Probus News Magazine - March 2024 edition

What’s inside

Church news

Page 10

Grampound to Probus

Pages 30-33

Please support

Bonnie

Page 17

Letters

Page 33

Probus panto

Pages 22-27

Local sport

Page 46

Plus: Lots of local updates and news including pretty much every local group’s acronym!

Front cover: Probus daffodils by Jon Hibberd

Submission deadlines for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month.

Available online:

How to contact us...

By email: editorprobusnews@gmail.com

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 07824 555519 editorprobusnews@gmail.com

CHAIRMAN: Sheila Bing 01726 883400 sheila.bing@outlook.com

SECRETARY: Peter Clarke 01726 884177 peteclarke1950@gmail.com

TREASURER: Terry Hodge 01726 884495 tjhodge321@gmail.com

ADVERTISING: Kaye Ludlow 07968 722430 advertisingprobusnews@gmail.com

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Probus News is a non-profit making, independent voluntary organisation. Your donations are always welcome.

Public notice

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. Our privacy and safeguarding policies are available on request to the Secretary.

DELIVERY MANAGER: Tim Joyce 01726 884574 timstravels01@hotmail.com

EDITORIAL: David Meggs 07850 945626 minesaredwine@hotmail.com Sarah Hoggett 07931 502 939 sarah.hoggett@btopenworld.com

DEPUTY TREASURER: Eddie Bokas 07758 246673 ecbokas13@gmail.com

PHOTOGRAPHER: Jon Hibberd 07931 502921 jonyhibs58@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA: Vanessa McGill

PROOFREADERS: Marilyn Joyce, Tania Williams and Teresa Hayhoe

Community News and Notices

Community Larder IN

the three years since Probus Community Larder was started, it’s become an important and integral part of the village, helping families who are struggling financially to put food on the table. Initially stocked entirely by donations from local residents, it now collects surplus food from a number of local shops and supermarkets – so much so that it often has more than it can actually use. No one wants to see food going to waste and being thrown into landfill, so this surplus is available to anyone – just turn up at the church when the larder is open (although if you’re able to make a financial contribution in return, that’s always much appreciated).

The larder is run by an army of volunteers, with about 25 people helping out at the larder itself and another 15 or so picking up food from local supermarkets nine or ten times a week. If you’d like to help out – particularly over the summer, when people are always needed to cover volunteers who are away on holiday – please email Eleanor McCartney, who works out the monthly rota, at nochildgoeshungryprobus@gmail.com.

In addition, there are also sessions with Citizens Advice on alternate Fridays. If you’d like to have an informal and confidential chat to someone there, contact Eleanor at the email address above to book a slot.

Editorial

FEBRUARY

was a busy month for many in the village. The annual pantomime (page 22) is one of our community highlights, and I used the word community deliberately, as so many people are involved - not just the cast (and that was sizeable), crew, costume, make-up etc, but also the over 800 that watched. Also, a sizeable contingent pitched up to turn the village hall into a 170-seater auditorium, and then put it all back as it was, the morning after the last show.

On page 17, you’ll see a fundraising notice in aid of Bonnie, a 7-yearold from Probus who is currently undergoing treatment for bone cancer in Bristol. Bonnie’s family needs a lot of support right now, and any help the village can provide will make a difference. In addition to the GoFundMe page, a fundraising evening called Caz’s Diner has been scheduled

in the Hawkins Arms on 23rd March. Sean Johnson has also committed to running 56 miles in March to raise awareness of the Bone Cancer Research Trust. As we hear of more such events, we’ll keep you posted.

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Richard Avery from Ashleigh Way (letters, page 33). My father served in Korea, but would rarely talk about it, and never in detail, so it was very interesting to hear Richard’s story when I interviewed him in 2020. It was also good to meet someone who had served under, and recalled very clearly, Major Tresawna (from Lamellyn Farm) who was killed in action in Korea and is named on the Probus War Memorial. I found Richard to be a really lovely man, humble, proud of what he’d achieved in his long life, proud of his service in Malaya (now Malaysia) and Korea and extremely proud of his family.

Finally, congratulations to Sam Galsworthy from Trewithen, who has

Do you have a problem?

Why not contact one of your local parish councillors for advice?

been nominated as the next High Sheriff of Cornwall and will assume the office on 24th March. The High Sheriff of Cornwall is an ancient and fascinating ceremonial role, an independent, nonpolitical Royal appointment. More about this to follow.

John

wwwprobusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Alison Cook Nankilly 07516 794883 alisoncook@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Chris Dutton Carne View Road 07969 451207 chrisdutton@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

James Faull Tresowgar Cottage 07494 756249 jamesfaull@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Nick Gillard (chair) Fore Street 01726 883926 nicholasgillard@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Neil Glasson Ladock Road 07709 286850 neilglasson@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Ross Goldworthy Gwell an Nans 07967 125526 rossgoldsworthy@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Paul Quinlan Fore Street 07498 304044 paulquinlan@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Bill Sutherland Bosnoweth 01726 884007

There are currently three parish councillor vacancies. Please contact the clerk or any of the above for details.

If you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then contact the Parish Council Clerk Maria Roper 07749 626021 clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk - Cornwall Councillor Karen Glasson can also be contacted on 07980 975527 or cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk for advice.

Richard Avery 1932-2024. Rest in Peace

Acoustics Night (Comrades Club)

Badminton Club

Bees (swarms/issues/questions)

Bowling Club

Church Bell Ringers

Churchwarden

Comrades Club

Cornwall Councillor

Cycling – Probus Pedallers

Dance Classes Children (4Real)

Football - Saturday Club

Tim Joyce 07412 126774

Pauline Partridge 01726 882649

Tony Paddock 07486 295414

David Meggs 07850 945626

Liza Deards 07888 684425

Andy McCartney probus.churchwarden@gmail.com

Bryan Trebilcock 01726 882747

Karen Glasson 07980 975527 cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk

Dave Light 07966 683852 or Colin Brown 07484 740249

Angie Smith 07825 234855 contactus4real@gmail.com

Steve Flack 07956 049727

Probus Youth FC - Juniors Eric Bendelow 07917 008491

Probus FC - Seniors (First Team)

Friends of Probus Church

Grampound Road Cricket Club

Hawkins Arms

Historic Cornwall Society

Kids Club Breakfast/after-school at

Probus School

Knit & Natter Group

Litter Picking Group

Little Lights and toddler group

Mid Cornwall Wood Turners

Over 60s Luncheon Club

Parish Players (Pantomime)

Playing Field Mgmt Committee

Probus Parish Church

Parish Council Clerk

Probus Primary School

Probus Primary School PTA

Probus Club of Probus

Probus Environmental Action Team (PEAT)/Probus Churchground maintenance

Probus Nursery

Spotlights Youth Club

Sticker Memory Cafe

Graham Smith 07968 478970

Richard Heath 07849 315432 geotechrich@gmail.com

The Club House 07800 915578 grampoundroadcricketclub@gmail. com

Graham and Phil 01726 882208 www.thehawkinsprobus.co.uk

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

Steve Dalton 07813 995206 stevedalton166@btinternet.com

Christine Salaman 07593 757299 salaman_pandc@yahoo.co.uk

Pauline Salisbury secretary@midcornwallturners.com

Zena 01726 882751 or Janet 01726 882927

Cathy Cadby 07860 755787 info@probusparishplayers.co.uk

Graham Smith 07968 478 970

Awaiting update

Maria Roper 07749 626021 clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk

Angela Praed 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk

Chris Dutton 07969 451207 probuspta@gmail.com

Nick Hibbett 01726 883093 nick.hibbett@btinternet.com

Steve Dalton 07813 995206 probus.peat@btinternet.com

Nick Lauder 07403 659869 n.lauder29@btinternet.com

Angela Praed 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk

Christine Salaman 07593 757299 salaman_pandc@yahoo.co.uk

07901 147353 or 07717333713

The Roseland Academy 01872 530675 www.theroseland.co.uk

U3A Roseland & District Terry Neil 01872 530196

Village Hall Letting Secretary 07749 368162 lettings@probusvillagehall.co.uk

Walking Group - Wednesdays

- Fridays

Young Farmers

Terry Hodge or Tim Joyce 01726 884495 or 01726 884574

Teresa Hayhoe or Kaye Ludlow 07720 393754 or 07968 722430

Joey Wagstaff 07443 514854

Other village pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Swap and Sell

Cakes & Cupcakes for any occasion made to order in Probus

Food hygiene certified - insured –registered with Cornwall Council

Visit my Facebook page or show me a picture of what you have in mind Free no obligation quote sandrawightwick@gmail.com

Message through or on 07771 907217

A message from the curate AS

I write this we are a few days away from Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day. This is the day when, traditionally, we would use up the richer food in our houses ahead of Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of Lent, a time of fasting. Few of us tend to fast seriously these days (except those on certain diets), but Lent can be a good time to eat more simply and avoid certain excesses.

One of the traditions of Lent associated with this, is the Lent lunch. A simple meal of bread and soup is shared communally around tables with friends, neighbours and strangers. The food may be simple but can still be lovely and warming as can the company. During this season of Lent, every Friday between 12 and 2pm there will be a soup and bread lunch at Probus Church. Can I invite you to come and share some wholesome food and some good company? Whether you do so as an act of religious observance, as part of a diet or simply to meet some new people, it’s bound to be good for the soul.

Paul Church services and events

Sunday 3rd 9:30 am Connect

11 am Holy Communion

Sunday 10th 9:30 am Mothering Sunday Holy Communion

7 pm Healing Service

Sunday 17th 9:30 am Connect

Sunday 24th 9:30 am Holy Communion

Sunday 31st Easter Sunday 9:30 am

Coffee mornings: Tuesdays 10:30 am12 noon. Fridays 9 - 11 am.

Youth Club: (Years 7 - 13) Alternate Sunday evenings

Lent lunches: 12 noon every Friday in March

Maundy Thursday Agape meal 28th March 6:30 pm £2.50 (Adult) £1 (U16s)

Messy Easter: 29th March at 11 am

Little Lights: Every Thursday 9:30-11 am

See also page 44 - What’s on Probus Election info

IT’S no secret that there is going to be a general election sometime soon. It could be as early as May or perhaps as late as the new year 2025.

One important change since the last general election is that we all need to prove our identity at the time of voting.

The full list of acceptable methods of proving your identity in person are listed on the government website:

https://www.gov.uk/how-to-vote/ photo-id-youll-need

The main ones are fairly obviousphotocard driving licence or passport, but others are acceptable including an older or disabled person’s bus pass (with photo), a blue badge, PASS card, MOD ID card or biometric residence permit. There are others too and if you don’t have any, you can apply for a free of charge Voter Authority Certificate. Be careful of scam sites that charge for a voter ID card that you can get for free.

Probus walking groups

THEwalking groups have been quite lucky throughout the rather wet winter months and have not had to cancel very many walks at all. Both the Wednesday longer walks group, who walk somewhere between five and seven miles, and the Friday group continue to be well supported and attract new members. Both groups are very casual and friendly and there is no commitment to attend every week, just come when you can.

The Wednesday group has explored some interesting, new for them, locations including travelling to Porthtowan, Heligan¸Pentewen, Sticker, Carlyon Bay and Holywell Bay, to name but a few, as well as continuing to navigate our local walks, taking in routes around Grampound, Grampound Road and

Ladock. The group meets at the village hall car park at either 9 am for an away walk or 9:30 am for a local walk.

On Fridays the walks are shorter, usually around three miles, and kept local to Probus. These are mostly there and back walks in the winter months, but we are looking forward to getting back to some circular walks on footpaths around the village soon, once they have dried out a bit.

Dogs are very welcome to accompany their owners on any of our walks and they seem to look forward to meeting up with their buddies each week as much as everyone else.

Here’s to many more walks together. It’s a great way to meet new friends and enjoy nature at its best.

To find out more about either group, please visit our Facebook page or see us on the A-Z page of this magazine.

Some of the Probus Walking Group at Mevagissey harbour last November.

Support for Bonnie’s Journey

As some of you may already be aware, 7 -year-old Bonnie received the devastating diagnosis of osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer, in her leg just before Christmas 2023. Bonnie swiftly commenced her chemotherapy journey in Bristol, the nearest specialised centre to their home on the outskirts of Probus. Her treatment is expected to extend throughout 2024, with significant surgery on the horizon.

Bonnie will undergo limb salvage surgery in an effort to save her leg. This procedure involves the removal of the tumour followed by the fitting of a prosthetic implant inside her leg, sparing her from amputation. Additionally, due to the lengthy rehabilitation program alongside chemotherapy, there may be a need for house adaptations to facilitate Bonnie's recovery.

Our aim remains steadfast to rally support for Bonnie and her devoted parents Heather and Tom. Heather, who has selflessly put her life and career on hold to accompany Bonnie through her challenging chemotherapy sessions and provide unwavering care. Through this fundraising effort, we endeavour to ease the financial strain associated with potential house modifications, as well as everyday household expenses, travel costs between home and the hospital, grocery bills, and mortgage payments, enabling them to devote their attention solely to Bonnie's recovery.

Bonnie embodies remarkable courage, spirit, and zest for life. Whether she's enjoying time with friends at Probus Primary School, skiing down slopes, or basking in the sun at the beach, her infectious joy brightens every moment. Learning of her diagnosis and the trials ahead has deeply touched our hearts.

We earnestly appeal to you to join us in supporting this worthy cause and alleviating the financial burdens they face on their journey. Your contribution, big or small, will make an immense difference.

Our heartfelt gratitude extends to the paediatric teams at The Royal Cornwall Hospital and Bristol Children’s Hospital for their swift diagnosis, treatment, and compassionate care. We also extend our thanks to the Little Princess Trust for generously providing Bonnie with a beautiful wig when she lost her hair.

Recognising that this journey will be lengthy, we encourage you to consider making smaller, monthly donations that are more manageable for you. Please reach out to Jenna Johnston or Sarah Harvey Hurst if you're interested in this option. Let us unite as a community to provide unwavering support to Bonnie and her family during this difficult time.

Probus pantomime

PROBUS

Parish Players (PPP) staged five sell-out performances of their 2024 pantomime The Little Mermaid, directed for the first time by Sophie Baker, there was a large and talented cast of 53. The show was an underwater extravaganza, a spectacular, colourful, funny pantomime with an excellent song list and terrific dance routines. Each year, PPP seem to reach a new level and this year the costume department excelled with truly amazing and innovative outfits and the same can be said for make-up and choreography too.

This year’s panto was dedicated to Kevin Blayney who sadly died last year and for many years was a talented, valued and much loved member of the PPP family.

Director: Sophie. Cast: Michelle, Megan R, Sam, Paul, Guy, Isaac, Chia, Harry, Peter, Andrew, Lisa, Annie, Louie, Rose, Bethany, Maisy, Nicola, Rosi, Scott, Rachel, Megan, Shannon, Eddi, Phoebe (Jeff), Sowenna, Lilia, Erin, Niamh, Sarah, Emma, Christine, Jamel, Isla, Layla,

Charlotte, Phoebe, Ellie, Eden, Grace, Elsie, Hattie, Hedra, Indigo, Hudson, Iris, Lilly, Molly, Violet, Penny, Joseph, Alice, William, and Daisy. Costumes: Linda, Jill, Rachel and Rosi. Front of house: Cath, Debbie, Gill, and Rachel. Choreography: Shannon. Props: Edd and John. Prompt: Janice. Caller: Rachel. Backstage crew: Naomi B, Naomi K, Brad, Harry, Kate, Dave, John, Mike. Audio and lighting: Dymond Audio. Follow spots: Edd and Sam.

Grampound to Probus via the Roman road

By Tom Hickman

IFI’m out with my sketch book then it’s the norm for me to be walking alone. Few would want to hang around while I sat and scribbled, and on a frosty afternoon, even if the sun was out, people prefer to keep on the move.

I took the No 27 bus east from Probus Square and got off at Grampound. I

used to live here, but my aim today was simply walk back to Probus, so the only bit of the village I saw was the hill rising steeply out of Old Grampound.

The ancient road must have been here since Roman times as it leads to the old encampment of Carvosa, not following the valley as the busy modern road does. I would not be meeting any traffic here and the noise of the main road was suitably distant.

It’s a tough beginning for old bones like mine, but I plod these days and get there in the end. The steep climb is tunnel-like, and shrouded by ancient oaks until you reach the flat typically narrow Cornish lane that leads you

to the Trewithen Farm entrance and bridle path. Here I took the woodland path as far as the main eastern gates of Trewithen, stopping for another scribble while bathed in brilliant sunshine.

I had to keep moving as my feet were frozen, on towards Golden Manor. Walking along this section of road is not advised unless you are determined and alert enough to throw yourself into the hedge to avoid oncoming cars. I’m too old for that sort of Russian roulette so take a different route. From Golden, I take the lane leading back to Probus on the south side of Trewithen, where

old top-heavy pines overhang the road while others lie horizontal, taken by a gale that has snapped them like twigs splintering their great trunks with a force that is hard to imagine. Home in time for tea and a warming of frozen fingers.

My ramblings are much shorter than those I took in my youth, but I still don’t tell anyone where I’m heading. How could I, when I don’t know myself. Much like my creative output I have little in the way of an expected outcome and am always delighted by the unexpected.

When walking there are often close encounters with nature. Alone there is no one to talk to and little sound to inform of my approach. There are times when I’ve been prepared with camera

to record that fleeting encounter, and others when I’ve been able to take my time and record something special in my sketchbook. I too marvel how David Attenborough and his camera crew manage to record such events. To sit quiet and benign alongside another living creature and sketch their likeness is very humbling. On the south coast of Western Australia beyond Cape Le Grand National Park, I came across a carpet python sunning itself and spent 15 minutes sketching the beauty of its coiled markings. Not all of nature is that obliging as a still life drawing, and it maybe a process of repeated observation before a complete image is formed. There are always exceptions and times when it is difficult to distinguish exactly who is the observer and who the observed

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank everyone for the many cards and kind words given to me and our family, and also for the wonderful attendance at Probus Church!

Pam Cobbold

Dear Editor,

Hello, I have found a older edition of your magazine from late 2020 when the Probus News interviewed our father Richard Avery of Ashleigh Way Probus, he did a great job of chatting to Dad. It was originally supposed to be related to Dad’s time in the Korean war, but ended up also being a story based on dad and his siblings being brought up in Barnado’s. The story was called A Barnardo’s Boys story. I would just like to say thank you, and to let people know that our wonderful dad sadly passed away on 10th January 2024. We, as a family, would like to thank all his neighbours and medical staff at Probus Surgery etc, for looking after Dad.

Debbie Goodwin

Dear Editor,

On Saturday 27th January 2024 we received a letter marked The House of Commons and it was from Cherilyn Mackrory MP, who represents Truro and Falmouth. The letter was an invitation to a local village surgery that was being held in the restaurant at The Hawkins Arms. If I’ve read the letter correctly, the invitation also covered St Erme and Ladock. Sadly the invitation was for Friday 26th January 2024! It was postmarked at Truro mail centre on 23rd January.

I appreciate that like a lot of us our MP is a busy lady, but surely a few weeks notice would have been preferable to the time and money wasted on late letters.

Out of curiosity I asked other villagers if they had received letters. Some had not received one at all, some had them the day of the meeting and some had them late like us. Some I spoke to said they would not have gone because it was in the local pub and I agree with them.

Perhaps if there is another local village surgery, more notice would be good and have it in the village hall.

Regards

Jenny Colton

Dear Editor

I would like to say what a huge difference Andy the new ‘maintenance man’ has made around our village in such a short time

Congratulations and well done Andy!

Julie Alying

Meet Andy Taskis, the village’s new Parish Maintenance Officer who started his role on 2nd January. Andy, a full time fireman, is contracted to work eight hours a week supporting the village on a variety of tasks.

Roseland u3a

MARCH

diary for the Roseland u3a.

Art group Monday 11th and Monday 25 March 10 am in Tregony Village Hall (£10 charge for each session)

Local history Tuesday 12th 10:15 am in Tregony Church Hall Cornwall as described in the Doomsday Book

Classic film cancelled due to blood donor session in Probus Village Hall

Patchwork and Craft Friday 22nd at 10 am in Probus Village Hall

Book Club Wednesday 20th at 2 pm in Roseland Parc, Tregony

Scrabble Thursday 21st March at 2 pm at Bible Christian Fellowship Church, Tregony

French conversation group Tuesday 26th March at 2 pm at Bible Christian Fellowship Church, Tregony

Luncheon Club 12 pm 28th March (venue to be arranged)

For further information, please contact Carole caroleannbowling@yahoo.co.uk

Probus Book Club

Christmas, some of the group really loved it, others were not so keen. I had been to see the film, renamed A Man Called Otto starring Tom Hanks. I thought it a brilliant film and the book did not disappoint.

It is set in Sweden and about a man who is a real curmudgeon. He leads his life by a strict routine and has a very short fuse with anyone he comes into contact with. His wife had died and he had been made redundant from work while still in his fifties, which has made him very bitter. He decides he has had enough and wants to commit suicide, he tries several ways but fails miserably. His life starts to change when new neighbours move in, Parveneh, Patrick and their two children. It may sound like a depressing story, yet it is funny, sad and uplifting. I won’t give any more spoilers, but it is a book several of us would highly recommend.

PHCS

PROBUS

Historic Cornwall Society presented a cheque for £100 to Martin Brockman of the RNLI.

By Liz Horder

THIS month’s book was A Man Called Ove by Henrik Backman. We read the above book before

Left to right Martin, Roger Gluyas (PHCS Librarian) and Mike Cluett (PHCS Treasurer) in front of the society’s banner.

PCoP

The Probus Club of Probus

ATthe coffee meeting on 18th January, Kate Woolven provided a detailed and interesting talk and demonstration on how to use the new defibrillators in the village. This was well received by all present.

February event:

Luncheon at The Falmouth Hotel on Thursday 15th February, with speaker Viv Pyatt who talked about her recent cycling adventure in Vietnam.

March events:

Indian meal at Tandoori Spice, Probus - 7th March 7 pm £23 per head. If your name is not already on the list, email richardludlow@me.com

Skittles evening on Thursday 14th March at Probus Village Hall. We've booked the two skittles rinks for what has always been a fun evening of lively competition. 7 pm for 7:30 pm start. Bring your own drinks and nibbles. Partners and friends welcome.

Coffee meeting on Thursday 21st March

- in PVH Committee Room. This month we welcome Roger Radcliffe back to continue his travelogue Sets & Swells based around the St Agnes coastline. 10 am for 10:30 am start.

The visit

By Vernon Keen

We had a visit from family who came down last week.

They came for the weekend, to chill, so to speak,

They arrived without stopping, some time around three

With not even a stop for a stretch or for a wee.

So in to the house they rushed, fit to bust

For to get to the bathroom was urgent, a must.

But four desperate people cannot fit in our loo,

So a queue formed outside like us Brits always do.

Now Simon's need was more urgent than theirs,

So he watered some bushes and two garden chairs.

Our daughter was hopping from one foot to another

And even forgot to say 'Hello' to her mother.

Granddaughter was fine, she was first in the queue,

Sitting quite comfortably in the room with a view,

But eventually all was returned to the normal

And we hugged and shook hands, all very formal

Except the one we won't name, and here's the kicker...

For the back of her skirt was still tucked into her knickers!

Whatever your funeral needs we are here for you.

If you’re looking to plan a funeral at the moment then you’ve probably got a lot of questions running through your mind. We are here to answer them, call us on Truro (01872) 274021.

www.wjbeswetherick.co.uk

Why Choose Philip Martin Lettings?

We are an independent firm in Truro, speciali sing in estate and letting services, chartered surveying, valuations, and auctions. We manage 640 properties in mid and west Cornwall, and our portfolio continues to grow due to high demand across different budget ranges.

What sets us apart is our commitment to professionalism, adhering to strict codes of practice established by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), of which we are members. This includes safeguarding client finances and deposits, maintaining substantial indemnity insurance, annual reporting, and regular RICS audits. Our clients value these benefits, ensuring their properties are well cared for by us. Explore our set -up and full management services on our website.

We offer a range of services tailored to individual client needs, from tenancy setup to full management, with straightforward fee structures. For more information, email us at lettings@philip-martin.co.uk for a detailed brochure.

CONSIDERING LETTING YOUR PROPERTY?

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE MARKETING APPRAISAL

Probus Primary School PTA MARCH

is a busy month for us. We have the ‘Someone Special’ event happening on 8th March, a “nonuniform” day for a chocolate donation, followed by the always popular Easter Bingo on 27th March.

We now turn our attention to planning the end of year activities too – Sports Day, the Leaver’s Disco and annual Summer Fayre – keep your eyes peeled on our social media for details over the coming weeks.

We are always looking for sponsors, match funding and volunteers of any variety, so please reach out if you can help.

Chris Dutton

Probus News

deliverers

WE’D

like to thank Sam who has taken over as deliverer of the Probus Square round from Liz and Alan Horder. Sam is in Year 9 at The Roseland Academy and is taking on this voluntary work as part of the school’s Duke of Edinburgh scheme.

Liz and Alan have been delivering the village magazine for many years so we’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for their service to the community.

If there are other young people out there that would like to get involved with the village magazine, either by helping deliver it around the village or perhaps on the reporting or production side, then please contact the Editor. We’d love to see new faces in the team.

Probus Environment Action Team

THEcold, wet January weather meant that work by the PEAT volunteers at the church grounds was not able to go ahead for most of the month. This was frustrating but at least the daffodil bulbs that were planted in autumn are starting to flower now.

The winter months can seem to go on a long time but one of the pleasures I have during that period is watching the birds in my garden feeding on the sunflower hearts in the bird feeders. I have seen a dozen goldfinches at the same time competing for places on the feeders, whilst the bigger greenfinches and siskins have no trouble barging in when they want. Chaffinches don't seem to perch there but look for dropped seeds on the ground instead.

Blue tits, great tits and long tailed tits tend to fly in, grab a piece of food and quickly fly away to eat their take-away, whilst the robin, blackbirds, dunnocks and blackcaps join the chaffinches on the ground. They are often joined by wood pigeons that look enormous compared to the smaller birds.

I clean out the feeders every week as the seed near the holes can become wet and start to decompose. This can be very harmful to birds. The RSPB warn that although peanuts and fat balls are regularly sold in nylon mesh bags you should never put out any food in these. These may trap birds’ feet and even cause broken feet and legs.

In a few months, when spring turns to summer, we hope the swifts will return to the church from their African migration and hopefully this time will occupy the swift boxes we installed in the church tower.

CORNWALL MUSIC FESTIVAL

INCLUDING THE SPOKEN WORD

TRURO METHODIST CHURCH

11—16 March 2024

A week of music and poetry—come in at any time to hear some of the best of Cornwall’s talent

TICKETS per morning, afternoon or evening £3 (concessions £2) All day tickets £5 (concessions £3) All week tickets £20

— including two SHOWCASE CONCERTS

Monday 11 March: OPENING CONCERT 7.30 pm featuring the Cornwall Youth Brass Ensemble and some performers from Festival 2023

Saturday 16 March: CLOSING CONCERT 7.00 pm featuring a taste of Festival 2024

Truro Male Choir

OUR organisation seems to be living in halcyon days! We recently won the Camborne Music Festival and have received excellent reviews for our concerts and shouts.

In recent years we have taken a long hard look at ourselves and transformed from the traditional male choir into a more modern and forward looking organisation. Our concert repertoire has changed accordingly, and so we sing music from all periods and genres in French, German, Cornish and of course English! We also lead shouts in local pubs and breweries and make videos of our songs for YouTube. We are not actively seeking members as we have a great line up, but are always happy to welcome interested men into our community.

Men’s mental health has never been more to the fore. Singing releases

‘feel good’ endorphins and promotes connectedness between people.

Members are drawn from all walks of life, from doctors and film directors to plumbers and students! We are an inclusive group who enjoy the opportunity to entertain through our singing. We have members from the Probus area and rehearse once a week. There is an audition which is taken when the applicant feels confident and secure.

Contact our Facebook page Truro Male Choir if you would like more details.

Upcoming events: Tuesday 2nd March

11 am at Truro Catherdal Steps. Lead, community singing Trelawny

Tuesday 5th March, 9 pm at The Rising Sun, Truro. Lead community St Piran’s Day shout.

Saturday 13th April, 12 noon at Truro Cathedral. Charity lunchtime concert for Truro Food Bank.

WHAT’S HAPPENI THE HAWKINS

OFF THE HOOK PLAYING AT THE HAWKINS 12TH APRIL 7:30 START!

MOTHER’S DAY BOOKINGS - 12PM SITTING

PLEASE CONTACT US TO BOOK YOUR TABLE. HEAD TO OUR FACEBOOK PAGE TO SEE OUR DELICIOUS MENU

NEW MENUS NOW LIVE AT THE PUB KIDS EAT FOR £1 ON A THURSDAY FROM 5:30 PM ONWARDS WHEN ONE ADULT PURCHASES A MAIN MEAL

QUIZ NIGHT ON A WEDNESDAY BOOK YOUR TABLE FOR SUNDAY LUNCH IN ADVANCE

FISH AND CHIP FRIDAY TWO CAN DINE FOR £22

EVENTS DIARY 2024

Secretaries: To publicise your meetings or events, let us know well in advance and we will include details here. Contact details for all groups/clubs/ societies can be found on page 6.

Key: PVH = Probus Village Hall. PCC = Probus Comrades Club.

Acoustic Night Upstairs (at Probus Comrades Club). Last Monday of the month, starting at 7:30 pm.

Badminton Club: Meets at 8 pm every Monday at PVH.

Coffee ‘n’ Chat: Every Tuesday morning 10:30 am to 12 noon at Probus Church. Open to everyone, young and old, church-goer or not. Also held on the first Saturday of each month between 10 am and 12 noon.

Friendship Club: MHA Communities Cornwall is a national charity that runs a friendship club for folk 60+, at PVH on the first Thursday of each month from 10 am to 12 noon. Tracy Beavill 07720 680989 cornwall@mha.org.uk.

Mid-Cornwall Wood Turners: Club nights on 1st Tuesday of each month: Training nights on the 3rd Tuesday in every month.

Mobile library: 22nd March. PVH car park between 11:30 am and 12:20 pm.

Over 60s Luncheon Club: 6th and 20th March at 12 noon. Note: Please do not call us after 8 am on club days, as there will be no one there to take messages.

Probus Club of Probus: See page 35.

Probus Historic Cornwall Society: Monday 11th March, ‘The History of Blackwater and the Skinners Bottom Murder’ with speaker Clive Benney, Cornish Bard and local historian and author.

Probus Knit and Natter Group: Every Wednesday 10 am at PCC.

Probus Litter Pickers: First Saturday of each month at 10 am. Meet at PVH.

Probus Parish Church events: Lanner Silver Band in concert Saturday 6th April 7pm. Plant sale on the cobbles Saturday 4th May 10 am. Shanty singers Du Hag Owr Friday 10th May 7pm. Tower open day Saturday 11th May. Flower festival 1st and 2nd June. Details to follow.

Probus Parish Council: Meet now on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Next meetings on 22nd February, 7 pm for planning committee and 7:30 pm for full council. Full details at www. probusparishcouncil.gov.uk.

Probus Pedallers: Leave from the surgery every Sunday at 9 am. The more leisurely group leaves at 10 am.

Probus Walking Group: Every Wednesday 9 am or 9:30 am start. New members very welcome. Every Friday for shorter walks 10 am. New members also always welcome.

The Royal British Legion: Truro Branch, cordially invites you to a service of dedication and the unveiling of the National Service Memorial in Victoria Gardens, Truro TR1 3JE on Saturday 20th April. Muster 10.15hrs. Parade starts at 10.50hrs. Everyone is welcome to attend. We Will Remember Them.

Local sport

Probus Youth FC

THANKS

to the coaches and managers of the Probus Youth FC teams for their season updates.

Under 10s

On 4th February, Probus FC under 10s welcomed Kelliwik Youth to Probus Park. We celebrated a solid home win. Below is a picture that shows the happiness that 50 minutes spent on a Sunday morning with your friends, playing a team sport, can bring!

The player holding the Mickey Duff trophy was the player of the match for his energy all over the pitch and a hat trick!

Carl Chapman and Steve Soper U10s coaches

Under 11s

Probus under 11s have really turned their season around in recent weeks.

This season the under 11s were promoted to the top league with big teams such as St Blazey, Charlestown, and Bodmin against others.

Following a slow start to the season they have put in several outstanding team displays beating good teams like Liskeard and St Blazey.

The players continue to work extremely hard each week and are a credit to coach.

Star performers in recent weeks have been Sonny Chapman, Tom Bowen and Archie Lightfoot.

We would like to thank our parents for the great positive support and as always Groundsman Graham Smith who works tirelessly on the pitch for all the Probus teams. We’re lucky to have him.

Jason Chapman U11s coach

Under 12s

The U12s have gone through a huge period of transition this year, with a lot of changes in both coaching staff and players. It’s been a really tough season, but we are coming through the other side of it a much stronger and settled team. We have been getting a lot closer to our objectives, with a plan to use the rest of the season to set us up for a much stronger run next year. We are really proud of how the players have come together as a team, and are supporting each other through the good as well as the challenging.

Sam Thomas U12s coach

Under 13s

See the picture of the team after their 6-0 away victory at Redruth. It was a hard-fought game with goals coming from George Rogers (2), Jack Wheldon, Ashley Julian, Riley Chapman and Sam Yeomans. The team currently lie 2nd in the Cornwall West Championship with seven games remaining. We’ve had some amazing performances this season, and the boys never fail in their enthusiasm and commitment. A great bunch of players, full of character, who

have come on leaps and bounds since we started the team six years ago. We are also so lucky to have supportive parents who encourage positively and help on match days. Onwards and upwards!

The team is currently second in the league having won seven and lost two.

Probus Youth Team FC teams: U8s above, U11s below left and U13s below.

Riley Chapman and George Rogers are 1st and 3rd respectively in the league’s top scorers.

Will Yeomans and Jason Chapman U13s coaches

Under 14s

Probus U14s have made a strong start to the season after opting to play in a West Cornwall league for the first time this year and are currently 2nd in League 1 West having won six of their 10 games and drawing one. The team is also in the semi final of the league cup where they will play current league leaders Helston.

Mark Phillips and Mike Sullivan

U14s coaches

Under 15s

The U15s had a rocky start to the season with several injuries and tough games. But after players returned and some recent good performances, the team is turning it around and hoping for a good finish. We are still in both the League and County Cups after winning both the first round games and a league finish in the top three or four is still in reach. The

boys are eager and ready for whatever teams they play against and will strive for success!

Henry Cannon

Probus Bowling Club THE

annual presentation evening will be on Friday the 22nd March at the Probus Bowling Club, 6 pm for 6:30 pm start.

Expect a meal, wine, beer, Irish bingo, a quiz as well as the presentation of all trophies. The cost is £7.50 per person to include the meal and a drink.

All are welcome, even non-members. If you would like to come along, please let Dave Meggs know.

Below: Probus Youth FC Under 15s team

EXPLORE AND BE INSPIRED...

One of only five gardens in the UK to be recognised as an International Camellia Society Garden of Excellence, and also recommended by the RHS, Trewithen is a botanical treasure trove nestled within 30 acres of beautiful woods and parkland.

Trewithen House is open for guided tours on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays at 2 pm and 3 pm between Sunday 28th April and Tuesday 2nd July 2024. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Gardens and The Tea Shed open daily 10 am to 4:30 pm 1st March to 30th September 2024

Grampound Road, Truro, Cornwall TR2 4DD - 01726 883647

www.trewithengardens.co.uk

S. J. GRIGG

PROBUS, TRURO

01726 882330

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