BOSCASTLE BLOWHOLE No 77 Spring 2012 £1

copyright photo courtesy David Flower As part of the Olympic celebrations every school in Cornwall will receive the flame and pass it to another school before the opening ceremony of the Olympics. Children from Boscastle collected the torch from Otterham and handed it on to Tintagel to continue its journey around the County. See page 24 for more News from School.

Also inside: Cornwall Core Strategy page 8 Harbourmaster’s News page 18 Reading Room page 20 County Councillor page 32 Crossword page 40 Useful Numbers page 44 Editorial Not that long ago the The developer claimed used wind farming in its opposition to them seems mere mention of a wind that whilst some found promotional brochure. to have diminished. Whilst farm brought forth cries them ugly others found Forrabury and Minster we may not have forests of of protest, petitions were them elegant and beautiful Parish Council at that them yet it is difficult to drawn up, action groups structures and he asked us time put forward a list leave the village without formed and planning to consider their purpose. of objections to the seeing them scattered applications opposed. He went on to say that application and voted about. The Parish Council The Boscastle Blowhole fears of proliferation unanimously against it. has made no comment to devoted several pages to were unfounded and that The County Council recent applications except the subject in the spring of there would be no forests agreed to recommend to to express concern about 1994 at a time when sites at of windmills. As far as the District Council that the quantity received. Worthyvale and Otterham tourism was concerned he the application be refused Can it be that people have were under consideration. suggested there would be on many grounds. grown to like them or do an opportunity to attract they simply feel that there Many letters from readers In the last few years wind visitors to the area and is nothing to be gained by were received. Only a few turbines have grown both pointed out that the North further opposition? of them in favour of wind in size and numbers yet farms. Cornwall holiday guide AB Boscastle Blowhole Team The editorial team reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any material submitted for publication. The views expressed in the magazine are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the team. The editorial team are: Philippa Arthan, Arthur Bannister, Heather Colne, Joan Cork, Gloria Quinlan, Ann and Chris Rodda. Your name could be added to the list if you wish to join us! The next Blowhole will be published in June. The deadline for copy will be advertised closer to the date. Items for inclusion can be emailed to [email protected] Copies of the Blowhole are available by post at a cost of £2.50 per issue. To subscribe please either email [email protected] or phone 01840 250891. For advertising queries, please contact Heather Colne on 01840 250639 or email [email protected] Communications to the Blowhole can be sent by post to 44 Clover Lane Close, Boscastle, PL35 0AL or by email to: [email protected] The Blowhole is published 4 times a year and printed by: Easyprint of Red Post, Nr Bude, tel: 01288 381700 email: [email protected] HIGHFIELD MOTORS Proprietor: F Luffarelli Servicing, Repairs & Tyres at Highly Competitive Prices for all cars, motorcycles and vans MOT’s Class 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 7 Highfield Road Industrial Estate, Camelford, PL32 9RA Tel: (01840) 212666

Page  Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Experience the Phenomena of Spirit With An Evening Of Mediumship Sue Tagholm Barbara Price Mark Dowler (Psychic Artist) at Camelford Spiritualist Church To celebrate the 82nd birthday of their mum, Pearl Fearnley, Mandy Washer & Clease Hall, Odette Rigby-Jones decided to go on a luxurious limo ride followed by a meal at Clease the Napoleon Inn. Pictured above are chauffeur Ron Muffett, Mandy Washer, Meadows, birthday girl Pearl Fearnly, Jade Nixon, Odette Rigby-Jones & Becky Bonsall. Camelford on Juliotter Garden Coffee Morning The Editorial Team would Saturday 19th May Club like to give a VERY BIG A lovely sunny day THANK YOU to Tim at 7.30pm All meetings take place at brought many people Ferrett, who has done Otterham Village Hall at to our Annual Coffee most of the production of Entry is £6 at the 7.30pm except outings to Morning at Heathdene, this issue of the Blowhole, door nurseries and the Summer stepping in whilst Philippa Paradise Road. Raffle and Tea/ Barbecue. £240 was raised for was off gallivanting in the March 27th: AGM Coffee Children’s Hospice Antipodes. April 24th: George Kestell South West Little ~ Bulbs, not just Tulips and Daffodils. Harbour in memory of PENNING May 22nd: Alistair RIvers ~ Adrian Ferrett. PAINTING From Packet to Plate. Vivien and Marion wish Private and commercial painters and decorators June 26th: Summer to thank Bernice and Barbecue everyone who supported Building & it in any way. Property Maintenance Cornwall Devon 01840 250047 01626 337596

SUE WALLIS DESIGNER DRESSMAKER (01840) 250434 ALTERATIONS DRESSMAKING - LADIES GENTS & CHILDRENS WEDDINGS & EVENING WEAR SOFT FURNISHINGScopyright photo etc courtesy ... David Flower

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page  Travellers’ Choice winners Five Stars for the Riverside are based on valuable The Riverside has once reviews and opinions again been recognised as from travellers around the one of the area’s highly world. regarded accommodation Margaret and Peter and restaurant providers both remark on how they with its sweep of prestigious believe that the standard of awards and ratings this the menus and the quality season. Margaret and of local food, together Peter Templar, who have with the healthy choices owned the business for offered to guests ‘is second over ten years, said: to none’. “Over the years “Everyone involved in that we have been a part of the management and the the business community, that they been graded as a foods and utilise healthier running of The Riverside we have tried wherever five star establishment. cooking methods. is immensely proud of this possible to promote trade th continuous achievement.” Over the winter, the On 18 January 2012, and commerce within They were delighted award success continued The Riverside was honoured the village. This includes that Quality in Tourism, with Cornwall Council in the 2012 TripAdvisor commitment in using England’s independent awarding their highest Travellers’ Choice Hotel local suppliers and offering tourist assessment body food hygiene and safety awards as one of the top 25 sustainable employment. awarded the business a award. Consequently, UK bargain hotels. Now in We would also like to five star rating award for The Riverside decided to its tenth year, the Travellers’ highlight the dedication of guest accommodation. The participate in their CHEFS Choice awards honour the the staff who have enabled Riverside was also awarded (Cornwall Healthier Eating world’s best hotels, earning us to achieve what we a Silver and a Breakfast and Food Safety) award their distinction from those have.” award. Silver awards are in recognition of their who know them best – real For the coming season, given to hotels and guest commitment to offering travellers. Unlike any other The Riverside has already accommodation that healthy menu options and hotel honours, TripAdvisor started to advertise a return provide exceptional quality using local led sourced of their Steak Night, Ocean in all areas but in particular foods. Their achievement Feast and more. in service and hospitality. of a silver CHEFS award The Breakfast award enables the business to www.hotelriverside. recognises establishments display the distinctive co.uk or telephone offering guests a quality blue logo which informs 01840 250216. and choice of breakfast, customers that they have RY with service and hospitality adopted and maintain a that exceeds what would high degree of food safety be expected at their star and standards, provide and rating. This is the sixth year promote a selection of local

Vacancies exist for adults and children (beginners or advanced) to have Piano or Keyboard Lessons to be taught in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere by a junior school teacher with over 20 years of experience of piano teaching in Cornwall. Parents are welcome to attend the lessons. For further details please ring Peter L Henry BA, LTCL 01840 770470

Page  Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 2012 Photographic welcomed from anyone, Exhibition and anywhere, subject to S.J.JOSE Competition some very simple rules. CARPENTER & JOINER Once again the users of Photographs must be taken within a ten mile GENERAL PROPERTY Otterham and St Juliot MAINTENANCE Hall, Marshgate, are radius of the hall (though not from the small part staging a photographic Tel 01840 250069 competition to help of Devon that falls into raise the funds needed that category) which Mobile 07974 723382 to replace the life- roughly encompasses expired hall. an area from Bude in the north, Boyton in Entry into the the east, Bolventor in competition is free, as the south and down will be the exhibition, the coast almost as far with funds being raised as Port Isaac. Entries from the sale of a can be either digital or calendar produced from prints and should be the exhibition entries, a in 7” x 5” landscape raffle, cream teas and format. Portrait format generous backing by photographs are not Barclays Bank plc who acceptable for the will match the funds calendar purposes. Full raised up to a total of details are on the hall’s £750. The photographer website: taking the photograph otterhamandstjuliothall.org judged to be the best Entries can be emailed will be presented with to the website or posted two copies of the 2013 to: calendar, with one PhotoComp, copy being awarded to Trenoweth, the taker of the second placed photograph. Marshgate, An exhibition will be Nr Camelford, staged on Sunday 23rd PL32 YN September and up to Photos must arrive by four entries each are 8th September 2012.

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Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page  crew will be selected by alongside Her Majesty the ballot at the club’s AGM Queen and other members to be held at the Cobweb in of the Royal Family aboard Boscastle on February 24th. the Royal Barge, The Spirit Torrent is one of several of Chartwell. It will be a gigs from Devon, Cornwall once in a lifetime moment and Wales which will be for the rowers on Torrent travelling in the flotilla. as part of this glorious Nick Holmes who moment in our rich royal arranged for the club’s history. entry said “We love taking Torrent was damaged Torrent to London; since in a shoreline accident her launch in 2006 she at Crackington Haven Torrent confirmed applying for every place. has taken part in the Great recently. The gig club have The pageant organisers River Race on the Thames contacted their insurers to take part in the almost every year, she is and to Brian Nobbs who Thames Diamond and representatives from the river community were the only vessel that has has carried out repairs in Jubilee Pageant involved in the selection won her class three years the past. They plan to get The afternoon of Sunday process which included in succession. On her last her back in the water prior 3rd June will see a thousand considering safety, fitness- winning run, her rudder to the Royal Jubilee event. boats gather on the river for-purpose and range pin broke on the start line For the time being the Thames in celebration of vessel type as well as and she still went on 21 crew will be training in the of the Queen’s Diamond exploring whether the miles with a broken rudder, club’s other gig, Rival, at Jubilee. It will be the largest vessel was of historical to beat all comers in her Crackington, Boscastle and flotilla in modern times on significance or had an class. The pageant will be Port Gavern. The club has the river with rowing boats, interesting story to tell. At the first time we will be in active men’s and women’s working boats and pleasure the end of 2011, organisers her on the Thames and not teams of all ages. New vessels of all shapes and confirmed to applicants the racing full on!” members are welcome and sizes beautifully dressed lucky boats who will take Every vessel will proudly full details can be found at with streamers and Union part in this historic event. take its place in the flotilla www.boscastlegigclub.org. Jacks, stretching for an Boscastle & Crackington uk. estimated twelve and a half Haven Gig Club is miles. delighted that Torrent has It has proved extremely been selected to take part popular with three boats in the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant. The final BOSSINEY HOUSE HOTEL and Cedar Tree Restaurant Fresh locally produced meats Barnecutt’s bread and hot pasties Tel: 01840 770240 Wide range of groceries, fresh fruit & veg Bossiney Road Tintagel Gluten free products stocked Great rooms, a comfortable bar and Off Licence and Pay Point spacious restaurant which are open Opening hours: to non-residents for a la carte meals Mon - Fri: 8am-6pm throughout the week and with our Saturday: 9am-5pm renowned carvery every Sunday - also a Sunday: 9am-1pm great venue for special events, weddings Tel: 01840 250108 and Christmas parties www.bottreauxfillingstation.co.uk

Page  Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 possible, rather than will be payed on the first Paul is the government’s waiting until the next £10,000 you earn. The Minister for Social Care session of Parliament and income tax threshold was and came to see how the risking any delays. I also raised by £1,000 to £7,475 use of assistive technologies joined a delegation of MPs in the 2010 Budget, and known as ‘telehealth’ and from Cornwall and Devon the Coalition Government ‘telecare’ are working in our to meet the government’s will increase it further to area. These technologies Water Minister, Richard £8,105 this year, rising to allow people to monitor Benyon MP, where I called £10,000 by 2015. This health conditions in the for more to be done to help means a basic rate tax comfort of their own MP, Dan Rogerson ease the burden on families. payer would save £379 a home, with information writes: I asked him to consider year, whilst those on low sent electronically to Since my last article it has moving from regional incomes earning under doctors and nurses, so that been a busy few months in schemes to support those £10,000 won’t pay any tax they only have to travel to Westminster. Legislation on the lowest incomes, to a at all. Given how tough a GP or hospital when it is has recently been national scheme – thereby times are at the moment, I necessary. introduced to the House providing support for those think we should get there Later on that week, Mr of Commons to provide in water poverty wherever faster. Burstow announced an for a £50 rebate for water they are in the country. I If we speed up raising extra £1.7 million in social bill payers in Cornwall and hope government ministers the income tax threshold care funding for Cornwall other South West Water will understand that whilst to £10,000 that means over the next four years. areas from 2013-14. As the £50 rebate is certainly a people will have more This extra cash will be a Liberal Democrat, I step in the right direction, money in their pockets to used to help people leave have long campaigned on there is further to go to help with rising fuel and hospital earlier and receive getting a fair deal for bill fully address the problem. food prices. It would also better care at home. We all payers in Cornwall after I have also been joining help with getting people prefer to be out of hospital, the botched privatisation my Lib Dem colleagues in back to work, by making receiving care in our own under the Conservatives calling on the Government sure that work pays for home, and it is important in the 1980s left us with to go further and faster in those on part-time or low that we do everything we the highest water bills in cutting taxes for those on income jobs. Despite the can to ensure people are the country, and following middle and low incomes. economic situation we are cared for at home in a safe 13 years of complacency This was a priority for my facing, it is right that those and familiar environment, about the issue under the party at the last General on lower incomes receive with their family and last Labour government. Election. much needed help, whilst friends close by. Back in January, along Raising the tax threshold tax loopholes for the very Dan Rogerson MP with my fellow Cornish for lower earners is the rich are closed off. 4 Tower Street, Liberal Democrat MPs right thing to do, putting It has also been busy at Launceston, Cornwall Andrew George and money back in the pockets home in North Cornwall PL15 8BQ Stephen Gilbert, I urged of those who need it the too. One of the highlights E-mail: contact@ the government to make most. In Government, we was welcoming my Liberal danrogerson.org sure this legislation was are on course to deliver Democrat colleague, Paul Telephone: 01566 777123 introduced as soon as this, so that by 2015 no tax Burstow MP, to our area.

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Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page  News from the Nap Napoleon Inn to darkest hour. It was my Hold Mad March personal experience of Hair Charity Night helping a family member during cancer treatment On Friday 30th March that inspired the idea of my the Napoleon Inn will be new hair” having a MAD MARCH They provide public HAIR charity cocktail advice, and support a night. There will be live national network of music from The Bucket independent salons and Boys. Please come in mad professionals who provide colourful wigs there will be a wig styling service for a prize for the craziest. people suffering from cancer There will also be a and medical hair loss. They raffle so if anyone has pledge their commitment anything they could kindly to responsible training New Year Fun like to say a BIG thanks, donate that would be fab. and provide a caring and we really appreciate it. Friends from as far as New All proceeds will be going respectful service for their Zealand joined in the fun Music was provided by to the MY NEW HAIR clients. at the Napoleons Annual the ever fabulous (better if charity which was set up by For more details on the Fancy-dress Cocktail Party they would play just 1 Saw celebrity hairdresser Trevor My New Hair charity see on New Year’s Eve. So Doctors song) JARKA... Sorbie, who says “I feel my their website we love u guys. incredible career to date many people made the www.mynewhair.org/ effort with some amazing We all danced in the has led me to this moment, costumes (see above). New Year to some great this opportunity to help tunes and had the best people and I am so grateful There was a bevy of fun. that I have the skills to beautiful Amy Winehouses, pull this off. my new hair Landlord & Landlady Tina Turner, Princess isn’t just about hair, it’s Ron & Sharon Muffett Fiona, Boy George, Alice psychological medicine for OLD MOBILES WANTED Cooper, a 50’s glamour & all their staff wish all women suffering from hair We are collecting old puss, a couple of naughty our loyal customers, old loss through illness and for mobile phones for the St. Trinians, Betty Boop, & new, a very happy & many of the women I have charity so drop these & Shaun the Sheep (who got healthy 2012. seen, it’s the missing link in any raffle items into the so hot the costume was cut Please keep your eyes their treatment. NAPOLEON INN before off her at around 11.30pm!!) on our notice boards & Giving women back March 30th. We greatly even The Statue of Liberty website www.napoleoninn. their hair – hair that looks appreciate all your help & put in an appearance (to co.uk for details of some natural, attractive and hope to see you all in your them and all the others brilliant events planned for feminine gives them back mad march wigs for more who dressed up we would 2012. a little of the confidence details please ring us on to face the world in their 01840 250204. ValencyValency “Nestled into the beautiful Kernow Properties in Camelford market properties both Valency Valley close for rental and sale in the Boscastle area. With our local to the famous harbour, knowledge and all the latest internet sales connections we scenic old village and are your best bet for getting your property viewed by both dramatic coast path.” local and national buyers and prospective tenants. Bed & Breakfast and Self-Catering We give personal service and are available at any time Penally Hill, Boscastle, Cornwall. PL35 0HF during working hours to visit you and give help and www.valencybandb.com information free of charge. 01840 250397 Contact Mark, Jane, Angie or Irene on 01840 212938 e-mail [email protected]

Page  Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Easter Egg Run Moorlanders Motorcycle Davidstow Airfield and take Club will be holding their bikers on a well marshalled 14th Easter Egg Run on route of about 100 miles, Easter Sunday again this with a fuel stop half way, year. Last year’s event visiting charities and raised over £4,000 for local ending with an afternoon children’s charities, with event. £5 donations to the around 530 bikers taking charities will be collected part. per bike for taking part, The purpose of the and donations of chocolate Egg Run is to distribute eggs are welcomed. chocolate Easter eggs If all goes to plan, the to people in care on the bikers will ride through TAN PARTR route of the run and to Boscastle around 11.30am IS and ICK raise funds for children’s to 12 noon, so please look TR charities in Cornwall. The out for them. DAN ROOTS charities are the special Sponsorship forms are needs units of Camelford available at the Bottreaux CONSTRUCTION and Launceston primary Garage or you can follow EXTENSIONS • RENOVATIONS schools, Bowden Derra care links from the club’s NEW BUILD • BATHROOMS home, Action for Children website. and Children’s Hospice Call Mobile 07989 327 873 South West to help raise OR 07968 808 135 funds for the development FREE QUOTATIONS of Little Harbour, their new care home St Austell. The Egg Run will start at THE HARBOUR LIGHT Come and see our exciting new season’s men’s, women’s and children’s clothing We are approved stockists of famous brand names including JOULES, DEAL, LAZY JACKS, WEIRD FISH Our new Italian range of “Solo” just has to be seen! Come and Browse, we’d be delighted to see you tel: 01840 250374

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Have your say; voice your ideas or concerns For more information on joining contact: Shirley Wakelin (secretary) 250314 Camelford Country Dance: Chris Searle (treasurer) 250225 Every Thursday Night at St John’s Ambulance Hall, Camelford, Denise Tillinghast (membership secretary) 250397 7.30 - 9.30 pm Membership fee is £20 per year and is open Cost: £1 including, tea and biscuits to all businesses within the PL35 postcode area Contact Barbara Perry: 01840 212655

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page  new homes will be built, much of the Core Strategy concentrating on the appears to be a wish-list, short Camborne-Redruth area, on practical detail. The architects the Bodmin area, and new of the scheme are well aware that eco-towns in the old clay doubling the population cannot Cornwall Core Strategy mining district outside St take place without additional Austell. Newquay airport will jobs to support communities. Over the next twenty years be encouraged to increase Falling visitor numbers over Cornwall’s population is numbers of visitors, air routes the past decade, so that even a expected to reach up to a million, abroad and services to business high profile attraction like the with plans to expand industry travelers. Eden Project is losing money and infrastructure to absorb There are thorny issues and announcing redundancies, the demands this will place on surrounding Cornwall’s suggests that pumping more numbers of houses, schools, second home owners. Are the money into tourism is as likely to hospitals and social care, as well multi-millionaire owners of kill the golden goose as fatten it. as provision of utilities: power, Rock properties an asset or a The alternatives are to persuade water and waste disposal. There liability? Would taxing second government organizations and is anxiety about the impact this homes as a business both satisfy larger companies to up sticks to will have on agricultural land our sense of social justice and Cornwall by offering incentives and green spaces, and the nature generate more cash for social such as reduced business charges. of the environment. housing? Can builders be The attractions of scenery and persuaded to develop derelict life style have always been a In 1961 Cornwall’s population industrial sites in Redruth draw to young professionals and was around 360,000 and rather than cannibalise gardens their families. The setting up of falling, with young people in Boscastle?. Profit is where the Metereology HQ in Exeter, leaving the County to seek the heart is, naturally, but can the DVLA in Swansea and the jobs and higher education co-exist with principle. insurance company Norwich elsewhere. The prosperity of Union in Norfolk are examples of the 1970s and 1980s reversed The road and rail systems are high quality job creation without this trend, and the present already often overstretched at damage to the environment. Both population of 600,000 reflects peak periods and more traffic Plymouth and Exeter universities both much better educational will require upgrading of have been centres of research provision and the popularity of the main trunk roads in and and development, providing the area as a tourist destination out of the County as well as technical and financial services and for second home owners. improvement inside the main for overseas clients. The banking However, this popularity has population centres. There are sector and IT development exacted a price, wage rates are obvious limits to how much already constitute one-third of still amongst the lowest in the extra traffic small towns and Britain’s GDP, unseen but highly UK whilst house prices are the villages can absorb. profitable. Could Cornwall highest outside the London Camelford is expected to become the next Silicon Valley? conurbation. Traditional increase its present two industries have all declined, and thousand-odd population Those with thoughts can contact tourism has proven an unstable by another 3,500 in the next Cornwall Council LDF Core substitute, most jobs poorly twenty years. It is not clear Planning Strategy at Circuit paid and seasonal, with little how all these extra souls will House, Truro TR1 1DT or by prospect of future security, earn a living. email [email protected]. uk and the whole lot is online at A minimum of 48,000 Without seeming negative, www.cornwall.govuk/ldf.

Page 10 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 new homes will be built, much of the Core Strategy concentrating on the appears to be a wish-list, short Camborne-Redruth area, on practical detail. The architects the Bodmin area, and new of the scheme are well aware that eco-towns in the old clay doubling the population cannot Cornwall Core Strategy mining district outside St take place without additional Austell. Newquay airport will jobs to support communities. Over the next twenty years be encouraged to increase Falling visitor numbers over Cornwall’s population is numbers of visitors, air routes the past decade, so that even a expected to reach up to a million, abroad and services to business high profile attraction like the with plans to expand industry travelers. Eden Project is losing money and infrastructure to absorb There are thorny issues and announcing redundancies, the demands this will place on surrounding Cornwall’s suggests that pumping more numbers of houses, schools, second home owners. Are the money into tourism is as likely to hospitals and social care, as well multi-millionaire owners of kill the golden goose as fatten it. as provision of utilities: power, Rock properties an asset or a The alternatives are to persuade water and waste disposal. There liability? Would taxing second government organizations and is anxiety about the impact this homes as a business both satisfy larger companies to up sticks to will have on agricultural land our sense of social justice and Cornwall by offering incentives and green spaces, and the nature generate more cash for social such as reduced business charges. of the environment. housing? Can builders be The attractions of scenery and persuaded to develop derelict life style have always been a In 1961 Cornwall’s population industrial sites in Redruth draw to young professionals and was around 360,000 and rather than cannibalise gardens their families. The setting up of falling, with young people in Boscastle?. Profit is where the Metereology HQ in Exeter, leaving the County to seek the heart is, naturally, but can the DVLA in Swansea and the jobs and higher education co-exist with principle. insurance company Norwich elsewhere. The prosperity of Union in Norfolk are examples of the 1970s and 1980s reversed The road and rail systems are high quality job creation without this trend, and the present already often overstretched at damage to the environment. Both population of 600,000 reflects peak periods and more traffic Plymouth and Exeter universities both much better educational will require upgrading of have been centres of research provision and the popularity of the main trunk roads in and and development, providing the area as a tourist destination out of the County as well as technical and financial services and for second home owners. improvement inside the main for overseas clients. The banking However, this popularity has population centres. There are sector and IT development exacted a price, wage rates are obvious limits to how much already constitute one-third of still amongst the lowest in the extra traffic small towns and Britain’s GDP, unseen but highly UK whilst house prices are the villages can absorb. profitable. Could Cornwall highest outside the London Camelford is expected to become the next Silicon Valley? conurbation. Traditional increase its present two industries have all declined, and thousand-odd population Those with thoughts can contact tourism has proven an unstable by another 3,500 in the next Cornwall Council LDF Core substitute, most jobs poorly twenty years. It is not clear Planning Strategy at Circuit paid and seasonal, with little how all these extra souls will House, Truro TR1 1DT or by prospect of future security, earn a living. email [email protected]. uk and the whole lot is online at A minimum of 48,000 Without seeming negative, www.cornwall.govuk/ldf.

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 11 Distance is no Deterrent when Cupid’s Arrow hits its Mark and the Great Barrier Reef. The seaside town does, however, ‘manage to maintain a relaxed village- like ambience with open- air markets, beautiful beaches and laid back pubs’ - sounds just like Boscastle, but with more sun! With a stopover in Singapore, in time to see Chinese New Year celebrations, John and Jackie flew out to attend the wedding. It was held in one of the oldest and most beautiful buildings in Port Douglas, St Mary by the Sea Church. The chapel is a whitewashed, colonial type, clapboard or weatherboard building, similar to those When John and Jackie special; they spent the next cruise ship’s passengers seen in New England, Brown’s daughter Lucy, few years flying to and into Port Douglas harbour, America. The white interior decided several years from Australia and Britain, the company operates a ago to holiday in North to see each other. Since catamaran from Port Queensland, Australia, such journeying could not Douglas to the outer she had no idea that she continue for long, Lucy reef, the Low Isles was about to meet her moved to Australia in 2007. and Cairns. They also life’s partner. Once there a Thus began the first steps take up to 300 diving friend introduced Lucy to to their wedding in Port enthusiasts, at a time, Richard Hall saying that Douglas, on 28th January out to the reefs off whilst she was in Australia, this year. the coast of Queensland. St Mary by the Sea Richard would be happy Richard is a qualified Port Douglas is fortunate and the glass altar window to escort her around places diving instructor and, once to be one of the few fills the chapel with light, of interest in Port Douglas settled Lucy joined him on places in the world where, as it sits close to the sea, and the surrounding area. the Quicksilver Cruise boats lying side by side are two amongst swaying palm Having become acquainted as a videographer. Apart World Heritage Areas - trees and luscious green and, realising that their from ferrying outlying relationship was something the Daintree Rainforest shrubs In such a tranquil

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Page 12 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 continued from last page which curved around her slim figure.  and informal setting, the  wedding was set to follow The newly-weds home  Boscastle Tel;01840250204 is in Cooya Beach, 7  suit, with everyone relaxed  www.napoleoninn.co.uk and happy. The groom, kilometres north of Port  Facebooksearch:napnatterings  father of the bride, best man Douglas. It is a coastal  locality, surrounded by –Š and male guests manfully ͳ͸  ‡–—”›’—„ˆ—ŽŽ‘ˆ Šƒ”ƒ –‡” braved the heat, in black farmland, close to the — ŠƬ‡˜‡‹‰‡ƒŽ••‡”˜‡††ƒ‹Ž›‹‘—”„ƒ”‘””‡•–ƒ—”ƒ–ǡ shorts and pristine white mouth of the Mossman ‘”‘—–•‹†‡‹‘—”Žƒ”‰‡‰ƒ”†‡‘”‘–Š‡–‡””ƒ ‡ ŽŽˆ‘‘†’”‡’ƒ”‡†‘–Š‡’”‡‹•‡•„›‘—” ‡ƒ†Š‡ˆƬŠ‡” shirts, whilst the ladies River and offering many –‡ƒ—•‹‰Ž‘ ƒŽ’”‘†— ‡™Š‡”‡˜‡ ”’‘••‹„Ž‡Ǥ water activities. Living in ‘‘‹‰‹•ƒ†˜‹•ƒ„Ž‡Ǥ vied with the colours of the  exotic flowers that grow in such a tropical paradise, I LiveMusicEvery FridayNight the surrounding tropical am sure they have a happy MonthlyThemedCocktailNights gardens. The bride looked life ahead of them and send RegularLunchtime Bingo beautiful, of course, wearing the couple congratulations   a shimmering cream, off and best wishes for the future. the shoulder, sleek fitting ‘”‘”‡†‡–ƒ‹Ž•ƒ„‘—––Š‡’—„ǡ–Š‡ƒ”‡ƒƬƒŽŽ‘—”ˆ‘”–Š ‘‹‰ Awarm&friendlywelcomeawaitsyou dress, the sinuous folds of GQ ‡˜‡–•’Ž‡ƒ•‡”‹‰—•‘”•‡‡‘—”™‡„•‹–‡‘”ˆƒ ‡„‘‘’ƒ‰‡  Pop In malcolm Barnecutt We sell freshly to the baked pasties, handmade Community Centre cakes, scones and pastries, a on large range of breads, crisps Monday Mornings & handmade cookies, take- between away teas, coffee, drinking 10am and 12 noon chocolate Everyone welcome 4 Bridge Walk, Boscastle, PL35 0HE Tel: 01840 250205

Sails Café 6 Bridge Walk, Boscastle Wella Book Ian and Carolyn would like to welcome Keeping Solutions BLOWHOLE readers to their new venture. We now offer a take away service in addition  For all bookkeeping requirements to our dine in facilities and will be open until 8pm on Friday and Saturday evenings.  Sole trader; Partnership & Ltd Co accounts  Year end accounts Free Can of Cold Drink  VAT returns & filing with every adult take away meal* Maximum 4 meal offers per day with this voucher  Self assessment tax returns & filing  PAYE and payroll or  New business start up assistance 10% off all Dine In Food Orders when ordered from the specials board* Tel: 01840 705004 for more information Maximum 4 meal offers per day with this voucher (excludes drinks) Or email: [email protected] Bookings Welcome Qualified, experienced bookkeeper (Manual and computerised systems) 01840 250501 Insured and industry regulated. Fully compliant with legal requirements to be registered under the Money Laundering Offers Valid 4pm to 8pm Friday and Saturday evenings Regulations 2007 13th April 2012 to 16th June 2012 (copies not accepted, T & Cs apply)

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 13 hosting Live Music, Hog Roast and Mad Hatters tea party for children. Please note the events listed here Parish Council News are only provisional as they are Forrabury and Minster Parish in the planning stage and are Council meet in the Village Hall on subject to change. Please watch the the second Thursday of each month noticeboards for more details. at 7pm. Members of the public are Communication - F&MPC is very invited to attend and may address the keen to include as many people as Council during the first ten minutes possible in its communications, MILLER’S PANTRY of the meeting. information is posted in the At The Old Mill A copy of the agenda is displayed on noticeboards regularly, to the Parish Council notice boards and compliment the noticeboards the 01840 250223 website prior to all meetings. Minutes easiest and quickest is email. If Coffee, Teas, Light Lunches of previous meetings are displayed once you would like to be included in they are approved by the Council. F&MPC’s communication emails Under New Ownership Forrabury & Minster Parish please email me with your name and Council is keen to understand, address. If you have any other ideas from the people of the Parish, what’s for better communication please let t Boscastle National Trust me know. Information Centre important to the community. Over Shop and Café the next few months Councillors Adrian Prescott - Parish Clerk will be asking either directly or Lower Meadows House through a simple questionnaire Penally Hill for your thoughts, views and ideas Boscastle on what you think is necessary PL35 0HF for the on-going stability of this 01840 210017 community. You don’t need to wait The Harbour, Boscastle,PL35 0HD [email protected] OPEN ALL YEAR to be asked, just contact a member March - October 10.00am - 5.00pm of the Council with your thoughts, Parish Council Contact Info: November - February 10.30am - 4.00pm Chair David George Findlay Accommodation information & booking service ideas, or concerns. Photo copying/internet access/WiFi Ferrett 250414 250428 local attraction information, Queens Diamond Jubilee – at time Fred Hockin Chris Jarvis walking maps & guides of writing F&MPC, are aware of 250529 250512 Wide range of books, gifts and refreshments a few events being planned for the Anthony Brewer Nanette Little Tel: 01840 250010 250854 250291 [email protected] celebrations, the following is a brief Pat Day 250436 Chris Rodda www.nationaltrust.org.uk outline of what may be happening Ian Dawson 250012 in June. The next Queen Diamond 250416 Mark Smith Jubilee meeting will be on Thursday 250001 NEATE th 5 April in the Community Centre Since Daphne Rogers left the at 7pm, not 28th March as originally village, the Blowhole no longer has a FEET For all your foot health needs hoped. regular correspondent reporting on Professional foot care in the comfort of your own home Saturday 3rd June: Big Lunch Picnic Parish Council meetings. Whilst we Painful Callus Reduced and sports (not yet organised any are delighted that the Clerk, Adrian Toenail Clipping volunteers?) Prescott sends us updates and news, it would be great if someone Ingrowing Toenails Sunday 4th June: Combined church Painful Corns Removed was willing to attend meetings as service (to be confirmed) Paddings & Dressings a member of the public and take Verrucae Treatment The Cobweb will be hosting live notes of points of interest. coverage of the Thames River Reflexology If you are interested, please Pageant which includes the Boscastle Everything you require to keep your feet pain free contact a member of the Blowhole & Crackington Gig and, hopefully, Claire & Simon Neate DIPCFHP team in person, by phone or email. live tracking of the gig and music. Qualified foot health practitioners Contact details can be found in the th Monday 5 June: Napoleon Inn information panel on page 2. Mob: 07968232344 / 07870508867

Page 14 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 ‘Shop Till You Drop’ Table Top for Cornwall Air Ambulance YOGA February can be a cold and quiet month so a couple of local ladies decided to hold a table top sale in the Village Hall to raise money IN for the Cornwall Air Ambulance at the same time as ensuring a lovely social outing for locals and visitors. BOSCASTLE It was a busy start to the day and, although it quietened down Are you suffering from the winter blues and feel a after lunch, the event raised need to stretch and tone those muscles? Come and join £143.00 for the chosen charity. us at my yoga classes which are now running at the It was the first of these wintry Community Centre in Fore Street. I am a fully trained yoga teacher who specialises in Hatha events and if reaction is positive Yoga,which is a standard form of yoga. My emphasis is on there may be more. helterBox has improving posture, gaining flexibility and learning different been mooted as the next charity techniques to aid relaxation. Unlike other forms of exercise, we to benefit from the ‘Shop Till don’t run around and get sweaty – this is a slower and deeper form of movement and everyone seems to leave the class quite You drop’ Day. chilled, as well as invigorated! Thanks to everyone for their I am happy for anyone to turn up and have a go, all you need help, especially the tea and coffee is a blanket for the final lying down relaxation at the end and maestros, Barb, Nigel, Edna and a yoga/non slippery mat (I always bring five spare ones along with me just in case). Jane, advertisement and event co- Come along for some fun and the opportunity to meet new ordinator Donna Hircock, local people while exploring this ancient tradition. liaison officer Viv Hircock, and communicator extraordinaire Wednesdays 7pm – 8.30pm Thursdays 10am – 11.30am Arthur Bannister for his Price £6 Students £4 omnipresent emails reminding us to attend. It’s great to see people First Lesson for new people only £3 !! getting behind these events. KG Contact Fiona on 01208 851 735 VENN DOWN FARMHOUSE

Luxury 4 star self catering apartments in a tranquil location, distant sea views Open all year 01840 250599 / 07860 608817 www.venndownfarmhouse.co.uk www.boscastleholidaycottages.com [email protected]

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 15 From the Methodist commenting on the events of Easter, which Methodist Church will Minister Rev A Bryan issue, as well as prime speak to us of love, be held on Thursday, Ede: time on television in forgiveness, self-denial, March 29th from news and current affairs resurrection, eternity, 10.30a.m. Again, a The former Town programmes. and new beginnings welcome awaits you. Councillor of Bideford For me it has reinforced being always possible. Finally, a date for your who caused the National the fact that at heart In unique ways these diary – Methodist Secular Society to test in we live in a Christian things which emanate Church Fete in the the law courts the long Country. I recently saw from our loving, creating Church Grounds, held tradition of prayers a statistic that stated that God shape us as human Saturday, Jun 30th at being shared at the 71% of our population beings, and a society. 2.30p.m. commencement of the acknowledge that fact. Easter gives us all an principal meetings of If there was such a thing opportunity to ask Town, District, Borough as our culture having a ourselves what it all From Revd Robert and County Councils D.N.A. the Christian means for us. We wish Thewsey: has unwillingly has faith and the way in you all a Happy and brought the Christian which it permeates all Blessed Easter. Dear friends faith and Church to the levels of our culture At Boscastle Methodist looking back at past fore in recent weeks. would be a prominent Church we shall be articles that I have Many column inches in feature within it. sharing in a Service written I notices that our national and local At the heart of our of Meditation and two years ago I was newspapers have been Christian teaching Communion on Good telling you about some used in reporting and and experience are the Friday at 2.30p.m., recent vandalism that and in Worship at 11a. we had had at Forrabury m. on Easter Day. You Church. It saddens me will be welcome to share greatly to say that this with us. has returned again - Our Easter Coffee with a vengeance over the last few month. SPROULL Morning at the

SOLICITORS Contact Details: Church of England: Sproull Solicitors LLP Revd Robert Thewsey Boscastle Methodist The Rectory, ACCIDENT CLAIMS CONVEYANCING Chapel: Forrabury, Rev Bryan Ede, PROBATE WILLS Boscastle 38 Penmead Road, BUSINESSES PL35 0DJ DIVORCE/CHILDREN Delabole Tel: 01840 250359 PL33 9AP www.sproullllp.co.uk Tel: 01840 214818 Religious Society of Friends: 42 Fore Street The Rock 8 Fore Street Roman Catholic Church: Quakers meet each Bodmin Port Isaac Camelford Fr Storey PL31 2HW PL29 3RN PL32 9PG Sunday at 10.30am in the St Paul’s Church, T 01208 72328 T 01840 212315 T 01840 212315 John Betjeman Centre, F 01208 77881 F 01840 212792 F 01840 212792 Tintagel Wadebridge [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 01840 770663

Page 16 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 The people at Forrabury decided to brew up in 11am at Boscastle to see if that works for Church are rightly the kettle, melt the milk Chapel, and depending them. proud of the positive containers, melt the wax upon when the What this means for comments that they candles from the votive Blowhole is published, the local community is regularly receive in the stand and mix them please do come along really not very different visitors book about how altogether in the font. and remember your own from what we already do. welcoming the church This is not only a mess to Mum on that Sunday, or There will be the same is, and especially how clean up, but is in reality if that date has passed, number of services, the much they appreciate a sacrilegious event hopefully you enjoyed same church buildings, the tea and coffee, and as the font is a deeply the event. the same social events – our thanks go to Carol significant item in the There are lots of the only difference is the and Malcolm who make church, as it is where exciting, and interesting name. So if you see the sure each day that this people are welcomed events happening at the name ‘Boscastle Parish’ facility is well stocked into the family of God moment at Church and it actually means the and clean. into His Church, and if you wish to know churches of Forrabury However……over the it is where generations what we are doing and Minster, Trevalga, last few months, and of villages have been please do have a look St Juliot, Otterham, and in particularly the last Baptised – Christened at ‘The Seaside Parish’ Lesnewth all joining few weeks of February in front of their families website where you will together to work more we have suffered much and friends. find an up to date list of closely together, to misuse of these facilities, Our plea as a church all events. support one another with wet tea bags being community to the Hopefully you will more and to try and throw at the pillars in village is that if people also have heard that grow our faith more as church (which has meant know who is responsible we are experimenting well. that they have had to be for these attacks then to over the next two years As the warmer weather repainted) and also at please speak to either being a single parish comes let us hope for the screen at the back of the people concerned, rather than five separate a really great Summer, church which has had or myself so that we can ones, this new parish especially for those in to be cleaned on several stop this happening. will be known as the the community who occasions. Also to ask that if you Parish of Boscastle, rely on tourism for their Tea, coffee, sugar and are passing the church but it still retains all its living. I wish you all a milk are often deposited building at any time church communities blessed Spring. at various ‘odd’ places in then to pop in to check and buildings with the church which makes that all is well. the exception of Yours in Christ Fr Robert the church appear to be This is your church Davidstow who are also unloved and neglected building and it is a experimenting in trying when we have visitors. facility that should be to work on their own This is far from the truth cared for by its local as the church building is village and community. WESTERINGS much valued and loved Please, please help this by the worshipping behaviour to stop. Spacious Self-Catering community, and the On a very positive note Accommodation wider local community though the Methodists - Open All Year - as well. and Anglicans are The worst case that we holding a special Shirley Wakelin have had was just at the Boscastle Village Forrabury, Boscastle end of Half Term when Mothering Sunday Tel: 01840 250314 one evening somebody service on 18th March, Website: www.westeringsholidays.co.uk

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 17 Harbourmaster’s News

Fresh Crabs and Lobsters landed daily in Port Isaac from our own boat ‘Mary D’ Available cooked, dressed, in a sandwich, boxed to take home or even alive. We also have a selection of wet fish, Mussels, Oysters and award winning smoked fish. Coffee, cakes and lots more.

Situated at the top of the village on the main road between the Pea Pod Gallery and the petrol station just behind the red and white ice-cream shop. Calum and Tracey Greenhalgh Fresh from the Sea This has been a quiet winter ready for next season. In 18 New Road, Port Isaac, PL29 3SB down at the harbour with addition I personally am 01208 880849 all the boats out save for planning a trip to the coast Scott Washer who risked North East Brazil before the groundsea but had few Easter but by plane rather Boscastle’s famous if any days of winter fishing than by sea. with his boat “ Autumn I was pleased to see that museum Rose”. I know Scott has a the National Trust kept new 30 foot boat on order the café and shop open being made by Cygnus and all through the winter of I have seen pictures of the and there have been a few hull when the vessel came visitors about. Late last witchcraft out of the moulds but I am year 4 very hardy Welsh not sure if she will be fitted surfers took a rib and a jet out for use until much later ski out of the harbour to this year. go surfing on the slab by From time to time I the Beeny Sisters and the have seen hoards of gulls reef off Cam Beak. They and gannets feeding half a did tell me that they would mile or so off the harbour send some photos but sadly entrance on shoals of what these never appeared and so Open Daily April - Halloween 01840 250111 I assume are sprats or I have attached an icy shot small herring. I do in fact of the harbour. possess a herring net but Chris Key Christopher Key have not had a chance to Harbour Master use it recently although Solicitor I gather there have been plenty of herrings down Trebiffen, Boscastle, PL35 0BN west not least as the dealers have been trying to sell Tel: 01840 250200 Fax: 01840 250900 quantities for bait. Established 1997 I am keen to see if I can catch squid this season serving the local community and I know that Ian Young conveyancing & wills tells me he is going to probate, general litigation, etc concentrate on lining for cod. So we are now looking Member Law Society Personal Injury Panel forward to spring and Agricultural Specialist ~ Harbourmaster getting the pots and gear

Page 18 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Bouquets for the The Wellington Boscastle Blowhole Hotel Boscastle It is always heartening • PM Hodge tells to have your efforts us she reads the recognised and many magazine ‘avidly’. of our Subscribers have This is just a small sent words of praise sample as space and encouragement Pub Restaurant Hotel precludes mentioning along with their 2012 The Long Bar The Waterloo Restaurant all the comments. Open from 11.00 am for: Open from 6.30 pm for: subscriptions. We are fortunate to Bar Meals Award Wining Dining • C Robins writes Local Ales, Wines & Spirits Locally Sounrced Produce have such a band of Coffee, Tea & Cold Drinks Fine Wines ‘Keep up the good loyal supporters. The Families Welcome Beer Garden Freshly Cooked Food work with this cards they send are The Harbour, Boscastle, Cornwall, PL35 0AQ Tel 01840250202 interesting and copyright photo courtesy David Flower colourful, interesting www.wellingtonhotelboscastle.com newsy magazine’ and a joy to read, many • I West thinks we have telling us of their visits ‘a very interesting to Boscastle and sending GHM Publication’ and ‘good wishes for the says ‘congratulations coming year’. Over the to all the Team, who years they have become keep it going’ as friends. Building Maintenance GQ • D Adams and his Insurance Fire & Flood Damage wife tells us they ‘enjoy it so much’; Interior, Exterior Decorating as does J James who Kitchens, Bathrooms, Carpentry ‘enjoys the Blowhole very much’ Refurbishments • FJ Freeman writes ‘Many thanks for all 01840230380 / 07970275330 your hard work’ • LE Walls sends ‘congratulation to all the team in their continued success

Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee On Monday 4th June at THE NAPOLEON INN BIG RED, WHITE & BLUE CHARITY STREET PARTY In aid of The British Legion & Cornwall Air Ambulance Enjoy a delicious HOG ROAST, LIVE music, tombola, pleany of fun & games for all the family For more details please ring 01840 250204 or go to www,napoleoninn.co.uk

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 19 The Reading Room The Bookworms have gath- She read Philosophy, no dialogue in the first ‘TOO MUCH HAPPINESS’ ered regularly throughout Politics and Economics part of the book, once the BY ALICE MUNRO the unusually mild autumn at New College, Oxford dialogue was introduced Canadian writer Alice days and have enjoyed shar- A full-time writer since the characters did become Munro grew up in ing their thoughts on the 2004, she now lives with more ‘alive’ but the Wingham, South West books they have read. They her husband, her two names were found to be Ontario and has written met one evening to view a’ young sons, and twin baby confusing. short fiction since 1950. moving picture story’, by girls in south east England Yet another bookworm She has won Canada’s way of a change, and mar- and south west France. commented on being ‘put Governor General’s velled at the new-fangled Roopa’s first novel, ‘Bitter off’ by the genre of people Award for fiction three- technology. All that had Sweets’ was nominated for living in Western society times. Her stories focus read the book on which it the Orange New Writers who decide to write about on human relationships was based agreed that the Award 2007. It explores the their ancestral family looked at through the lens book was better! The book- effects of deceit across three country like an agony of daily life. She has often worms also so found it very generations of an unusual aunt! It was felt that the been referred to as “the difficult to be together and family, for whom the truth characters were composites Canadian Chekhov.” Many NOT TALKING! is, as Oscar Wilde put it, of people she had observed of Munro’s stories are set in The bookworms pledged “rarely pure and never rather than based on her Huron County Ontario. not to let their Christmas simple”. By the first hand experiences. The Her strong regional focus preparations prevent them end of this book it becomes book was thought to be ‘a is one of the features of her from reading and most clear that Farooki has been bit flat’. fiction and her characters bookworms held their manoeuvring her characters There was a general often confront deep-rooted resolve. Our reading Room toward a major showdown. agreement that the customs and traditions, has witnessed some lively She contrives a twist of fate characters were stereotyped dealing with love and work, discussions so why not that will drag their hidden and that there were and the failings of both. peep inside and eavesdrop lives into the light. Despite too many bizarre and Munro has carved a on them. its emphasis on deception, unbelievable coincidences. substantial reputation dislocation and the loss of without venturing very ‘BITTER SWEETS’ BY The ending seemed love, her book remains a ROOPA FAROOKI especially contrived. None far from what she does ‘light’ read! of us felt we would whole- best; the classic short Roopa Farooki was The bookworms were heartedly recommend it as story of disappointment born in Lahore, Pakistan in not particularly enthralled a good read. and epiphany, in the 1974, to a Pakistani father landscape she knows and with this book. One We each gave a score and Bangladeshi mother, understands. thought its infantile style out of 10, for two aspects and is the youngest of three Too Much Happiness, of writing was unattractive. of the novel and an average sisters. She moved to the UK Another found it difficult consisting of 10 stories, was when she was seven months score resulted as follows: to hold her attention on Storyline: 5.2 published in August 2009 old, and was brought and it continues to explore it because the writing style Quality of writing: 5.0 up in central London. seemed distant. There was her chief preoccupation ANDREW LEEDS CHIMNEY SWEEP AND STOVE INSTALLATIONS Tel: 01840 250114 • Vacuum & Brush • Stove Installations - no mess • Flue lining • Servicing & Repairs • HETAS certification • Cowls & Bird guards • 20 mile radius

Page 20 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 The Reading Room inspiration comes from her bookworms who were not continued Gujurati father and Welsh familiar with them found mother. They met in 1960’s them a little irritating. – what is it that constitutes terrible was going to Britain and moved to India a life, and gives it its It was generally agreed happen. They disliked the to be married. Her novel uniqueness. Munro is said that parts of the book were way that Munro left you uses the romance between to have stated that she is, quite convincing, however, with a real dilemma in her them as the foundation of “interested not in happy there was also a sense that stories. One bookworm a meandering family saga. endings but in “meaning… Doshi had no personal could not read on because This develops into a story of resonance, some strange experience of what she was she sensed the ending post-colonialism as Doshi beauty on the shimmer of writing about. would be too awful. moves to and fro between the sea”. The earthquake at the All the bookworms found cultures and generations. The bookworms had very the final story, from which end of the story we found diverse opinions about this the collection took its title, An ambitious time quite bizarre. collection of short stories. very heavy going. It was too span is covered in this This was not a book we Two of us thought the long and they felt it should short book, and suddenly would highly recommend stories were well written, be renamed ‘Too Much Siân and Babo find but it was alright as a quick with clever descriptions. Unhappiness’. themselves at their silver read wedding anniversary. They were well constructed Only you can know if this is We each gave a score as short stories and it your sort of book. We hope One bookworm felt that, towards the end of the out of 10, for two aspects could be seen why Munro our varied and opposing of the novel and an average had earned her reputation comments can help you book, the story was so ‘under developed’ that that score resulted as follows: as a writer of this genre. decide whether it’s worth a Storyline: 4.8 The style was deceptively try or not. section would have been better left out and that Quality of writing: 4.5 simple whilst conveying We each gave a score particular generation of the All the bookworms some horrific concepts. The out of 10, for two aspects family not introduced at send you their good wishes plots were extraordinarily of the novel and an average all. Their inclusion added for a hail and hearty New complex and the story was score resulted as follows: moved on with very few nothing to the story. It is Year and may your reading Storyline: 5.0 difficult to believe Doshi transport you to some words. Quality of writing: 7.5 Others found the stories spent eight years writing wonderful places before we too Canadian, all too eerie, ‘THE PLEASURE SEEKERS’ this book because it is light meet again in The Reading too convoluted and yet very BY TOSHANI DOSHI fiction and the characters Room. seem quite stereotyped. She Yours truly predictable. They thought Tishani Doshi is known draws on her knowledge The Keeper of the Key the people dysfunctional primarily as a Poet and of Indian phrases and and that you could always ‘The Pleasure Seekers’ colloquialisms but those sense that something is her debut novel. Her Adrian & Staff CORNISH STORES welcome you to the VILLAGE SHOP Cobweb Inn and BOSCASTLE, CORNWALL POST OFFICE ▪ FREE HOUSE ▪ REAL ALES ▪ BAR SNACKS ▪ For all your Grocery and every day ▪ FAMILY ROOM ▪ RESTAURANT ▪ essentials ▪ SUNDAY CARVERY ▪ Fresh fruit and vegetables daily Tel: (01840) 250278 www.cobwebinn.co.uk Fresh local meat LIVE MUSIC SATURDAY NIGHTS, TILL MIDNIGHT Hot pasties and drinks to takeaway 24th Mar: Festive Road 12th May: Mood Indigo 31st Mar: Johnny & the Blue Light 19th May: The Harry Peanut Show Open daily at 8.30am 7th Apr: Shellin’ Snails 26th May: Cut the Rug 14th Apr: Alison’s Kitchen 2nd June: Festive Road THE BRIDGE, BOSCASTLE 21st Apr: Blue Slate 9th June: Atomic 80’s 28th Apr: So Soul 16th June: Whiskey Thieves 01840 250344 5th May: Crestas 23rd June: Blue Slate

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 21 in extracting maximum tension from incidents and scenes which any lesser director would have made somewhat hackneyed. The last of these that I saw showed Robert Powell hanging desperately on to the moving minute hand of Big Ben in my favourite version of “The Thirty-nine Steps”. After his retirement Don spent much more time in a now enlarged Highwater Cottage. It was there I had my last chat with him, only a few days before his death. Very appropriately, it was DON SHARP IN So our expectations were the harbour when the largely about cricket. By BOSCASTLE high. They were certainly brightness of the Easter this time we were about the only friends old enough to John Tyerman Williams not disappointed. We soon sun contrasted deceptively exchange memories of remembers his friend, Don knew that Don would be with the coldness of the watching Don Bradman Sharp, actor, writer and welcome not just as Mary’s water; a coldness that all bat and compare the fast film director, born Hobart, husband but as a friend in too quickly conquered Tasmania 19th April 1921 his own right. the internal warmth of bowling of Ray Lindwall died Truro, Cornwall 14th He was an entertaining the Guinness! Until he with that of Harold December 2011 companion, full of amusing retired aged seventy-one, Larwood. I first became aware of anecdotes and with a dry Don’s visits were limited JTW Don when my late wife wit. He further endeared by his work. Mary came A note from Mary: and I sat in Harbour himself to us by his warm more often with their Don died in the Royal Cottage listening to the enjoyment of Boscastle. growing family. During the Cornwall Hospital after a radio drama “Journey He took pleasure in the school holidays we got to few months of dignified into Space”, in which local walks, not only for know their charming and decline much eased by he played the Australian their beauty but for the variously talented children. frequent contact with “Mitch”, naturally with providential way in which The friendship continued passing friends and an impeccable Australian they so often lead past the with equal warmth and acquaintances who, accent. It was a few years Wellington, Cobweb or more frequent meetings looking up on their walk later that he turned from Napoleon. with my present wife, along the harbour side, a disembodied voice into a His one reservation Elizabeth. would exchange a cheery physical presence. was about swimming here. As these notes are wave or call in on the quiet I still vividly remember But that was not particular personal memories of Don old gentleman sitting in his first visit to Boscastle. to Boscastle: he said no in Boscastle, they necessarily the window. His body lies Professional work self-respecting Australian, omit that most important beside his son, Jonathan, in postponed, it was over remembering the warmer part of his life: his work the deep peace of Minster, a year after his marriage seas around his native land, as a film director. “The his spirit commended to Mary Steele in 1956. would immerse himself in Times”, “The Guardian” to God with joyful co- Their wedding photograph the inhospitable chilliness and “The Independent” all operation in both Anglican showed them as one of the of British waters. He was contained full obituaries, and Roman Catholic handsomest couples we moved to amazement and and Googling also gives tradition. I remain, had ever seen. Mary we had mocking laughter when much information. I warmed and comforted by known since she was a girl Mary and I, fuelled by a should like to endorse the kindness of friends and and we had formed a high Guinnessy mid-day session the special praise several neighbours in the haven of opinion of her judgement. at the Nap, took a dip in of these give to his skill Boscastle.

Page 22 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Unfortunately, age Even though she lived Lilian Rose Connell related problems began to far from the family, we take effect and Lilian was managed to see her often 12.5.1920 – 25.11.2011 forced to relinquish all and learnt much about her duties. She was also unable other family in Boscastle. to continue helping at Last year she celebrated the village school, which her 90th birthday with she enjoyed so much, and her family, an occasion had great fun with the she spoke about fondly. children. Sadly the next time we She was an ardent were all together were her traditionalist and found it last few days, but it was a very difficult to adapt to great comfort to us that she the modern world and the knew we were all there at many changes within the the end. church. When it was often Those family members said, ‘we have to move who attended the funeral forward’, her usual reply were Daughters Valerie and was ‘where to’ and ‘why’? Geraldine with their sons- Most of Lilian’s funeral in-law Terry and Michael; service she pre-planned, Grandchildren Laura with being the practical person partner Stuart; David; that she was. Bits of Caroline; Timothy; Andrew paper pinned to bits of with their husbands and paper, with hymns (For wives; Great-grandchildren the beauty of the Earth Tifaine; Ryan with partner and Immortal, Invisible) Harriet and friends Ann and service organised too. and Peter Adams. The Information scribbled family wish to thank all down as she thought of it those people who attended Lilian and Alfred Connell in Trevalga Church. She along the way. the service, it meant a were married in 1939 and enjoyed taking part in all Those who knew her great deal to them, also to during the Second World the usual church activities, know that we wouldn’t dare say a special thank you to War lived in Barnehurst, especially flower arranging go against her wishes! Michael Parsons, who took Kent. They had three and using her skills with the service. daughters but sadly life crochet, embroidery and was interrupted by Alfred’s knitting to help raise funds service with the Royal Air at the usual fund raising Force for five years. After events. Valency his discharge when the girls They eventually moved were growing up, Lilian to Boscastle in 1988 and decided to resume her joined Forrabury Church Taxis secretarial career and (with and continued to help with Alfred’s encouragement) the usual church events. Near Boscastle began part-time, intending She was John Ayling’s it to be short term only, but Sacristan for a number of Anita & David somehow it lasted 32 years years and, with Alfred, took full time! a great interest in helping to When Alfred took early maintain the church with Tel: 01840 211702 retirement in 1978, Lilian the many volunteers one decided to follow suit and always finds. Alfred, as you Licensed Private Hire they moved to Cornwall may remember, was also Mobile: 07974 835 084 and lived in Trethevy and organist for many churches joined the congregation and a DIY man. Reliable & Friendly Service

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 23 creative and sporting biographies inspired for youngest boy to skills and praised the by Roald Dahls book jump over one’s own art work on display ‘Boy’. They have had height.” I prepared for a around the school and great fun recalling their run up “BANG!” yelled the confidence of our mishaps and adventures my sister as I set of. children when they and I think their parents “AGH,” I shouted spoke in front of their have enjoyed looking as if I was George from peers. through their baby George of the jungle. As photographs again too! I jumped my face hit the A judgement of Good James Venning and cushions and knocked can only be given if Lydia Fitchford (Year 6 them over leaving my News From School results for at least the pupils) have included body to follow as my We have had two bits of last three years have been a couple of extracts for nose went crack soon good news since the last above national averages. you to read. after my shoulder hit the edition of The Blowhole. I am pleased that our solid floor breaking my Firstly we had an Ofsted achievement has been The World Record by collarbone. That painful inspection and are officially recognised and James Venning feeling lasted for days as now officially a ‘Good’ am particularly pleased Well it was a few years my mum just repeated school. (We’ve known that Ofsted recognised ago when I was, bored. “you’ll be alright.” that for years of course!) examples of outstanding I had watched plenty of Part of the reason why teaching, learning and TV; furiously played my we are good is because behaviour during their The Pet Gang by Lydia drums and ridden my Fitchford of the excellent progress visit. bike till I couldn’t move Well, I don’t know all of our children my legs at all then I had where to start. I have make. Our English We also received a a brainwave I thought had so many pets I can’t and maths results have letter of congratulations I could break a world keep count! My first I been significantly above from Trevor Doughty record. So as quick as ever had was our lovely the national average for (Corporate Director of I could I searched for dog Josh. He was black the past three years and Schools at County Hall) cushions hard ones, soft and was as good as gold. we were ranked 3rd in in which he recognised ones small ones and big I can remember once terms of attainment our hard work and the ones all piled up on top my family friends came out of the 234 primary quality of our provision of each other. In fact down and Josh (not schools in Cornwall last and leadership. there where so many the dog) would be at year. The high quality of they where taller than our house and the dog the children’s work was It is hard to believe we me “finished,” I said would be sitting on the praised. It was noted are half way through proudly “now time to sofa, mum would shout that ‘ pupils enjoy their our school year – the break the world record learning, want to do well weeks go by so quickly and try hard to succeed. and there never seems The Bear Shop These positive attitudes to be enough hours Urchins mean that pupils are in the day. As I write The Old Mill Boscastle well prepared for their this, Classes 2 and 3 next steps in education.’ are somewhere ‘down Our Ofsted report also the valley’ creating acknowledged the fact willow sculptures with that we place great Jeff and his National 01840 250800 emphasis on developing Trust Colleagues. Class children’s artistic, 3 have been writing

Page 24 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 to the dog “Josh, get suddenly, it happened instruction poems Add happiness. down!”The other josh he fell flat on his face! explaining how George would think she was He tried to make it look made his medicine and Stir for three years, talking to him and he’d like he did it on purpose then decided if we could Pour in the children get down and leave the so we wouldn’t think he apply this style to other And last but not least... room with a sad face. was crazy. We still did situations. Lily Hedge- Mix in the teachers! Mum would say “Ha- though. Evans and Maddie Bird By Maddie Bird. ha, not you Josh, the Next it was our wrote about our Class: dog Josh.” Guinea pig, pig. No Class 2 have also been Class Two learning how to use Our happy days were really he was called pig! Take some progress speech marks correctly over. Our adorable dog He used to gnaw on his And tip it in to a pot. and telling their reader Josh died at the age of 14 cage and bite everyones Whip up some about a character by in human years, he got fingers except mine! I excitement showing them what the cancer. It was so sad to can just remember when Then put it in a character says and does. hear he died, I cried for Conor (my cousin) classroom. We wrote the story of days and nights, mum came round and he was Lazy Jack which the did too and Sophie and looking at the guinea If all goes well, children thought you dad. pig and guess what, Pig tried to eat Conor’s Sprinkle some mischief might enjoy too! Here Our next dog was feet! It was so funny, we in. is part of Lily Bright’s Barney; we still have couldn’t stop laughing. Drop in some history, version. the little devil now! He Sadly pig died of old English, Maths, is a breed of staffie. He age and an illness that Art and Science. Once upon a time there has black and white we couldn’t cure. Then Stir! lived a lazy boy called splodges with a big the circus act hamster Leave for two years. Jack. He lived with black tail. Barney (when came for a visit on my By Lily Hedge-Evans his mother in a small he was a puppy) chewed birthday... He is called cottage. Jack’s mother up slippers, ran away, Class 2 Dappy, I named him worked hard but did tried to chase our next Boil some brightness after a celebrity because Jack did nothing at all! door neighbour’s cat Then sieve out the the name Dappy is One day his mother said up a telegraph pole, mischief! quite wacky and he is “you’ll get chucked out and eat him, wrecked Sprinkle in some too! Once, not that long of the house if you don’t the house and much, generosity. ago he was in his cage, work for your self”. MUCH more. We all Whip some intelligence scoffing his face when One morning Jack went love him to bits though into the mixture. he lost balance whist to help a farmer with his and wouldn’t give him Chop some support running up the little Lily’s story continues on page 26 up for anything. There stairs and did a flip off was this one time when the top ledge! He lay he was chasing his D SCOTT ELECTRICAL there in silence, with the tail so fast, probably food still in his mouth, 1, JORDAN VALE OLD ROAD BOSCASTLE CORNWALL PL35 0AJ thought he could break then got up, and tried it the dog world record, again! imagine, in bright lights INSTALLATIONS THE FASTEST TAIL Class 2 have been writing SALES & SERVICE CHASER IN THE some poems based on WORLD! Anyway, he For all your electrical requirements George’s Marvellous was running around the medicine. (Roald Dahl TEL : 01840 250155 floor like a maniac and again!) We wrote recipe/

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 25 News From Schoo what his mother had Magic Pot’. We have the magic words so the continued from page 25l said. He tied it to his included some of them honey went out of the head. for you to enjoy! hive on to the table, animals. When it was on to the beds, out tea time Jack went back “Any fun stuff happened The Magic Honey Hive the door into the post home with his penny. today?” asked his mother by Katy Bright office, to the harbour “Any good stuff happen serving dinner. Once upon a time and the honey went today then Jack?” asked “Yes. I got a tomcat” he there was a girl called EVERYWHERE. Then his mum. “Oh yes!” said pointing up to his Becca. She lived with Becca ran back and said replied Jack nodding head. her mother in a cottage. “stop, stop, stop honey “yes! I got a penny! “You stupid boy. You should of tied it on a One day she found a hive” and it stopped “Where is it dear?” string and led it along bee, he was carrying and the whole village “I dropped it.” behind you.” She was some shopping bags had to eat honey for “You stupid boy. You very angry now. and then he gave her a whole year and they should have put it in “I’ll do so next time” a magic honey hive. lived happily ever after. your pocket” said his promised Jack. He said “when you are The end. mum. hungry you say cook, Next day lazy Jack went “I promise so next time” cook, cook honey hive to work for a baker. At The Magic Chocolate answered Jack. but when you have had Fountain the end of the day at tea “Good lad” said his enough say stop, stop, by Sophie Edwards time he got paid with mother “good, good, stop honey hive”. So she One day there was a a big roast chicken. good”. ran home. “Mum” she little boy called James. Before he did anything said “I have got a magic One day he saw a The next day he went to he remembered what honey hive and when princess carrying a lot help the farmer again. his mother had said. you are hungry you say of bags. He asked her He paid him some milk He tied it on a string. and Jack remembered cook, cook, cook honey if she wanted some help what his mum said and “Any things happened hive and when you have and she said yes. When poured it in his pocket. today?” had enough say stop, they got back from “Any exciting things “Yes, Yes! Can we have stop, stop honey hive”. shopping she gave him happened today?” asked roast chicken for tea?” a magic fountain, so he Jack’s mother. asked Jack getting if off One day she went ran home to show his “Yes. I got some milk”, the lead. to her nanny’s house mum. he said letting his “You stupid boy. You but then her mum mother see. should of put it in your was hungry so she just The next day he went “You stupid boy. You knapsack.” needed to have some to his gran’s house. should of put it on your “I’ll do it next time” honey but she forgot When he had set off his head!” promised Jack. “I’ll do so next time” What do you think Sacha Hughes - Boscastle Beauty Therapy promised Jack, a bit happened next? Jack had Now using Neals Yard Remedies in all the beauty treatments ashamed. a couple more adventures and is a Neals Yard Remedies Organic Independent Consultant. and ended up very rich Would you like to hold a NYR Organic event or The following day Jack party, daytime or evening, the hostess receives a went to work for a despite being so foolish! complimentary host gift, free full size product, a mini miller. At the end of the Any child in class 2 will facial and discount on your order. If you would like to day just before tea time tell you the answer. order from or look through the catalogue let me know. he got paid with a tom Special offer - Manicures and Pedicures 10% off cat. Just before he took Year 1 and 2 have also uk.nyrorganic.com/shop/Sacha-H it home he remembered been writing their own Ring for details 01840 250526 stories based on ‘The or email [email protected]

Page 26 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 mum was hungry so she Poppy and she lived cook”. Soon the bowl a few more matches to said “cook, cook, cook with her mum. She was full but the mother play however we are little fountain cook” and helped an old lady carry went for a walk and it still top of the table at then it was filled with her shopping home went onto the table, on the moment. We will chocolate but she forgot and the lady gave her a chair, onto the TV, in update you in the next the magic words so it a magic chocolate pan. the dog’s bed, up the issue! went out of the fountain She ran home and gave stairs and the spaghetti Staying with the sporting onto the table, down on her mum the pan and went EVERYWHERE! front, we took part in the floor, up the stairs, said “cook, cook little Suddenly Jamie ran the Cornish Olympic past the post office and pan cook”. Soon it was in and said “stop little Torch marathon (see past the policemen, a pool of chocolate and bowl stop” and the photograph on the front past the Cobweb and she said “stop, stop little bowl stopped and all cover). down the lane until pan stop”. the people had to eat We collected the torch there was chocolate spaghetti bolognaise for from Otterham and EVERYWHERE! One day Poppy went five months! handed it on to Tintagel to her nan and her mum to continue its journey The Magic Bolognaise Pot wanted some chocolate around Cornwall. by Tor Ross but she forgot the magic Over the last half term We have also just Once upon a time there word to stop it cooking our football team have received our ‘Get Set was a boy called Will and it went on the table, been playing in a local 2012 Olympic plaque and he lived with his on the chair, on the floor, league organised by Jack having demonstrated mum. One day Will out the door, down the Procter at St Teath. Our to ‘London 2012’ went off on a walk when harbour and into the sea. team has been made up that we are ‘Living he saw a wolf with a When Poppy got home of: Luke Hammond, the Olympic and broken leg. Will ran to she said “stop little pan Joshua Bowker, Hayden Paralympic Values.’ We help him. Will said “are stop” and they ended Chater, Lewis Williams, will all be learning more you okay?” “I am” said up eating chocolate for Timothy Edmonds, about the Olympics and the wolf. “I will help a year! Samuel Tasker, James Paralympics next term. you to your den” said Venning, and James Will. “Okay” said the The Magic Spaghetti Richardson. We have I think that is about it wolf. So Will helped Bolognaise Bowl played home and away from us for this edition. by Jerrica Morgan the wolf to his den. The matches against all of the We look forward to wolf gave Will a pot Once upon a time there other teams (Otterham, sharing more of our and said “follow these lived a little boy called St Teath, St Breward and news with you next words cook little pot Jamie. One day he Tintagel) winning all of time. cook”. Will ran back to helped a wolf because it our matches except one. SD his house and showed had a hurt leg and the The other teams have his mum and said cook wolf gave him a bowl little pot cook, then he and he said “when you said stop little pot stop. are hungry you just say The pot stopped and cook little bowl cook Will and his mum had and it will cook” and he bolognaise. ran to his house.

The Magic Chocolate Pan Then Jamie went to by Ethan Roff-Conway the park. His mother Once upon a time there was hungry and she lived a little girl called said “cook little bowl

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 27 Travellers Tales continue their Travelling November: The island December: It is not of Leros has a feeling of until mid December that something between Tahiti we even have a sense of it and Rarotonga and reminds being close to Christmas, us of some places in India several islanders have put too. With the Cyrillic text up token decorations of and a very foreign language a plastic fir tree in the it makes me feel so very window of their home and much abroad and far a smiley Santa on their front away:,I love it. Then I hear door. This is a relatively the Bazouki music, the new phenomenon to the waves lapping the shore, island and seems to be a the guttural deep voices of gesture to the smattering of the locals and I’m on the foreigners that now make set of ‘Shirley Valentine’. this their home. Most of the Lerians use Some of the businesses motorbikes to get around, Deborah and Steven under a palm tree in Lakki town have decorated their shop Mama sits casually side we’ve only ever seen them has probably been cooking windows and a few trees saddle little ones cling on out to pick up their lunch. all morning, smells of have gone up in the harbour too and a brother or sister It is not that the island is unguent, pungent lunch and the town. It looks bumps along in front on lawless, just there is less waft out of nearly every pretty, but not over the the petrol tank and the law. little house and soon the top. There does not seem driver carries his helmet We were lulled into a late streets will be quiet again, to be any panic buying slung over his elbow not summer here and it’s been then the Mediterranean of presents and food but his head. To the Greeks the norm to sit out on deck siesta will halt everything several of the shops, have it seems a challenge not in the evening and watch on the island for a couple made special displays of to indulge in other EU the sun dip into the ocean of hours. their Christmas produce. rulings either and if they ahead of us, and the eleven It’s warm enough so we In Florance, our local baker, smoke, then they smoke, hours of sunshine have been eat our picnic on the beach Effi gave us a heavily spiced anywhere, the bars, the heaven. Cycling around under the Tamarisk tree Chocolate Macaroon “for restaurants even the petrol the island we explore the and watch the fishermen Christmas” she said. In the stations. villages and back streets of unloading and repairing Cave, where we buy our Saying that, there is a white washed houses with their nets. Many of these wine and Baklava, Mama sense of freedom here that their brilliant blue doors fishing boats have to support was handing out delicious was maybe missing in the and windows. The Mule more than one family and chocolates “for Christmas” Alpujarras, and to an extent still has a job to do here it’s hard to know how they she said. France too, maybe, it is the and amble along carrying survive when we look at In the week before lack of any fiscal policies their loads, reminding me some of the improbably Christmas we promised being enforced. There is a yet again of the Alpujarras. small catches. ourselves that we would go policeman or two here, but The main meal of the day

Boscastle Gates, Railings, Fire Grates Weather Vanes, Security Bars Ornamental Ironwork, Welding Tel: 01840 261340

Page 28 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Travellers Tales the wheelhouse floor in a hear the Service in the There has been no Olive continued from previous page crab like movement and Greek Orthodox Church picking for us this year, the back to Dimitri’s for our the long dry out began. I which will last for a couple Olives were picked here meal out. In lovely sunny guess we are either stupid of hours followed by the on the island back in early weather we cycled up the or made of sterner stuff; I Priest taking to a boat and November but we have hill to Pantelli. Dimitri like to think the latter is throwing a crucifix into the another enjoyable job to and Tonya run their own true. sea, then a signal is given do, we are helping friends restaurant, the food is We’ve been blessed with and any willing males swim in their little vineyard in delicious, the best we’ve dry weather today which is in a race to retrieve the Flabou. They need help had and they have probably thankful as we are cycling crucifix thus earning the preparing and sterilising the best view on the island in to town to pick up honour to parade through bottles and an important out towards Kalymnos and Stephen’s surprise birthday the town carrying the part of the job is to assess the Turkish coast beyond present. I have had put by crucifix as the town band the wines that we will bottle and still the restaurant is an acoustic guitar which and congregation follow on today. The job is done and not full, Dimitri said he Stephen knows nothing behind. The honour extends we have laid down about was always full, day and about. The money we can’t to the victor carrying the one hundred bottles of very night, “but not now, people afford was worth it just to crucifix around the island drinkable white wine. don’t have any money and I see his face. We then sat and blessing houses and We had a lovely lunch worry for my friends”. in the sunshine drinking babies. cooked by the hostess and After yesterday’s latte underneath a palm beautiful warm and sunny tree, how’s that for end of day the rain started in severe December. We had our gusts and we sprang more first dinner party on board leaks than we could cope here; it was for Stephen’s with. The galley, salon and birthday. Now there’s a our cabin became sodden. challenge if ever, it’s like We had to retreat to a rather playing at grown ups in a small wheelhouse floor, and dolls house. a long night where neither New Year’s Eve of us could lie down promised to be lively, we properly. I don’t know how planned to cycle to the more ridiculous this whole Paradisos for a celebration situation can get? with live Bazouki playing Chief bottle washer and dancing. However, the A miserable morning It is this time of year drank one of today’s newly heavens threw an almighty started on the floor of the that the fishermen paint bottled wines. The sun feels storm, then early evening wheelhouse, it’s still raining and repair their boats warm and the surrounding the lightening and thunder and blowing a gale outside, and a time when the all villages are having their cut off the electricity supply everything is being used important Priest is paid own lunch before siesta, to the whole island. With to catch the continuous handsomely to bless each Mules are braying to each no heat, light or music and drip, drip dripping and boat for the coming season. other across the acres and down to our last candle I’m wondering where the The Priest is paid by way of cocks are crowing as if to we gave up and crept into ‘Greek Island dream’ is. a donation and there seems get their last words in before a cold bed, an hour before I’m reading ‘Eight Men to be a rivalry between settling down to their own midnight - Happy New and a Duck’ the true story fishermen as to who paid siestas. and all seems very Year. of an improbable voyage by the most. The Priest or peaceful in our little world a slowing sinking Totora January: Christmas for pappas, as they are called is as we laze in the sun after a Reed boat to Easter Island, the Greeks starts with a one of the most important sunny morning out among I couldn’t face getting up family feast on Christmas and wealthy people on the the vines on our production and confronting our own Day, then feasting and island, we see him most line of sterilising, bottling damp and improbable, but drinking will continue days in his long flowing and tasting. through until Three Kings true conditions, there was robes, his high hat and his February: It is day which is the more important nothing for it but to stay uncut hair and beard going 100 on this boat and it is religious celebration. Across put. When eventually the about the town and the Valentines Day today. We rains did stop I moved off the harbour today we can businesses in turn. continued on page 30

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 29 a frivolous little Carnival. Travellers Tales It seemed the whole island continued from page 29 had turned out to line the were determined to get harbour front of Lakki. It out and make a romantic seems it is a day to celebrate day of it. It’s interesting youth; several floats of no how we hold on to our particular theme other than homeland traditions even craziness and loud music when travelling. So we passed by several times in cycled to the centre of a continuous little circle the island – Platanos and around the town, children insisted on eating breakfast dressed in their favourite out in the square much themed costumes, sprayed to the astonishment of crazy foam and threw the shop keepers. They streamers into the crowd, Bottling line st St Petroc humoured us and wiped and everyone generally a special kind of unleven of every kind of food and down two sodden chairs makes a lot of noise. The bread studded with sesame drinking into the daylight and a table then let down weather was kind and the and shaped like a Frisbee hours until they can’t stand the sunshade, because they guys dressed as girls and is baked, only on this day thus the end of Lent. said “it was going to rain girls wore crazy coloured of the year, and a river As I write I’ve calculated again”. wigs. Then the homemade of wine is accompanies that we left home a mere today’s food. Today is also 477 days ago. We have a special day when all the overstayed our year away children will fly kites, and and should really be back most families will be out home in the UK working in the countryside eating and settling back into our their Lenten picnic. Sadly old routines. I’m not sure the weather has turned and either of us knows how to all the kites will remain at settle again and thankfully, home for another year, it’s through contacts made a one day only pastime. along the way, we don’t After this day the diet have to. We leave Leros will consist of very simple in April and have been fare, with dried pulses offered a chance to run a providing the bulk of small business in another the diet, no meat and no country. fish. Griggis tells us that So this is not the end Lent Carnival in Leros at the end of Lent, after of Travellers Tales but the They don’t really do crackers and little bombs, the Church service at beginning of the next part. romantic here on the they actually use dynamite midnight, everyone goes Deborah island, well not in public here, are let off bringing home to an enormous feast anyway and our cosy an end to the pre-Lent restaurant for the evening frivolity. S.S.MARTIN BUILDER was totally devoid of The next day is Clean ROOFING CONTRACTOR candles or atmosphere, so Monday which marks the we shared a Greek Pizza, beginning of Lent and a RENOVATIONS,EXTENSIONS, a jug of wine and watched meatless diet for the next PLASTERING the football on the telly 40 days. The fish shops EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR PAINTING. with the locals, we tried. were open yesterday, a QUALITY WORKMANSHIP FOR ALL The Lerians are supremely Sunday, in preparation for religious and most Greeks the beginning of fasting. YOUR BUILDING REQIREMENTS. will follow Lent to the The diet is more like an BOSCASTLE letter. Today is pre-Lent amazing de-tox, for today 01840250100 - 07969118058 so it seemed right to have only fish will be eaten and

Page 30 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 WHAT ABOUT topic, the query: Panto Big Red White & “MONEY IS THE “WHAT ABOUT”? On behalf of the Village Blue Charity Street ROOT OF ALL Some of you may Hall Committee Party to celebrate EVIL?” remember, in the days may I please take the Queens The event is totally free of Revd. Christine this opportunity to Diamond Jubilee. of charge but we do Musser, there used to thank everyone who On Monday 4th June ask that each person be an informal social supported the Boscastle at the NAPOLEON attending brings a gathering [open to all Amateur Dramatics INN. Everyone is plate of savoury food souls] once a month Society’s wonderful welcome. There will be [hot or cold] and/or a in The Village Hall, in performances of the a Children’s Mad Hatter bottle of their chosen Gunpool Lane. People “Wizard of Bos” Tea Party with fantastic drink to share with the would come along with at Christmas. The prizes for the best fancy group. We construct a food & drink to share magnificent sum dress costume. Plenty of buffet with the gifts whilst they discussed of £1531.00 was traditional family fun and then take a plate a chosen topic. These raised and thanks & games throughout of supper and a drink topics were selected at must also go to all the day, tombola, raffle, to a ready laid table random by consensus the performers, back table top sale etc. We where we can chat of the group and they stage helpers, front will have Live Music to other diners as we covered all manner of of house helpers and throughout the day & eat. Later someone, [a subjects. everyone who gave so into the evening & a different person each Many of us have really much time & effort in delicious Hog Roast. time] will open the missed meeting up raising these funds. Come in your best red, discussion with a brief with a cross section of We look forward white & blue outfit. To word on that evening’s people from the local to this year’s book a table for the sale topic. area to have a friendly, performance with & to find out more info Then it’s over to meaningful exchange eager anticipation. on the days happenings, everyone else! of knowledge and Pam Clarke. Treasurer please contact Julie This includes the opinions. A small Muffett or Beccy Dallow clearing away and the PRELIMINARY group of us, with the on 01840 250204, washing up! There ANNOUNCEMENT help of Revd. Robert www.napoleoninn. will be no rota so it Thewsey, have decided Tintagel Orpheus co.uk or through will be all hands on to revive the custom. Male Voice Choir are facebook search nap deck to get the job We propose to hold pleased to be once natterings. All proceeds done quickly and our first again hosting and from the day will be split pleasantly. “WHAT ABOUT” on sharing a concert with between The British We aim to meet once MONDAY MARCH the Bristol University Legion & Cornwall Air a month during the 12TH in THE Madrigal Ensemble Ambulance. winter months .We do VILLAGE HALL, in this their 30th BD GUNPOOL LANE, hope this appeals to Anniversary year. starting at 7pm for you and that you will THANK YOU ! come along. We look The concert to be held 7.30pm in Tintagel Methodist Eric Burnard would like We really hope that forward to sharing the evening with old and Church on SUNDAY to say a very big thank many of you can 24TH JUNE AT you to all his friends in come along and join new friends. If you want to know more 7.30PM is not to be Boscastle and Tintagel us. Everyone, without missed - make a note that were so thoughtful exception, will be most please feel free to ring Sally on 250225. of the date now! in sending him presents welcome. As an opener and cards at Christmas we have chosen, as a W.B.

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 31 County parish and town councils Moving on from preventative and re Councillor for need of affordable houses to planning –enablement services. Glenton homes seem rather the threat of charges There is also some Brown difficult to appreciate for advice seem to be provision made for writes: by the local councillors coming on stream and the A30 Temple road and population regards there are suggested fees improvements. Housing is very much the figures claimed. ranging from £350.00 Local bus services on the agenda these Still on the subject plus VAT for advice seem to be secure for the days as to housing need of housing the cabinet on a major scheme of next year if not a little availability, location, approved on the 27th residential development further ahead with hardly and the infrastructure January to set up a new of ten or more any cuts in services. to serve the new company “Cornwall properties to possibly The proposed modest programme running housing Ltd to operate £100.00 plus VAT for 50p concessionary up to 2030. The plans in serving the people of a single dwelling or fare has not yet been of building forty eight Cornwall as a Council listed building consent approved and is under thousand new homes owned company, none or advice of a smaller Parliamentary scrutiny by that date somewhat profit making, and nature. at the present time. concerns me and I doubt consisting a board of 6 The budget came Finally I would like to if any thing like that tenants, 6 councillors through without to end on an increasingly figure will be achieved and 6 independent many surprises this popular topic the in reality. Perhaps the people to be legally year, and the good news 2012 Olympics and most pressing issue supported and properties that there will be no the Olympic Torch regards housing is the to be maintained increase on Council Tax travelling through the affordability, and we hear to a good standard. as far as the Cornwall parishes and towns of so many affordable Cornwall housing as Councils commitments including the City of homes for sale, to it will be known will are concerned, Police Truro. This is of course share own or to rent. I also will be managing and Fire will possibly once in a life time think the experience of the ten thousand make a small increase opportunity for many most Councillors is the five hundred council per household. The people to actually see the demand for affordable homes, Cornwall home budget has been set at torch at some location in homes to rent but we choice, and the choice four hundred and fifty Cornwall. To celebrate seem unable to get this base letting scheme, and one point seven million this special celebration message across. There providing for a homeless for the year 2012/13. the Chairman of appears to be affordable services and running It is encouraging to Cornwall Council is homes for sale but do the gypsy and travelling note seven hundred seeking to host a civic not sell and the figures sites and private sector thousand pounds will event at Truro Cathedral presented to many housing. be funded for Cornish and all 123 members bursary to support of Cornwall Council young people into are asked to seek learning post sixteen nominations. If there More golds than for next two years, are more acceptances the Olympics and additional seven than anticipated, then million for adult care names will be drawn More awards and support to address from a hat. Rooms with breakfast than the Oscars the pressures created If I can be of any 01840 250418 by increasing numbers help please contact me of older people and on 01840 770302 or www.orchardlodgeboscastle.co.uk the cost of changes in [email protected]

Page 32 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 The Old Coach House Relax in the beautiful surroundings of this 300 year old coach house, with large, secluded Cabaret Supper Night mature garden and private parking 2012 Open all Year The Boscastle Players All rooms are En Suite with TV & radio Present Geoff & Jackie Horwell ANYTHING Tel: 01840 250398 www.old-coach.co.uk GOES A Musical Miscellany at M. BIDDICK & SON LTD Boscastle Village hall on Fri 27th and Sat 28th ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS April

at 7.30 pm The Willows National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (doors open 7.00pm) Boscastle N CEIC PL35 0AS APPROVED CONTRACTOR Buffet Supper licensed bar selling red and white wine Telephone: 01840 250448 and soft drinks Mobile: 07966 498733 or 07974 676583 Entrance by Ticket only £10.00 From the Pickwicks Tel: 01566 880085 e.mail [email protected]

Proceeds to Boscastle and Trevalga Village halls

Old Manor House Restaurant Boscastle Tel: 01840 250251 www.oldmanorhouseboscastle.co.uk Open Thursday – Sunday from 11am ******* Boscastle Gallery Come & enjoy the The Bridge, Boscastle BEST SUNDAY ROAST in the village!! ****** (01840) 250248 Friday & Saturday Paintings by local artists TAKEAWAY SERVICE... A wide selection of prints and cards plus an phone us with your order & we will have it ready for you to collect. unusual mix of gifts and gadgets.

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 33 Have you got your own micro-wave, luv? Ann Rodda contemplates happily with my ideas of of all available foods while criticism. Just wait for the the delights of a holiday fairness in terms of what present in the dining room: bonus experiences of the abroad: is considered the standard three fried eggs, six or so evening. I have to admit that fare. This is exactly the we were merely spectators Call me naïve, innocent slices of bacon, several pattern of thought which of the fine performances we to the point of stupidity, sausages, fried potatoes, is guaranteed to get one off were privileged to witness: but I had always fondly fried tomatoes, plus a few on ones holiday in exactly we were not sufficiently imagined that the SELF in acres of toast. the right positive frame courageous to participate ‘Self-Catering’ had more to Why not have some of mind. So, I arrived at and bring untold joy to do with positive, healthy ham as well? It would be the hotel full of positive others. independence, as in ‘self- a pity to miss out. Bear in thoughts. No, I did, really. contained’ or ‘self-starter’, mind that there is a wide Each evening many rather than the completely Back to the self choice of cereal available varieties of dancing negative and selfish self- catering. Imagine the scene to start with, as well as opportunities were there interest described in ‘self- at the breakfast trough. fruit juice, not to mention for the taking; ballroom, centred’ or ‘self-satisfied’. People of many sizes and the fruit salad to follow. modern, quickstep, waltz, A few days in a largely shapes are armed with a And where would one be line dancing, jazz, you British occupied hotel in variety of bags, containers, without the many cups name it, it was there. And the Mediterranean has pockets are engaged in an of tea, coffee, chocolate it was thoroughly enjoyed made me revise my activity which in many which are generously and appreciated by all childishly positive view of circumstances would be provided? This nutritious participants, by the looks human nature. described as shoplifting. intake is important to set of things. All we sarcastic How many of individual ringside viewers were able At this point I feel I one up well for activating packs of butter, jam, to do was slurp our way need to vent my spleen the second skill, which marmalade, honey can through some carafes of over the ruling that in an I mentioned earlier as one mountain consume? the local brew and pat aircraft I have personal being a close relative Obviously, quite a lot. ourselves on the back luggage allowance of twenty of shoplifting, namely It is at one of these daily for making smart Alec kilos. This allowance is removing from the dining encounters that I overheard comments. As most of the EXACTLY the same as room substantial quantities the title, ‘Have you got residents in this hotel at the allowance granted to of consumables in the form your own microwave, this time would certainly the colossal mountain of of bread, croissants, crisp luv?’ I then became aware be described as senior, it is flesh in the seat next to me, bread, butter, jam, honey, of the extent of my own a tribute to their stamina attempting, not entirely fruit, ham, cold meat all naïve innocence, and my (and probably the diet they successfully, to contain safely concealed within the pathetically simplistic consumed in the dining its bulk within what one bowels of the multiplicity assumption that in a hotel room that morning) that would consider to be a of bags and containers dining room one eats a they were able to hoof their reasonably sized seat. The hung about the person. satisfying meal, enough way through the evening, excess weight which the One can see why they to see one through to the continuing long after we owner has been unable to might find their own next troughing session weakling wine suppers had control is now invading microwave useful. I just back in that same dining retired to our beds. We my own personal space hope I’m not lucky enough room. I was, I now realise, will start a programme for like an alien army. I have to be sitting next to them completely unconscious of television called ‘Strictly no difficulty in accepting on the flight home. the existence of an advanced Come Drinking’. that someone weighs three and widespread technique, But not every aspect of AR

times what I do: why life in this hotel attracts extremely popular amongst row 46

shouldn’t they? But when

a number of the guests of scam 45 inch 43 stem 41 nail 40 itchy 38 reach 37 tariff 32

I do the sum of my weight Enid 29 emir 25 deficiency 23 emir 22 peer 20 tenor 19

the establishment. This

plus my suitcase, namely a oligarchy 17 mp 15 atlantean 14 koala 12 meringue 9 hoe 8

Down Down

technique embraces a pose 6 omen 5 raw 4 onager 3 nitrate 2 sweepstake 1 total of 80 kgs, and I total whydah 51 clam 50 clef 49 och 48 nice 47

number of elements and

the likely weight of the racy 46 east 44 ethnic 42 drain 39 erica 36 ria 35 re 34 ire 33

skills. The first skill involves catmint 31 four 30 gnome 28 te 27 avenue 26 striate 24

mountain next to me and dene 23 ergot 21 tip 19 neat 18 ergot 16 awesome 14

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its case, namely 180kgs, eta 13 amor 11 win 10 thyme 7 snowdrop 1 unfeasibly large quantities Crossword: to Answers something does not sit

Page 34 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 R. MEARS & Sons Pete’s CHIMNEY SWEEP Peeps Vac & Brush Cowl fitting service at the Past CCTV investigation work carried out 01840 261 221 • 077375 33392 21 JULY 1865 www.sweepcornwall.com largest vessel ever built in Covering Cornwall & West Devon FOR THE ATLANTIC Cornwall being of 638 Est. over 30 years CABLE N0711/30134 tons, 168ft long and 18ft The “Great Eastern” broad. She was named passed Falmouth about “Charlotte Padbury” 15 miles off shore on her by Miss Harris, niece passage from London. of Capt. C.H. Harris Kernick Curtains The “Caroline” steamer who will command her. with the shore end of the She is intended for W. Bespoke Curtain Making Atlantic cable, left this Australian trade and All Styles of Heading including port for Valentia just as will sail there on June Eyelet, Goblet & Pinch Pleat the big ship arrived in 6th with passengers sight. Roman Blinds Made and general cargo. Her 21 JULY 1865 Your Own Fabric or Choose From Our actual tonnage is about E X P L O S I O N Selection 900 tons and she is AT TRAGOE fitted with a poop 50ft Telephone 01566 785756 G U N P O W D E R long, eight state rooms MILLS for passengers, with The grinding mill of two private cabins, bath the Tragoe Powder rooms, offices etc. Mills, in the parish 17 MAY 1867 of St. Veep, blew up. EXODUS The mill contained 1 During the last 12 ton of powder, no one months, Cornish City & Guilds Qualified 01840 212258 was in the mill, only 2 miners totalling 7,380 Internal & External men, 80 yards away in 07967582011 have left the county, Property Maintenance the cooper’s shop. The 1,155 to America, [email protected] report was heard at 670 to Australia & Free, Written, No Obligation Quotations Liskeard (5 miles away). New Zealand, 450 The mill was worked to California, and to by Herodsfoot Powder Scotland & the N. of Co.. England coal & iron 20 APR 1874 mines, 1,090. Many C O R N W A L L ’ S districts felt the loss LARGES BARQUE mainly at Redruth & A fine barque was Camborne, Liskeard & launched from the yard Callington, Lelant & of Mr. H.S. Trethowan St. Just, and Gwennap, at Little Falmouth, St. Austell, St. Agnes & Flushing. She is the Perran & others. 

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 35 we then got the pupils to design and then build a shelter which The Battle of the and unsuccessfully try, something strangely they thought could be Balsam we thought we’d tackle therapeutic about used by members of the problem all the way pulling balsam…. the public and student You know it’s a sure fire up the valley, from the groups alike. Elements sign of an obsession harbour all the way of all the shelters will be when you go away on Jacobstow School up to the ford near used, though I thought holiday and compare Tresparrett. Optimistic, the shelter with a fire exit a Himalayan Balsam Jacobstow School I know but the more was particularly health problem with your ventured into the of this plant we remove and safety conscious. own. For the keen eyed Valency on a chilly upstream the less there Finally it was off to the observers this plant has February morning to will be downstream overflow car park for become an increasing learn more about their in the coming years. a quick round up and problem in the Valency curriculum topic ‘Plants What I really need to then on to the warmth valley and in a previous and us’. The name of do is enlist the help of the bus. blowhole article I the game was to exercise of as many as you as alluded to the fact minds and bodies in Building Boxes for possible, if you could that it would be great the cold, so a mix and Birds and Bees. give up even an hour or if we could form an match trail was set out so out of your weekend Youmight have heard army to do battle with and with clip boards to schedule to pull some the dulcet tones of this invasive species, hand the pupils looked balsam that would be sawing wood and well that moment at plants and trees and great. We won’t be alone hammer on nails on has arrived. On the their various uses. It along with our regular Friday 17th if you were weekend 19th & 20th was then on to the top conservation volunteers, near the harbour. For May we will be joining meadow where the sun the Green Team and once we weren’t bodging forces with SINNG was peeking over the hill SINNG students from something; we held (Students Invasive and offered some of its Newquay College will an event for national Non-Native Group) warmth. We then looked be participating for the bird box week. People from Newquay College more closely at trees weekend bringing their came from as far as for an intensive Balsam and ran an exercise that youthful exuberance to Torquay just to partake pull in the Valency. tested pupils listening table. All you need is a in the building of boxes However we’re aiming skills and memories. pair of wellies, suitable for various birds and high this time, rather They were put into clothing and yourself. insects and the ranger than the fire fighting groups and designated Believe me, there’s team rarely stopped measures we usually a species of tree, each throughout the day group then read out to making it a great success. HEDLEY VENNING the whole class 3 facts Weary kids carried their BUILDING CONTRACTOR about that tree. I took nest boxes back to the the fact cards away from Your local tradesman with 30 years experience car park and the Ranger ------the pupils and read team stopped for a well • New Builds • Renovations out a statement about earned cuppa and to • Roofing• Plastering a tree, the groups then nurse sore thumbs and • Stonework • Drain Clearance ran to which tree they fingers all of which I’m ------thought the statement pleased to report are still Tel: 01840 250113 was about. With a attached to the correct forthcoming shelter Mobile: 0797 4581836 hands build event in mind continued on next page Page 36 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 News from the Lookout If truth were told there cheering on Christmas Valency Shelter. park. (Grid ref: SX100 has been more action Day afternoon for 913) Finally you may on the social scene of four out of the last five have seen myself and May 13th Beach late than on the water or years,. Now it appears our volunteer group Clean/Invasive seaweed even the Coastal Path, to be an essential post bodging around in the pull/Rockpool Survey. although we did have lunch activity for some Valency with some cleft Meet at Northcott some Canadian visitors people, although this Oak. We have started to mouth car park, Nr who reported seeing a year they were joined by build what will be for us Bude. (Grid Ref: SS205 cow go over the cliffs visitors from Germany, an outdoor education 084). towards Tintagel! Austria, Switzerland and shelter in the Valency Days start at 10am and And we have passed the New Zealand as well as and for members of finish 4pm (or earlier time with an increasing Boscastle. the public to enjoy to suit). All tools and number of German One couple have made when the weather is tuition provided. Please visitors, including one the trek through their good. Boscastle primary bring clothes that can get pair who arrived at the courtship, marriage school will be coming muddy, stout footwear Lookout complete with and recent parenthood down to help us finish and food and drink rods and enquired when and introduced their the wall of the shelter If events change or are the tide would be high daughter to family and eventually we hope cancelled due to weather, enough for fishing! tradition this year. to install a couple of we will endeavour to Our Christmas get Don’t forget we are benches in there for all let everyone know. together was a great always happy to say to use. In the meantime However feel free to success at Trevigue Farm “Hello” and give you or it will stick out like a sore get in touch to check even if the route was a your guests an idea of thumb for a few months beforehand! little disconcerting for the sea state if you call us before the elements and people more familiar on 07837610410. We’d nature, like a fine wine, Any questions: 01288 with the A30 and the be even more delighted mellow it with age. 331372 or fred.hutt@ M5. if any of you considered nationaltrust.org.uk However, a new local joining as Watchkeepers. Volunteers Coastwatch Christmas If you are interested in programme Thursday 26th April Farming for Wildlife Walk Tradition has developed spending a few hours Join the local Ranger team over the last few years. each month looking out Apr 3rd Path on a fascinating walk Two of our regular for others, then call our around Trust owned land Repair in the Tidna. watchkeepers have Manager, John Davis on in Boscastle. Discover more Meet at Crosstown Car invited walkers in for a 07791761502. Park, Nr Morwenstow. about the wildlife friendly farming that can benefit rare mince pie and something (SS208 152). plants, bats and butterflies. Apr 15th Path Part of the Boscastle Walking CAROLYN EDWARDS Maintenance at the Week. Booking essential. MOBILE HAIRDRESSER For more info contact: Strangles. Meet at Jeff Cherrington, 01288 monday - friday 9-6pm. ( evenings available) Strangles car park. 331372, jeff.cherrington@ (saturdays for weddings & special occasions ONLY) (Grid ref: SX135 952) nationaltrust.org.uk Ladies, gents & children’s hairdressing in the comfort of your own home. Boscastle Balsam Pull May 1st 22 years experience & earpiercing Green wood working Come along and help us to 35 Clover lane Close clear this invasive plant from Boscastle workshop in the the Valency Valley pl350al Valency valley. Meet at Sat 19th & Sunday 20th May, 01840250051 / 07966249815 Boscastle overflow car 10am til 4pm email [email protected]

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 37 children, with three and could always find Vera Bright brothers and six sisters. the right words to put Vera married the late your mind at rest and 23 Nov 1932 to 9 Jan 2012 Geoff Warwick and guide you forward. they had four children: “If I were to single out Ellen, Greg, Keith and one of Vera’s attributes, Jane. it would be this that In 1971 she moved carries my greatest to Cornwall. Here she respect. I will miss that met and married Ivor Vera” said Vernon. Bright and adopted Vera spent most of her his children, Vernon, life in the catering trade Gillian and Adrian. and built a reputation Vera loved all of far and wide for good her family and always food at The Cobweb. talked about her fifteen She made sure the grandchildren: Sean, youth of Boscastle were James, George, Amy, fed when their minds Henry, Ian, Graham, were on other things. Kat, Lucy, Mathew, As Robin Haddy said, Jordan, Danielle, “She was a mother to us Charlotte, Lily and all”. Katy. Memories of Vera In his tribute, Vernon evoke a lady with a spoke of how Vera had big heart, compassion, helped to build up the understanding and a business at the Cobweb, real zest for good fun, First the chapel at Glynn Ivor Bright decided which Ivor had taken laughter and sharing Valley Crematorium, that instead of a over in 1969. Vera also those good times with Bodmin, and then the funeral there would introduced Ivor to the others. With a great love bars at The Cobweb be a celebration of delights of foreign travel of singing, she could Inn, Boscastle, were her life, starting at and together they took sing any tune - often in overflowing with the crematorium and many trips abroad, a spontaneous outburst, people who came to pay continuing at The travelling to places such and she sang with the their respects to Vera Cobweb, “the place as America, Denmark Allen Valley Singers. Bright, who died, aged where she was happiest”, and Switzerland; and There will be sadness 79, after a long illness. and friends and family of course, their beloved and tears, but through A tribute was given by gathered to remember apartment in Calpi. the tears remember the her stepson, Vernon the former landlady Vera was a positive good times, focus on Bright, a poem, written of the Cobweb (plus a thinker, ambitious and, the image and smile for by her daughter, Jane stint at the Napoleon) together with Ivor, did a Vera. Burnard, was read by and to celebrate her life lot of work for charity. Ivor would like to Martin Pethick. Two of with music, memories She was always willing thank all friends and Vera’s favourite songs, and some mirth. family for their support Bunch of Thyme and to help anyone and take Vera Edith was born them under her wing. and for donations to The White Rose were on November 23rd the Parkinson’s Society sung by the Boscastle With a sympathetic ear, 1932, in Edmonton, she was a good listener which amounted to Buoys and Take Note. Middlesex, one of ten £943.80.

Page 38 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Doctor and Mrs Weir move to Leicestershire

Dr Duncan Weir joined workload was, by in London, albeit many his retirement from the the late Dr William modern standards, years apart, and had practice but continued Young in the Tintagel arduous in the extreme. been taught by some of to live quietly in & Boscastle practice in For the first ten the same consultants. Boscastle. Eventually 1969. He had previously years in the practice Dr Like many other ex- they decided that they been in practice in Weir not only did his service men Duncan would be better served Somerset and replaced routine surgeries but had commenced his living close to their son Dr Kevin Watson who also worked alternate medical studies postwar. Donald and his family had moved abroad to nights and weekends, I remember having a in Leicestershire. With work. He, his wife Joan and when Dr Young conversation about our Donald they supervised and their young son was away he would be formative influences the building of a Donald moved into on call for the practice and how and why we house there and they ‘Twillick’ on the New 24 hours a day 7 days had entered the medical moved into it in early Road. This was not a week. There was no profession. He told me February. only their family home, Kernowdoc or SERCO that both he and Joan Very many Blowhole but also contained the out-of-hours service to had been in the Royal readers and their surgery, dispensary and deal with emergencies Navy during WW2. families will have reason waiting room. and mobile phones had Joan had been a WREN to remember with In hindsight it seems yet to be thought of. and he had served as a gratitude Duncan’s amazing that so much If Dr Weir was out naval officer on Atlantic medical care over many was done for so many on a call, there was convoys. I suspect that years. I can affirm from years from such a small only one answerphone his unfailingly calm personal observation facility. The available system - and she was exterior was derived that it was always space amounted to called Joan She would, from surviving these considered, gentle and about one twentieth of like all GPs wives at that dangerous events and highly competent. the existing surgery and resulted in a desire to time, be expected to I am sure we will all the staff comprised one alleviate suffering. stay at home whenever wish Duncan and Joan secretary and a part- he was on duty and Duncan and Joan happiness and fulfilment time dispenser. Dr Weir take all messages. If didn’t move away after in their new home. remained in full time really urgent attention CJ practice right through was needed she would to his retirement in attempt to contact him The Bottreaux Restaurant 1986. To deal with the via a call to one of many Boscastle PL35 0BG increasing workload helpful patients situated Dr Jarvis joined the on the roads he was Private Parties & Functions catered for your practice as a third likely to be travelling Special Occasion or for a get together of family or partner in 1979 and on. The conversations friends in our licensed bar & dining room reserved when Dr Young retired went something along exclusively for your party. in 1983 Dr Garrod was the lines of “If you see We can offer a sit down meal for 8-20 people his replacement. Dr Weir passing – could or buffet style up to approximately 30 to suit There was no you please stop him and individual requirements. European Working get him to call home”. For further details please call Time Directive to limit We had both Heather or Nicola 01840 250231 the hours he or other trained at the same email [email protected] General Practitioners Medical School, St worked then. The Bartholomew’s Hospital www.boscastlecornwall.co.uk

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 39 Moira Hart’s Ruth and Alan Watson welcome you to: Fiendish Crossword ST CHRISTOPHER’S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 9

10 11 12 HOTEL 13 14 15 High Street,

16 17 18 18 19 20 Boscastle, PL35 0BD

21 22 23 Situated in the old, upper part of this 24 25 26 beautiful harbour village, 27 29 28 29 31 30 with its spectacular Tel: 01840 250412 coast and countryside 33 31 32 33 ● 9 ensuite Rooms 37 34 35 39 41 ● Bed and Breakfast 36 37 38 39 40 39 41 ● Coffee & Tea making facilities in every room 42 43 44 45 email: [email protected]

44 45 46 47 48 49 50 PIRAN LETTINGS 51 49 Lettings and Property Management Across Down 1 springflower 1 betting system 7 herb 2 salt ester All aspects of Residential 10 be victorious 3 wild ass Lettings undertaken 11 out of control 4 uncooked 13 Greek letter 5 portent 14 impressive 6 assume an attitude 16 disease of cereals 8 garden implement 18 type of tide 9 beaten egg white & sugar Call Maria for a free market appraisal 21 Spanish dish 12 Australian marsupial 23 narrow, wooded valley 14 extremely strong 0844 272 4950 24 stripe 15 parliamentarian www.piranlettings.co.uk 26 retaliate 17 government by small groups 27 7th note of a scale 19 male voice 28 legendary creature 20 nobleman THE OLD MILL 30 number 22 minute particle 31 plant 23 lack BOSCASTLE 33 anger 29 woman’s name 34 regarding 32 tax Antiques 35 long narrow inlet 37 arrive at Prints 36 heather 38 irritating Old Books 39 deplete 40 clan Bears 42 characteristic of another 41 stop the flow culture Linen 44 cardinal point 43 unit of length Soft Toys 46 risque 45 a surprise Antique French Beds, Gifts, Cards, 47 French city 46 quarrel Children’s Clothes, Soft Furnishings, 48 Scottish exclamation 44 hat Tea Rooms ... and Much More! 49 musical symbol Come And See For Yourself 50 edible mollusc answers on page 34 tel: 01840 250230 51 African weaverbird www.boscastle-oldmill.co.uk

Page 40 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Dog Fouling relatively high chance that CENTRAL GARAGE For a number years you will be caught should Boscastle has been you not clear up after your High Street, Delabole relatively free of dog mess. dog has fouled. Stuart & Jean Biddick It is not an excuse in law Our regular dog walkers Tel: 01840 212388 set a fine example cleaning that you were not aware of up immediately after their the fact that the dog had Pianos For Sale pets. However in recent fouled - so you can be held At Reasonable Prices months others are leaving responsible even if you did our roads and footpaths not see the incident, or if it GOOD FURNITURE & ALADDIN’S CAVE in a most unpleasant state. is witnessed whilst the dog Not only is dog mess is straying. We Buy & Sell Second-hand Furniture unpleasant but it is also If you would like Especially Pine, Old & New dangerous. The faeces can to report dog fouling Open Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm contain the roundworm – Cornwall Council will Toxocara Canis. investigate all complaints Give us a visit - without obligation Cornwall Council has that are received - although You’ll be surprised what we have! introduced a Dog Fouling the level of service that they Order that covers all of can provide will obviously Cornwall to ensure all areas vary depending upon the ‘IN SAFE HANDS’ of Cornwall have the same quality of information that RETIRED POLICE OFFICER is provided. For example levels of enforcement for AND WIFE TEAM OFFER THE dog fouling. This order has they would be in a better changed some of the areas position to take action FOLLOWING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY that you are required to should you be able to PROPERTIES IN BOSCASTLE: clean up after your dog. provide a full description of what happened (including KEY HOLDING You are now required date, time, location, what to clean up after your dog MEETING AND GREETING GUESTS you witnessed, description has fouled (and properly CLEANING, MAINTENANCE, of the dog/owner and dispose of it) when your as much information as OR, JUST GOING AWAY AND NEED dog fouls in any area which possible about the incident the public are entitled to SOMEONE TO KEEP AN EYE - also any information have access to. regarding the offender - CALL FOR QUOTE Failing to clean up after which could include name/ Tel: 07890309069 your dog has fouled will address (if known), vehicle result in a fixed penalty registration number or any being issued - which is other identifying feature. for £80 (reduced to £50 You may be asked to NEED YOUR HOME MAINTAINING? if paid within 10 days) or provide a witness statement prosecution where if found - although you will be guilty you would face a provided with information KINGSLEY UGLOW maximum fine of £1000. and help with that, and if Whilst there are only the fixed penalty is not paid Will undertake any interior or exterior work have a limited number it is likely that you would on your house including: of Dog Welfare and be asked to attend court. Decorating - Plastering Tiling Enforcement Officers It is only with people Renovation Work - Carpentry - Masonry in Cornwall, there are a getting involved and Stonewalling - Cornish Hedging number of other officers reporting problems in their Fence and Shed Building - Wooden Flooring who are able to issue fixed neighbourhood that the All work guaranteed to a high standard penalties (many of which county will be able to solve Concrete bases and dwarf walls built for are not uniformed officers) more problems and take conservatories as well as most PCSO’s - more enforcement action on this means that there is a issues such as dog fouling. Phone: 01840 211054 Mobile: 07976 412374

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 41 The Rebel Cinema Refurbished with help from When Barry Willis first his home team, and support entered the projection room from his friends, staff and of the Massive Gaumont patrons, Barry installed the Cinema in Worcester in 112 seats, insulation, and 1959, he never imagined air-conditioning himself, he would be hooked for taking eighteen months life He has worked as a to complete. It has an projectionist and been amazing 30 ft screen, SRD associated with cinemas DTS sound plus the basic ever since, owning his first analogue system. cinema, The Majestic in The projection room is a Bridgnorth, in 1977. revelation, with its reels of Scroll forward to the celluloid coiling around the present and salute Barry room. A digital projector Willis and his family who – with its budget of around commute from Brixham fifty thousand pounds in Devon to the Rebel on – is not on the cards yet. the doorstep of Boscastle If all goes well, planning to give us entertainment is afoot to install a second on the silver screen seven screen that would permit days a week – 2 showings flexibility for showing a day, with 4 per day in the more than (the permitted) school holidays. one film and would enable film society screenings. The cinema, owned by Barry since 2000, closed in Call on Monday 2007 and reopened again evening, or look up on the on 12th August 2011. With website for information for screenings for the following help from David Williams NORTH CORNWALL of WTW who sold them Friday. 01288 361442. the seating and some of the You can even book on line MUSEUM AND GALLERY (www.rebelcinema.co.uk). projection equipment from The Clease • Camelford • Cornwall • PL32 9PL the Cinedrome in Padstow It’s a great night out, (which had closed in and an all round quality Tel. 01840 212954 October two years before), experience. Long may it [email protected] the Rebel is now the state continue… That’s all folks…. of the art in cinema luxury. 2 April - 11 May Annabel Yates

Otterham & St Exhibition on a Rural Theme Juliot Hall Papier Maché by Renate Forsyth Paintings by John Blight, Christine Gagnon, Cabaret Mark Gibbons and Brian Littlejohns Supper Pottery by Sue Gordon and Heather Swain with The Boscastle Players 14 May - 29 June 12th May Faster, Higher, Stronger The doors will open at 7 p.m. for Cycling Prints and Paintings by Jacqueline Jarvis 7:30 p.m. The Olympic Poster Collection of Chris Jarvis £10 per person Tickets available The Gallery and Museum are open Monday - from Pam Langley Saturday 10 am - 5 pm 2 April- 30 September (01840 261225). (Wheelchair access to Museum only)

Page 42 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Police Station Moves MK Computers

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Camelford Police Station copyright photo courtesy David Flower has moved to new premises Review. The annual running on the site of Sir James costs for Camelford Police Smith’s School in Dark Station was £11,000 A M HIRCOCK Lane. Some current staff whereas it is anticipated the PLUMBING AND HEATING and some who have new office will cost £4,000 a year. In addition the force worked at the station over General Plumbing the years are pictured will recoup the revenue above, at the former police from the sale of the police Oil Central Heating station, shortly before the station building and land move took place. From to the rear. Oil boiler, Rayburn & Aga servicing left: Special Constable The new office will not Lynn Crockford, DC Jane be open to members of Stephens, Julian Mutton, the public but the force 01840 250320 Vicki Parkinson, PCSO has assured residents that Terry Groves , PC Andrew current staffing levels and Corrie, PC Colin Gameson, the service to the public PC Peter Bluett and PC will be maintained. BLOCKED Laurie O’Toole and PCSO Superintendent Julie Sam Smith. Whitmarsh said when she DRAINS News of the move announced the news: “I came last year after the would like to stress that CLEARED FAST announcement that Devon this isn’t the case of the 24 hr call out and Cornwall Police were police reducing our service Hedley Venning faced with having to make to the people of Camelford, 01840 250113 savings of £44 million but it is purely a logistical over the next four years as move. Our neighbourhood part of the government’s and response teams will be 0797 4581836 Comprehensive Spending available just as before”. Lower Meadows Quality En-suite B&B Accommodation  Offering a warm welcome, our own parking, all facilities and above all a relaxing stay. Anne & Adrian Prescott Lower Meadows Boscastle 01840 250570

www.lowermeadows.co.uk

Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012 Page 43 Opening Hours and Useful Phone Numbers Bottreaux Filling Station Emergency Services: Tel: 01840 250108 Coastguard, Fire, Police, Ambulance: Dial 999 Police Station: For non-urgent issues: eg to Monday - Friday 8am-6pm, report a crime or criminal damage, to request Saturday 9am-5pm police advice or attendence, to enquire about Sunday 9am-1pm lost property, to be connected to a police station, service or department: 101 Doctors’ Surgery and out-of-hours emergency Boscastle Newsagent doctor: 01840 250209 Tel: 01840 250419 NHS Direct (24 hour helpline): 0845 4647 Cash machine during business hours Hospitals: Open daily at 6.00 am Bodmin - East Cornwall 01208 251555 Minor Injuries Unit open8 am – 10 pm, seven days a week Post Office at Cornish Stores Launceston General 01566 765650 Phone for opening hours Minor Injuries Unit open8 am – 10 pm, seven days a week Stratton 01288 287700 Tel: 01840 250344 Minor Injuries Unit open 24hrs, seven days a week Truro -Treliske 01872 250000 NatWest Bank Plymouth - Derriford 08451 558155 The Mobile NatWest bank calls at the Dental Helpline: 0845 5000 230 harbour carpark on Fridays NHS Emergency Dental Appt: 01872 354 385 from 1pm until 1.30pm. Boscastle Visitor Centre: 01840 250010 Mobile Library Local Churches: Tel: 0300 1234111 Church of England 01840 250359 Methodist 01840 214818 Calls on alternate Thursdays Catholic 01840 770663 Barn Park, Tintagel Road: 11.50 – 12.15 Harbourmaster: 01840 250200 Camelford Library Parish Council: Town Hall, Market Place website: www.boscastlecornwall.org.uk Tel: 01840 212409 Chairman: 01840 250414 Clerk: 01840 210017 Tuesday: 09.30 - 18.30 email clerk: [email protected] Thursday: 09.30 - 17.00 Village Hall Bookings: 01840 211343 Friday: 09.30 - 13.30 Saturday: 10.00 - 13.00 Community Centre Bookings: 01840 250442 Cornwall Council: 0300 1234 100 Waste Tip, Bowithick Quarry Camelford One Stop Shop: 01840 214200 Sanding Road, Tintagel Environment Agency: 0800 807 060 Tel: 01840 770778 South West Water: 0800 169 1144 Open Friday to Monday Highways: 0300 1234222 April – Sept 9am – 6pm RSPCA: 0300 1234 999 Oct – March 9am – 4pm Western Power emergencies: 0800 365 900

Page 44 Boscastle Blowhole Spring 2012