The Cornwall Blog

Design Thoughts in Redruth

2011-09-24T15:37:00.003+01:00

The Design Thoughts Exhibition in Redruth was a success and Liz May was able to show off her work. Here are a couple of shots from the exhibition.

To see more about the graphic designer Liz May, take a look at her website www.designthoughts.co.uk

Two Events in Two Days at Par Beach

2011-08-03T15:31:00.005+01:00

The last few days of July were busy for Friends of Par Beach with events on the afternoon of Thursday 28th and late evening on Saturday 30th.

The events team from Groundwork SW brought the Cadbury’s sponsored Spots v Stripes to Par Beach on Thursday 28th July, where some 200 children and adults joined in or watched the fun. Participants joined either the Spots or Stripes team and competed in sack races, space-hopper races, giant Jenga, beach Noughts and Crosses and tug-o-war with great enthusiasm cheered on by excited parents and grandparents.

The weather was perfect for the event, which brought to life a busy Par Beach and everyone went home tired, but happy.

The weather for the second event on the evening Saturday 30th July was not so helpful as the sky clouded over for the start of the Star Gazing on the beach. Kit Williams answered questions about astronomy and found out a bit of what the 30 attendees already knew. Having decided to enjoy the tea and coffee provided by Friends of Par Beach, as there was not a star in sight, the clouds cleared and everyone was treated to a description and identification of many constellations.

Despite the disappointment with the clouds some members, non members and new members enjoyed the event, and Friends of Par Beach plan something later in the year.

The Death of Sherlock Holmes

2011-05-21T16:48:00.007+01:00

Open-Air Tour June-August 2011

A famous detective - A new type of crime - Unusual suspects…

This summer, Miracle Theatre is stirring up all the ingredients of the best Sherlock Holmes mystery with a large measure of comedy to bring you a period thriller with a sting in its tail! The Death of Sherlock Holmes, written and directed by Bill Scott, is touring to over 40 venues across south west England and Wales, from 1st June to 29th August.

It’s a dangerous time for Sherlock Holmes: preparing for his final battle with the criminal mastermind Moriarty, he stumbles upon a most ingenious crime.

Faced with a web of questionable motives, bizarre weapons and devilish disguises, Sherlock and Watson head off at breakneck speed on a trail which leads from 221b Baker Street, via the Swiss Alps, to a suburban séance bursting with paranormal goings on.

“This show is about how the world’s most famous detective might have reacted when his creator, the archetypal Victorian gentleman Arthur Conan Doyle, started to lose interest in writing detective stories and became obsessed with ghosts and fairies instead” says director Bill Scott. “But there is much more going on in this new Sherlock Holmes adventure than meets the eye. Moriarty may be the most evil villain of all time but could there be someone even more powerful pulling his strings? The audience will need to look out for clues and use all their powers of deduction to crack this most puzzling of cases. We hope it will keep people talking all the way home!”

Miracle Theatre is renowned for producing witty, highly physical and popular new works as well as clever adaptations of the classics. The Death of Sherlock Holmes skilfully combines a cast of Miracle’s most popular and dynamic performers, an original music score by Jim Carey and innovative design by Alan and Jude Munden to create a mind-boggling ‘whodunwhat’ which offers audiences of all generations the chance to test their detective skills alongside our avid super sleuths.

If you are searching to solve the mystery of how to have a great night out, why not follow Mrs Hudson’s recommendations: pack a hip flask, bring a suitable coat for the season (deerstalkers optional), grab a gabardine blanket and look no further than your nearest castle, garden, ancient playing place, or even beach, to enjoy an evening of classic outdoor entertainment.
But remember – expect the unexpected!

THE MIRACLE SHOWBOAT EXPERIENCE
Make your evening’s entertainment even more memorable! Miracle Theatre has once again teamed up with King Harry’s Cornwall to offer audiences the chance to take the boat from Falmouth to see The Death of Sherlock Holmes at Trelissick Garden, Smugglers Cottage at Tolverne or St Mawes Castle this summer. Experience the views across the Fal River; enjoy on-board entertainment with a complimentary pint of Skinners, as well as priority seating on your arrival at the venue.

To see the dates and venues got the Eye on Cornwall Event Calendar.

Local Chef Nominated for National Award

2011-04-27T17:18:00.006+01:00

David Sharland, executive chef at The Seafood Restaurant in Padstow, has been nominated by the Craft Guild of Chefs for one of the industry’s most prestigious awards for his outstanding achievements in the catering industry.

Now in its 18th year, the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards ceremony has become the chef’s ‘Oscars’ and the coveted accolades recognise and reward the leading talent working in kitchens across the industry.  The People's Choice Award is a new award category which has been added to the 2011 Craft Guild of Chefs Awards line up. This new award has been introduced to recognise the unsung heroes of the industry who demonstrate real commitment to their job, someone who stands out in the profession as going the extra mile.

Rick Stein comments: “David Sharland has a rare skill in that he completely understands how to make kitchens work harmoniously. Due to his immense experience, he knows how to build up a happy and hard working brigade, and to design a great kitchen. Naturally he is efficient at maintaining good gross profits and he cooks exquisite food. But almost more importantly, he knows how to nurture talent and is tireless in his efforts to encourage young people to join the industry and train them well.”

There are seven nominees for this year’s award and the winner will be decided by the general public via an online vote. The closing date for votes is Friday 13th May 2011 and the winner will be announced at Westminster Park Plaza Hotel on Thursday 2nd June 2011.

Air Day 2011 at Culdrose

2011-04-21T16:16:00.003+01:00

Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose’s Air Day 2011 is fast approaching, and it promises to fill the skies of Cornwall with magnificent sights and sounds from across the world of aviation, both past and present. From high above the Air Station, down to mere feet above the runway, your eyes are guaranteed to be fixated on the gravity defying displays that Culdrose Air Day is famous for.

This year we have not one, not two, but six aerobatic display teams, all competing to woo the crowds with their dazzling displays and death-defying manoeuvres! Whether it be the super tight formations of the legendary Red Arrows, the spectacular stunts of Team Turbulent or the super agility of the Black Cats, spectators are guaranteed to be entertained.

Of course no Air Day at Culdrose would be complete without the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm attending in force. Demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of maritime helicopters, the Lynx, Merlin and Sea Kings will be put through their paces, while the nimble Hawks of the Fleet Requirements Air Direction Unit (FRADU) will show off their agility and speed.

In contrast to the roaring sound of jets and turbines, the air will be filled with the soothing purr of our piston driven veterans; we will take you back in time as the iconic aircraft of the Royal Navy Historic Flight and the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight showcase their past heritage, including the valiant naval Swordfish and the mighty Lancaster bomber.

We also have the pleasure of hosting a number of foreign aircraft, including the world renowned Royal Jordanian Falcons display team, and making its Culdrose debut - the F16 fighter of the Royal Danish Air Force with its thunderous roar and amazing agility.

If all of that wasn’t enough, there is still more to come; a number of special guest acts are still awaiting confirmation, some of which have never been seen at Culdrose before, so let’s keep our fingers crossed and let’s hope that we will see them in the skies of Cornwall come July.

An Evening with Rick in Aid of The Poly

2011-03-08T19:36:00.006Z

Join us for an evening of food and wine at the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (also known as The Poly) in Falmouth on Saturday 12th March 2011. Rick will be hosting a one-off demonstration evening, from which all proceeds will be donated to the RCPS.

"Recently I was shown around the Polytechnic and was amazed at how beautiful it is - so full of history, such high ceilings and elegant windows, but a bit frayed around the edges. I'm very happy to help raise funds to restore it."

The evening will begin at 6pm (Poly doors open at 5.30pm) where you will be greeted with a glass of wine, then sit back and relax as you watch Rick cook three dishes from his latest book Far Eastern Odyssey, whilst sharing tips, techniques and anecdotes from his latest travels. Rick will also be signing books for guests after the event.

Henk Wiekens, Chairman, Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society said “The RCPS is very honoured to have Rick Stein leading this fantastic fundraising opportunity for us. We’re especially grateful to Rick and his team for choosing to support the Society, as we rely on income from our membership and events to maintain the Poly building and it’s in need of a lot of work! To have an international celebrity on our stage is a great boost for everyone who has supported the Poly through difficult times and a great signal that we are on the way up.”

Tickets are £50 for RCPS member and £60 for non-members and are available from the Poly box office. All proceeds will be donated to the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society.

To purchase your ticket please call the Poly on 01326 319461 or call into the Poly Building between 10.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Saturday at: 24 Church Street, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3EG.

Fish & chip fundraising for the Poly in March

Rick Stein's Fish & Chips on Discovery Quay in Falmouth will also be raising funds for the Poly for the duration of March with their charity winter offers. Enjoy cod & chips, bread & butter and a cup of tea for £6.65 (or a half pint of Chalky's Bark for £7.85) plus a cover charge of £1 per person, which will be added to your bill and donated directly to The Poly.

Countdown is on for Cornwall’s first Home Show

2011-02-26T12:49:00.005Z

Cornwall’s first home and garden show looks to be a sell out with just a few stands still remaining for Cornish home and garden specialist businesses

The Cornwall Home Show 2011 will bring together Cornwall’s best home and garden design businesses all under one roof at Kingsley Village, Fraddon, for two days on Saturday 30 April and Sunday 1 May.

This is the first time that an event like this has been planned for Cornwall. With so many high quality independent, specialist home suppliers based in the county The Cornwall Home Show looks set to offer something very special to visitors and exhibitors alike. The show has companies from right across the country, from Wadebridge to Penzance, booked to demonstrate their products and services. Visitors to the show will also be able to see beautiful artwork by local Cornish artists, Alexandra Dickens and Rob Braybrook, who will be taking a stands at the show.

Visitors to the show will be able to find out about energy saving solutions and sustainable living, look at the very latest kitchen and interior design styles, explore the opportunities of integrated home network systems and meet specialists to discuss all areas of home and garden design.

The two day event will include up to four free seminars on areas of interest such as integrating renewable energy in the home, home cinematic and networks, as well as interior design hints and tips from some of the show’s fantastic exhibitors.

Throughout the event exhibitors will be running special offers and promotions, making it the best place to find ideal home solutions, speak to the experts, see products and services first hand and get a great deal on any purchases made.

The exhibition hall at Kingsley Village will be broken down into seven zones, each focusing on a specific area of the home. Visitors can wander around the exhibition hall at Kingsley Village and be inspired with ideas for home décor, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, furniture and fittings, gardens and renewable energy solutions, and technology.

After looking around the stands people are welcome to relax in the Kingsley Village Cafe, where they can browse the catalogues and show offers for bespoke, traditional, rustic and contemporary products and services, whilst making the all important decisions on what to buy or explore further over lunch.

Organisers are confident that the event will provide inspiration and great offers to everyone looking to refresh or update the home ahead of summer, as well as giving businesses an opportunity to promote their goods and services at the only Home Show in the county.

Andrew Weaver, Owner of Live Events South West said: “The Cornwall Home Show will be the perfect place for people to visit to get ideas for any room in the house or the garden. It’s the only time people will find all of Cornwall’s best home and garden businesses all in the same place. We’re encouraging exhibitors to offer special show discounts as well, so it really is an event not to be missed, make sure you get the date in your diary.”

Andrew continued: “This is the first time an event like this has been planned for Cornwall. We have so many independent, specialist home and garden suppliers in Cornwall and this event will give them all a platform to showcase the very best products.”

Organisers hope that The Cornwall Home Show will become an annual spring event that grows year on year, becoming a regular fixture in Cornwall’s events calendar.

If you are interested in taking one of the remaining stands at Cornwall’s First Home Show, or just want to find out more, please contact Andrew Weaver on 01872 888733 or email exhibit@cornwallhomeshow.co.uk

The ticket price for the show will be £3 per person, purchase on entry.
Opening hours will be:
Saturday 30 April from 09.30hrs to 17.00hrs
Sunday 1 May from 10.00hrs to 16.30hrs

Photo Event at Par Beach

2011-02-19T21:39:00.004Z

A group of 8 members of Friends of Par Beach managed to dodge the rain on Sunday to enjoy an informal photography event at Par Beach and the Bird Lake.

Bob Rawlings and George Collings, from St Austell Camera Club, gave lots of advice and encouragement, whose cameras ranged from compact to digital SLR. Amongst the techniques group learned were composition of the photo, depth of field, aperture priority and, in view of the weather, photography in poor light.

Lots of photos were taken of birds, people and the landscape.

There will be another photo event on Sunday 10th April 2011 with Tim and Janie Bullen. Full details on our website along with other forthcoming events.

At the end of a most informative session thanks were given to Bob & George of St Austell Camera Club, John Page and Michelle O’Shea, Friends of Par Beach, for organising the event and for providing most welcome tea and biscuits at the end.

New Riding Arena in North Cornwall

2011-01-27T10:41:00.006Z

At Steppes Farm Holiday Cottages and Livery Yard, their new 45m x 25m sand and rubber floodlit Riding Arena is ready for action, and it looks impressive!

Steppes Farm is based in beautiful countryside and provide holiday cottages in Camelford. You can see from the photographs of the arena that the views are spectacular. They are based on the edge of Bodmin Moor, and get snowfalls in the Winter months.

The Arena can be hired for private use and/or Dressage and Show Jumping Competitions, Training, Showing, Lecture Demos and Dog Training etc.. Lessons for children and adults can also be arranged with their Trainer.

Children and adults can join the Sunday Club and come to learn about Stable Management as well as the actual riding. The perfect preparation for owning your own horse or pony!

Their philosophy is to give confidence and pleasure, this applies to young and old, beginners or experienced riders.

They can be contacted on 01840 212214.

Falmouth Based Photographer Launches First Solo Exhibition at the Poly

2011-01-15T22:46:00.004Z

A new exhibition showcasing the work of Falmouth-based photographer Oliver Raymond-Barker will be taking place at The Poly, Falmouth, from 1-7 March 2011. This is his first solo show and has been enabled by a development grant from the arts organisation Creative Skills Cornwall.

Through the medium of photography and print Raymond-Barker explores his connection with the natural and built environment. The wild coast of Cornwall provides a wealth of inspiration, as does his work as an architectural photographer. His images seek to transcend the original subject and create a new vision, communicating the energy and essence of locations as he sees them.

Raymond-Barker graduated from Birmingham Institute of Art and Design in 2002 with an honours degree in Photography. Following his degree, he worked as studio assistant and later digital manager for Sanctuary Studios in London before deciding to go freelance two years later. He has spent the last five years working in the outdoor adventure industry in Cornwall and Wales whilst continuing to develop his portfolio. This time out and close connection with the elements has been influential in shaping the work he is currently making.

An avid climber and surfer, he says: “ I spend a great deal of time in the sea or halfway up sea cliffs. The way I experience and interact with these environments gives me a perspective that few others have”.

Jane Sutherland of Creative Skills Cornwall says: “…for Oliver to undertake a solo exhibition and all that it entails, is a great learning opportunity. The awarding of a Professional Development grant by Creative Skills acknowledges that Oliver has extended his skills base by undertaking the planning, promoting, marketing and presentation of his exhibition.”

The exhibition will be open from 1st to 7th March 2011 from 10am to 5pm. There will be a private view on Tuesday 1st March between 6pm to 9pm.

For further information, please contact Oliver Raymond-Barker on 07979 871382 or orb1000@hotmail.com.

Help for Henry Walk

2011-01-07T15:13:00.009Z

EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE HELP FOR HENRY WALK

On the 6th November 2010 a group of family and friends completed a sponsored twenty mile walk from Helland to Padstow and then back to Wadebridge along the Camel Trail.

7.30AM IN WADEBRIDGE

Starting at 8am in Helland, the thirteen walkers set off through the autumnal woods after having been given a pep talk by Henry's granddad, Norman, who had organised the event.

BACON BAPS IN WADEBRIDGE

There was a short break in Wadebridge for bacon baps, another for goodies in Padstow, and then a massive homemade curry waiting at home in Wadebridge. Henry's grandmother and aunty, along with his mum, made sure that the walkers were well looked after, and there was even champagne waiting at 2.30pm when everyone finished!

HENRY'S MUM AND GRANDDAD, WALK ORGANISER, NORMAN

Everyone was clearly noticeable thanks to T-shirts provided by Jim O'Gorman of JOG Safety, showing the logo designed by Emma of Pickle Design from Henry's mum's direction.

HENRY IN DECEMBER 2010

The walk was to raise money for two year old Henry to go to the Advance Centre for specialist treatment for a brain injury he received when he was born. It was a huge success, and together the walkers managed to raise over £3,500 and donations are still coming!

Henry's parents, Maria and Carl, would like to thank all those who have supported us so much with the walk and donations they have received. Maria said, "We are overwhelmed by the response and truly appreciate each individual contribution, big or small!!"

The Seafood Restaurant Named in Top 50 UK Restaurants

2010-11-18T16:41:00.004Z

Hot on the heels of their Falmouth Fish & Chip restaurant being hailed as one of the most exciting UK openings of 2010, Rick and Jill Stein’s Seafood Restaurant has been named as one of the Top 50 UK Restaurants.

The Sunday Times launched it’s Food List last week, in conjunction with the prestigious Harden’s Restaurant guide, and named the Padstow restaurant at number 50 in it’s top 100 eateries. The list, based upon diner’s feedback to the Harden’s guide, proclaimed the Seafood to be “better than ever after the refurbishment” and is often applauded by reporters for “the best seafood anywhere”.

“I am so pleased about the listing, I think that it is testament to the great work that our Head Chef, Stephane Delourme and Restaurant Manager, Ed Rafferty, and their teams have put in during the last twelve months” says Rick Stein.

The Seafood Restaurant was the only Cornish restaurant to be listed in the top 100, although the Devon based restaurateur Michael Caines claimed top spot for his Gidleigh Park restaurant.

“It is poignant to be receiving this accolade as we are currently celebrating the 35 years since Rick and I opened the Seafood Restaurant. Little did we both know that we would be creating a restaurant competing with the best eateries in the UK. It has been an amazing journey that shows no sign of ending” says Jill Stein.

The Seafood Restaurant is currently offering a special lunch menu to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the restaurant. The three course set menu features dishes from the early days of the restaurant, priced at £28.50 and runs through until Christmas Eve.

1975 - 2010 Celebrating 35 Years of the Seafood Restaurant

2010-10-23T21:32:00.005+01:00

The Seafood Restaurant will be marking its 35th anniversary during November and December with a celebratory £28.50 3-course lunch menu.

Rick and Jill Stein are marking the anniversary with a special lunch menu built around prime Cornish seafood inclusive of dishes from the original 1975 Seafood Restaurant menu such as seafood thermidor, baked crab, moules marinière and thunder and lightening dessert.

The menu will run from Monday 1st November through to Friday 24th December 2010, seven days a week from 12pm until 2.30pm.

Rick Stein comments: “Little did Jill and I know when we opened a small seafood bistro on the harbourside in Padstow in 1975 with red checked tablecloths and candles in Verdicchio bottles that the business would grow into six restaurants, 40 bedrooms, four shops, a cookery school and a pub. We didn’t have a masterplan. It just happened.”

When the restaurant opened in 1975 it employed just five staff, with Rick leading a kitchen team of two and Jill heading up their three-strong front of house team. The business has since grown to employ a total of 374 staff in Cornwall, across sites in Padstow, Falmouth and St Merryn.

Rick attributes the success of all this to a simple observation ‘nothing is more exhilarating than fresh fish, simply cooked.’ It was this enthusiasm for seafood that led him to make his first TV cookery series Taste of the Sea in 1995, twenty years after The Seafood Restaurant opened. Since then the company has gone from strength to strength and Rick has made eight more series for the BBC.

Their latest venture Rick Stein’s Fish & Chips, Seafood Bar and deli also opened on Events Square in Falmouth earlier this year.

To make a reservation for The Seafood Restaurant’s £28.50 3-course lunch or for more information, please call 01841 532700.

Savour The Taste Of Port Eliot With Acclaimed Chef Chris Sherville

2010-10-03T20:21:00.004+01:00

One of the culinary highlights of the celebrated Port Eliot Festival is Chris Sherville’s Seafood Restaurant in the Walled Garden. Chris has returned to the Festival each year, serving up fresh crab and lobster, calamari and chips, and cones of whitebait. Such is the popularity of his dishes that on Saturday 16th October, he’ll be running a day-long course in the splendid restored Georgian kitchen at Port Eliot, focusing on seafood. Participants will also have the unique opportunity to enjoy Chris’ cuisine as they dine in the magnificent Port Eliot Round Room and they will be invited to access some of the private areas of Port Eliot House with Lady St Germans.

Chris Sherville trained at the prestigious Leith’s School of Food and Wine and has lived, travelled, eaten and cooked in a variety of places around the world, from the Far East to the South West. He’ll be showing his participants how to cook some of the recipes from the Festival, and there will be an opportunity to taste, ask questions and pick up invaluable tips on technique and kitchen shortcuts. After meeting for coffee and homemade pastries in the Big Kitchen, Chris will start the day with a demonstration of how to dress a crab, moving on to making west coast crab cakes, prawn and crab skewers with ginger dipping sauce, crab bisque and crab ravioli with sauce vierge.

Much of the additional fresh produce that will be used during the day has been grown on Port Eliot Estate at Buttervilla Farm, which recently featured in Rose Prince’s Good Food Producers Guide 2010. Buttervilla’s delicious funky leaves, vegetables and fruits are hand grown in using organic methods with much love and care and are completely chemical-free.

Before a lunch of Chris’ Port Eliot fish pie and lemon tart with wine, set amongst the awe-inspiring Robert Lenkiewicz murals in the Round Room, there will be a wine tasting with Donald Hodgart of Inverarity Vaults who will discuss pairing wine with fish dishes from different parts of the world. The day will conclude with a sumptuous afternoon tea, followed by a tour of the rooms ‘below stairs’ led by Lady St Germans.

The course runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm. It will be a relaxed, interesting day with great food and wine – and a chance to enjoy the splendours of Port Eliot. The course is suitable for people of all cooking abilities and costs £100 (including lunch, afternoon tea, wine tasting and copies of the recipes to take home). Places are limited, so early booking is advisable.

For those travelling from further afield, accommodation is available on the Port Eliot Estate at the eco-farm boutique Buttervilla B&B. Double en suite rooms cost £75 per night, including their acclaimed local produce breakfast.

For more information about the course, or to book a place, please contact jo@porteliot.co.uk

Seafood Demonstration Evening with BBC Masterchef Winner James Nathan

2010-09-26T18:55:00.003+01:00

Our talented chef and BBC Masterchef winner James Nathan will be hosting a seafood demonstration evening at our Seafood Bar on Events Square in Falmouth on Tuesday 28th September.

This informal evening begins at 6pm where you will be greeted with a glass of wine, then relax as you watch James demonstrate two seafood dishes. He'll be talking you through what's in season, tips and techniques, as well as sharing his experiences since winning BBC One's Masterchef in 2008.

Stein's Deli in Falmouth will be open until 8.30pm. There will be 10% discount throughout the evening upon presentation of your ticket.

Tickets £10.

Spaces are limited, please book early to avoid disappointment.

For more information and bookings please call Padstow Seafood School on 01841 533466.

Cornwall’s Home and Garden Businesses to be Showcased at Cornwall Home Show

2010-09-11T18:03:00.005+01:00

Kingsley Village will host Cornwall’s first home and garden design show, The Cornwall Home Show, on Saturday, 30 April and Sunday, 1 May 2011.

The Cornwall Home Show will be a distinctive and vibrant exhibition, celebrating the best of Cornwall’s interior, garden and home design industry. The two day exhibition will showcase a wide variety of products, services and inspirational ideas for the home and garden.

The first event of its kind, The Cornwall Home Show is exclusively for Cornish businesses and it will give visitors to the show the chance to see more than 40 of Cornwall’s best home and garden suppliers, all showcasing the very best in home design, sustainable living, furnishing and style under one roof.

The exhibition, which is managed by Live Events South West, is calling for specialist suppliers of bespoke, traditional, rustic and contemporary products and services, including; home décor, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, furniture and fittings, gardens, technology, and renewable energy to get in touch to secure a space at the exclusive exhibition.

Organisers are confident that the event will provide inspiration and great offers to everyone looking to refresh or update the home ahead of summer next year, as well as giving businesses an opportunity to promote their goods and services at the only Home Show in the county.

Andrew Weaver, Owner of Live Events South West said: “The Cornwall Home Show will be the perfect place for people to visit to get ideas for any room in the house or the garden. It’s the only time people will find all of Cornwall’s best home and garden businesses all in the same place. We’re encouraging exhibitors to offer special show discounts as well, so it really is an event not to be missed, make sure you get the date in your diary.”

Andrew continued: “This is the first time an event like this has been planned for Cornwall. We have so many independent, specialist home and garden suppliers in Cornwall and this event will give them all a platform to showcase the very best products. We’ve only got a limited number of stands available so I’d urge any businesses interested in exhibiting to get in touch soon.”

The Cornwall Home Show’s website www.cornwallhomeshow.co.uk will be updated regularly with details of the event and the exhibitors.

"Out of Africa" Art Exhibition by Vanessa Rousseau Richardson

2010-09-05T19:10:00.004+01:00

Art Inspired of Southern Africa & George Adamson Wildlife Conservation Kenya.

On exhibition will be some wildlife paintings, and some of the proceeds will be donated to the Wildlife Foundation as above, as they can only survive through contributions from public.

The Lion Painting will be the centre of the exhibition, dedicated to a lion called Christian, whom was bought from Harrods in London in 1960s and then eventually made his way to Kenya, where George took care of him.

A percentage of the proceeds of the Large Lion Painting will go to the George Adamson Wildlife Conservation Kenya. Georges's work was made famous by Film & Book "Born Free" and others.

Exhibition at Shire Hall, Bodmin
1st to 30th November 2010
Mon to Sat, 10am to 5pm
Free admission

www.africanvista.info

Celebrated Chinese Artist Offers Weekend Course at Port Eliot House

2010-08-30T10:35:00.007+01:00

Over the weekend of 25-26th September, Port Eliot will take on a distinctly Chinese theme. Following on from his successful taster classes at Port Eliot House in June, renowned artist Xiao Bai Li will be running a two-day course in Chinese brush painting. The course will give people a chance to find out more about the techniques involved and develop their skills under Xiao’s expert guidance throughout the weekend.

Xiao Bai Li was born and grew up in Nanjing, The People’s Republic of China, where his schooling crossed a ten year period during the Cultural Revolution. He moved to England in 1993 and now lives and works in Plymouth. His eloquent work in both portraiture and the art of Chinese Brush Painting focuses on the subject of people. His creative process includes meeting and closely observing people in their familiar environments - conveying a picture of real life in whatever place he is working in at the time.

Xiao says, “Art can transcend many barriers and I feel that by painting people I am able to portray these lives and create a deeper understanding, whilst giving people a chance to show their situation in society and share how they feel connected to it.”

Art-lovers could hardly want more idyllic surroundings to inspire them. The contents of the House include art works by Reynolds Romney, Ramsey, Van Dyck and many of the Dutch Old Masters. Port Eliot also features the work of Robert Lenkiewicz, whose famous dragon mural covers the wall of the magnificent Round Room, designed by Sir John Soane.

Port Eliot House dates back as far as the 5th century and was substantially altered by Sir John Soane at the turn of the 19th century. The idyllic grounds were originally landscaped in the 1790s by Humphry Repton. The Grade I park and more than 100 acres of land include a vast rhododendron garden, a maze, a bowling green, Orangery, arboretum and magnificent views of the estuary culminating in an elegant Brunel viaduct.

One of the participants from the taster sessions earlier in the year said, “The whole day was very relaxing. It was wonderful to watch Xiao Bai Li at work, and have the opportunity to try out the techniques ourselves to create a piece of work we could take home at the end of the day.”

The course takes place from 10am-5pm on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September, with an hour each day for lunch. No previous experience in Chinese brush painting is necessary. Early booking is advisable, as the course is limited to 15 people. Participants will also have the option to have a two-course lunch with a glass of wine in the Georgian Kitchen, or if they prefer, they can bring a picnic, stroll the grounds and enjoy the stunning views across the Estate. The cost of the weekend is £130 (including lunch) or £100 (excluding lunch).

To find out more about the course, or to book a place, please telephone 01503 230211.

British Life Saving Sport Nipper Championships

2010-08-22T16:26:00.003+01:00

600 children show their skill in the water during the British Life Saving Sport Nipper Championships, sponsored by South West Water.

The event concluded a week of fun and sporting skill on the beach and in the sea for over 1,000 Surf Lifesavers. Back for the second time as part of Henri Lloyd Falmouth Week, Life Saving Sport, based on the equipment used by Lifeguards, is a showcase of the skill and fitness needed to save lives.

The event is generously sponsored by South West Water who are delighted to be part of the Championships once again this year, as South West Water Customer Relations Director, Monica Read, explains; “South West Water is pleased to support Surf Life Saving communities around our beautiful coastline, by supporting the development of young Surf Lifesavers we can help to create the next generation of volunteers making our beaches safe”.

It was an exciting week, starting with North Devon Surf Life Saving Clubs ruled the roost during the first part of the week with Saunton Sands Surf Life Saving Club taking top place in the Masters competition, with Woolacombe following straight on with winning the Youth Championships.

As the week concluded Cornwall could hold their head high once again when Portreath Surf Life Saving Club Nippers claimed the winning place for the second year running.
Over 10,000 people came to watch and enjoy the festival atmosphere of the Surf Life Saving GB event which had something for everyone; with Plymouth Argyle running speed cage sessions, Ultimate Fisbee coaching for children, trade stands and children’s sandcastle competitions.

The next event will be the British Life Saving Sport Open Championships at Tolcarne Beach, Newquay on the 11th and 12th September.

Rick Stein’s Summer Book Signings

2010-08-15T16:36:00.004+01:00

Rick Stein will be signing copies of his books later this month at Stein’s Deli in Padstow and at his new restaurant, Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips, on Discovery Quay in Falmouth. The dates will be Friday 20th and Thursday 26th August 2010.

Friday 20th August:
10.30am to 11.30am, Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips, Events Square, Falmouth
3pm to 4pm, Stein’s Deli, South Quay, Padstow

Thursday 26th August:
11am to 12pm, Stein’s Deli, South Quay, Padstow

Access to the queue is on a first come first served basis, please arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Local Businesses Embrace Charity Skydive Challenge

2010-08-01T22:27:00.003+01:00

Twelve brave Cornwall based business owners and employees will be skydiving for charity on the 25 August, 2010 in aid of the Precious Lives Appeal to help build ‘Little Harbour’ in St Austell, a hospice for life limited children.

The individuals taking on the challenge are aiming to raise over £4,000 between them for the charity.

The ‘LESW Charity Skydive Challenge 2010’ has been organised by local event management company Live Events South West (LESW) as a means to facilitate and encourage local businesses to kick start, or build on, their corporate social responsibility by supporting local charities. The extra support is encouraged and backed by Children’s Hospice South West.

Emma Lloyd, Head of Fundraising for CHSW’s Precious Lives Appeal, says “The LESW Charity Skydive Challenge is a great idea and a brilliant way to get local businesses involved in helping our local cause whilst undertaking something exciting and challenging. We wish the courageous but caring skydivers all the best for their exhilarating experience and thank them for their support.”

Andrew Weaver of LESW who will also be taking part in the skydive said "We are really pleased with the response from the local business community and the brave people putting themselves forward. It is very commendable what each business has committed to support this great charity. We hope for good weather on the day and some generous sponsorship, and if all goes well this will become an annual event."

Surf Shop in Bude Continues to Grow

2010-07-26T11:49:00.006+01:00

In North Cornwall, Bored Lizard Surf Shop based on the Bude high street, has seen its business grow year on year, and have taken steps with each passing season to change the look of the shop and stock.

Owner, Laurent Calvez, a surfer from Brittany in France, recently had this to say:

"We've seen a lot of new improvement with a new Weird Fish designed wall and new wooden stand from Black Salamander. Two popular surf clothing brands that we have been pleased to stock alongside our own clothing.

"Thank you to everybody involved in helping the shop look so good this year.

"Bored Lizard has done very well in the early part of this year, and we are looking forward to the rest of the season. We've also had a celebrity shopper: Vic Reeves (from Shooting Stars). All in all, very exiting!"

So make sure you drop in next time you are in Bude to see the friendly owner and shop. You can also buy Weird Fish, Black Salamander and Bored Lizard surf clothing online on the website. Worth having a look as the style matches the signs outside and posters inside.

Culdrose Air Day Almost Here!

2010-07-20T18:52:00.003+01:00

The final preparations are being made for the 2010 RNAS Culdrose Air Day (Wednesday 28th July). With the ‘Vulcan’ making a rare appearance, thrilling flying displays, an action packed military arena and a chance to get up close with the world of Naval Aviation, organisers hope that the public will experience ‘Fly Navy’ whatever the weather.

Visitors will be able to see breathtaking displays from some of the worlds most advanced aircraft as they twist, loop and soar through the skies at terrifying speeds. Almost 70 aircraft will give flying displays full of daring manoeuvres and precision flying and further aircraft will be available for static viewing on the ground, allowing the public to get up close to the aircraft and talk to their crews.

Culdrose will show off its resident aircraft, there will be helicopter role demonstrations, an appearance from the Great War Display Team and a variety of fast and noisy jets (including a Vietnam era F-86 Sabre and a joint Strike Master/Hawker Hunter jet formation from Team Viper). The acclaimed ‘Blades’ flying team will give a thrilling close formation display flown by ex red arrows pilots, the Royal Jordanian Falcons will fly a spectacular five aircraft routine and Team Osprey will perform a display of Russian Yak-52 aerobatic aircraft.

Air Display Co-ordinator Lt Commander Dave Lambourne said: “The 2010 Culdrose Air Day will offer a thrilling aerial spectacle for both the enthusiast and casual visitor alike, along with exciting ground displays and the chance to meet the real life naval aviators of today’s Fleet Air Arm. It is sure to be an unforgettable day out.”

As well as an exciting flying display, there will also be lots of things to see, touch and try on the ground. Visitors can climb onboard aircraft, find out what it’s like to sit at the controls of a 15 tonne Helicopter surrounded by the latest technology, take a ride in a helicopter, be winched high into the air or jump into the driving seat of a military fire engine. For those who prefer to watch, we have a full arena programme with Field Gun Competitions and daring displays of motorbikes, parachutists and military dogs. All of the Naval Air Squadrons and units will be out on display ready to talk about what they do and helping the public to try out specially devised activities and challenges. From hanging out in our hangars, to meeting Aircrew who fly all over the world, Air Day will be action packed from start to finish. Gates open at 0900 and the main flying display starts at 1330, although there will be flying throughout the morning.

New Seafood Demonstration Evening at Padstow Seafood School

2010-07-04T22:42:00.006+01:00

Stir Fried Salt & Pepper Squid

Tickets for the Seafood Demonstration Evening at Rick Stein’s cookery school in Padstow are now on sale.

The new demonstration evening, to be held at Padstow Seafood School on Thursday 8th July, aims to give guests a ‘taster’ of the dishes they might experience on a visit to Rick & Jill Stein’s renowned Seafood Restaurant.

Mark Puckey, head lecturer at Padstow Seafood School, will be demonstrating a selection of dishes from Rick Stein’s Seafood, including Crab linguine with parsley and chilli, Devilled mackerel with mint and tomato salad and Salmon steaks with muscadet, watercress and dill potatoes.

The evening begins at 7pm until 9pm and includes a tasting of all the dishes that Mark will be demonstrating, accompanied by a glass or two of wine.

Tickets are £35 and available from Padstow Seafood School. For more information and bookings please call the school on 01841 533 466 or email seafoodschool@rickstein.com.

Spaces are limited. Please book early.

Photography by Rebecca Bernstein

Cornwall's Execptional Artistic and Literary Heritage

2010-06-10T12:11:00.008+01:00

If you are considering a visit to North Cornwall this week, you cannot fail to notice that the County show - The Royal Cornwall - is in full swing. Based on the outskirts of Wadebridge, the show draws in the biggest businesses in Cornwall, showing their wares on stalls and in marquees. In addition, there are numerous livestock competitions, craft exhibitions, games, rides, bars and cafes. The show runs for three days, on June the 11th, 12th and 13th.

However, as is often the case, the main event obscures many smaller, more interesting stories. If you prefer to avoid the show crowds and venture down a few country lanes, you will find that Cornwall will give up its secrets to the discerning traveller.

The region has always been steeped in myth and legend, which has inspired much of the creativity that has always thrived here. For example, Menabilly, a fifteenth Century manor on the South Coast, just outside St.Austell, provided the inspiration for Manderley in Daphne Du Maurier's Rebecca. Though the house is private, there is a car park in the grounds and a footpath to Polridmouth beach, also inferred in the Rebecca story. However, if you wish to soak up more than just atmosphere, neighbouring Polkerris, has a pub and a restaurant clustered around a tiny harbour with water-sports facilities.

About 10 miles east of Menabilly and Polkerris, along the A390 is Lostwithiel. Though small, this charming town has carved out a niche for itself as a centre of antiques and fine crafts. It is also home to the ancient Restormel Castle, a Norman fortification built to facilitate a commanding prospect over the Fowey River Valley. Also worth visiting is nearby Lerryn, a pretty creek-side village said to have provided inspiration for Kenneth Grahame's Wind in the Willow's.

Although Cornwall's artistic profile spikes around Newlyn and St.Ives, in the far west, the north of the county is not without its high points. In Padstow can be found outstanding paintings by artists such as John O'Carol at Padstow Contemporary Art, Sarah Adams at The Padstow Studio and David Pearce at Padstow Fine Art. On the opposite side of the Camel Estuary, Alan Caswell's Rock Road gallery is a real gem.

For clothing design, forget the Newquay surf shops, instead parouse the range on offer from Cornish based company Seasalt with branches at Fowey, Padstow, Truro, Falmouth, St.Ives and Penzance. For food, buy a disposal barbecue, a hook and line, and stand in about three feet of water. Within half an hour, perched on a rock, wrapped in your Seasalt woolen, haunted by memories of Manderley, clutching your recent artistic acquisition, you will be enjoying a mackerel supper and an alternative, perhaps more authentic Cornish experience.

Joseph Bouzaglo

RNAS Culdrose Air Day Tickets Now On Sale

2010-05-29T19:58:00.004+01:00

Tickets are now on sale for this year’s RNAS Culdrose Air Day which will be held on Wednesday 28th July 2010. The event, which has become a firm favourite in the Cornish Events Calendar, enables the general public to experience the sights, sounds and smells of one of Europe’s largest helicopter bases.

Every day life for Royal Navy Pilots could include hunting for enemy submarines or aircraft in state-of-the art helicopters, flying fast jets armed with air-to-air weapons, transporting troops of Royal Marines Commandos and their equipment or rescuing casualties from sunken vessels. Air Day enables budding fighter pilots and those who once dreamt of flying, to learn about this exciting ‘world of Culdrose’ and see what happens behind the security gates.

The organisers of this year’s event are working hard to make it a day to remember. As fast jets, helicopters and military aircraft zoom across the skies, visitors will be able to meet Aircrew who have served on frontline Squadrons all over the world, Pilots who have just earned their ‘Wings’ and members of the Search and Rescue Squadron, who are seen flying all over Cornwall on daring rescue missions, often putting their own lives at risk to save those of others.

Public Relations Officer, Emma Relton said: “As well as an exciting, action-packed flying display, there will also be lots of things to see, touch and try on the ground. Visitors can climb onboard aircraft, find out what it’s like to sit at the controls of a 15 tonne Helicopter surrounded by the latest technology, take a ride in a helicopter, be winched high into the air or jump into the driving seat of a military fire engine. For those who prefer to watch, we have a full arena programme with Field Gun Competitions and daring displays of motorbikes, parachutists and military dogs. All of the Naval Air Squadrons and units will be out on display ready to talk about what they do and helping the public to try out specially devised activities and challenges. It’s really worth taking a day off work for.”

Advance tickets at a reduced price (£10:00 for adults and £25:00 for families) are now on sale - Tel. 08444 99 99 55.

Holidays in Devon and Cornwall

2010-04-17T16:59:00.007+01:00

I just want to draw your attention to a website that acts as the online presence of The Tourist Handbook. You may have seen their brochures in many hotels, B&Bs, self catering accommodation and pubs in Cornwall and Devon, providing an illustrated guide to local tourist attractions.

They now have a website with an excellent database of information, ready for anyone to access, as well as opportunity for people organising events and providing accommodation to advertise. It aims specifically to provide a valuable resource for those planning holidays in Devon and Cornwall, but with its event calendar, many local residents use it in equal measure. You can also follow The Tourist Handbook on Facebook and Twitter, keeping up to date with the latest happenings.

This is a good tool, complete with area maps and informative descriptions of places in Cornwall and Devon. You can search by place name and see what is available in the area that is of interest to you.

Emma Julian

Brookfields Bed and Breakfast

2010-04-04T22:02:00.005+01:00

When you are in need of a peaceful haven and a tranquil escape, consider Brookfields Bed and Breakfast. Situated in the peaceful country side within easy access of Port Isaac, Padstow, Wadebridge and Rock they provide modern B&B accommodation with Wi-Fi internet connection and have a 4 star rating.

The house itself is set in a generous acre of grounds and lawns, with panoramic views for the guest to enjoy. With grass paddocks, geese and ducks splashing around in their pond, Brookfields is a world away from hectic everyday life. There is plenty of car parking and even room for vans, boats and trailers.

The rooms themselves are clean fresh and bright, furnished with quality fabrics and furniture, and are well equipped with everything you might need on a short break. The breakfast room capitalises on those amazing views, and the full range of breakfast suits any appetite. So I just thought I would bring you attention to a hidden space which has the best of both worlds, private seclusion and great access to all this region has to offer; a great example of a North Cornwall bed and breakfast.

Emma Julian

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High Quality Webcams on West Country Rivers

2010-03-21T16:18:00.004Z

Webcam of Fowey River at Twowatersfoot

The cameras currently refresh at 1 frame every 10 seconds. Farson Digital hope to be getting a sponsorship deal with a major broadband supplier sorted out shortly, in order to allow the cameras to stream live. The cameras Farson Digital use last 10 years and are made by a German company. They are used in the Arctic and have no moving parts and never freeze (-30° to +60°C ) and being German, they just work. The Environment Agency also use them in the UK. It’s a great solid state, all weather, 3 mega pixel camera that just plugs into a broadband connection and will stream live images at 25fps (pal), which is currently way too much for most of the broadband packages we are hooked up to.

Farson Digital have just signed a sponsorship deal with the West Country Rivers Trust, as they are very keen to promote West Country Fishing Tourism and see this as a great vehicle to do so. The Angling Trust, Salmon & Trout Association, Fishing Associations and various advertisers are seeing the benefits of being involved. Thirteen cameras are now up and running. The cameras have also proved to be a big hit with canoeists and other river users. Some viewers just like to watch the salmon running up the rivers and canoeists running down.

Webcam of Tamar River at Horsebridge

Farson Digital put up the first two cameras on the River Exe and River Taw and sold the advertising space reasonably easily, then decided to get a network up and running before entering into a campaign to bring on board more sponsors.

Webcam of Camel River at Nanstallon

This is an exciting project for local fishermen and tourism in the West Country. The current total for the 13 cameras is 91000 visits, each averaging about 2 minutes. Bearing in mind they have been coming on line in stages since May, and the last three came on line just last week, we think this is very encouraging for the future. The first camera online, at Exebridge on the River Exe, is fast approaching 28,000 visits. We are adding cameras regularly to the network and are hoping to have all the 14 major West Country Rivers fitted with cameras by the end of this year. Farson Digital are also talking with other regions about installing networks for them.

One of the main benefits of the cameras for fishermen is the ability to be able to check the river height and colour, if the water is to high and to coloured you will have a wasted journey, not to mention the fuel. Also, if one river is flood and unfishable due to a localised storm, you can check the webcams and quickly make arrangements to fish on another unaffected river.

Webcam of River Lyner at Rilla Mill

Farson Digital have created a 'fishing conditions update’ pop up window and blog. This appears in the centre of the webcam image in the same way as our timeline / water gauge picture does. The information/update is written by a 3rd party for each river/camera. You are able to click through to the camera’s blog, which is an interactive area between registered users and the blog administrator. This would generally be the person who is writing the reports. Great for angling tourists, tourists and locals alike, ‘The Voice of the River’.

Take a look at the cameras yourself here www.farsondigital.co.uk

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Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips Opens in Falmouth Tonight!

2010-03-19T16:50:00.003Z

Opening tonight (Friday 19th March 2010) on Discovery Quay, Falmouth – opposite the National Maritime Museum, Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips opens its doors at 5pm.

Rick Stein and his ex-wife Jill have spent over thirty-five years building up their business in Padstow, which includes four restaurants, a deli, patisserie, gift shop, cookery school and 40 guest bedrooms, as well as a pub in the nearby village of St. Merryn, but Rick Stein’s Fish and Chips in Falmouth will be their first venture away from the Padstow area.

“It’s great to be finally opening in Falmouth. Outside Padstow it’s my favourite seaside town in Cornwall.

“Jill and I have looked around Cornwall for a long time for a place to expand beyond Padstow. Our inspiration for The Seafood Restaurant originally came from a restaurant in Falmouth that we frequented during the 1970’s, so it seemed only natural to finally open our own restaurant here. It’s a place we both know well.

“I've always been fascinated by Falmouth. From childhood reading, it was one of those romantic ports where ships left to rescue nobles from revolutionary France in Scarlet Pimpernel novels. Historically it's always been a major port. It has one of the best natural harbours in Europe. It has fabulous fish and is a pretty and atmospheric Cornish town. Why would I not want to be part of somewhere so special?

“And for the future who knows? We’re looking at another site in Falmouth that I think could be great for a deli, selling lots of great local produce and those wonderful Fal oysters.” Rick Stein.

“We’re really excited to be opening our fish and chip restaurant in Falmouth. We wanted to keep the design concept the same as our fish and chip shop in Padstow, whilst giving the place a more nautical feel. I was inspired by Falmouth’s marine heritage and yachting culture and wanted to incorporate this theme into the new design.

“The new restaurant has retained the traditional fish and chip shop style with crisp white tiled walls, pebbled counters, dark slate flooring and chunky oak benches. But we’ve also included new features such as the mural of the National Maritime Museum image of a tall ship, which is also on our menus.” Jill Stein.

All photography by Hugh Hastings.

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Steppes Farm Luxury Holiday Cottages

2010-02-14T20:35:00.005Z

I want to draw you attention to a true find. Steppes Farm is a 14th Century farmhouse offering 3 self catering barn conversions. The standard of the accommodation is high, a true home from home. With views that wrap around, a spa including sauna and hot tub and even the opportunity to go horse riding.

Steppes Farm creates an idyllic getaway, I personally love the idea of being on a farm - all that country charm; geese, lambs, chicks and ponies!

Set in a truly romantic situation, on the edge of Bodmin Moor and close to the dramatic, captivating North Coast, Steppes Farm is ideally situated. The accommodation comprises of three cottages, Dove, Owl and Goose all comfortably furnished with log burners for those chilly Winter evenings. There are private gardens, a barbecue area and endless walks around the 20 acres of farm land. Of course in our recent snow this turreted retreat is picture post card material! Take a look at their luxury holiday cottages in Cornwall here, and see for yourself.

Emma Julian

Govyn Kernewek Award Update

2010-01-16T17:51:00.004Z

There are now only two and a bit weeks left until the deadline for the Govyn Kernewek Award 2010 - don't forget to send us your ideas to be in with a chance of getting £5,000.00 to make a short film!

The GOVYN KERNEWEK AWARD is a competitive annual commission of £5,000 to make a short film using Kernewek. The award is supported by Cornwall Film Festival, MAGA and awen productions cic. We are looking for a great idea for a short film that uses Kernewek (the Cornish language) wholly or substantially in an interesting way.

It must be viable to make within the £5,000 budget and be completed and delivered by 30th September 2010. We accept ideas of any genre. The suggested title for GK10 is ‘Yn Termyn Eus Passyes’ (Once Upon A Time…)

SUBMISSIONS
Your proposal must be for a short film with a maximum duration of 20 mins. Your proposal should include a synopsis of your idea, relevant experience, and, if appropriate, details of your proposed production team. Entries are welcome from individuals or teams where the writer, director or producer is resident in Cornwall. To submit your idea, please email a two-page proposal and two-page CV to:

info@cornwallfilmfestival.com with GK10 as the subject.

DEADLINE FOR IDEA SUBMISSIONS: 31 January 2010

TIMELINE

15 Nov 2009
Launch GK10 at Cornwall Film Festival 2009

31 Jan 2010
Deadline for submissions

12 Feb 2010
Shortlist announced

22 Feb 2010
Interviews & decision

30 Sep 2010
Delivery

For further information, email info@awen.org.uk or call Denzil on 07886 723896

Film Competition - Govyn Kernewek Award 2010

2010-01-04T11:22:00.003Z

The Govyn Kernewek Award is a competitive annual commission of £5,000 to make a short film using Kernewek. The award is supported by Cornwall Film Festival, MAGA and awen productions cic.

What we’re looking for is a great idea for a short film that uses Kernewek (the Cornish language) wholly or substantially in an interesting way. It must be viable to make within the £5,000 budget and be completed and delivered by 30th September 2010. We accept ideas of any genre. The suggested title for GK10 is ‘Yn Termyn Eus Passyes’ (Once Upon A Time…)

SUBMISSIONS

Your proposal must be for a short film with a maximum duration of 20 mins.
Your proposal should include a synopsis of your idea, relevant experience, and, if appropriate, details of your proposed production team.
Entries are welcome from individuals or teams where the writer, director or producer is resident in Cornwall.

To submit your idea, please email a two-page proposal and two-page CV to:
info@cornwallfilmfestival.co.uk with GK10 as the subject.

DEADLINE FOR IDEA SUBMISSIONS: 31 January 2010

 TIMELINE

15 Nov 2009
Launch GK10 at Cornwall Film Festival 2009

31 Jan 2010
Deadline for submissions

12 Feb 2010
Shortlist announced

22 Feb 2010
Interviews & decision

30 Sep 2010
Delivery

For further information, email info@awen.org.uk or call Denzil on 07886 723896

www.cornwallfilmfestival.com

Cornish Fudge Company Rebrands

2009-12-30T19:40:00.003Z

The familiar Cornish fudge brand, Buttermilk Shop, are launching their new look packaging. Fudge shops are an essential feature of Cornish towns, especially the ones beside the sea, and Buttermilk Shop have been supplying them for many years.

Buttermilk approached local design company Pickle Design to give their traditional brand a fresh look, but wanted to make sure the Cornish nature of the fudge was not lost. The boxes and tapered bags display a picture-postcard style, illustrated scene of Cornwall, and the array of flavours are characterised by vibrant colours.

They have all your favorites from Clotted Cream fudge to Turkish Delight and a few strange ones to like Coconut Ice fudge! This range is soon to be appearing in their famous Port Isaac and Padstow stores, so keep a look out.

Riding Out The Recession

2009-12-20T15:33:00.005Z

"My adventures cycling from Cornwall in the UK to Cape Town in South Africa by bicycle" This is the title of Sean Maher's blog reporting his experiences, trials and tribulations of cycling day after day in foreign lands.

Sean himself confesses he is not a pro at cycling, and has never done anything like this before. His witty accounts, though, make the onlooker feel very supportive of his quest and routing for him to achieve his desired goal.

Sean took on this cycle ride because he was out of university and didn't have a job to go to, so he decided to make the most of this opportunity and 'ride out the recession'. He did not just do this for his own experience though, but raised money for some very worthy charities - Pump Aid who work with communities in southern Africa, UNICEF who look after children in mainly developing countries, Wooden Spoon a charirty working to enhance underprivileged children's lives and the Robert John's Leukemia Fund.

The world situation conspired against him sadly, and he is now back in Cornwall. To read about Sean's journey go to the Riding Out The Recession website. The last few days of his venture are interesting reading.

Marie Lawley

Grey Heron at Marazion

2009-11-29T00:20:00.002Z

Grey Heron at Marazion, Cornwall - 20/10/09

Looking out to sea at Marazion you observe plenty of turmoil in the restless waters, sometimes a bit like life. Take a 180 degree turn and you face the opposite in the tranquil waters of the marshes. Look at the water the heron is standing in in the photo above - not a ripple!

Bird watching can be so peaceful calming & relaxing. All you need is a modest pair of binns, a pocket bird book for ID and a little patience. Don't worry if you can't ID a particular bird...just ENJOY the bird.

The whole ambiance of the experience can be rewarding and there are plenty of places in Cornwall to visit. This month the fabulous starlings are putting on a full roosting display at Roughtor car park Nr. Camelford. My wife Steph & I were there last Sunday, there were 100s of thousands of them, what a spectacle! You need to get there at about 4pm. Don't miss it.

Norman Greaves

Result of the Caption Competition

2009-11-21T15:42:00.005Z

Thanks to all the people who added captions to this photograph. Norman has read through them and selected a winner.

The winning caption was written By Estelle:

"Now look 'ere, you said there'd be other gulls in fancy dress!..you mean I've got to stay in this swan costume all day?!..how embarrassing..."

Thanks for all your entries, we will definitely have to do another one soon! To see the others have a look at the original post here...

Just For Fun Caption Competition

2009-11-15T13:12:00.007Z

Regular Bird Watching Contributor to The Cornwall Blog, Norman Greaves has asked if we can find a witty caption to this photograph.

He took the shot a couple of weeks ago on The Camel River, near Anneka's Bridge in Wadebridge. He also took some other eye catching images when visiting The Lizard that we will be adding to the blog shortly. To get the ball rolling, he suggested:

"Out of the way shorty!"

Without being rude, I think you could do better...

To see the winning entry, take a look at the results here...

2 Day Video Dance course!

2009-11-08T23:21:00.002Z

Film maker Brett Harvey on working within the video dance medium.

“Video Dance” or “Dance for Camera” has established itself as a new and vital ingredient in the UK’s evolving film scene. Video Dance, uses movement in place of, or as well as, dialogue and is a rich medium that smashes the boundaries to redefine both dance and film, stretching our imagination and the way we think about what film can be.

This course is designed to detangle the world of dance for camera
The course will:
· Give you experience and confidence of working in a new genre
· Give you clear ideas and approaches to working in this highly creative area of film making
· Stretch your imagination and ideas of what film making can be
· Give you the chance to work creatively and collaboratively with a dancer
· Give you insight and experience into a vastly growing area of the film industry

Videodance can be seen on almost any media platform from iPods to feature films, commercials and television programs. Currently there are over 150 dance film festivals world wide that feature videodance work.

“It has been refreshing to be able to work on a narrative for film using on physicality rather than dialogue. I find you can work much more interpretively and collaboratively. For me, working with dancers has been a really interesting experience that has made me step out of comfort zones and take more creative risks!”

The course details:
Dance, Camera, Action!
Thursday 12th November 10am - 5pm and Friday 13th November 10 am – 4.30 pm
Venue – The Core Studio, Falmouth
An incredible opportunity for film makers to work with dancers on a 2 day course led by leading dance film makers Dan Faberoff and Becky Edmunds. Brought to you in partnership by The Works, Cornwall Film Festival, UCF, Dartington College and RELAYS.
Film makers and Directors will get the opportunity to work with Dancers and Choreographers
Cost: Freelance artists £45 (ticket price includes a £35 weekend pass to The Cornwall Film Festival)
Institutions £85 (ticket price includes a £35 weekend pass to The Cornwall Film Festival)

To Book, please email The Works on dance@dtcworks.co.uk or call 01872 261770 for more information.

Cornwall Photos: Wadebridge in the Autumn

2009-10-12T16:28:00.003+01:00

The Camel River in Wadebridge

A few shots from my walk home today in the middle of a warm October. Only taken from my phone, so apologies for the low quality. If you think you can do better or would just like to add a few to the blog, please feel free to email us and we will take a look at them. Submit Photos.

Bee Hives in Trenant Vale

The Wooded Lane at Trenant Vale

Local Chef Appears in MasterChef

2009-10-07T17:49:00.002+01:00

A local Falmouth Chef has been selected to appear in this year’s MasterChef the Professionals.

Dan Gvalda, Senior Sous Chef at The Flying Fish Restaurant, will be showcasing his culinary expertise in the ever popular series starting this week on BBC2. This years’ series sees Michel Roux Jnr and MasterChef veteran Gregg Wallace hunt for the young chef of the year.

Dan said: “Throughout my chef profession I’ve always dreamt of cooking for Michelle Roux Jnr and now that dream has come true! Being selected to appear on MasterChef the Professionals has been a highlight of my career to date and an experience not to be forgotten.”

Dan has worked at The Flying Fish Restaurant as Sous Chef for the past year. His chef training began at 2 Rosette level and he’s no stranger to master chefs after previously working closely with Master Chef Kalvin Clarke.

The Flying Fish Restaurant, situated on the beautiful Falmouth coast, reflects the very best of Cornish cuisine and style. Dan and the Flying Fish team create fresh and exciting dishes based on what’s landed on the door step that morning; fresh crab and mussels from the Cornish seas or wild garlic and lavender from the local forager.

The AA Rosette restaurant was selected to feature in the renowned Harden’s UK Restaurants 2009 Guide and also won Restaurant of the Year Bronze Award at the Cornwall Tourism Awards.

Dan will also be demonstrating his culinary skills at the Falmouth Oyster Festival on Friday 16th October at 2pm. The festival, sponsored by St Michael’s Hotel and Spa, will take place from 15th to 18th October 2009 and will be officially opened by MasterChef 2009 winner Mat Follas.

Follow Dan’s progress on MasterChef the Professionals Mondays at 8.30pm on BBC2.

Cornwall Photos: Morning Sunshine at Rock

2009-09-26T22:37:00.006+01:00

These two images were submitted by Nigel Linton of Poynton in Cheshire. They are very atmospheric photographs taken this week in Rock, Cornwall, of the marina and sailing club. Nigel said, "We were down for my nephews wedding; it felt like an extension of summer."

White River Place Scores National ‘Excellent’ Rating

2009-09-19T15:02:00.002+01:00

St Austell’s £75 million town centre scheme, White River Place, has joined an elite group of the UK’s top buildings by becoming one of the most environmentally-friendly developments in the country, it has been announced today.

Assessors working on behalf of BREEAM, the world’s most widely used environmental assessment method for buildings, have given White River Place a score of 74.16% and an ‘Excellent’ rating. Only a handful of the country’s retail schemes have reached this level.

The South West RDA (Regional Development Agency) is investing £31.5 million in the scheme, with the remainder of the funding from White River Developments, a subsidiary of Elan Homes.

Once completed, the re-development will include new shops, restaurants, a 550-space multi-storey car park and 69 apartments. The new four-screen White River Cinema and restaurant chain Frankie & Benny’s have already opened to the public, with others retailers in the process of fitting out their shops. The scheme, which is expected to create 700 new jobs, is on schedule to open on Thursday 29 October.

The scheme was given scores in a number of categories including management, health and wellbeing, energy, transport, water, materials and waste, land use and ecology and pollution. The development was praised for using responsibly sourced materials, a high content of recycled material, low energy technologies and for minimising air and water pollution, as well as encouraging the use of public transport and a green travel plan.

Gordon Brown, BREEAM Assessor at GB Sustainable Project Management Ltd, said: “When the project was planned back in 2004, it aimed for a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating, a demanding target in itself. To end up achieving the top level of “Excellent” is astounding. This reflects the whole team’s buy-in and hard work. I’m confident this development will show the rest of the country the way forward.”

Sandra Rothwell, Head of Regeneration in Cornwall for the South West RDA said: “This is fantastic news and underlines the fact that this project provides St Austell with an ‘Excellent’ development. It reinforces our aspiration to renovate an existing brownfield site into an innovative and stimulating town centre and unlock the business potential for St Austell and its wider area.”

Caron Thompson, Community Liaison Manager for Sir Robert McAlpine, seconded to the scheme from the Eden Project, said: “We are absolutely delighted with this achievement and it clearly demonstrates that the whole team involved in this project has strongly promoted and upheld the highest standards of sustainable development throughout the construction phase.”

Sean Finlay, Director of White River Developments added: “From the very start the whole team made a conscious choice to ensure sustainability was a key consideration. By sourcing materials locally and incorporating modern technology including rainwater harvesting systems, we have made sure that White River Place is a beacon for sustainable development in the region and across the industry.”

White River Place has already won a national award. Earlier this year Sir Robert McAlpine received a Silver Considerate Constructors Scheme 2009 National Award for ‘ White River Place’.

Retailers already committed to the scheme include coffee shop Starbucks, fashion outlets New Look, Peacocks and Bonmarche, high street bank HBoS and home and garden store Wilkinson.

Cornwall Photos: Red Arrows Over Fowey

2009-09-15T17:37:00.003+01:00

Here are a selection of photographs taken in August 2009 of the Red Arrows' display over Fowey. They were taken by David Julian and really capture the unusual light and drama of the moment, as they carve up the sky in front of ominous rain clouds.

Trannack School Children Brush with Acclaimed Artists

2009-09-04T10:15:00.000+01:00

Children from Trannack Primary School near Helston have been sharing their paint palettes with several of Cornwall’s renowned artists in advance of a secret charity event to be held at the Trevarno Estate and Gardens later in the year. Based on the annual secret art sale held by the Royal College of Art in London (which attracts the likes of Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin), the Trannack School Secret Art Exhibition and Auction will feature, in anonymity, the creative work of pupils, parents, teachers and dinner ladies alongside that of over thirty local professionals including Janet Judge, David Hosking, Andrew Giddens, Lucie Bray and Steve Slimm.

To ensure a level playing field, each exhibitor has been given an identical 8-inch-square canvas to work on - in any medium they desire. The final one hundred artworks will then be featured in a catalogue issued at the start of September and will also be exhibited at Trevarno on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October, prior to the auction on Wednesday 7th October. The artist behind each work will remain anonymous until the hammer falls, and all proceeds will go to the Parents and Friends of Trannack Community School (PFTC) to enable them to purchase educational resources for their small rural school.

In the meantime, the children at Trannack are hard at work honing their talents and several of the professional artists have visited the school to offer some creative insight and possibly eye up the competition! In addition to a workshop led by Newlyn Art Gallery, the youngsters have been given tips and advice on watercolour and oil painting techniques from Janet Judge and Lucy Brown, and have also been exploring the realm of 3-D design with assistance from Will and Sam Boex from Porthleven-based Boex/3D Creative Solutions.

“We wanted to find an unusual and inspirational way to both raise money for the school and give the children some first-hand insight into the art world, what art actually is and what being an artist is all about” says PFTC member Vicky Wiltshire, who has helped to organise the event. “We are delighted with the support we have received and we have some wonderful artists taking part. There is already a lot of interest from well-known art collectors although obviously we hope as many people as possible will place a bid. It is a real opportunity for the children to shine and everyone is very excited.”

Aside from Trevarno, which is hosting the event free of charge, several local businesses have also pledged their support including Arts and Graphics in Redruth (which donated art materials) and David Lays Fine Art Valuers & Auctioneers of Penzance. The Trannack School Secret Art Exhibition and Auction is also being supported by Cornish actress and art-lover Jenny Agutter.

“Trannack is a small school but this event is going to pack a big punch,” adds Richard Cox, Trevarno’s general manager. “We can’t wait to see the art on display here at Trevarno and I think it will be a lot of fun trying to guess which works are by the professionals and which are by the youngsters. I’m sure the children are keen to give them a run for the money and there should be plenty of surprises on the night. It’s a fantastic event to be a part of”.

Falmouth Sound Cancelled

2009-08-27T16:01:00.001+01:00

The two day live music event Falmouth Sound which was due to be held on 29th and 30th August 2009 at Events Square, Falmouth has been cancelled.

The following is an official statement from the organisers of Falmouth Sound 09:

“It is with deep regret that we announce that Falmouth Sound will not be going ahead this year. It has been an agonising decision on our part as we have spent so much time and money trying to bring this high quality music event to the town. Unfortunately due to difficult economic conditions advanced ticket sales have not reached a point that would warrant staging such a large-scale event. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our team for their hard work and those people who purchased tickets and supported the event.”

Ticket holders are advised to contact the ticket retailer they purchased from direct to arrange a full refund. Those people who purchased from the beach hut ticket office at Events Square will be contacted by the Falmouth Sound team shortly.

Marie Curie Cancer Care Launches The Cornwall Nursing Appeal

2009-08-17T14:34:00.002+01:00

With £250,000 needed to fund the Marie Curie Nursing Service this year, Marie Curie Cancer Care has launched its first ever local Nursing Appeal in Cornwall.

Marie Curie Nurse Cathy O’Callaghan, who is launching the appeal, is one of 27 Marie Curie Nurses in Cornwall who provides a free nursing service for terminally ill people who want to be cared for at home at the end of their lives.

Last year, Cathy and her colleagues provided more than 15,000 hours of care to people with cancer and other terminal illnesses in Cornwall.

Marie Curie Cancer Care has been campaigning for increased investment in end of life care and with increased awareness of the charity’s nursing service, demand is growing.

The charity needs to raise £250,000 to fund the nursing service in Cornwall this year.

Cathy said “Most people would want to die at home if they were terminally ill but only about a quarter of people get that wish. Cornwall Marie Curie Nurses want to help more people who live locally but we can only do it with your support. Every single donation, big or small, will help nurses like me care for more people in Cornwall. Thank you, on behalf of future patients, for whatever you can give”.

Working with the NHS and other local partners, Marie Curie Cancer Care aims to double the number of people with a terminal illness who die at home in Cornwall by 2013.

There are lots of ways you can support your local Nursing Appeal. You can raise funds through taking on challenges like trekking or mountain biking, volunteering your time, hosting an event for us such as a Tea Party, supporting our Great Daffodil Appeal in March or taking part in one of our exciting events like the Ladies Driving Challenge at RAF Portreath on Sunday 6 September.

For more information please visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/cornwall or call 01872 260500.

First shops completed at White River Place

2009-08-09T16:32:00.003+01:00

Two new shops have been completed and handed over as part of St Austell’s £75 million town centre redevelopment scheme – White River Place.

The final stages of construction are well underway and Sir Robert McAlpine, the scheme’s main contractor, currently has a work force on site of around 280 with building work taking place 12 hours a day, seven days a week.

£31.5 million is being invested in the scheme by the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) with the remainder of funding from White River Developments.

Wilkinson and HBoS have taken possession of their units to enable them to start fitting out the interiors - other retailers will move in over the next few months to begin their fit-outs. The 550-space car park for the scheme is virtually complete with lighting, line markings and services all fitted, ready to hand over to operator APCOA for the final stages.

Significant progress is being made on the residential blocks which will accommodate 69 apartments when finished – the external wall finishes are now well advanced which include coloured rendering, brickwork, locally sourced cedar boarding and sheet cladding. Concrete planters are being constructed alongside South Street which will be clad with Cornish stone walls. Paving is being laid through the main thoroughfare of the development together with installing slate pilasters which forms part of the new shop fronts.

All buildings within the White River Place development, including the service and delivery bays, have now been constructed and external finishes are being completed.

Sandra Rothwell, Head of Regeneration in Cornwall for the South West RDA added: “It is heartening to see such rapid progress by the construction team and to know that White River Place is well on course for the opening on Thursday 29 October. This is a really exciting development for Cornwall’s largest town, helping to unlock St Austell’s business potential and create new jobs in these tough economic times. The RDA is proud of its involvement and we look forward to its much anticipated unveiling later this year.”

Bryan Trethewey, Project Manager for Sir Robert McAlpine said: “This is now the final push to get everything finished in time for the opening in October. The fantastic progress that has been made on this development is testament to the hard work and dedication of the whole construction team involved in the build programme. We would also like to thank everyone in St Austell including the local community and neighbouring businesses for their patience and understanding during the construction phase.”

Earlier this year, Sir Robert McAlpine won a Silver Considerate Constructors Scheme award for White River Place. The project was praised for achieving particularly high standards of cleanliness, safety, accountability and the company was recognised for its consideration to local people for keeping disruption to a minimum.

White River Place will include new shops, restaurants, a 550-space multi-storey car park and 70 apartments. The new four-screen White River Cinema opened in December last year and Frankie & Benny’s opened in June. Other retailers committed to the scheme include coffee shop Starbucks and fashion outlets New Look, Peacocks and Bonmarché. Up to 700 new jobs are expected to be created once White River Place is finished and open for business.

Rick Stein’s Far Eastern Odyssey - Book Signing

2009-08-01T23:57:00.001+01:00

Far Eastern Odyssey is a culinary journey along rivers, through jungles and around coastlines. Along the way, Rick visits traditional family-run restaurants, street vendors, floating markets, night markets, fishing villages, and the local cinnamon and rice farmers to learn about the authentic food of the Far East, and to sample the delicious spectrum of exotic flavours.

In this tie-in cookery book to the series, Rick shares his new-found knowledge, recreating the tantalizing food of his travels and capturing on the plate the rich and varying cultures of the Far East.

With over 150 new recipes and breathtaking on-location photography, this book evokes the magic of bustling markets, exotic locations and exciting flavours.

It will be held at Stein’s Deli in Padstow on Thursday 6th August, where Rick will be signing copies of this book between 11am and 12 noon.

Rick Stein's Far Eastern Odyssey is currently being shown on BBC2, Thursday nights from 8 - 9pm.

Children’s Fish Cookery at Padstow Seafood School

2009-07-19T21:26:00.004+01:00

Get the kids into the kitchen this July with a fun fish cookery session at Padstow Seafood School.

Introduce your child to the pleasures of cooking with this short course especially for young cooks. This unique session encourages children to take part in cooking by learning the basics of fish cookery in a relaxed and entertaining atmosphere.

We find that our younger students always leave inspired after having a great time in the kitchen under the supervision of Padstow Seafood School’s experienced chefs. They have fun whilst learning important kitchen skills such as preparing fish and crab, making mayonnaise, filleting and pan frying!

The children’s fish cookery course is being held on Tuesday 28th July, from 9am - 12 noon and is aimed at children aged 8-11 years.

Padstow Seafood School is currently offering a 20% discount on this course, with prices reduced from £70 to £55.

For more information or to book your child a place, please contact the school on 01841 533466.

Falmouth Sound 2009 Announces Full Line Up

2009-07-11T22:47:00.007+01:00

Neville Staple

EVENT CANCELLED: See explanation in this post...

One of Cornwall’s most exciting new music events reveals its full line up for this August Bank Holiday.

As the end of the summer draws ever nearer, the Falmouth Sound team has given us all something to look forward to by announcing yet more big name artists that will be gracing the stage in Events Square, Falmouth on August Bank Holiday weekend.

Joining The Wombats, The Boxer Rebellion and Fink on Saturday 29th August will be Irish singer/songwriter Foy Vance, who has been likened to Stevie Wonder and admired by Pete Townshend. And as if that wasn’t enough bang for your musical buck, Melo Park – featuring Sian Evans of Kosheen has also been added to the mix.

Foy Vance

On Sunday 30th August The Wailers and Gabbidon have some familiar faces as support in the form of The Neville Staple Band (featuring two-tone legend and member of The Specials), Neville Staple) who will be accompanied by ska songstress Pauline Black. And last, but certainly not least, UK reggae pioneer and ex Steel Pulse manager, Pete King will be pulling some musical gems out of his record box that will be sure to get the Falmouth Sound crowd dancing!

Tickets which are just £29 for Saturday 29th August and £26 for Sunday 30th August, have been selling well even before the full line up was announced.

Further announcements on the daytime line up featuring local bands will be made shortly. Regular updates are made via Facebook and Twitter.

Rick Stein's Big Fish Supper

2009-07-09T12:47:00.005+01:00

On Friday 10th July Stein’s Fish & Chip shop in Padstow will be holding their Big Fish Supper in aid of the Fishermen’s Mission and have pledged to donate 3% of its total income on the day to the charity.

This is an annual event at Stein’s and all monies donated will help the Mission provide emergency welfare support to fishermen and their families 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. On average 25 UK vessels are lost each year around the coast often resulting in tragic consequences. The Mission has for over 130 year been a lifeline to the fishing communities around the UK.

"Working as a fisherman is a dangerous and lonely job that very few people comprehend. The Fishermen's Mission makes sure it knows the hardship fishermen and their families face and therefore exactly how to help them," - Rick Stein, Mission Vice-Patron and restaurateur.

Cornwall Photos

2009-06-28T19:52:00.004+01:00

View from the footbridge at Wadebridge

I took the photograph above on my phone a few nights ago, it was a very high tide and there were unique colours in the sky. It prompted me to put some photos of Cornwall on the blog.

Spring blossom in Waderbidge

Early morning in Padstow Harbour

Surfers at Polzeath Beach

Waterfowl on the Camel Estuary

Burncoose Nurseries Win 20th Gold Medal at RHS Chelsea Flower Show

2009-06-13T18:21:00.000+01:00

Dame Helen Mirren admires a King Protea plucked from the Burncoose stand

After months of planning, designing, and growing all of the hard work paid off this morning when Burncoose Nurseries received the news that they had been awarded a well deserved Gold Medal for their climate change garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The garden which is once again supported by Terra Firma, was designed to showcase the different types of plants that are suited to the changing environment. By teaming up with Tresco Abbey Gardens the Burncoose exhibit highlighted plants which thrive in warm, dry and windy conditions, as well as the more familiar shade loving species.

The garden illustrated how plants which have historically only been grown in areas with micro climates, like the Isles of Scilly and some parts of Cornwall, can now be tried in other areas of the UK as a result of the changing weather patterns and temperatures.

Owner of Burncoose Nurseries, Charles Williams, said “We are delighted to have been awarded a Gold Medal at RHS Chelsea, bringing our total tally to 20 gold and eight silver gilt.

Charles Williams (Burncoose Nurseries), Michael Hewett (Terra Firma), Mike Nelhams (Tresco), Dame Helen Mirren, Davie Tricker (Burncoose and one of the stand designers)

“The entire team has worked exceptionally hard to create a garden which showcases some stunning varieties of plants which thrive in different climatic conditions. We now look forward to the week ahead and a great show.”

Mike Nelhams, Curator of Tresco Abbey Gardens added: “It is wonderful to be able to link up with Burncoose at Chelsea to illustrate that many species of plant, which ten years ago would simply not survive on the mainland, can now be grown successfully if planted in the right conditions.

“The changing climate will have, and is having, a noticeable affect on plant species, this means that many more people are able to grow and enjoy more exotic varieties of plants in their own gardens.”

One of the leading medal award winners at RHS Chelsea, Burncoose Nursery has been exhibiting at the show 25 years and has won more medals at RHS shows than any other exhibitor. This is the seventh year in which the Burncoose exhibition has been sponsored by Terra Firma Capital Partners, a unique private equity organisation who are also generous supporters of youth charity The Prince’s Trust.

Each year Terra Firma uses their sponsorship at RHS Chelsea to support the work of The Prince’s Trust in changing young lives. This year Prince’s Trust Celebrity Ambassador, Oscar winning British actress Dame Helen Mirren visited the stand, she said: “I am delighted to be representing The Prince’s Trust at Chelsea. The team have worked hard to create this garden which links with the work of The Prince’s Trust and their ambition to help young people grow and develop in their environment.”

Working with the exhibition team this year is keen young horticulturalist, David Tricker, who recently completed a degree in Garden Design and Plantsmanship followed by a one year scholarship at Tresco Abbey Gardens. David’s time at both Tresco and Burncoose helped inspire the theme of the 2009 garden.

Dame Helen Mirren admires a King Protea plucked from the Burncoose stand

Charles Williams (Burncoose Nurseries), Michael Hewett (Terra Firma), Mike Nelhams (Tresco), Dame Helen Mirren, Davie Tricker (Burncoose and one of the stand designers)

Rick Stein to Cook for Redruth R.F.C. Gala Fundraising Dinner

2009-06-07T21:41:00.004+01:00

Rick Stein and his team of chefs from The Seafood Restaurant will be heading to Wadebridge this June to prepare a special dinner in aid of Redruth R.F.C.

The event, to be held at the Royal Cornwall Showground Pavillion in Wadebridge on Saturday 27th June, will be an opportunity for guests to enjoy a unique five course menu prepared by Rick and his team of chefs.

The evening also promises to be a true ‘Battle of the Ashes’ with talks from sporting stars Rodney Hogg, Australian quick bowling legend, and ex-England spinner Geoff Miller.

Dave Penberthy, Director of Rubgy and former player at Redruth R.F.C. said: “This is a wonderful gesture from Rick and his team and it is pleasing to know how much they believe in what we are doing at Redruth. The club strongly believes that its future depends very much on the talent that is currently developed through its youth structures and having support from individuals such as Rick and his team is inspiring.

“It will help enormously in our aim to keep a good standard of rugby at Redruth, and give our home grown players the opportunity to play at a high level. It also provides our members, sponsors and other guests the opportunity to savour an evening of high class food and listen to entertaining guest speakers especially as the Ashes Series will only be a matter of days away.”

“I’m delighted to be supporting the development of Redruth Rugby Club and its young players. Together we hope to raise money to secure the future of the club and the continued progression of the team,” said Mr Stein.

Individual places at the event can be booked for £100 per person and tables of ten can be booked for £950. The five course dinner also includes four bottles of wine per table. 22 tables are available and tickets are now on sale. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

For more information or to book your place, please contact Alan Nettle on 01209 313 990 or email alannettle@talktalk.net.

Jamie Cooks Graduation Lunch at Fifteen Cornwall

2009-05-24T17:49:00.003+01:00

Reservations are now being taken for a special fundraising lunch at Fifteen Cornwall, Watergate Bay, on Thursday 11th June, when Jamie Oliver will be donning his chef whites and getting back in the kitchen.

Returning to Fifteen Cornwall for the graduation of the latest apprentices, and to welcome in the new cohort, Jamie will accompany Executive Chef Neil Haydock and the team of professional chefs to create a sublime three course lunch using the finest local seasonal ingredients. Fifteen Cornwall proudly aims to use a minimum of 80% local Cornish produce.

In what promises to be a fun and relaxed occasion, Jamie will be chatting to guests to take them through the menu. Dave Meneer, Fifteen Cornwall’s CEO, will be on hand to give guests a chance to put some questions to Jamie over the course of the lunch.

Later in the day Jamie will attend a private graduation ceremony for this year’s White Hats (Fifteen Cornwall’s apprentice chefs) after a year of training and experience in the kitchen. Fifteen Cornwall is wholly owned by the registered charity, The Cornwall Foundation of Promise, which supports and inspires disadvantaged young people in Cornwall; it was the third ‘Fifteen’ restaurant to open, back in May 2006. The lunch does not include admission to this ceremony which is a private occasion for family, friends and supporters.

The graduation ceremony will see the launch of ‘The First 1000 Days,’ a report on the first three years in business at Fifteen Cornwall.

Reservations for this unique lunch are strictly limited and cost £100 per head for three courses, including a glass of prosecco on arrival.

To make a reservation, call Fifteen Cornwall on 01637 861000.

All profits from Fifteen Cornwall go to the Cornwall Foundation of Promise to fund the Fifteen Cornwall chef training programme.

Fire Fears Disrupt Truro Concert

2009-05-17T21:39:00.003+01:00

Fire fears disrupted a Truro concert held to mark 30 years of the city being twinned with Morlaix in France.

Organised by the Truro Morlaix Twinning Associaton, the concert was due to start at 3pm on April 18 in the Mayor's Parlour at Truro City Hall. However, just as the conductor stood with baton poised for the music to begin, the hall’s fire alarm sounded.

The audience, along with musicians from France and Cornwall, hastily evacuated the building. The concerned crowd then waited for half an hour in Boscawen Street whilst the fire brigade searched the building.

Finally the all clear was given and the rest of the concert passed off without a hitch, except for local cellist David Hoskin being temporarily stuck in a lift with one of the more mature French female musicians.

The orchestra – composed of members of renowned string group the St Mewan Sinfonia and Morlaix’s L’Orchestre de Patio – played a well received programme of works by Bach, Grieg, Vivaldi and Brahms.

The concert, which was free to attend, was the first of a series of events taking place this year to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the twinning of Truro with Morlaix in Brittany.

Sinfonia and Twinning Association members warmly accommodated the Gallic visitors during their three-day stay in Cornwall’s capital. In June the St Mewan Sinfonia will travel to Morlaix to give a return concert and enjoy the famous hospitality of the French Twinning Association.

Monsieur J. J. Cléach of Morlaix and Mrs D. M. Ansari of Truro instigated the twinning of the two towns in 1979. As a result of the union L’Avenue de Truro was opened in Morlaix in 1983 and Truro created Morlaix Avenue. Truro is also twinned with the German town of Boppard.

For more information on the St Mewan Sinfonia please call Sarah on 07817 746581 or visit www.myspace.com/stmewansinfonia.

To find out more about the Truro Morlaix Twinning Association please visit our website or call Ann Burnett on 01726 68896.

New Birding Scope

2009-05-03T21:55:00.005+01:00

If you are fortunate enough to live near the Camel Trail in Cornwall, no doubt you have had a stroll or bike ride somewhere between Padstow and Bodmin, maybe even ventured the full length. Whatever the case I am sure you would have delighted in the bird life found all along this trail.

I wrote previously regarding bird watching on the Camel Estuary, and recently I took the plunge and purchased a scope to enhance my birding. It took me hours of research, visits to optic demonstrations in the field, and advice from other users before I finally made up my mind on which scope to go for.

My decision?…Swarovski ATS 80HD with a 20 - 60 Zoom lens (pictured above).

No, it was not cheap, but I had been saving for some time and reasoned that I only want to buy once, and so in my research decided to get one of the best on the market. It hasn't let me down. In my opinion the optimum Zoom for clarity is around 35 - 40 times.

I am not a Swarovski salesman, nor am I suggesting you go out and buy one, but if you are in the market and undecided I know you will be delighted. Of course, you must try in the field first. Oh, one other thing...take a look at the moon, you can almost touch it! Happy birding with the naked eye, binns or scope.

Story and photograph contributed by Norman Greaves

New eco-business bucks the trend

2009-04-25T16:12:00.000+01:00

(L to R) Ecoco owner Abigail Billinge and Cornish Mutual Inspector Roger Hawkings viewing some of the products on sale at the new shop in Penryn.

An eco-friendly start-up business in Cornwall is set to beat the credit crunch by opening a brand new shop selling organic and fair trade jewellery and clothing supported by South West insurance firm Cornish Mutual.

Ecoco, based at Jubilee Wharf in Penryn, is the brainchild of 30 year old Abi Billinge who already runs her own on-line company, Absolution Saves. The shop, which opened earlier this month, is billed as a ‘showcase’ for a number of small, ethical Cornish businesses and products, including clothing made out of recycled plastic bottles from Penzance and recycled copper jewellery.

Abi, Ecoco’s Creative Director, says: “Everything we do is about Cornwall and supporting local designer makers and retailers – I’m keen to champion new, different and interesting things happening on our doorstep. I wanted to show everything in one place and make it as local as possible. I don’t think people realise the level of quality there is here in the South West.”

Abi, who designs and makes her own products, chose Cornish Mutual for her small business insurance because the firm was founded and is based in the county. The company, through its local Inspector Roger Hawkings, is providing public liability, contents and commercial insurance for the new venture.

She adds: “Everything about Cornish Mutual fits with our ethos and I want to keep as much in Cornwall as humanly possible. The company was my first port of call and the personal service and attention to detail has been fantastic. Roger has been hugely enthusiastic and confident in what I’m doing. It’s great that someone from Cornish Mutual has seen first-hand what we’re about; there was no call centre to deal with and Roger knows the local area and our business personally.”

Roger (pictured), who looks after Members in Falmouth, Mullion, Helford, The Lizard and Helston is keen to praise Abi for her entrepreneurial spirit:

“It’s a tough time for many small businesses across the South West at the moment and I think what Abi is doing with Ecoco deserves a huge amount of support and recognition for her efforts. We are proud of our association and history of helping local new and small businesses with bespoke insurance products and never has it been a more important time to get behind companies like Abi’s.”

Roger visited the shop in Penryn in order to understand the insurance needs and has been back since to make sure Abi had everything in place.

Abi says: “Roger assessed the situation for himself and could see that our shop is located in a new building. He was able to see that despite our location, there was no flood risk, unlike other national insurance firms who work remotely and don’t know the geography of the local area.

“This makes a huge difference – someone actually comes out and works with us to make sure we are happy. I couldn’t have asked for a nicer person to deal with and am very grateful for the service given.”

“There has been a lot of local interest in the shop, what we’re about and what we do - word of mouth has been invaluable and I’m confident that we’re getting off to a good start.”

Cornish Mutual has offices in Exeter and Truro, employs 65 Members of staff and provides insurance products for people and businesses across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset.

St Petroc’s Bistro Introduces ‘From The Grill’ Menu

2009-04-19T15:00:00.000+01:00

Rick and Jill Stein announce an exciting new grill menu at St Petroc’s Bistro in Padstow.

Rick Stein’s Mediterranean-style bistro is now expanding its menu to incorporate three new grill dishes, including an 8oz sirloin steak with pommes coq d’or, 12oz rump steak with tomato, mushrooms and thin cut chips and a special 16oz Chateau-briand for two to share.

St Petroc’s Bistro has always served simple, classic bistro dishes, offering a mixture of both seafood and meat options. In addition to the new grill menu, signature dishes such as the Parmigiana di melanzana, whole grilled lemon sole with mushrooms and brown shrimps, and escalopes of salmon with sorrel sauce will still be available.

Head chef at St Petroc’s Bistro, Paul Harwood, comments: “We’re really happy with the new steak dishes. We’ve sourced a really high quality Aberdeen-Angus with Charolais cross for the new grill menu, well-known for being tender, succulent and full of flavour.

“Our rib-eye steak proved so popular that we wanted to extend the grill menu and give our customers more choice. So far it’s been a real success, with Easter bank holiday being our busiest weekend yet.”

Film Premiere of "Stepping Into Shoes"

2009-04-14T13:00:00.001+01:00

Teenage Correspondents Report from the Healthcare Frontline

In a ground-breaking new film project, Stepping into Shoes, seven Cornish teenagers have been recounting their first hand experience of receiving medical treatment within the NHS.

The first film tells the story of three young people with long-term illness, exploring what impact managing their condition has on their lives. Seen entirely through the eyes of these adolescents, it reveals ‘matter of fact’ insights into the daily care regime for three teenagers with Muscular Dystrophy, Cystic Fibrosis and Diabetes.

Working with Cornish film-maker Hana Backland, the documentary uses video diary and interviews to explore the issues, challenges and good practice which inform their encounters with the health service.

The second film follows the journey of four healthy teenagers, recruited from Youth Cornwall, who report on their experience of hospital treatment. It examines the hospital environment from the viewpoint of teenage patients, captured on camera by film-maker Morgan Lowndes.

The straightforward commentary explores scenarios such as cannulations, navigating around the hospital and having a sexual health consultation.

Both films form the basis of research projects with Clinical Psychologists Dr Ian Frampton, Dr Sian Mckensie and Dr Abii McCormack to help improve the experience of teenagers in healthcare.

With children's services at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust having close to 20,000 contacts with young people every year, the issue of how to treat adolescents is high on the NHS agenda.

The Department for Health’s Standards for Better Health states that care should be ‘accessible and responsive’, and it is well documented that fearful patients are more likely to feel more pain, experience anxiety and recover more slowly.

Although patient forums exist for adults, it is currently rare for teenagers to be consulted in an age appropriate manner.

You are invited to the film premiere at 6pm on Tuesday 21st April, 2009 at The One-Eyed Cat, Truro. Light buffet 6pm.

To find out more about Stepping into Shoes, log on to www.realideas.org/steppingintoshoes

Business booming for St Austell’s cinema

2009-04-02T16:50:00.000+01:00

Cornwall’s first new cinema complex for over 70 years – White River Cinema in St Austell is gearing up for a busy Easter and will be preparing to welcome its 50,000th customer since opening.

Owners WTW Cinemas is reporting ‘consistently strong’ business with ‘record’ admissions during the first quarter of this year (January-March 09) and over the Christmas and New Year period. The two most popular films to date have been Academy award winning ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and children’s feature ‘Bolt’.

White River Cinema has been a huge success with local people and visitors to St Austell since the £3.5 million building on Trinity Street was officially opened on Friday 19 December last year.

Mark Williams, General Manager of White River Cinema said: “Our initial forecasts for business have been more than exceeded. We are absolutely delighted with the first few months of trading and have been overwhelmed by the support, both locally and regionally and from customers who have visited our cinema.”

Mr Williams continued: “It is fantastic for cinema goers in Cornwall that they have state-of-the-art facilities on their doorstep and can enjoy a new and comfortable experience when watching a film. The success of the cinema is good news for other retailers looking to move into White River Place and encouraging for Frankie & Benny’s opening soon”.

The company says that internet ticket bookings show White River Cinema is attracting audiences from across Cornwall including Newquay and throughout mid and east Cornwall.

White River Cinema is expecting audience figures to be high during the upcoming Easter holidays with a number of big releases out including the new Richard Curtis film ‘The Boat That Rocked’ starring Emma Thompson and Bill Nighy and Disney’s ‘Race To Witch Mountain’ and ‘Monsters vs. Aliens’

Mark Williams added: “We were very busy during January and the February half term and the awards season including the Oscars and BAFTAs also boosted sales. We are expecting a busy summer and the current economic climate means that movie-going is more affordable, it’s a relatively low-cost option for going out.”

White River Cinema is part of the wider £75 million St Austell town centre regeneration scheme which is due to be completed in the autumn. WTW Cinemas owns and operates White River Cinema in St Austell, as well as Truro, Wadebridge and Padstow.

The family-run business will submit a full planning application this spring to develop the existing Vic Bars site in Newquay into a new four screen cinema. A public exhibition will be held giving the opportunity for people to view the plans later this spring.

As part of its three year development plan, the company will also refit the existing Plaza cinema in Truro.

GMTV Travel News

2009-03-23T11:44:00.001Z

Breakfast news has yet again highlighted the benefits of holidaying in the UK this year. This time focusing on Bournemouth, but the point still applies to Cornwall. Take a look at the video clip to see what they had to say, for anyone interested in taking a holiday in Cornwall, or providing accommodation, it is interesting viewing.

See the clip...

So, we are going to see even more visitors to the South West this season, the question is, will we as a county take advantage of the influx or be unprepared? There will be a marked rise in foreign and UK based tourists, so now is the time to make plans to ensure they enjoy themselves, come back again, and do not just view us as a cut price alternative!

Two Thirds Of Tourism TVs Still Need Switching

2009-03-08T22:20:00.004Z

Many West Country hotels and B&Bs still receiving analogue, in fact, two-thirds of tourism businesses in the West Country have televisions that risk going blank when the region switches to digital later this year – at the height of the summer tourist season.

Latest research from Digital UK, the independent switchover body, reveals that only 40% of hoteliers and B&B owners across the region have fully converted televisions in all guest rooms – up from 27% in January 2007. A quarter of the respondents (25%) had partly switched to digital and more than a third had analogue only.

The research in the West Country region also found that:

• However, 44% of those surveyed in the West Country believe they are fully prepared for switchover or have upgrading to digital well underway.
• Only 12% have yet to make any plans.
• Holiday lets were the most likely to be fully converted and holiday and caravan parks the least likely to have taken steps.

Bill Taylor, South West Regional Manager for Digital UK, said: “These results are pretty encouraging and there has been definite progress with conversion since our last survey in 2007. Most of those not fully converted have told us they have plans in place.

“I would urge hoteliers and those in the tourism industry to prepare ahead of switchover, which happens next year. The vast majority of hotels, guest houses and B&Bs who have already made the switch have found it easy and say their guests have been happy with the extended choice offered by digital television.”

Malcolm Bell, Director of South West Tourism said: “Tourism is such an important sector to reach in the South West, as it accounts for a major part of the local economy. People expect a television in their room when they stay at a hotel or guest house. We are just over a year from the start of switchover in the West region and the tourism industry must be prepared.”

Teresa Timms, PR Manager for VisitCornwall said: “TV and internet services are becoming increasingly important when maintaining a successful tourism business. Switchover in the West Country happens at the height of the summer season and we don’t want businesses to be caught out – many businesses will want to plan ahead and budget accordingly, so now is a good time to think about your plans.”

Nicola Poultney, Chief Executive of Visit Devon said: “Torbay and South Devon will be the first areas of the West Country to switch, and I would encourage tourism businesses right across the county to start thinking about the switchover to digital television and how it will affect them. Digital UK is working hard to inform and give advice to this sector and it’s good to see that many hotels and B&Bs across the county are already upgrading ahead of switchover.”

Digital UK has set up a special hotline 08458 455 455 and website for tourism property managers www.digitaluk.co.uk/propertymanagers, which gives details on the process, how to switch and the likely costs. Letters will also be sent directly to tourism businesses with advice and information.

Europeans Holidaying in the UK

2009-02-20T13:14:00.005Z

If you were watching the breakfast news on the BBC this morning, you would have seen the clip included above; very positive news for those in Cornwall, and especially B&B owners. It is rarely good news when we hear that the Pound is weak against the Euro, but it has caused a flood of Europeans to visit their island neighbours.

Cornwall will benefit a great deal from the foreign visitors - with much of the economy based in the tourist trade - and along with those from across the seas, many are choosing to stay in the UK for their holidays. All of the accommodation owners I have spoken to have mentioned that their bookings are up, with many visitors choosing to stay for two weeks instead of one as they previously had.

The news report also mentioned the advantage of web based advertising to reach these visitors. Having a website for your business is now considered essential, the greater majority of consumers look for a business online first, even if only for contact details. In this time of economic uncertainty, it is vital to make sure that every aspect of your business is working at its best, and an effective online presence is very much a part of this.

It is good to see news reports that are picking up on the positive aspects of the financial climate, and as a businessman myself, it certainly helps to keep me focused. This is also a subject close to my heart - brought up in this county in a tourist related business, and now working primarily in web design Cornwall - but it is important and valuable reportage for bed and breakfast owners along with all sorts of other enterprises looking to take advantage of the influx of tourists.

Cornish Based Security Firm Working Nationally

2009-01-28T22:17:00.005Z

The Rutherford Group has recently been featured on the BBC news, their managing director, Ian Rutherford, interviewed regarding the new requirement for door attendants to have passed an exam. Although based in Cornwall, they offer security training and services nationwide, covering all of the UK.

BBC News Interview

They have also launched a new website recently, focusing on their security training Cornwall. This will feature up to date information on what is happening in the company, and also give visitors an idea of what to expect.

Bird Watching on the Camel Estuary

2008-12-13T18:57:00.002Z

Visitors from far and wide winter in and around the estuary that stretches from Wadebridge to Padstow. They can be seen all along the well known Camel Trail, and if you want a close, clear, colourful view of these valued visitors, the best time is at low tide with the mid-afternoon sun at your back. They of course are waders, wildfowl, gulls and an array of other exotic species that we are privileged to have an acquaintance with at this time of year.

Above you can see a shot of a Little Egret that I took on a journey to the waterside last Winter. My last visit was rewarded with a spectacular view of a kingfisher. It flew diagonally across the estuary, straight towards me and my wife, and suddenly stopped mid-air and hovered, like a Kestrel at the side of a motorway. We've often seen this little wonder but usually as it flashed by. This time with the sun behind us and in a hovering position he/she lit up like a rainbow. What a wonderful moment!

There are many rewarding moments along the estuary, one only has to spend a few moments to discover them.

Story and photograph contributed by Norman Greaves

James Cracknell Leads the “Get Home Safe” Initiative

2008-12-06T18:14:00.001Z

Stella Artois has found that up to 83% of us will get frustrated when trying to get home after a night out, due to not planning our journeys home in advance. They are encouraging people to make a plan to ‘get home safe’, which builds upon Stella Artois’ commitment to responsible drinking. This initiative is lead by former Olympic rower and gold medalist James Cracknell. James is certainly a man who all too well understands the importance of planning, especially as he is about to set off on a race to the South Pole with Ben Fogle.

“From my experiences I know the importance of making a plan and getting home safe so I was really excited when I was asked to lead the Stella Artois campaign. It doesn’t matter if you are heading to the South Pole or East Finchley this Christmas everyone should make a plan to get home safe.”

Gender seems to play a big role. 45% of men as opposed to 25% women will find themselves caught short with no way of knowing how they will get home. This is because, according to 76% of men, the most important factor of a night out is ‘having a good time’, whereas 64% of women rank a ‘hassle-free journey home’ top of their priority list.

To find out more about the ‘Get Home Safe’ initiative and to find transport links in your area, log onto www.gethomesafe.org.uk.

John O'Carroll Book Presentations

2008-11-29T16:19:00.001Z

New Book by Contemporary British Artist John O’Carroll.
Title: ‘John O’Carroll Art Works 1998 - 2008’

‘John O’Carroll has parallel careers as an archaeological illustrator with the Dakhleh Oasis Project, Western Desert, Egypt (an archaeological and environmental study) and in the Valley of the Kings, Luxor, as a contemporary artist working in the desert and by the Cornish coast. This book brings together a body of work united by an interest in time and place in landscape and the elements that shape it. It reveals a preoccupation with processes of change and interchange, illuminating a correlation between micro and macro systems. Although ostensibly impressionistic, the works are often rich in metaphoric potential. Through their treatment of the abstract and transient, they pursue what is essential and universal.

A key constituent of this is the sourcing of natural pigments, resins and waxes for use in the work. Followed by their meticulous, almost alchemical, preparation and subsequent application through ancient processes, such as Encaustic and Graffito. This labour and precision, paradoxically, lays the foundation for highly poetic, ethereal impressions. What emerges, however is a technical and conceptual sympathy, a dialogue between making and meaning. The employment of natural pigments and processes links the works physically, as well as philosophically, to their subject. So the work is not just about the landscape, but part of it. Not just representing light, but absorbing it, changing it. And rather than simply describing processes of change - wind, erosion, abrasion - within the subject, employing those processes to describe the subject.

The chronological structure of the book, ordered according to key exhibitions, offers a history of a fascinating practice that engages with landscape on a poetic, metaphysical and even anthropological level.

A notable and revealing inclusion is a Sufi poem (by Rumi, 13th century), that allegorically contrasts a richly decorated Chinese room, brimming with symbols depicting the full gamut of human experience, with a Greek room that achieves the same thing by polishing everything white! It is the latter approach that is celebrated in this work, rejecting representation in favour of something effortlessly more comprehensive, adaptable and democratic.’

Joseph Bouzaglo
Art Historian

Book Presentations
Saturday December 6th 2 - 4pm Book signing & reception at Padstow Contemporary Gallery, 3a Parnell Court, Padstow, during Padstow Christmas Festival, O’Carroll’s work will be on exhibition here through to January 15th 2009.

Tuesday 11th December 7pm at art@dl13 Galerie Roger Katwijk, Amsterdam.

Tuesday December 16th 6 - 8pm Book Launch & signing at Royal Cornwall Museum, River Street, Truro - with introductory talk by Rosa Fry, a renowned Egyptologist and John O’Carroll. O’Carroll’s work will be on exhibition in the foyer, and the new River Street Cafe, in the museum.

Autumn is Being Blown Away!

2008-11-23T15:02:00.002Z

I keep threatening to take my wife for a walk through the woods behind our house, the colours are stunning, but it looks like we are going to miss the boat! The trees are looking more and more Wintry by the hour, especially today with the chilling wind. She does have an excuse though, she's due to give birth in three weeks...

I am always quick to complain about the drop in temperature, but there are a lot of older residents who say that this is still too mild for late Autumn. Still, very wet and windy today, although Cornwall has a knack of remaining mysterious and beautiful throughout the seasons.

The rolling hills make a wonderful location for the many places offering accommodation. Not far from where we live the farmland becomes increasingly rugged at the edge of Bodmin Moor. Nestled into the hillside not far from Camelford is Steppes Farm, who provide luxury holiday cottages in Cornwall. Not far from the sea and on the cusp of the Moor, they are situated perfectly. Port Isaac, Boscastle and Tintagel are very close, and despite the rural setting, a main road to explore from is close by.

The Ultimate Minted or Skinted?

2008-11-15T16:42:00.001Z

Here at last is some good news for city execs under pressure, looking for an investment in fine art to shelter their hard earned cash….

In today’s climate, few could afford the £50million original, most missed out on the Sotheby’s £111million auction and many have credit which has finally crunched.

But fortunately Driftwood Gallery in Truro has come to their rescue, and proudly presents the ultimate "bling on a shoe-string" for the embattled collector –

In homage to Damien Hirst, the gallery, which was founded immediately next door to Damien’s restaurant on Ilfracombe’s harbour-side in North Devon, has commissioned a beautiful skull (fortunately not real) covered in exquisite diamonds (unfortunately also not real).

Made by the famous Jimmy Crystal of New York, the skull is in fact completely decorated in glittering Swarovski crystal.

Gallery owner Justin Easton explained that he had sold the work of Jimmy Crystal for a long time, usually in the form of jewellery and accessories, especially sun-glasses, all highly decorated with Swarovski crystal. Jimmy even makes sunglasses worn by Elton John, and as featured in Elton’s own store in Caesar’s Palace, Las Vegas.
Jimmy will decorate anything with Swarovski crystals just as long as it stays still long enough, but he seemed to need a challenge, so when Damien’s diamond skull “For the Love of God” was unveiled, Justin immediately suggested a skull with crystals to him. He heard little in the way of response, but was astonished to find, months later as he entered Jimmy’s office in New York, the decorated skull grinning up at him.

I think Damien will enjoy the joke he said – after all he did pop into our North Devon gallery himself, and buy several pairs of Jimmy’s sun-glasses a little while back, and as the skull costs less than ten grand it is in fact cheaper than Damien’s prints of the real thing! There are only ten of these currently throughout the world so he’s hardly likely to lose much sleep over that, and we ourselves are delighted to have got hold of this one for display, as it is the only one in the UK. By the way, if you want one for Christmas you had better order soon, because they take a while to make as you might imagine with all those fiddly little crystals to set in place.

So for the gift for the collector who has everything, why not pop down to New Bridge Street where the sun never sets, and see the crown jewels of the art world (possibly), - or at least an affordable equivalent (affordable in city exec terms, that is!).

Skating at the Eden Project

2008-11-03T09:56:00.002Z

The ice rink is back! The Eden Project have announced their Winter events and it includes the popular skating rink. I have good memories of it from a few years ago, having been coerced into going with my wife, Maria, who I was going out with at the time. Since then I got a taste for it, but struggle to persuade her to go again!

It is always encouraging to see venues in Cornwall that do not close down during the Winter months, I have always enjoyed the county throughout the year, and wish that there was more available for visitors during the shoulder months. Many businesses have a blinkered view of the seasons, but there is a lot that Cornwall can offer throughout the year.

From Heart to Stereo

2008-10-27T17:34:00.002Z

From Heart to Stereo are playing in Wadebridge on the 1st of November at the Swan Hotel in the centre of town. An excellent band playing very imaginative covers and originals.

This video does not do them justice at all, well worth coming down to see for yourself. The set list has a surprising amount of classic eighties tracks in it for a band in their early twenties, showing a musical maturity. It is also very refreshing to see these numbers performed with the energy of this extremely tight three piece.

Padstow Contemporary Art Gallery Autumn Exhibition

2008-10-21T13:01:00.001+01:00

Last week I mentioned that Padstow Contemporary Art Gallery was opening its Autumn Exhibition, and last Friday evening attended the private viewing. There was a warm atmosphere within the small exhibition space, welcoming as we stepped in from the crisp Autumn darkness. All the design team from Pickle Design attended, eager to see John O'Carroll's new work alongside regular exhibitors to his gallery.

The featured image in this post is called Damascus by Gareth Edwards, and is hung upstairs. His work in the lower gallery evokes the Camel Estuary, and the choice of media gives it the impression that it has formed from the boatyards and sands wonderfully. Simon Gaiger's sculpture draws on nautical mythology, especially memorable in the piece Charybdis, based on the spokes of a carriage wheel, and effortlessly conjuring images of the Greek sea monster.

Art Exhibition in Cornwall

2008-10-10T09:15:00.001+01:00

Padstow Contemporary Art Gallery is opening its Autumn 2008 Exhibition next Saturday, the 18th October. It features work by Gareth Edwards, Simon Gaiger, and, of course, John O'Carroll, the resident artist and curator.

John also has another exhibition running in Holland, Archaiologia, at Galerie Roger Katwijk. This is where, in a few weeks, he will be presenting his new book cataloguing his work from the last ten years.

Padstow Contemporary Art Gallery is located in an atmospheric alleyway in the centre of the town, and is open from 11am to 5pm daily, and 11am to 1pm on Sunday. The image above is "Grey Wing" by Simon Gaiger.

Camelford

2007-06-16T23:36:00.004+01:00

My father in law is always telling me what goes on in Camelford, and, frankly, I didn’t really take much notice as it seemed to be out on a limb. But I went along and took a few photographs and was amazed by the architecture there. It really does have a lot of potential.

The Tourist Information Centre supplied us with some details and history of the town and my wife put them together to make a Town Guide on the Eye on Cornwall website. If you are looking for more information on the town, drop into North Cornwall Museum, where the Tourist Information Centre is based.

Film Makers' Competition

2007-05-30T10:02:00.001+01:00

Devon and Cornwall Film are running a competition for film makers in the South West to celebrate the Free Cinema Movement's 50th anniversary.

They focus on the void that is quality cinema down here in the far west. If you are struggling to cope with the vacuous blockbusters and need some mental stimulation, take a look at their web site.

Cycle Hire

2006-08-16T21:13:00.000+01:00

There has been a boom in businesses offering cycle hire as more and more people look to healthy options for their holiday entertainment. Ski resorts push mountain biking as soon as the snow starts to trickle away in the swelling streams, and it is not just adrenaline sports fans that take the headlong trip any more. There is an ever increasing number of families looking for excitement in this way.

There may not be mountains in the South West, but there are a great number of companies that provide bikes to travel over the largely untamed landscape. A lot of these are based on existing cycle trails, but some now delve into the moors with mountain bike leaders. Coupled with cycle hire, this is a very convenient way to edge out of our individual comfort zones.

The very factor that puts many off cycling in South West, the hilly terrain, can be the most attractive reason to make the extra effort. Fitness is not the only concern, there is the unmistakable buzz that cycling gives you. Plus, the scenery cannot truly be appreciated whilst driving.

There are so many different levels of bikes readily available now, and if comfort is your concern, the suspension fitted as standard on new bikes should quell those worries. If you do not feel you have the funds, why not wait till the end of the holiday season and visit a cycle hire establishment and see what they want for their old bikes.

Holidays in Cornwall

2006-08-08T20:22:00.000+01:00

We are very much in the main season here in Cornwall, the beaches are packed and the streets are full of slow moving tourists looking at the view - murder when you are trying to get to work in the morning! My wife gets very angry when it is so busy, as do many locals, but considering the tourist industry is the largest source of income in the South West, I have a more ambivalent view.

There are many plus points to such an influx of visitors to a relatively small area, the sudden boost to the local economy not being the least important, but the season has become progressively forced into a tight time period year on year. One factor contributing to this has been the new policy for schools to penalise children that take holidays during term time. This has meant that parents will only go away during the six weeks school break, and are not able to take advantage of, perhaps, a short heat wave.

The effect of this reduced season also means ridiculously expensive prices for the two months of holiday, affecting those renting flats greatly.

Having worked in the tourist trade for a long time, I am also aware of the fickle nature of it when it comes to holidays in Cornwall. Advertising is maniacally pushed out at the beginning of the year, before Easter, then pushed throughout the summer, to dwindle and become practically non-existent come autumn. This creates a very unstable work ethic.

Perhaps the answer lies in trying to target markets that do not rely on school holidays and good weather to draw customers. There is so much more in the South West to offer than theme parks. If more were willing to diversify, we may see a far more stable and helpful environment to work in.

Ian Brown at the Eden Sessions

2005-10-06T17:41:00.002+01:00

The Eden Sessions were again superb, a fantastic venue and relaxed atmosphere. A friend of mine went to see Basement Jaxx the night before Ian Brown played, and said that the crowd were perfect.

Ian Brown was supported by Badly Drawn Boy and British Sea Power, and the whole evening was dedicated to a charity set up to help Kosovo. There was a young woman helping to raise awareness for the charity there, she had survived being shot 19 times.

I had not heard British Sea Power before, and was not really engaged by them until their final number. A man dressed as a moth-eaten bear came onto the stage, whereupon the band started to beat him up, and each other; swapping instruments and generally making a complete mess of the stage. That certainly got my attention. I have both of their albums now.

Badly Drawn Boy was excellent, but was playing to a crowd waiting for Ian Brown. This definitely affected his performance, but he still made the show for my wife and I. We saw him play at Eden two years ago, and have very good memories of the show.

The crowd unfortunately did not have the same memories, or much respect either. I can only assume that it was certain elements of Ian Brown's following that were causing the trouble, they were drunk on the way down to Eden, and just got worse. I have never seen any litter at the Eden Project before. They were very rowdy during the part of the show dedicated to the charity as well.

When Ian Brown came on, the crowd came alive. He has a presence. At one point he took off his jacket, and the crowd went wild, then went equally crazy as he put it back on.

He played most of his most popular records along with a couple of Stone Roses classics. All went down very well, although I feel that his solo music lacks something. About 60% of his material was attention grabbing, the rest was mediocre.

His percussionist is brilliant, the only other person on stage who drew any attention. The rest of the band could have been session musicians. But that did not matter too much, as Ian was so captivating. He held your attention, and has such a unique stage presence.

He, too, had trouble with the crowd, almost being hit by beer bottles thrown at him. He helped the bouncers to spot them in the crowd, and clapped as they were hauled out.

It was certainly a night to remember, and although not one of the best of the sessions, still better than anything else Cornwall has to offer on a normal basis - concert wise.