Technical difficulties with our printed version – please bear with us whilst we explore new avenues

Since this newsletter is jampacked full of photos and information, sending a printer-friendly version to people’s inboxes is proving a tad difficult – please bear with us whilst we explore new avenues.

In the meantime, please share this newsletter and help it grow.

We love receiving submissions from the wonderful people in our Parish. Whether that be from local businesses, community buildings/groups, institutes, clubs, artists, etc… the list could go on and on!

Please send submissions to newsletter@stagnes-pc.gov.uk

Check the submission tips at the bottom of this newsletter for more info.

St Agnes PC

Council news

Goodbye Lee!

You may have heard that our clerk, Lee Dunkley, is moving on to pastures new after being with us for seven years, we will miss him as he has totally changed the Parish Council and improved our standing in the county, having taken us from a staff of three to one of twelve. He worked hard on devolution projects such as taking over the Library and the toilets and he introduced a committee system into the running of the council more efficiently.

As he leaves he is helping to promote the concept of a new and bigger Library combined with improved office space but like all new projects, this will depend on achieving funding.

His place has been betaken by Catherine Nutting, a well-experienced clerk who you will read more about in next months issue.

Porthtowan public toilets

Due to the ongoing misuse of the Porthtowan public toilets, it has become necessary for the Parish Council to lock the building between 4:30PM and 8AM daily. We recognise that this is a well-used facility, and this decision will be inconvenient for many.

The Council is working in partnership with Devon and Cornwall Police and Cornwall Council, and will consider other measures, such as CCTV, to allow the toilets to remain open in the future.

St Agnes Parish Council strongly encourages anyone with information about antisocial and criminal activity to report this to the police, and to please consider signing up to “Devon and Cornwall Alert,” a two-way community messaging system operated by the police which helps them connect with the local community. Find out what is happening in your area and provide your local policing teams with the information they need to help them help you.

Previous meetings:

Planning (15/01/24)

Agenda

Minutes

HR (22/01/24)

Agenda
Minutes

Future meetings:

Full Council (05/02/24)

Environment and property (12/02/24)

Planning (19/02/24)

Mount Hawke Millennium Green

With the help of Inez Williams-King, Mount Hawke Millennium Green Trust has applied for the Green Flag Award.

The Green Flag Award scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world. Having a Green Flag Award is an excellent lever for obtaining external funding through improvement grants and is a means of maximising revenue opportunities from within the site.

Fingers crossed for us and our application! 🤞

A huge thank you to Inez, for her time, knowledge and expertise, your kind help is very much appreciated.

St Agnes Old Cornwall Society

The Old Cornwall Society started their 2024 calendar of events with a hugely popular talk by Clive Benney on the history of the St Agnes railway. Clive recounted how the railway ran from Chacewater to Newquay, with stops at St Agnes and Goonbell Halt.

Work started on building the railway in 1897. More than 300 navvies worked on building the railway, using horses, carts and trains to move the vast amounts of earth and stone that was dug out for the line. Interestingly, stone from Boddies Quarry near Trevellas was used to build bridges for the railway, as well as the Methodist Chapel in St Agnes.

Opening in 1905, 850 school children were given free rides on the railway to celebrate the event. The railway proved very successful, with a quarter of a million passengers riding the line each year at its peak. Despite the railway’s success it sadly closed in 1963, just 58 years after it opened, as a result of the Beeching cuts.

For those interested in local history, The Old Cornwall Society is open to everyone and meets at 7.30PM on the first Tuesday of every month, at the St Agnes Methodist Church.

Walking

– An article by our roving reporter, Ellie Boyden.

Walking is one of the most popular year-round activities in the St Agnes parish, and it’s not hard to see why considering our spectacular surroundings. A tramp around the cliffs is also a somewhat underrated form of moderate-intensity, low impact exercise with both physical and mental health benefits. The NHS advises that even ten minutes of ‘brisk walking’ a day can burn excess calories and improve stamina. Increasing your breathing and heart rate through regular exercise improves cardiovascular fitness and consequently lowers the risk of developing health conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Outdoor exercise also increases the release of hormones such as endorphins and serotonin, enhancing mood levels and reducing anxiety and stress.

Some studies have found that walking outside can increase wellbeing by allowing people to connect with their environment and ground themselves within nature. The walks in our parish embody this relationship, providing a way to understand our local area through appreciating its diverse wildlife and rich heritage. Taking any nearby coastal route you can be sure to see an extensive variety of flora and fauna that shapes the landscape year-round – whether this is blooming heather and wildflowers in the summer, or the russet coloured bracken characteristic of the cooler months. This backdrop also provides a flourishing environment for birdlife. As well as the typical seagulls, there are gannets, cormorants, shags, even puffins and birds of prey that dwell on the coast. If you’re lucky you could glimpse a rare red-billed chough, the symbolic bird of Cornwall, a small breeding population of which are nesting here again after a period of extinction. Looking out to sea, you may catch one of the seals that frequent local waters popping its head up, with the occasional exciting visit from dolphins and basking sharks.

There are also many historical objects of interest dispersed through this beautiful scenery that offer an insight into the past life of the communities within the parish.

The popular 4.5 mile coastal path route from Trevaunance to Perranporth begins with the dramatic view from the towering cliffs by Wheal Kitty, providing panoramic views over the beach and rocks In the winter, the village beach is mostly occupied by surfers and a few brave swimmers, as well as walkers, dogs and horses, with an influx of tourists in the summer.

However, in previous years the cove would have been bustling with industrial activities such as fishing, the importing of goods and the exporting of products from the mines. On the left hand side of the beach lie the collapsed remnants of the harbour, essential for sheltering vessels from the tumultuous Atlantic waters. Several attempts to construct and rebuild the exposed harbour spanned over three hundred years, originating with the initial efforts of John Tonkin of Trevaunance Manor in 1632. It unfortunately crumbled for the final time in the early twentieth century. Prior to this, the harbour was an important hub in the village, even being used to host entertainment on St Agnes’ annual Regatta Day where participants had to balance on a ‘greasy pole’ above the water. I would recommend perusing Clive Benney’s series of books on St Agnes to see photographic evidence of this game, as well as many more pictures and insights about the history of the cove and wider parish.

Heading over the cliff tops and taking the steep descent towards Trevellas Coombe, you can observe the remains of mining infrastructure scattered across the valley. By the start of the footpath leading to Jericho Woods stands Blue Hills Tin Mine, proudly ‘Cornwall’s only producer of tin’ that remains operating today. Although the visitor centre is sadly now closed, their jewellery and gift products, all sustainably manufactured from alluvial tin mining, are still sold on their website.

After a rather unforgiving climb up the other side of the valley, you emerge near Cligga Head, where there are more recent historical marks dating from the twentieth century. Trevellas Airfield, also referred to as RAF Perranporth, was constructed during the Second World War and became operational in April 1941. There were over twenty squadrons based here throughout the war, many of whom flew the iconic Spitfire planes. RAF Perranporth was an important airbase, undertaking defensive responsibilities such as conducting patrols to protect Allied shipping and coastal points, but also offensive missions attacking enemy torpedo boats and shipping, escorting bombing raids and sweeping northern France. Unfortunately the airfield itself was no stranger to tragedy, suffering some fatal accidents, including crashes into neighbouring houses. Although the unit closed down in 1946, the airfield is still used recreationally, and light aircraft can often be spotted flying overhead. The intact bunkers serve as reminders of its wartime history, although they are somewhat dark and eerie to wander through!

Taking the coast path due west from Trevaunance Cove will also lead you past another crucial wartime base in the parish. St Agnes Head has been used as a strategic training ground multiple times, both as a rifle range during the Napoleonic wars and as a Royal Artillery Anti-Aircraft Practice Camp during the Second World War. The first archeological evidence of weapons found on St Agnes Head (in the car park) actually originates from some 6,000 years ago, belonging to hunters from Mesolithic times!

A pillbox still stands at the side of the road down onto St Agnes Head commemorating the ‘Cameron Camp’ which housed many British, American and Canadian troops, especially in the run up to the D-Day landings. One BBC eyewitness account from a local girl, Barbara Kent, describes the vibrant social scene caused by the soldiers’ arrival, with plays at the garrison theatre, a popular cinema and regular dances in the Masonic Hall.

Turning inland back towards the village brings you over the impressive Beacon. Whether it is a magnificent, clear day, or dramatic and wild, standing on the very top offers a breathtaking vista spanning from beyond Holywell Bay to St Ives. The Beacon is one of a chain stretching the length of Cornwall, a fact we all know from the legend of Bolster, who could allegedly stand with one foot on it and the other on Carn Brea. In times gone by, the Beacon would have been crucial for quickly communicating messages across the county. While Britain was more exposed to external threats, such as the Spanish Armada, lookouts would have been poised to light the Beacon’s warning fire in the case of imminent invasion. It was also traditionally lit for annual midsummer festivities, and more recently on special occasions such as Jubilee celebrations.

Continuing in the other direction towards Chapel Porth, you will amble past the iconic Wheal Coates mine buildings, which were mainly active between 1802 and 1889. The picturesque Towanroath engine house features in many postcards. Exploring the ruins today, it is hard to visualise the busy operations that would have characterised Wheal Coates’ heyday, extracting valuable tin and copper minerals. This was just one of countless working mines within the parish, let alone the county beyond. Mining was one of the main sources of employment in Cornwall, and its considerable cultural impact is still felt today. The decline of the industry marked the emigration of hundreds of people from the parish, striving to make their living, to other destinations such as Australia and America.

It is easy to see why this area is quite literally ‘Poldark’s Country’. Not only was part of the series filmed amongst the striking cliff tops of St Agnes Head, but the surrounding landscape and its deeply rooted mining heritage inspired the novel’s storylines, following the fortunes of local people dictated by the unpredictable outputs of the mines. Indeed, one thinly veiled reference in the books to the town of ‘St Ann’s’ is clearly inspired by St Agnes. The series’ author, Winston Graham, lived nearby in a bungalow overlooking Perranporth Beach, where his memorial beach still stands.

There are many more historical buildings and remains telling the story of the St Agnes parish, that are able to be explored through our network of countless footpaths and bridleways. Walking through the rugged yet beautiful scenery provides a valuable opportunity to improve fitness, overall health, and wellbeing, whilst feeling even more connected to the wonderful and fascinating place that we are lucky to call home.

The Grower at Presingoll Farm

Tresspassers

Dear Neighbours, we need your help!

Over the Christmas period we have unfortunately seen an increase in trespassing through the farm and antisocial behaviour towards our staff. Our security cameras have also picked up on people taking photos of property; as we have in the past been targets of rural crime, this is something which is always concerning.

This is a gentle reminder that we are a working farm, on top of the obvious dangers and risk of injury from large moving machinery we maintain a stringent biosecurity policy as part of our nationally recognised environmental and plant health accreditation.

As producers of crops, livestock and trees biosecurity policies are in place to protect our land and livelihood from diseases such as Johnes and BVD in cattle, as well as Phytophthora in plants to name a few devasting diseases. This is something we take very seriously not only because it reflects best practice and the right thing to do, but because we are required to by our accreditation boards such as APHA and Red Tractor.

We are huge supporters of increasing public access to nature; evidenced by our involvement in the Saints Way Trail, open farm days and active management of several Public Rights of Way.

We want to work collaboratively and positively where possible with our local community. However, we do ask that our community respects that we are a working farm which means there are several measures in place for your safety as well as our staff in addition to biosecurity.

We ask:

Enjoy, respect and protect the Public Rights of Ways. Respect theCountryside Code of Conduct.
All official visitors are to ensure the site office is notified of yourpresence and that you have signed in – prior to accessing land.
Visitor vehicles are parked in our designated car park.

If you have any questions please email mark@presingollfarm.co.uk or contact@thegrower.co.uk to get in touch.

For more information, please visit:

St Agnes Library news

Jigsaws wanted!

St Agnes library runs a jigsaw lending scheme. Library members can borrow jigsaws free of charge for three weeks. Simply pop in and choose a jigsaw from our current catalogue, we have jigsaws for adults and children.

We would love donations of good quality, boxed jigsaws to expand our collection. Please bring donations to St Agnes Library. We especially welcome 500-piece jigsaws and junior jigsaws.

Thank you.

South West Water

A representitive from South West Water will be at St Agnes Library on the first monday morning of each month from 9AM – 12PM. Please pop in and speak to them about how you can save money on your water bill.

Upcoming dates are Monday 5th February and Monday 4th March.

Whales event for children

On Saturday 16th March, we will be welcoming back the St Agnes Marine Conservation Group for an event for children, all about whales. Expect storytelling and information.

More details to follow in next months newsletter.

Creating a parenting book library -Blackwater School

Blackwater School is embarking on creating their own Blackwater School Parenting Library. The staff have a range of parenting, behavioural and special needs education books that the school would love to share with parents to support their children at home.

The school realises that lots of information can be found online, however nothing beats a good book for evidence based practices.

The books will be well cared for and parents will be able to borrow the books for one month at a time.

Further details in poster, below.

If anyone would like to help the school with this worthy cause, click here to buy a book for the school from their Amazon Wishlist.

Young People Cornwall

College support hubs

Did you know we hold College Support Hubs across Truro, Penwith, Callywith, Rosewarne, and Stoke Climsland Colleges?

They’re totally independent and a safe space for anyone who needs to talk. If you or someone you know is at one of these colleges, click here to find out more!

Not at those colleges but still want to chat? We’ve got Online support sessions on our website every weekday from 3:30PM – 5:30PM. Plus, we host drop-in support sessions all around the county!

Mount Hawke TRA

Mount Hawke TRA went to the Oscars for NYE

Mount Hawke TRA went to the Oscars for NYE. The theme was fancy dress film characters. Everyone made a real effort and the costumes were fabulous! Oscars were presented for best female, best male and best couple.

It was a fantastic evening, come and join us next year!

TRA Library now open to residents of Mount Hawke!

Every saturday morning beginning 3rd February, Mount Hawke TRA Clubhouse’s library will be open to everyone in the village.

We have hundreds of books, many, many jigsaws and games for you to choose from.

Please come along and have a look!

Events

St Agnes Summer Show

February may seem a strange time to write about the Summer Show which will take place on Saturday 13th July. However, while the days are still cold and the nights are still long, it is an ideal time to work on projects to be entered in the craft classes as listed below:

Handicraft

A hand-embroidered greeting card – maximum size 180mm x 127mm
(must state if kit used)
A hand crafted greeting card – maximum size 180mm x 127mm
An item of woodwork
An item made from recycled materials
(please state original use)
An original hand-embroidered item
(to include design notes and inspiration)
An item made of glass
An item made of air dried clay
A felt Christmas Tree decoration
A book mark – any medium
A knitted child’s cardigan
A knitted accessory
(hat, scarf, pair of gloves etc.)
An item of jewellery – any medium
A crochet garment
A crochet item other than clothing
A head band/ fascinator
Any other item not included above
A Scarecrow
(family or group entry to be exhibited outside)

Photography

Black and white
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Sea and Sky
Nature’s Perfection
Photo of St Agnes for a Time Capsule

Art

A hand painted greeting card – maximum size 180mm x 127mm
Oil or Acrylic – maximum size 400mm x 460mm overall
(including any mount/frame)
Water colour – maximum size 400mm x 460mm overall
(including any mount/frame)
Pastel or drawing- maximum size 400mm x 460mm overall
(including any mount/frame)
Mixed media/collage- maximum size 400mm x 460mm overall
(including any mount/frame)

The schedule for produce will be available nearer the date, but there will be classes for Jam, Jelly, marmalade and chutney, and also homemade wine, homemade beer, and a flavoured gin or other spirit which may need a little time to mature.

The Spring Flower Show will take place on Saturday 9th March.

Caroline Palmer on Radio Devon, talking about her new book – The Time of the Cuckoo

Catch Caroline Palmer discussing her new book “The Time of the Cuckoo” on Radio Devon’s afternoon show, Thursday 1st February.

St Agnes Local Committee Cancer Research UK news

Our annual Christmas Market was held in the Church Hall, with mulled wine and stollen, wooden toys, beautifully crafted gifts, festive decorations and delicious cakes on offer. Thank you to everyone who supported us – your generous support raised over £1800. Additionally our stall in the Church during the lovely Mingle and Jingle evening raised a further £120. Every penny raised will go towards life-saving research.

Our group has been going for decades and many members have been with us for many of those years. Last month we said a huge ‘thank you’ to Mel Henthorn who has decided to step down from the committee after 40 years of hard work and support. CRUK Regional Relationship Manger Sophie Barber presented Mel with a certificate and long service brooch in recognition of her huge contribution over the years. Thank you Mel.

If you would like to join us or even just help out at our events do get it touch, we would love to hear from you.

Please email chapelporth.jackie@gmail.com

Coming up in 2024:

Friday 1st March 2024, Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM for 7.30PM

By way of a ‘thank you for your continuing support’ you are invited to a special evening where we will learn more about how the monies raised is used by CRUK.

How supporting Cancer Research UK in St Agnes is powering progress to fund life-saving research. A presentation by Prof John Hartley (UCL Cancer Institute London) and Dr David Tucker (Haematology Royal Cornwall Hospital) will speak about the latest research and results.

Please secure your complimentary tickets by emailing glenysbromage@hotmail.com, tickets are also available from Churchtown Stores and CP&S Newsagents.

Saturday 9th March 2024, Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM

Our ever popular quiz. Get the date in your diary and book your table early. More information to follow.

We look forward to welcoming you to these events.

Blackwater Village Trust (BVT) in need of volunteers!

The BVT AGM is on Tuesday 12th March, 7PM in the Passmore Edwards Institute, Blackwater. The secretary has been notified of two vacancies and the BVT is looking for volunteers who may wish to join the Trust.

If anyone would like to know more about what being a trustee involves, they can email the secretary at dean.evans5@gmail.com, or alternatively DM the village Facebook page.

Canteen comes to Mount Hawke!

It’s the worst-kept secret that we are opening up a second space in Mount Hawke!

All being well – we will be open for Easter.

This means the Canteen team is looking to expand. Looking for all roles, including experienced chefs and baristas. You can have all the experience in the world, or this can be you first time working in hospitality. We are just looking for kind, emotionally intelligent, hard workers.

We also always on the look out for people to top up our events team, so if you fancy a summer on the road – get in touch.

Drop chloe@canteencornwall.com an email with a copy of your CV, a bit about you and the type of role and working hours you would be keen for!

Nervous System Reset Sessions

Relax, unwind and slow your busy mind down at our next Nervous System Reset Session for parents.

When: Monday 26th February , 12PM or 8.30PM
Where: Online

These Nervous System Reset Sessions are designed to guide your nervous system from a state of stress, to a state of soothe.

A specially curated blend of breathwork, meditation and visualisation to help you unwind, quieten your mind, feel less stressed and more relaxed and connect to feelings of joy and happiness.

Book here and use code BOLSTER to receive 10% off your first session.

Conscious & Calm supports parents to use effective CBT-based strategies to take care of their own emotional well-being and support their children’s developing mental health. Contact hello@consciousandcalm.com for more information.

Fresh local pork for sale in Mount Hawke

Seedy Saturday at Mount Pleasant Eco Park

Man Down comes to the Parish

Blackwater Village Spring Show

Valentine’s Day at Porthtowan Village Hall – Grapefruit Moon

Gaz Brookfield live at Porthtowan Village Hall

Rotary Club Scrap Metal

St Agnes Museum AGM

Community Calendar

2nd February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 3:30PM – 6:30PM
Friday 4 O’Clock Club – Kids Yoga with Micheline, £3 per child, dinners available, book in advance on MMI website.

3rd February 2024
Mount Pleasant Eco Park, 11AM
Seedy Saturday – Swap some seeds or choose from our collection. Network, share wisdom and learn from experts. Kids crafting available. Free event.

3rd February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 10AM – 4PM
St Agnes Food and Crafts Market. Artistic creations and yummy treats from talented local stallholders.

3rd February 2024
Mount Hawke TRA Clubhouse, 8PM
Charity quiz night and raffle to raise funds for Cornwall Air Ambulance. £2 per person, teams of up to six people.

6th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM – 11PM
Pool Party! Weekly Games Night with pool, table tennis, and darts in a fun and friendly atmosphere, £3 donation.

9th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM – 10PM
Charity Valentine’s concert for St Agnes and Perranporth Rotary Club, £5 per ticket (on the door or through Eventbrite).

12th February 2024
Mount Hawke TRA Clubhouse, 12PM
TRA Film Club presents: Message in a Bottle. A film with lunch – homemade soup, bread roll and cake. £5 per person. Film only, £3.50 per person. Please book.

12th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7:30PM
Community Cinema Night Showing: ‘Liquorice Pizza’. £4 donation on the door.

13th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM – 10PM
Pool Party! Weekly Games Night with pool, table tennis, and darts in a fun and friendly atmosphere, £3 donation.

16th February 2024
The Grower with Presingoll Farm, St Agnes 11AM
Help us plant a hedge to create vital habitat, improve air quality and come and meet The Grower team to learn more about what we’re doing. Pasties, hot drinks and sweet treats will be provided, as well as all planting equipment. Please RSVP with name, number of people attending and any allergies to contact@thegrower.co.uk, and come wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.

16th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 3:30PM – 6:30PM
Friday 4 O’Clock Club – Bonkers Bingo with Rob, £3 per child, dinners available, book in advance on MMI website.

17th February 2024
Mount Hawke TRA Clubhouse, 5:45PM
Kids bingo, with bar open for adults. £1 per child.

20th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM – 10PM
Pool Party! Weekly Games Night with pool, table tennis, and darts in a fun and friendly atmosphere, £3 donation.

21st February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7:30PM
An Evening of More Surf and Sea Poetry with the Morvoren Poets & Afternoon workshop. Tickets £5/7.50.

24th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7:30PM
Jazz at the MMI presents: The Blue Ray Band! Playing the music of Tony Bennett and Diana Krall. Tickets £6/8/10.

26th February 2024
Online class, 12PM or 8:30PM
Nervous System Reset Sessions by Conscious & Calm. Book through their website.

27th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM – 10PM
Pool Party! Weekly Games Night with pool, table tennis, and darts in a fun and friendly atmosphere, £3 donation.

28th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7:30PM
Community Cinema Night Showing: “Oppenheimer.” £4 donation on the door.

29th February 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7:30PM
Power to the Meeple – St Agnes’ Board Game Night! £4 donation.

1st March 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM
St Agnes Local Committee Cancer Research presentation – How are funds used?

2nd March 2024
Porthtowan Village Hall, 7:30PM
Following the success of his previous village hall tour back in Feb 2023, and the release of his top ten album, Morning Walking Club, Gaz Brookfield takes to the road once more. Buy tickets here.

9th March 2024
Miners & Mechanics’ St Agnes, 7PM
St Agnes Local Committee Cancer Research UK quiz.

Submission Tips

If you have something to submit, whether it be an event, poster, write-up or some photographs, there are a couple of things that make it easier and more streamlined for the editor:

Some text lightly formatted in an email with photos attached is brilliant – images can be saved and uploaded, and text can be copied and pasted.
If you have an event for the calendar, please make sure it has location, time and date, with a brief description of what it is.
If you have an event poster, it is easiest uploaded if it is a PNG. PDFs are okay, but PNG is a lot quicker.
Rather than reply to last months email, please send a new email with a different subject title than the last.
Remember – not everyone has social media, and some may be reading printed copies of this newsletter.

Useful resources

St Agnes Parish Council website

St Agnes PC meeting minutes

St Agnes Parish Council Facebook

St Agnes Library Facebook

St Agnes Parish Community Calendar Facebook

Cornwall Council list of community minibuses

Mount Hawke Millennium Green Trust Facebook

Porthtowan Village Hall

St Agnes MMI website

The Beacon

A new online resource bringing local news to St Agnes Parish.

Following in the footsteps of sadly discontinued The Bolster, its aim is to serve the community with updates from around the parish.