphins, whales or sharks, drive the small fish towards the surface and ‘corral’ them into a big round shoal so they can simply dive into the ball and chomp them into their mouths.
Image: A bottle-nosed dolphin courtesey of RSPB images.
This doesn’t go un-noticed by the seabirds above, like gannets, gulls and terns who will dive-bomb into the shoal to grab their share of the feeding frenzy. It is the diving of the birds into one spot that shows you where to watch and it won’t be long before dark dorsal fins start breaking the surface. Scenes like this are not just for those on a boat at sea. Lots of birdwatchers like me have seen many feeding pods just off the shore. Last summer huge numbers were feeding just off of Hell’s Mouth on the coast near Camborne but the most watched spots are the Lands End area, Mount’s Bay and The Lizard. Late summer is a great time for these creatures, known collectively as ‘Cetaceans’ as they move south on migration so it is worth taking those binoculars on a day out. Mention must be made, too, of two other giants of the sea that turn up off our coastline. Go back maybe a decade Continued overleaf
August 2021 | 21
or more and Basking Sharks were being regularly seen from west Cornwall. Unlike all the previously mentioned creatures that are mammals, Basking Sharks are fish. They are not attracted by small fish either but extract plankton from the water. It follows that if the plankton is not present in an area they won’t be there and sadly this has been the case for a few years now but it may well return and so will the sharks. Finally, the other ‘big’ visitor is neither mammal nor fish, but a reptile. Huge Leatherback Turtles drift north – east across the Atlantic from there tropical home range following the jellyfish that they feed on. The further north they come the colder the water and for a reptile that means they get more and more lethargic until they become almost hypothermic and end up on a Cornish beach in need of help. Luckily for them, these days there are plenty of people willing to rescue them.
22 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
Community larder
T
HE Probus Community Larder has now moved to a permanent home at the church.
Eleanor McCartney who originally set up the No One Goes Hungry Probus project, asked the Probus News to thank Probus Village Hall Management Committee for their support over the many months that it was held at the village hall. She also wanted to thank Friends of Probus Church for their donation towards the cost of storage units for the project. See page 32 for more on this initiative.
Mobile library
T
HE mobile library will be stopping at the car park of Probus Village Hall between 11:10 am and 12 noon on Friday 13th August.
COMMUNITY FOOD LARDER PROBUS PARISH CHURCH Opening Times: Monday 4-5
Our local community larder is FREE and open to EVERYBODY to use in Probus and the surrounding area.
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Help us, help you & reduce food waste!
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Saturday 9:30 – 10:30 Isolating or can’t get out? Please email nochildgoeshungryprobus@gmail.com to find out about our delivered food parcels.
A circular walk via Resparveth By John Denyer
H
ERE is a lovely circular walk for you, perfect on a dry, sunny day. Some sections will be familiar, as we
have covered several bits of it on other walks. The walk starts at Probus Square, and we visit the edge of Ladock, then head towards Grampound Road, but divert off in the direction of Trewince Farm. Then, we walk through the farms at Resparveth before heading back via Helland Barton. It's 8.4 km (or just a tad over 5 miles), uses some little-used footpaths, and will take a couple of hours or more if you stop to look at Ladock Church. The highest point of the walk is 96m (at Probus Square). The lowest two points, are about 40 metres above sea level at the railway bridge near Venton Glidder and the stream at the back of Resparveth. Overall, there is a fair bit of up and down, but nothing really hilly like a coast path walk. This first section will take about 40 minutes. Start at Probus Square with your back to the church. Cross the road and enter Chapel Street, continuing onto Ladock Road. Pass the cemetery, substation, Helland Cottage, Venton Glidder, and walk under the railway bridge. Continue on the Ladock Road, past the lovely hamlet at Treworyan, where the road turns sharp left, then right. Eventually, you reach a T junction on the southern edge of Ladock. At the T junction, turn right onto the country lane that rises slowly uphill. This is the back road that connects Ladock with Grampound Road. Note the signpost on the left for Ladock Church. If you have a little time to spare, it’s worthwhile taking the short diversion to visit this grade one listed building. Formally named the Church of Ladoca, it was consecrated in 1268 with a significant restoration in 1864. No doubt there were a few changes inbetween and since including the modern stainedglassed window in memory of Geoffrey August 2021 | 23
Holborrow OBE, of Ladock, once the High Sheriff of Cornwall. After about 8 minutes, on the left, you'll see the entrance to Trethurffe Manor, a farmhouse set in five acres now used as a holiday let. Beyond that, look for a footpath sign on the right leading to a track. Follow the farm track for 10 minutes or so. The track is narrow and long grass has grown on and beside it, so it's best to do this on a dry day. Otherwise, you'll likely get wet feet (like I did). Look out for butterflies and dragonflies as I saw several on each of my practice walks for this write-up.
The track ends at a metal farm gate, with an open field beyond. The footpath runs parallel to the left-hand hedge but is 24 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
quite overgrown, so I found it easier to walk just at the edge of the field. Look to the right, and you'll see Probus Church Tower. In the north-east corner of the field, there is another metal farm gate. Pass through the gate, and the footpath goes diagonally across the next field. Silage had been cut after my first visit, and the footpath isn’t that apparent. See the photo below, but head towards a gap in the opposite hedge.
As you cross, on your right is Resparveth Farm, our next destination. The path ends at the small metal gate in a circle of railings. Similar to a football stadium turnstile, so a bit tight but passable one person at a time.
At this point, we deviate from the 'official' footpath marked on the Ordnance Survey map. Officially, the footpath goes to Trewince Farm and then back on August 2021 | 25
itself to Resparveth Farms. However, the landowners have diverted the public right-of-way to deter the public from walking through their farm. For this walk, that diversion is convenient, as it cuts out a corner.
hedge. A carrot or two for the horses is recommended as one of them was particularly curious on both my practice walks.
With the small metal gate and railings behind you, turn right, and walk downhill, keeping the hedgerow to your right. Trewince Farm is behind the copse of trees to your left.
In the bottom corner of the field, walk through two wooden farm gates into a paddock.
In the paddock, keep to the righthand 26 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
At the bottom corner of this field, cross over the steppingstones that lead across the stream and over a slate stile. From here, follow the path across a small field. The gate is easily located ahead. Beyond the gate, walk towards a gap in the opposite hedge.
Image: The yard at Resparveth
You may have to skirt around the electric fence if there is livestock in the field - there were calves there in midJuly. This is the back of Resparveth Farm (or one of the two farms at Resparveth).
Image: The Resparveth
bridge
under
the
railway
at
After a few minutes, you reach a T junction that may be familiar. This is the back lane from Helland to Grampound Road (part of the old Probus 10k route).
Climb over the high wooden stile, turn immediately right, and head towards the farm gate and buildings. Go through the gate and into the yard. Take the first left turn into the narrow lane, just beyond the first barn. Walk down the lane and then under the narrow bridge that carries the Penzance to London railway line.
At the T junction, turn right and follow the lane for about 15 minutes past the entrance to Trenithan Bennett farm, eventually reaching Helland Barton. At Helland, the lane shimmies right and left and left again before ending at the T junction with the Ladock Road that we initially walked on. Turn left here and follow the road back to Probus via Helland Cottage, the cemetery, the primary school and Chapel Street to Probus Square. Hope you like the walk. August 2021 | 27
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Probus Community Larder By John Denyer
T
HE Probus Community Larder has moved from the village hall to the church. It opens four times a week as follows: Monday 4 - 5 pm Wednesday 2:30 - 3:30 pm Friday 9 - 10 am Saturday 9:30 - 10:30 am I met with Eleanor McCartney to understand more about this initiative. The community larder is working as a satellite to Truro Foodbank and is supported by the Chaos group, local and national supermarkets, and various food suppliers. There are 20 volunteers who staff the community larder on a rota basis. Additionally, there are another 10 volunteers who pick up excess food from around the area and deliver it to the larder.
Each week, there are around 30 to 40 visits to the community larder, supporting around 150 adults and children in the village and surrounding area. There is rural poverty in Cornwall (even on The Roseland), and over the past 18 months, many ordinary hardworking families have found it tough going. But it's not just for families, or even young families, support is also 32 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
given to elderly people, especially those living alone. The community larder has a dual purpose. Firstly, it is to provide food support for those that need it. Simply put, if you are finding life a little tough, if you need a little support, whatever stage you are in life, then this service is here for you. No questions asked, no judgements made, no analysis, no explanations asked for or expected. Secondly, it is to try to address the massive global issue of food waste. Every day, supermarkets and food suppliers dispose of vast quantities of food waste. A few examples: a bakery may have bread that needs to be consumed today before it goes stale, greengrocers may have fruit that's ripening faster than they can sell, a dairy who has yoghurt that has limited shelf life. It's a significant challenge for supermarket chains, who end up with huge amounts of produce that is close to its sell by date (not the use by date). Supermarkets know that customers just won't pick these items up. If we are honest with ourselves, who hasn't sorted through items on a supermarket shelf, looking for the one with the longest shelf life, even though it may be consumed on the day purchased?
Let's first dispel a myth that this is simple. There are people that need food support, and at the same time, vast quantities of perfectly good foodstuffs are going to waste every single day. Can't you just put the two groups together?
No, it's not that simple. The two different problems can't be entirely solved by a single solution. It's much more complex. For example, a family in need requires a balanced range of foodstuffs to help them through the week. A supermarket doesn't necessarily offload a 'range of foodstuffs' at one go. They offer the foodbank whatever they have to dispose of on the day they want it out of their store. Twenty loaves of bread, and twenty packets of pasta can only help any family so much.
Each week, the community larder appeals for different types of food that they are short of. It could be fruit and vegetables, tins, or dried foods. One constant is baby food and nappies as well as 'kids’ snacks' such as sweet desserts, cereals, crisps, and jams. Why not add something to your basket next time you are in the supermarket? There are various drop off points around the village, or just bring them to the church.
There are other factors too: 1. Hesitancy to seek help. The thought that the community larder is not for me. Maybe the thought process goes something like this: 'Ok, I'm finding it tough right now, but it's only temporary and there are so many others much worse off than me' Yes, this is for you. There may well be others worse off than you, but this is still for you. 2. I don't want to deprive others of this food. Yes, this is for you. You are not depriving anyone. If more people come through the door, we just arrange to get more food from the network of foodbanks in Cornwall. 3. I don't need food support, but I'd like to make use of the food waste initiative. Yes, this is for you. Come on in, take whatever surplus food you can use - if you can afford it, just leave a small donation. Your donations mean that we can purchase items that we don't typically get from the supermarkets’ excess food schemes, such as nappies and baby food.
To summarise, if you are struggling, and need support for food, don't be afraid to get in touch with us or just drop in. We are here for you. If you'd like to help address excess food waste, then also pop in, take what you can use, and leave a small donation.
Attempted burglary
J
UST as we were going to print, we were advised of an attempted burglary in St Austell Road. Thieves entered through an open back door in the early hours only to be confronted by the homeowner. They ran off and the police were prompt in responding. It’s easy to drop our vigilance in this warm weather, but worth ensuring doors and accessible windows are locked. Take care everyone. August 2021 | 33
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Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I have just read an article with interest from Probus News September 2019, ‘I remember when’ originally written by Gertrude Chapman in 1982. Unless I misunderstand, Mrs. Chapman mentions that her father worked until aged 70 when the bakery finally closed. My parents bought the bakery from Mrs. Prime in May 1955 and ran it successfully for 7 years before selling to, I believe, a company called Eustace who did not operate the premises as a bakery. It was then that it ceased to be a bakery. Mr. Prime died age 72 in 1949. When my parents bought the bakery Mrs. Prime’s brother had been running the business along with his daughter Maureen and her husband Ivan Jenkins. Maureen and Ivan moved to a house in Probus before moving to the Kings Head at Chacewater. Mrs. Prime in her latter years was ill, my mother was one of the many people who looked after during the night, (only Saturdays for my mum because of 4.00 am start at bakery), Mrs. Prime then went to live at Onway house. Regards, Doug Truscott Editor: Many thanks Doug. It’s good to record another bit of Probus history. For readers who may not remember the article you refer to, I’ve reprinted it in the next column as a refresher. 38 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
I remember when... This is the fourth of the ‘Probus Memories’ articles taken from a small handbook produced by the Probus Old Cornwall Society in 1982. Mrs Gertrude Chapman I’m as Cornish as you make ‘em! I was born at the bakery in Probus and as soon as Irene and I were old enough, we helped with the business. We only had horses and wagons to deliver in Philleigh, Veryan and Ruan, Grampound Road and Coombe and as far as New Mills, Ladock, Merther, St. Erme and St. Michael Penkevil! A hand cart served the village, but later on we had a bright yellow Ford van - a real ‘tin lizzie’. Primes were noted for bread, cakes, real saffron as well as sweet cakes and tea treat buns. We made wedding cakes and besides all this, cooked Sunday dinners at a penny a time, but Christmas turkeys cost 6d to cook. Our customers included Trewithen Estate and Lord Falmouth as well as Probus School and we also made 6 lb loaves for Truro Workhouse. Baking started at four in the morning and the big cake oven baked 300 loaves at one time. The price was 2¼d. or 4¼d. - quite a difference now! We made pasties too and during the war six extra ladies were needed to make four thousand pasties every week! Then there were dances and Sunday school treats. Dad carried on till he was 70 and when the bakery finally closed, it was a great loss to all the district.
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Lockdown Blues
R
ICHARD Ludlow kept himself amused/sane during the last 18 months of lockdown by writing poetry. Many of his poems relate to the COVID-19 pandemic, the resulting lockdown and impact on all of our lives. This spring he collated the poems and put them together into a booklet of poetry and photographs and gave it the title Lockdown Blues. He then came across information that The Pears Foundation match funding donations to the UNICEF VaccinAid ‘Give The World a Shot’ initiative to supply 2 billion COVID-19 vaccines worldwide. This being all his own work, Richard then decided to get the booklet printed with a limited run and use it to stimulate donations to this worthwhile cause that was relevant and important to him. In late June, Richard got a group of
have raised over £800 for the VaccinAid initiative! With Richard’s permission, here is one of his poems: The Antidote To Inevitability What we want is a vaccine here, perhaps it will come some time hence. But what we need is patently clear, an injection of informed common sense. The curves they are ascending, we are looking to lay the blame, but if we’re honest, and stop pretending have we played our part in the game? Did you shop and forget your face mask? Do you always wash your hands? When undertaking even a simple task, are you mindful where you stand?
friends together in the dining room of The Hawkins Arms for an entertaining evening of reading from Lockdown Blues. A couple of pals, Ian Tumilty and Nick Hibbett, even put two of the poems to music, and these also went down well. At the latest count, Richard’s efforts 40 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
We don’t have to queue, just apply some reflection, it’s down to me and you. To beat this infection, take that injection, and together we’ll see this thing through. Apply simple common sense. September 2020
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Volunteering for the vaccination rollout
Reeds Pharmacy to get vaccinated, I was really impressed with the service and thought it worthwhile to offer our time to help. That occurred in early March 2021 and this support continues today.
S
INCE January 2021 - Age UK Cornwall Volunteers have given their time, skills and boundless energy to support the NHS Vaccination Programme at Reeds Pharmacy, Truro. During these 6 months, they have enabled over 27,500 residents of Cornwall to receive their Covid vaccination. This is an incredible feat. Paul Caruana, a volunteer for the rollout, wanted to share his story and why volunteering is so important. Volunteering for you and your community Why would anybody want to be a volunteer ? The question, surely, is why wouldn’t anybody wish to volunteer their time, energy and skills to the community groups that need them?
The volunteering entails lots of face to face contact with members of the general public that have pre-arranged a Covid vaccination. I log them into the computerised system, brief them on the process, issue their paperwork (and associated documents) and reassure them when needed. All in all, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying way of spending just a small part of the spare time I have now that I am retired. The feedback we get from the public has been 100% positive and that, in itself, is a very worthwhile reason to be volunteering. Running a 7 day week requires a huge number of volunteers to make it work. My current group requires 16 people per day, seven days a week, to ensure it runs smoothly. Organising that is a major task and comes with many challenges for the coordinator! Illness, unavailability and
As an active volunteer since I reached adulthood, covering a plethora of different community groups, I can only say that it gives me immense pleasure, whatever it is I am doing at the time. Giving back, to a society that has given me and my family so much, means a lot and is so rewarding. I currently volunteer as Admin Support for the National Covid vaccination programme. After my partner used 42 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
other commitments, all make the job stressful on occasions, I’m sure! Luckily, through hard work, a social
media campaign and word of mouth, new volunteers have come forward and a ‘shout’ to fill a vacant slot usually ends up with a willing volunteer coming forward. Our coordinator works tirelessly to ensure the programme runs as smoothly as possible. The results are there for all to see - a hugely successful campaign has provided amazingly good results. Well done, Debbie Stubbs, Age UK Cornwall. Appreciation for our volunteering support is well recognised and acknowledged by the general public. Almost without exception, they have shown absolute respect for us. Working with others within the vaccination programme brings its own rewards too. New friendships have been made and lots of casual relationships too. It is real team effort, one that we all feel strongly about and are happy to make sure that “things work” when it really matters. Why volunteering is so important. Make a difference and change lives Not too many groups or individuals gain the full recognition they deserve for their volunteering efforts. This is because it mostly occurs behind the scenes, with very few people really knowing, or appreciating, exactly what goes on or is needed to make some groups operate. Having now filled almost every position on various committees over the years, I am only too aware of the joined up approach and thinking that is needed to run and manage a voluntary group successfully. The time, effort, commitment and dedication needed to run a successful group is immense. That is where some older heads, used to organising events, come into their own. That being said, there are roles to suit every skill and ability, and without them, they wouldn’t operate on such an enormous scale, locally and nationally.
The whole of the UK relies on a vast number of like minded individuals, groups and organisations to offer their time and skills. This ensures that their own communities, both local and national, are better places to live in. Society wouldn’t operate as we know it, without their involvement.
I have to say that I am immensely proud of the voluntary groups I work for and with. The sense of pleasure and achievement is huge, so let’s return to the first sentence....why wouldn’t you want to volunteer to help your own community by committing a bit of time and effort ? It is so rewarding! Written by Paul Caruana and dedicated to volunteers everywhere.
Volunteering for Age UK, Cornwall Age UK Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly relies on tireless support from volunteers across Cornwall and Devon - offering vital services that improve health & wellbeing in local communities. If you would like to become a volunteer, find out more about volunteering or apply for one of our roles, please call our Helpline on 01872 266383 or visit www. ageuk.org.uk/cornwall/get-involved/ volunteer/ August 2021 | 43
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Probus Book Club By Liz Horder
O
UR meeting this month was different, we all either talked about a book we had just read or our favourite book. It made for a very interesting meeting.
Dreams From my Father by Barack Obama Unexpectedly this was an easy read. It is about Barack’s young life written in 1995. It explains how he came to live in Hawaii, Jakarta and America, didn’t know his father and visited Kenya to meet his extended family before university. It covers the problems he faced being of mixed race and it brought home to me how people of colour may feel when living in a predominantly white society. The Girl With the Louding Voice by Abbi Dare This is a modern-day story about a young Nigerian girl named Adunni who is sold to a man much older than herself to become his third wife and is ultimately sold into slavery.
The first book that I can recommend is called “Hold Still” and is a book of sad, funny and moving photographs taken by members of the public during the pandemic. It was initiated by The National Portrait Gallery and the patron of the book is The Duchess of Cambridge.
The Potion Diaries by Amy Alward
Other books recommended were:
A book much loved by its owner. It is a book written for teenagers, and she recommends it to anyone she knows with a teenager. It is part of a trilogy and is about friendship and family issues. The main character Samantha goes on an incredible journey.
A gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
The Handless Maiden by Vicki Feaver
A gentle witty love story set in the time of the Bolsheviks 1922- 1956
A poetry book about women. funny others quite startling.
The Cazalet Series of books by Elizabeth Jane Howard
Family and Friends by Anita Brookner.
A wonderful series of books based on one family. The group member said that she has read these books several times and still loves them. 46 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 259
Some
A beautifully written book about a family. A few pages were read to the group and it had a kind of hypnotic quality to the writing.
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