Business Cornwall June 25

Truro & Penwith College

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Employ your next Apprentice with one of the Country’s Top Providers* and ATA National Apprenticeship Provider of the Year 2025.

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PAPER REVOLUTION

71% of paper and 82% of paper-based packaging is recycled into new products; one of the highest recycling rates of any material in Europe!

Sources: CEPI Key Statistics, 2022 and Eurostat, 2020. Europe: EU27 + Norway, Switzerland and the UK.

® Discover the story of paper www.lovepaper.org

Scan for paper facts, activities, blogs and much more!

Climate change and a tough economy present challenges to Cornwall’s rural businesses

PLANNING What happens to your business when you retire?

brightest young business stars.

Regulars

04 THE BIG QUESTION What advice would you give to your younger self?

NEWS

if…’ wonders Chamber CEO John Brown

Harland on acquisition trail 38 JUST A THOUGHT 30u30 Class of 24 winner, Emily Davidson

ON THE MOVE Who’s gone where?

WELCOME

By editor Nick Eyriey

Cornwall’s 30 under 30

I remember nine years ago, sitting down over lunch at the Blue Bar in Porthtowan with then Cornwall Chamber CEO Kim Conchie and COO Mel Colton-Dyer, first discussing plans to launch an awards-type scheme to celebrate some of the Duchy’s burgeoning young business talent.

I don’t think any of us thought Cornwall’s 30 under 30 would grow to become the success that it is today and last month Cornwall Chamber announced the ninth cohort at a glittering ceremony at the Atlantic Hotel in Newquay.

Some of the achievements of this year’s recipients are quite extraordinary and make me think that maybe I spent too much time down the pub in my younger days! Turn to page 30 for a full rundown on the 30 under 30 Class of 25!

Also in this issue, with the Royal Cornwall Show in mind, we shine the light on the Duchy’s agricultural sector.

On page 18 Nicola Smith, against a backdrop of climate change and a tough economy, examines some of the challenges the sector faces, while on page 10, I meet dairy farmers Rachel and Chris Knowles, who certainly present a modern face of farming.

Chris and Rachel Knowles from Trink Dairy – see page 10.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

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Your charity, saving lives

Could your business partner with Cornwall Air Ambulance?

Every mission to a critically ill or injured patient is only made possible thanks to the unwavering support of our community and our dedicated business partners.

Your business could soar to new heights through developing a partnership with us. You’ll not only be giving back to the local community but also investing in a mutually valuable partnership, whilst making a lifesaving impact. There are exciting partnership opportunities ranging from being a Platinum Partner, sponsorship of an event or nominating us as your charity of choice.

Meet Cornerstone: one of our valued Platinum Partners

Cornerstone are the UK’s leading mobile infrastructure provider who work tirelessly to enable coverage and capacity, ensuring that residents, businesses and visitors alike can stay connected when it matters most.

Cornerstone have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the charity. Their generous support has directly contributed to the vital funds needed for the ongoing operational costs that keep your crew and helicopter flying. Beyond their financial contribution, Cornerstone actively engage with our mission, participate in fundraising events and raise awareness within their own network. Their dedication truly exemplifies the power of partnership in saving lives.

At Cornerstone we are incredibly proud of our partnership with Cornwall Air Ambulance, helping to raise awareness of the importance of connectivity when people are in need of critical care.

Pat Coxen, Cornerstone CEO www.cornerstone.network

Do you want your business to soar and save lives with us?

Please get in touch with Julia Jeffery, Corporate Partnerships Manager at fundraising@cornwallairambulancetrust.org

THE BIG QUESTION

What one piece of business advice would you give to your younger self?

CATHERINE MEAD

Lynher Dairies

Like many others, happen chance took me into my business, a case of being in the right place at the right time. Wrapped up in excitement I don’t remember spending so much time considering what growth looked like. It was a time when growth was the word on the street, the first question of every visiting politician or advisor would be “how much are you growing” to the point that I too became as focussed as they were on growth. I didn’t think too long and hard about the why or even the risks associated with rapid growth. Growth can be expensive and whilst the business was getting bigger, our products more visible and our employment numbers increasing from 2007 to 2017 our gearing increased such that further down the line it put significant pressure on the business. In 2020 when the economy was turned upside down, and we had no choice but to think differently, it presented a moment in time to really reflect hard on the “why” of growth. To experience no growth is to go backwards. Sustainable managed growth presents a stronger more resilient business.

JAMES HODGSON

Hodgsons

Believe in yourself. Do your research, take advice and proceed with confidence. When things don’t work out, learn from the experience and make sure you celebrate the positives.

ALEX GODFREY

The Lost Line

Embrace your unique journey, prioritise your wellbeing and don’t be afraid to take risks. Focus on your passions, learn from your mistakes and trust your intuition. Remember that your worth isn’t defined by external validation or societal expectations, but by your own values and choices. Running your own business comes with challenges, but the flexibility, freedom and sense of ownership it gives you is unmatched.

JOHN SMITH

Blumin

If I could offer one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be: never stop learning and adapting. The creative world moves fast; tech evolves, platforms shift, and the way people engage changes constantly. Don’t rest on your laurels. Stay curious, upskill often, and embrace change - but never at the expense of people. Even as digital becomes fundamental to business operations, relationships remain everything. Good manners, ethical practice, and genuine care for the people you work with still go a long way.

I’d also say - don’t overthink the risks. Launching a business with your best mate and colleague won’t be reckless; 18 years later, you’ll realise it was the best decision you made! And that move to the other end of the country? It won’t weaken what you’ve built. If anything, it’ll give you space to grow strongerpersonally and professionally.

JONATHON JONES

Tregothnan

Don’t rest on your laurels. Stay curious, upskill often, and embrace change.

Be brave - especially with those who assert themselves as experts. Too many people end up in positions of authority with no real desire to help others or improve things. Don’t let their certainty derail your progress. Trust your instincts, ask better questions, and challenge the status quo early, it could save you years. Get the best analysis fast. For me, it was Plimsoll board reports—their clarity and speed can transform decision-making and accelerate business massively.

And finally: sell to the world. The market is global. Don’t worry about tariffs or taxes - if your product or service is brilliant, the world wants it. So sell it.

WHAT IF...?

Cornwall has every opportunity to prototype the future instead of waiting for it, says Chamber CEO, John Brown.

At last month’s Finance in Cornwall conference, I invited our investors, entrepreneurs and civic leaders to consider three different mindsets. Inspired by economist, author, entrepreneur (and mate), Rupert Morrison, these three mindsets are: What was, What if, and What now.

WHAT WAS

Opportunity without focus becomes noise.

Cornwall’s story is astonishing. We powered the industrial revolution, our fishermen and farmers fed nations, and for the last few decades we benefited from some of the largest per-capita flow of funds in the UK and EU. We should take pride in that legacy, yet a rear-view mirror is not a roadmap.

Assuming that the grants from yesterday will continue tomorrow breeds complacency. What’s more, clinging onto a historic vision of Cornwall will keep us stagnant. Instead, heritage should inspire us and motivate us, not lull us into hoping that another cheque will magically arrive.

WHAT IF

Cornwall has every asset needed to become a ‘what if’ economy. An economy that prototypes the future instead of waiting for it. Let’s frame some of these opportunities.

Take food security, in 1,300 square miles we should be steering the opportunities associated with nurturing our land and our people by reimagining what fair farming looks like for the future of UK food. Falmouth has the opportunity to be central to energy

security, becoming the marshalling yard for the Celtic Sea floating-offshore-wind opportunity. Get it right and we secure a deep and meaningful supply chain.

Local manufacturers are already exploring the potential of servicing some of the £400m innovation opportunities in defence that were announced at the Spring statement. Combine that with our satellite communications assets and our military footprint and it’s easy to see how Cornwall becomes intrinsic to defence security.

Add critical minerals and metals and our story deepens, where the opportunity for homegrown lithium, tin and other minerals and metals reduce the reliance on an uncertain geopolitical environment and strengthens our ability to usher in an electrified future.

Blend these scenarios with a vibrant creative and cultural scene and a tourism industry reshaped for the experience economy and we add another extraordinary couple of pieces to an already vibrant puzzle.

This ‘what if’ economy has ambition, is perfectly aligned to the Government’s own industrial strategy and can shape a future that welcomes both the seasonal spikes and the year-round commercial opportunities.

WHAT NOW

Opportunity without focus becomes noise, and we are still too noisy. On any given day Westminster or a potential investor might receive half-a-dozen interpretations of what Cornwall can be. Each passionate and mutually inconsistent. When messages clash, confidence drains away and the county is reduced to a caricature.

Our immediate task is disciplined clarity. We need a single investable narrative that sets out nearterm deliverables and long-term horizons, owned collectively even if not everyone’s cherished project makes the final cut. Commitment is what we need, not unanimous approval.

Cornwall has always been a place where boundaries and challenges dissolve and assets are brought together in an unusual but exciting fashion. Sea and land, industry and artistry, myth and technology. The markets we need to serve clean energy, food security, critical minerals, defence resilience, digital and creative innovation and experiential tourism are actively looking for regions that can prove high-trust collaboration. Let us show them that place.

History and nostalgia will always be a gift that keeps on giving but let’s not use them as an excuse to stay still but as a reason to push forward with purpose and consistency.

WHY JOIN? Cornwall Chamber of Commerce is an independent not-for-profit organisation accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce. We solely exist to represent businesses in Cornwall. Our events provide a platform for businesses to connect, create and make valuable business relationships. Membership to the Chamber starts from as little as £17 +VAT per month and provides you with the tools to promote your business. Get in touch today to have a chat about how we can support you and your business.

Email: hello@cornwallchamber.co.uk Online: www.cornwallchamber.co.uk

HARLAND ACQUIRES HELSTON FIRM

Harland Chartered Accountants has expanded by acquiring Helston and Falmouth-based firm Paul & Maundrell.

Deborah Edwards, practice director at Harland, said: We’re excited to welcome the team into the Harland family and to build

on the strong foundations that Colin and Simon have established over the years. In the short term, it’s very much business as usual.”

Paul & Maundrell employs ten staff across its offices in Helston and Falmouth. The team will work alongside Harland’s existing workforce of 15, across offices in Falmouth, Newquay and St Austell.

APPEAL REACHES TARGET

Cornwall Air Ambulance has reached its £2.85 million target for a second helicopter.

This is a landmark moment for Cornwall’s lifesaving charity and will enable Cornwall Air Ambulance to attend more of its missions by air, including during periods of aircraft maintenance, as well as help many more patients for years to come.

The second high-specification AW169 is now undergoing its medical fit - the build in the rear cabin which enables the crew to bring the ‘hospital’ to scene. Essentially, it is all the components needed to turn the air

ambulance into a fully kitted out critical care resource.

Once complete, it will go into operation and take to the skies over Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly later this summer.

Chief executive, Tim Bunting, said: “This is a seismic moment in the charity’s history, for the first time owning two helicopters. We are beyond thrilled to have reached the target to provide this second lifesaving aircraft for the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

“This has only been possible thanks to the incredible community spirit of our county, and to all the people far and wide who have donated and made this a reality.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

China Fleet Country Club has installed a new ground-mounted 600kW solar array. Located just over one kilometre from the main site on the outskirts of its golf course, the project, delivered in partnership with ZLC Energy, has been made possible through £260k in funding from Good Growth Shared Prosperity Fund.

The Welsh Government has completed a £2 million equity investment in Cornwall-based tidal energy firm Inyanga Marine Energy Group. The investment will help test improved tidal turbines in real sea conditions at the Morlais tidal energy site Anglesey.

Tregothnan’s recent Open Garden Weekend raised £65k to help The Women’s Centre Cornwall, a charity supporting women and girls living with the impact of domestic and sexual abuse. The event saw over 4,000 visitors take up the once-a-year opportunity to pass through Tregothnan’s private gates and experience one of Cornwall’s finest botanical gardens.

Dash Drive, the vehicle rental arm of The Dash Group, has announced the opening of a second site. Strategically positioned to serve Plymouth and east Cornwall, the new half-acre site in Saltash increases accessibility to both short- and long-term vehicle hire for businesses and individuals alike.

Launceston-based lender, Folk2Folk, has announced unaudited results for the year ending January 31, achieving its highest-ever turnover and a sixth consecutive year of profitability. The platform reported turnover of £6.16 million, an increase of 17% from the previous year and pre-tax profit of £1.84 million, up 43% from FY 2023.

A consortium led by Morek Engineering and including partners Solis Marine Engineering, Tope Ocean, First Marine Solutions and Celtic Sea Power has unveiled an innovative design concept for a new vessel class for the Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) market.

BREWERY GREEN DRIVE

St Austell Brewery has launched an ambitious recycling initiative to reduce the general waste in its managed pubs by 80%.

The scheme, in partnership with waste management company, Biffa, includes the introduction of a streamlined waste system across St Austell Brewery’s 45 managed pubs.

Teams across the company’s south west pub estate are aiming to double the amount of waste being recycled as part of the plan, with a goal of hitting the 80% target by the end of the year. From educating and engaging colleagues on correct recycling, through to minimising food waste, St Austell Brewery is aiming to reduce its environmental footprint while also rewarding teams for hitting their targets.

Helen Sprason, area manager and member of the sustainability steering committee at St Austell Brewery, said: “We recognise that given our scale, we have a huge opportunity to really make a difference.”

NEW CEO AT CORNISH LITHIUM

Cornish Lithium has appointed energy sector leader, Jamie Airnes, as its new CEO. He takes the reins from founder Jeremy Wrathall, who is elevated to executive chairman to oversee strategy and future development.

The appointment marks an “exciting investment in the operational experience” of the company’s senior leadership team as Cornish Lithium prepares to expand its operations, raise additional funding, and recruit the hundreds of employees necessary to bring the Trelavour Hard Rock

NEW COUNCIL LEADER

Cllr Leigh Frost has been elected as the new leader of Cornwall Council.

The Liberal Democrat group leader, who has represented Bodmin St Petrocs since 2017, was elected at the first full meeting of the council since local elections on May 1.

In his first major decision, Cllr Frost nominated Cllr Adam Paynter as his deputy leader, alongside his other eight supporting Cabinet members, with their portfolios yet to be confirmed.

The eight Cabinet members are: Cllr Jim McKenna, Cllr Hilary Frank, Cllr Tim Dwelly, Cllr Sarah Preece, Cllr Loic Rich, Cllr Peter La Broy, Cllr Dan Rogerson and Cllr Thalia Marrington.

Cllr Rob Nolan was elected as the new chairman of the Council, with Cllr John Thomas elected as vice chairman.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Frost said: “I want to build a better Cornwall,

and we can do that through being a collaborative administration. The people of Cornwall have decided that no single party should have control of the council, and that we should work together to do our best for Cornwall.”

Project into commercial production. Airnes brings over 25 years of experience to Cornish Lithium, with a CV in successful project delivery and business growth. He helped grow oil and gas business Ithaca Energy from a micro-cap listed company into one of the UK’s largest independent businesses in the sector.

Wrathall said: “I am delighted to welcome Jamie Airnes to the team, helping us to deliver on our vision for maximum growth and augmenting our strategic focus on unlocking the potential for lithium extraction from geothermal brines beneath our feet here in Cornwall.”

MERLIN BUYS SCOTTISH CINEMA

The Redruth-based independent cinema operator, Merlin Cinemas, has acquired a new cinema in Scotland.

The Pavilion Cinema in Galashiels, Merlin’s third in Scotland, had been run by the Poole family for 31 years, with Andrew Poole saying he felt “the time is now right to pass the baton on”.

Merlin has 19 other cinemas across the country, including six in Cornwall.

MD Geoff Greaves said: “We look forward to continuing the fantastic work done by the Poole family in offering a wide selection of current films and providing a warm welcome to all the cinema’s customers.

“This much-loved venue has a rich history and a loyal audience, and we are excited to build on that legacy. The cinema will remain open during the period of Merlin taking over and we look forward to a smooth transition.”

JAMIE AIRNES AND JEREMY WRATHALL

KING’S AWARD FOR HELIGAN

Heligan Gardens has won a King’s Award for Enterprise.

Heligan was the only business from Cornwall among the 197 recipients, receiving its recognition in the Sustainable Development category.

Lost Gardens of Heligan MD, Laura Chesterfield, said: “The team at The Lost Gardens of Heligan are delighted, honoured, and proud to receive a King’s Award for Enterprise in the category of Sustainable Development.

“His Majesty The King has been a tireless champion of sustainability and environmental stewardship for over 50 years. He has led the way with quiet determination and visionary insight, inspiring a national - and indeed globalmovement toward a more balanced and respectful relationship with the natural world. We, at Heligan, are intensely proud to stand alongside others in building upon His Majesty’s legacy, and to continue advocating for a nature-friendly future with hope, energy, and purpose.”

RATTLER GOING GLOBAL

Healeys Cornish Cyder’s Rattler is set to be available overseas for the first time, entering two very different markets.

Rattler is being launched in Finland and Thailand as part of a three-year global export agreement, with Germany and Denmark to follow later in the year.

The new export partnership with global drinks distributor Cheers Global gives the Cheshire-based firm exclusive rights to distribute Healeys cyder internationally.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see Rattler heading overseas,” said Healeys MD Joe Healey. “This marks a new chapter for us as we introduce our Cornish cyder to a global audience.”

NEW CHAPTER FOR COODES

Coodes Solicitors has announced a new chapter in its more than 275-year history with the appointment of Elise Alma as its new chair.

Alma takes over as chair from Peter Lamble, who has retired having led the firm since 2014 and presided over significant growth, which has seen Coodes become an £11 million-plus business and among the top 4% of UK law firms by turnover. Already a member of the firm’s executive board and with a distinguished career in family law spanning more than three

decades, Alma brings a wealth of experience and leadership skills to the role.

She said: “I am honoured and very proud to follow in the footsteps of those who have led Coodes throughout its history and to have the opportunity lead the fabulous team of people that make up the firm today.”

Lamble, who is retiring after 23 years with Coodes, added: “I am incredibly proud of the role Coodes plays in supporting communities across Cornwall and Devon and it has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues as custodians of this great firm.”

The Knowles family have been running Trink Dairy from its farm near St Ives for the past 65 years. We meet husband and wife team, Chris and Rachel Knowles, who talk us through the challenges facing the sector and why they decided to open the dairy up to the public.

People are interested in where their food comes from, how it’s produced, and what’s in it.

CEO feature and cover photographs by Toby Weller.

What are the breakdown in responsibilities for running Trink Dairy between the two of you?

Rachel Knowles: I look after the office and the dairy while Chris manages the farm. When she was at school, our youngest daughter Naomi was asked what I did as a job and she called me the office farmer. And ever since that’s stuck! Because whatever Chris does on the farm, I have to do in the office. So if a calf is born, I have to register the birth. If a calf is sold, I have to register its movement.

Eight years ago, we diversified and started selling pasteurised milk direct the public, and that’s really what I’ve been in charge of ever since. We also have milk delivered out to local coffee shops, farm shops, and nine local schools under the Government milk scheme for under-fives. And it’s expanded quite successfully; we now have a milkshake and milk vending machine here as well.

So you clearly make a good team. You in the office and Chris in the fields?

RK: Yes, absolutely. Every now and then I have to drag him into the office to sign something, but he’s much happier outside. He hates it in the office.

Chris Knowles: No, I don’t enjoy that part of it and a lot of farmers would say the same. They’re farmers and they’ll want to be outside. And unfortunately, the office bit, the paperwork has got to be spot on, or you can’t get your milk collected basically.

Was opening up to the public a commercial decision?

RK: Yes, the milk price was very low at the time. And people kept asking could they help and buy our milk themselves? I was always saying no, but then I thought, well, maybe, why not?

I did some market research in the autumn of 2016. We then applied for grant funding to build an extension to the dairy, put a pasteuriser in, put the chillers in, and the vending machines. And then in May 2017, we opened to the public.

I started pasteurising milk from the house. I was pasteurising 15 litres at a time, which took four hours from start to finish. When I look back, it was probably a bit crazy, but it was three months of market research and we would never be where we are without it. I didn’t believe people would pay what it was worth, as opposed to the subsidised milk in the supermarket. And I also didn’t know if they would like the difference in the taste and the texture, but they love it!

We’re members of Arla and they’ve given us permission to sell up to 10% of our milk direct to the public, but the rest they collect and sell. Most of our milk will go for manufacturing at Taw Valley Creamery up near Okehampton.

Opening up to the public, it’s almost like another business, a tourist business?

RK: Which I completely underestimated! We put a lot of communication into it through our social media, because everybody wants to know what we’re doing. People are interested in where their food comes from, how it’s produced, and what’s in it.

We don’t want to hide anything. When we first started out on social media, we were heavily criticised by some ‘vegan keyboard warriors’ as I call them. And it really frightened us, because we thought, hang on, we’re opening up to the public here, is it going to cause us trouble? But actually, touch wood, we’ve had no problems at all since then. People are welcome to come up and see the cows and if someone’s worried about something, we will explain what’s going on. And most people are really pleased with what they see.

Who’s idea was it?

RK: It was very much a joint decision. Chris loves meeting people and often if someone comes in and he’s not too busy, he’ll take the kids into the milking parlour and show them around. We’re always talking to people. We’re very sociable bunch here. He definitely went along with it but neither of us knew quite how successful it would be so that was a really nice surprise.

There is a lot of satisfaction with seeing people come here and see what we do.

CK: I think after so many years of just watching the milk go up the road in the lorry, there is a lot of satisfaction with seeing people come here and see what we do. And especially children, because, in modern life the closest they can sometimes get to seeing a farm is from the back of a car, or on TV. So to be able to come up here and see how it’s all done in the flesh, I think it’s great.

Would you ever expand further in this direction, maybe open a café, a playground? You could maybe become another Dairy Land!

RK: Which closed down! Personally, I wouldn’t want to do that, because you basically just have to employ lots of staff. And I believe in doing what you enjoy, and I prefer being in a team rather than managing a team. I’m not a natural boss and catering is not really my thing, although the milkshakes have taken off really well.

CK: I agree, it’s not something I’m really interested in. But if that’s something the next generation wanted to do, I would support them, I would help them. Just because I’ve done things one way doesn’t mean my daughters, if they took it over, wouldn’t want to do it another way and we would support them in that.

RK: Absolutely. The vending machine and the milk shakes are very much Maddy’s baby and I pretty much stay out of it.

Continued on page 14

Continued from page 13

Naomi, our youngest daughter, is at Duchy College studying agriculture at the minute, and she’s here working on the farm two and a half days a week. Maddy works here full time on the dairy side, while our middle daughter, Tamsin, is away at the moment doing a graduate management development scheme, which is two years on the scheme and then every six months, moving to a different placement. For the first six months, she was at Bird’s Eye, she’s now gone to Corteva, which is a chemical company in Cambridge.

I guess your milk is more expensive than supermarket milk?

RK: Yes, a lot more expensive, but people love the taste and also love the story. They can come and visit us here. There’s windows into the milking parlour, there are windows into the pasteurising room. They know where the milk comes from, and they can see all the fields where the cows graze. And the milk is not homogenised or standardised, which is what a lot of people are looking for these days. They don’t want it to be processed.

We graze our cows for approximately nine months of the year.

And another thing which is quite unusual is that we graze our cows for approximately nine months of the year.

What would the average be for a typical farm supplying supermarkets?

CK: There are a lot of cows that never go out. But if you sell free range milk, the legal requirement is 180 days access to grass. Ours are out a lot more. Because of the climate here, they can be out earlier. This year it was something like the 8th of February when they went out to graze and they finished grazing last year on December 16th. So we had a really short winter, which was really good.

And we’ve got a different breed of cow, they’re a much smaller, hardier breed. We have 275 cows, which are predominantly Friesian, but we also cross them with Jersey. What we find is it brings the cows to a more consistent size. They’re hardier for grazing, because we can be quite exposed here.

Every time Arla pick up from us, they take a sample and it’s tested for butter fat and protein, amongst other things, but that’s mainly what we’re paid on. So if we can raise the butter fat and protein in the milk without doing anything else, you get paid more for your milk.

So the welfare of the cows is important for the quality of the milk?

RK: Very important. Visitors to the dairy here are always saying just how happy the cows look. There can be some misconceptions about dairy farms,

Luckily, west Cornwall is such a good place to grow grass, the climatic conditions are just right.

people look at the Internet too much and think maybe cows are unhappy. But as you can see, they’re all pretty relaxed and content!

What does the average day look like?

RK: We’ve got a very unusual milking pattern, because we now milk our cows ten times a week. An average farm, or an average cow, would be milked twice a day, morning and evening. Some farms used to milk three times a day. That doesn’t happen anymore.

Is that bad for the cow?

RK: Our system is kinder to the cow and the team on the farm. For a few years we milked them once a day, but that means you get less volume, but you get a higher constituent value. The value of our milk went up 2p or 3p. What we do now is we milk them ten times a week.

So Monday, Wednesday and Friday, we milk the cows twice. Tuesday and Thursday, we milk them once, but later to even out the milking times for the cows. But because there’s seven days in the week, not six, you can’t just do it every other day. So the weekends we’ve decided to milk what Chris calls it weekend centric. We milk them once on Saturday and once on a Sunday. So that makes it much easier for the cows because they’re not milked as much.

What are the main challenges overall? You often hear stories about supermarkets hammering down on prices, but I guess you don’t deal with them?

RK: Not directly, but we are affected by them, because a lot of what we sell to Arla is sold in a supermarket. But they soften that blow for us a little bit.

But we’ve modernized our farm - the change in milking times, for example. We’ve also invested a lot of money in infrastructure, so it’s a nicer place to work in and we often get comments from people saying they’ve never seen such a clean dairy farm. I could take you all around the farm today in our shoes and not get dirty.

CK: And we are spring block calving, which is quite unusual. So we calve all our cows in the spring, it’s the natural time to calve them. Sun is shining, the grass is its best. They’re in their best condition.

RK: Chris’ knowledge and interest in grasses is incredible. He and Lawrence measure the grass every week. They’re involved in quite a high tech research project that’s working with satellites to monitor the grass growth.

So quite a scientific approach?

RK: Scientific but simple. It’s about cows grazing grass, producing milk and getting the milk into a bulk tank. The more simply you can do that, the better and the cheaper it is, because we are hammered on price.

Continued on page 16

We aren’t really given any support from the Government at the minute. We’re battling all the time against the bureaucracy that’s being imposed on us. So having healthy cows is really important, because an unhealthy cow won’t produce milk.

CK: I guess it’s just trying to put some science to it, measuring and allocating grass. So instead of just letting cows roam around in a grass field, we try and ration the cows with an allocated amount. We work with the field size, but within reason. There’s like a trigger point, so the grass grows. Let’s say the cows are in the field today, and they eat it right out, and it starts to regrow. And depending on the growing conditions, probably somewhere between 20 and 30 days later, it’s ready to graze again. But obviously, the skill of the manager is to decide when it’s ready again, to get the maximum kind of feed value from it. So that’s the project that we’re involved with, I do a lot of it by eye and experience, whereas we’re trying to put a bit of science and technology into it as well.

Luckily, west Cornwall is such a good place to grow grass, the climatic conditions are just right. The west just gets more rain and it’s the summer rain that grows the grass. And grass is the cheapest feed for cows, so it’s great to be able to use it.

As long as you enjoy it, that’s what counts.

The farm here has been in the family for 65 years and hopefully for a lot longer?

And the sea is our friend as it helps keep us warmer in the winter, which means the grass grows all year round. And coupled with the granite soil here, which retains the moisture. So in the summer, if we go two or three weeks without rain, we can hold on to the moisture. It doesn’t all evaporate, which is obviously good.

CK: Yes, that would be great, but I would put no pressure on our daughters. They’ve grown up with it, have been immersed in it their whole life, but no pressure. You just get on with it. As long as you enjoy it, that’s what counts.

And you still clearly enjoy it, although it must be hard. A bit of treadmill sometimes?

CK: I do enjoy it, yes. I wouldn’t say it’s hard; it’s constant. And I think once you get your head around that, that it’s every day of the year, it’s ok.

But yes, the things you need to do every day are roughly the same, but I would still say every day is different and I love the seasons and we very much farm with the seasons. So now, end of April, it’s kind of all go, and the next few months is the longer days, the grass is growing. You know, we’ve got important things to do. And then in the winter, it’s a bit more of a steady kind of work.

April and May is definitely my favourite time of the year, every day is longer. Nature is on your side.

RK: Just being outside, being up on the farm. We’re a mile and a half from St Ives, but you wouldn’t know it really. Don’t think every day is like this with blue sky and sunshine, but being out in the fresh air. It’s wonderful. Continued from page 15

From new crops, markets and technology, there is much for Cornwall’s agricultural sector to celebrate — and go after.

GROWING AMBITION

Cornwall’s food, drink, farming and fishing industries generate more than 10% of total GVA — more than twice the national average — and 80% of land is in agricultural use thanks to the county’s mild climate and fertile soil. But climate change and a tough economy present challenges. Nicola Smith looks at how the sector is faring...

RUTH HUXLEY

Jonathon Jones, MD of Trading, Tregothnan says that while farming has been tested in recent years, it is a positive time to be managing land. “A new generation is coming in and can see new opportunities everywhere; it’s a very exciting time to be coming into agriculture.”

With sustainability an increasing priority, Cornwall has an advantage over many communities. Cornwall Food & Drink recently announced its ten-year plan and as MD, Ruth Huxley says: “One of the points we mention, is that because of its location and geography, Cornwall has never really gone in for huge monocultures or intensive farming and is therefore well placed to lead in meeting the increasing demand for high quality produce that does not damage the environment.”

Ruth notes that numerous agricultural businesses in Cornwall are making great strides in reducing emissions and improving biodiversity, with some trailblazing initiatives underway. She cites Bennamann, which harnesses technology to capture and re-use methane, as one example, describing its work as “nothing short of transformational”.

Trenance Dairy is one farm working with Bennamann. Kate and Kevin Hoare rent just over 200 acres of land and have about 100 cows. They have a milk contract with Arla, which distributes milk to supermarkets.

Working with Bennamann, Trenance captures the methane produced from its slurry lagoon and utilises it as fuel. “Last year we took nine tonnes of methane out of the atmosphere and used it to run a tractor, which obviously saved us in diesel, and we also captured a further 10 tonnes of methane which was used by Bennamann for trials and research,” says Kate.

She says sustainability is a huge focus. “We can access so much detail now about the CO2 emissions per litre of milk produced and our soil pH levels, for example, and it has really focused my mind on how doing what is right for the environment also helps us to work efficiently as a business.”

Riviera Produce, which supplies brassicas to supermarkets, is also at the forefront of sustainability. As well as trialling methane tractors, it is investing in cover cropping — planting crops specifically designed to protect soil health. “This puts nutrients back into the ground which helps with the structure of the soil,” explains MD Tom Simmons.

The farm is also reducing its use of chemicals, using companion cropping in between courgettes and kale, for example. This attracts natural predators to eat insects, instead of relying on sprays.

As Ruth says, such regenerative farming practices are “something that our agrifood sector has — in spades — and needs to capitalise on.”

As the climate changes, there are also opportunities to diversify into new crops. Jonathon believes there

is untapped potential to grow more exotic crops relatively close to the market, such as fruit that is hard to transport; high value niche crops. He cites avocados and cherimoya (or ‘custard apple’) as examples. “I don’t see why we shouldn’t be trialing these crops in Cornwall,” he says.

Tom also believes there are opportunities to adapt as the climate changes. “We’re trying to extend the season for red and white cabbage in Cornwall. In other areas of the country, they have to cut it before the winter starts, but with Cornwall’s warmer climate, there are new varieties we can grow throughout the winter.”

Cornwall’s food and drink sector owes much of its profile to tourism, and it is a symbiosis which should be further celebrated and promoted.

As Jonathon points out, Cornwall’s food and drink sector owes much of its profile to tourism, and it is a symbiosis which should be further celebrated and promoted. “At Tregothnan’s recent charity weekend we had visitors from America and Australia — I think the provenance of Cornwall’s food and drink is undersold and we could do much more to attract an international market.”

Of course, while opportunities abound, challenges remain. Tom says: “Sales of vegetables have dropped this winter, probably because of the cost of living, as well as supermarket wars. It’s going to be an interesting year.”

Laurence Jarrett-Kerr, founder of Soul Farm, a market farm which sells veg boxes to about 120 subscribing customers, echoes this. “The price of food is being driven down by supermarkets and people’s cost of living is low. We have seen veg box numbers drop since Christmas.”

The provenance of Cornwall’s food and drink is undersold and we could do much more to attract an international market.

But there are always openings. From new crops, markets and technology, there is much for Cornwall’s agricultural sector to celebrate — and go after.

The Food Barn, Tregew, near Falmouth, is one such success story. Laurence co-founded it in 2021 and it now attracts between 400 and 600 people every Saturday. “It was a kind of Covid Unicorn. It’s plateauing now in terms of our revenue but it’s a pretty solid market, and quite exceptional for the UK.”

As Ruth says, Cornwall is “brilliant” at innovation. “Those who carve out a place for themselves in the market, produce a really good product, and get their pricing, marketing and service level right, are often the survivors.”

DR HAIL RIHAN

THE ONLY WAY IS UP

Smart Agriculture Cornwall launched in October 2023, funded by Good Growth. It develops, installs and runs agri-food technology using Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) — or vertical farming — using LED light to give plants essential nutrients.

FUNDING FARMERS

One Stop Business Finance (OSBF) has been lending to businesses for over 10 years and in this time has supported many businesses in the Rural Economy.

We are seeing more and more rural businesses needing additional, mainly short term, funding to help them diversify their income streams, at a time when the appetite of the traditional clearing banks to lend to rural businesses is changing.

We know that every client is different, this is why we have business development managers across England and Wales to meet with and discuss the funding requirements of business owners, including

It is a collaborative project between the University of Plymouth and Cornwall’s Phytome Life Sciences.

The CEA facility at the University of Plymouth has recently been upgraded and is a training site for farmers and growers based in Cornwall, training 35 people to date.

Dr Hail Rihan, lecturer in Agricultural Technology, University of Plymouth, says the technology has many advantages. “It’s a year-round production system, there’s no need for pesticides, and nutrient and water use efficiency is over 95%. By focusing on vertical farming, you can free up more land for wild habitats and make it more eco-friendly too.”

Vertical farming can also protect farmers and growers from the effects of climate change. “Last year, the production of barley and wheat in the UK significantly went down because we had so much rain, while other times we don’t have enough. Farmers using this system can ensure they’ve got really good quality production, and it can be planned.”

Hail says vertical farming is the way forward.

“Supermarkets already sell a lot of crops grown indoors and within a few years, many more crops will be produced in a vertical farming setting. It’s the future and we don’t want Cornwall to be left behind.”

those in agriculture and related industries. Craig Slater, our business development manager (BDM), for Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, says: “We draw experience from each and every project, and to that end we’ve built up a lot of knowledge in working with clients in agriculture during what are increasingly difficult times.

“And when it comes to diversification, we’re able to look at a broad range of projects, around solar, anaerobic digestion, holiday lets and campsites, and barn conversions, to name a few.

“If you have some funding needs and want a chat then please drop me an email at craigslater@osbf. co.uk, and let’s arrange a face-to-face appointment to discuss how we may be able to assist you.”

OSBF has BDMs across England and Wales, so if you’d like to discuss options for funding your agricultural business, get in touch at info@osbf.co.uk or call 01757 289885 osbf.co.uk

The last six months have been pretty hectic times for all those professionals involved in the farming sector. In particular, the proposed changes to inheritance tax rules continue to keep everyone ably engaged and challenged as they get to grips with the true implications of these expected changes from 6 April 2026.

PKF Francis Clark continues to lead the way in advising the sector on all matters inheritance tax and succession. Under the leadership of Trurobased partner Brian Harvey, the accountancy firm’s agriculture and landed estates team has grown consistently over recent years. There are now over 70 rural professionals in the team, including 14 based out of the firm’s Truro office.

The Cornish team is also celebrating two promotions, with longstanding members Chris Madeley and Russell Philips becoming directors.

Both Chris and Russell are chartered accountants and tax advisers. Their knowledge, experience and energy have been vital over recent months, with clients needing a lot of guidance, reassurance and planning for the impending changes.

Brian says: “Chris and Russell are invaluable members of the team which I am so proud to lead. The whole team has worked so hard to support our clients and the wider industry in getting to grips with the changes afoot. Their promotions are very well deserved and present them with further opportunities at what are exciting but challenging times.”

Considering the current position the industry finds itself in, Russell says: “In recent months, we have seen unprecedented challenges to the sector politically, following the October Budget. After an initial feeling of shock, there has a period of reflection and explaining the potential implications to our clients and trying to plan sensibly for the future. In most cases, through working together and planning the position can be improved but sadly for some, notably the most elderly, this is not always the case.”

Chris adds: “I think many were quietly expecting, or perhaps hoping, that once the smoke died down there would be some sensible conversations leading to, if not revoking of the rules, at the very least a softening of them and an element of compromise.

“However, six months on I think most are now resigned to the Finance Act being published and passed through Parliament shortly, as outlined in the Budget. Plans such as the making of lifetime gifts, taking out life insurance, changing wills, considering business structure or whatever works for the individual to mitigate future inheritance tax exposure post 5 April 2026 are now being actioned apace with the reality of what is about to come.”

Brian concludes that it has certainly been a busy and challenging six months.

RURAL PROFESSIONALS

Budget changes have meant agricultural expertise is in high demand.

“Government actions have, for the most part, not helped and this has created a general lack of confidence in the future for the sector,” he said. “In fact, confidence is lower than the financial numbers we see suggest might otherwise be the case. There are a lot of people sitting on their hands and generally holding back on investment, feeling somewhat beaten up and unloved politically.

There are now over 70 rural professionals in the team,

“However, on the positive side, the proposed changes have led to lots of good, sensible, open and honest conversations between generations that might otherwise not have happened. I believe ultimately such conversations have been overdue and will prove invaluable.”

pkf-francisclark.co.uk

CORNWALL’S BIGGEST DAY OUT

Royal Cornwall Show, June 5-7.

June is here and that can only mean one thing – The Royal Cornwall Show 2025 will soon be here, and let’s hope, is bringing the sun along too!

For over 200 years, the Royal Cornwall Show has proudly showcased Cornish tradition and heritage.

Taking place on June 5, 6 & 7 at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre, just outside of Wadebridge, this hugely popular and influential event, hosts three unbelievable days of fun, food, and farming.

As well as that, the whole event is packed with incredible live entertainment, welcomes some of the top livestock and equine competition in the country, hundreds of trade stands, and the best in local food and drink.

For over 200 years, the Royal Cornwall Show has proudly showcased Cornish tradition and heritage, whether that be through agriculture, business, or innovation, and 2025 will be no exception.

The heart of this will be at the Creative View Countryside Village and the Rural Skills Area, showing everything from Falconry to Ferret Racing.

The Show will also exhibit one of the biggest collections of new machinery and technologies, as it welcomes companies from across the UK and Europe, demonstrating the latest in agricultural and construction innovations.

Top competition can be found across a wide range of livestock and equine classes, smaller animals such as dogs, rabbits, and caged birds, all hosting county-wide competitions. All this means there will be thousands of animals to meet and watch. There is also the Rare Breeds exhibit, and demonstrations with police dogs and carriage horses.

If you see yourself as a bit of a foodie, you have to visit the Royal Cornwall Food & Farming Pavilion. The three large marquees are packed with dozens of Cornish vendors showing off their delicious wares, including spirits, baked goods, and of course, Cornish pasties!

Out and around the Showground there are plenty of food trucks and food vans, catering to a wide range of cuisines and tastes, so whatever you have a taste for, you are bound to find it at the Show.

The Show wouldn’t be complete without the spectacular headliner acts in the Main Ring. Both the headliners are returning fan favourites. First of all, the mesmerising bond between man and horse will be explored in the most emotional and fascinating way with Ben Atkinson and his team of equine friends. Then, for a bit more of an adrenaline rush, the Bolddog Lings Stunt Team are back with some jawdropping and gravity-defying stunts and tricks.

Not forgetting the RAF Falcons, who will be dropping in each day (weather permitting of course!) as well as the regions best Show Jumpers, the pinnacle of speed and precision, will be battling it out for some top prizes in our Main Ring.

We have not even touched the surface. We haven’t mentioned the fun fair, the vintage rally, the young farmers marquee, the two live music stages and dance stage. There are even over 800 trade stands, so you can shop until you drop….

There’s so much to do – one day might not be enough!

The Royal Cornwall Show takes place on June 5, 6 & 7 at the Events Centre in Wadebridge. Tickets can be purchased online at www.royalcornwall.co.uk

BUSINESS LINEAGE

Local experts offer their insights into how to best manage the handover to the next generation.

Succession planning is not new. Whether it be succession planning for personnel, for contract risk, for new premises or for changes of ownership, a range of options is available. But in recent years, a new model is gaining traction.

When it comes to ownership succession planning, sellers might enter the arena with some trepidation, especially if it is the first time they have had to plan for their own exit from the business. Done well, the pride with which they have run the business (created and nurtured over many years) can be extended into the sunset years after the sellers have departed.

Why choose employee ownership as a succession strategy?

There are many good reasons, including:

1. The employee ownership model addresses some of the concerns that a seller may have. The sale of the seller’s shares is often to a trust that acts as a stakeholder/owner of the shares for the benefit of the employees. The risks of erosion of culture are therefore reduced when selling to the employees.

2. The seller has a buyer (representing the employees) readily available, as opposed to going out to market with all the distraction, stress and issues of confidentiality that are part and parcel of a trade sale. Additionally, when progressing an EO sale, the sellers tend to have more control over the project and the timetable for completing it. All of which enables a closer resemblance to ‘business as usual’ whilst the transaction is completed.

3. Perhaps surprisingly, the cash receipt by the sellers could be more than might be achieved on a more traditional approach to ownership succession planning.

Succession through employee ownership (like all sales) is not without risk. However, a seller would be well advised to explore, understand and consider, employee ownership as a succession plan within the range of options.

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP: A VIABLE SUCCESSION PLANNING OPTION

Gavin Poole, a corporate solicitor specialising in supporting businesses with their succession plans, discusses why employee ownership is increasingly popular.

As the first large law firm in the UK to become employee owned and having supported many businesses through their employee ownership journey, Stephens Scown understands firsthand the intricacies of making a successful employee ownership transition.

For information on employee ownership, contact Stephens Scown on 01872 265100, email enquiries@ stephens-scown.co.uk, or visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk

BUILDING A LEGACY

Rethink succession planning for long-term success, says Empower Coaching’s Heather Forster

Succession planning is one of the most critical and often overlooked elements of building a resilient business. Whether you’re preparing for your exit or reshaping leadership roles, these decisions need careful strategy, not just routine handovers.

For business owners planning their exit, clarity is essential. Whether it’s selling outright or exploring options like Employee Ownership Trusts or Management Buyouts, the right path depends on your personal and financial goals. Most of all it’s about shaping the future of your business and determining your legacy.

Family businesses add complexity. Emotions and belief that a family member is best can cloud judgment, so objectivity is key. Tools that assess who should take over, rather than just who can, can help guide the decision-making process.

Leadership transitions at any level are equally important. Tenure doesn’t always equal readiness to lead. Tools like Motivational Mapping and Positive Intelligence uncover people’s hidden strengths and align them with roles where they can thrive.

Business coaching and external guidance can make a huge difference. A trusted advisor helps you see the bigger picture, challenge assumptions, and make decisions with confidence.

Surprisingly, only 20% of individuals and teams ever reach their true potential*. By focusing your succession plan on nurturing talent, your business can join that top tier. Succession is about more than passing the torch. It’s about empowering the next generation to build on what you’ve created—ensuring your legacy lives on.

Shirzad Chamine, Positive Intelligence heatherforster.com

RRL tax partner, Steve Maggs, explains the importance of professional advice...

Tax affects all of us—whether you’re an individual planning your future or a business owner making key decisions. It’s often one of the largest costs we face, yet with the right advice, liabilities can often be reduced or at least planned for. That’s where proactive tax advice becomes invaluable. This is particularly so in the context of estate and succession planning.

In today’s climate—marked by economic uncertainty and political shifts, particularly around the Autumn Budget 2024— the need for clear, strategic tax guidance has only grown. For us, preparing and filing tax returns is just the beginning. The real value lies in helping our clients spot risks and opportunities before they arise – tackling succession and exit planning early and proactively.

But in Cornwall, access to specialist tax advice remains limited. Despite a strong local economy and many successful businesses, too few are receiving the proactive tax planning they could benefit from. Succession planning is not considered, and the business and family suffers.

Our firm is proud to be the only independent firm in the county with the depth of tax advisory expertise to meet this growing demand.

This capability was recently recognised on a national level: last month, we won the Best Single Office Tax Practice at the prestigious Tolley’s Taxation Awards—a first for a Cornish firm.

To give just one example, long before recent tax changes were confirmed, we supported clients with succession planning that ultimately saved two families over £14 million in inheritance tax.

It’s always worth asking: “Am I getting the tax advice I, my family, or my business really needs?”

Truro 01872 276116 Penzance 01736 339322

post@rrlcornwall.co.uk rrlcornwall.co.uk

EARLY SUCCESSION PLANNING

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ROLL OF HONOUR...

Business Cornwall is proud to present this year’s winners of Cornwall Chamber’s 30 under 30.

LAURA BENTLEY

Environment Agency

Laura Bentley works as project officer at the Environment Agency, supporting landowners to improve soil management and reduce flooding and soil erosion. In what can be a male dominated sector, her success is all the more impressive.

Laura has a Bachelors of Science in Geography and is currently studying for a Masters degree in Soil Sciences, while working full time for the Environment Agency. She is an alumni for her old secondary school and sixth form and has been back to give talks about her A level choices and career path.

FRASER HILL

Casa Tapa

Fraser Hill is co-owner and head chef of the Casa Tapa restaurant in Falmouth, which is rated among the five best restaurants in Cornwall by TripAdvisor. Since opening two years ago, the business has performed so well that Fraser has opened a second restaurant in Newlyn.

Casa Tapa serves authentic Spanish tapas, using locally sauced ingredients where possible. Fraser also grows his own herbs and micro herbs.

MATTHEW BUTLER Cubs Coffee

Coffee and clothes. Matthew Butler hit upon the idea for Cubs Coffee in 2018 after graduating from Exeter University. He wanted to build a brand “with an animal name that paired well with coffee”.

The clothes came a year later, while travelling around the south west in a converted blue VW Caddy, serving coffee from the back. Matthew had some simple staff t-shirts printed with the bear logo, which sparked interest from customers. And the rest, as they say, is history.

From further trailer and pop-up openings, in April 2022 Cubs opened its flagship store in Mevagissey, its main hub for coffee and Cornwall-inspired clothing. Then last year Matt opened another store, this time in Truro city centre.

Alongside its retail and coffee growth, Cubs has also expanded into supplying university leisurewear across the UK. “We’ve got big dreams,” says Matthew, “but we also know it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

CHARNE VERKERK Azets

Audit senior Charne Verkerk believes one of the best ways of giving back is by putting a smiles on faces, which she regularly does whether as a coach to school leavers and graduates embarking on a career in the finance sector, or as lead on the office social & CSR committee.

Charne is also actively involved on the networking scene, in particular those events aimed at young professionals. In her spare time, Charne likes to feed her passion for the theatre by volunteering at the Hall for Cornwall.

One of the best ways of giving back is by putting a smiles on faces.

CHARLIE WILLIAMS-BURFORD Go

Cornwall Bus

Despite leaving school in 2022 with no qualifications, Charlie Williams-Burford’s career has blossomed with Go Cornwall Bus.

Since joining as an operations apprentice, he has worked closely with colleagues and stakeholders to improve and develop existing ways of working, specific to road works across the bus network and was recently promoted to assistant network control manager.

Alongside this role, he has studied Business Administration Level 3 at Truro College and went onto to win Business & Management Apprentice of the Year at the recent Truro College Apprenticeship Awards.

Continued on page 32

Continued from page 31

BRADLEY KAINE

Coodes

An “exceptional legal professional who has made a profound impact on Cornwall’s legal and business landscape”, as a family executive at Coodes Solicitors, Bradley Kaine has successfully represented over 300 clients in a range of complex family law cases.

JAKE CAUSLEY

Falmouth University

A

driving force behind the Cornwall Junior Lawyers Division.

His ability to navigate sensitive legal issues and difficult advocacy with professionalism and empathy has made him a trusted advocate, particularly for the most vulnerable members of society.

Bradley is also a driving force behind the Cornwall Junior Lawyers Division (JLD). He is widely regarded as the backbone of the organisation, ensuring that junior lawyers have access to the support, guidance, and networking opportunities necessary for career progression.

CHANNON GRAY

Exciting Teacher

Channon Gray is on a mission to transform mental health and wellbeing education for young people not just in Cornwall, but right across the world.

As a former teacher, Channon experienced firsthand the need for effective tools to support children’s emotional literacy and mental health in the classroom. So she created a business that equips teachers with these essential resources, empowering them to address their students’ feelings and wellbeing in a practical way.

Channon’s vision, however, has always been broader than just one region and today Channon is collaborating with educators from Australia to Honduras, sharing her proven methods and resources to support children’s emotional growth and resilience.

AMY BRAY

Another Way

Amy Bray founded youth-led environmental charity Another Way as a 16-year-old living in Cumbria. Five years ago she moved to Falmouth to complete her degree in marine biology and has stayed ever since, focusing her time on developing Another Way. She soon employed her first member of staff and has since grown it into a team of seven.

Amy runs workshops in schools and youth groups around Cornwall, so far reaching over 1,000 young people and inspiring them to take action for local nature. One of her recent ocean workshops in Falmouth featured on BBC TV’s Country File.

Jake Causley is the sustainability coordinator at Falmouth University and a passionate environmentalist, campaigner and communicator. On top of the responsibilities of his role, he goes above and beyond to bring sustainable initiatives to fruition for students, staff and the local community.

He also helps to run sustainability workshops for local businesses at Falmouth Launchpad, as well as helping to organise events open to the public that look to support biodiversity on campus, such as the RSPB Big Garden Bird Watch.

Jake is an ‘Eco Anxiety’ facilitator and has established the ‘Breathing Space’ which offers regular meetings for anybody with concerns about climate change and the environment.

JAMIE-LEE JOB

Gramelan Ltd

Jamie-Lee Job is a young entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry at Gramelan and now a director responsible for three sites.

She is the owner of the Summer House restaurant in Perranporth, where her aim is “to install the values of sustainability, kindness and equality”, while her latest venture is transforming the former YHA building in the town into a wellness hub, community space and café.

Jamie is also the founder of a burgeoning property development and lettings company which currently has one operational site and two more under construction. These properties are designed to be luxury dwellings in the stunning Cornish scenery, whilst being as sustainable as possible to build and run.

MOLLY ROODHOUSE

Macke Swimwear

Swimming teacher, content creator, digital marketeer and ISA Paddleboard World Champion! Molly Roodhouse’s CV is certainly an impressive list of achievements. But not only is she a world-beating athlete, but also quite a creative entrepreneur as she is now launching her own swimwear company – Macke Swimwear –designed by swimmers for swimmers.

While Molly is extremely talented, she also goes above and beyond to help people. “Molly showed incredible kindness to me,” says a testimonial from one of her swim lesson clients. “When I first met her, I couldn’t even do three strokes of front crawl. She really went above and beyond, even though she was a full time student at the time and training herself for top level competitions.”

BEN WILLIAMS

BK Plus

Since joining Walker Moyle ten years ago, Ben Williams has made rapid progress, qualifying as a Chartered Certified Accountant and obtaining his practicing certificate.

When BK Plus acquired Walker Moyle last summer, Ben’s leadership skills were recognised and he was appointed to manage the Penzance and St Ives offices, proactively advising clients, and maintaining the highest standards of compliance.

Beyond his professional success, Ben has always been passionate about mentoring junior staff, guiding and supporting them as they navigate their own careers in finance.

KARA SHAW

Stephens Scown

Empathy, drive and focus on client care are all highlighted as being central to Kara Shaw’s work at law firm Stephens Scown

During her paralegal role, Kara was appointed as the key contact for one of the firm’s biggest clients, where she was proactive in improving the working relationship to the benefit of both parties.

Kara’s impact throughout the firm has seen her elected by her peers to the firm’s Employee Ownership Trustee Board. She also sits on the firm’s Charity Committee.

She was recently been elected by her fellow trainees to represent Stephens Scown in the annual Business Cup Challenge in London.

RYAN WILLIAMS

Bishop Fleming

Ryan Williams has been an apprentice at chartered accountancy firm Bishop Fleming since 2021. As well studying for his chartered exams, he has been instrumental in firm-wide fundraising and wellbeing initiatives.

His commitment to fundraising is said to be second to none.

His commitment to fundraising is said to be second to none. He is a keen supporter of the Cornwall Young Professionals network, and aims to combine this with his fundraising efforts to provide different opportunities for people to get involved.

Additionally, Ryan is a Truro office representative on the Bishop Fleming staff forum, and ensures local staff voices are heard throughout the firm.

Continued on page 34

MOLLY ROODHOUSE

BEN WILLIAMS

BRADLEY KAINE

CHANNON GRAY

KARA SHAW

RYAN WILLIAMS

Continued from page 33

BILLIE WOOD

Benefit Body and Mind CIC

A leading light in community wellbeing and fitness, Billie Wood is the founder of the community interest company, Benefit Body and Mind, which provides free fitness and wellbeing services to some of the most vulnerable members of the community.

After a few years away, Billie returned to Cornwall in 2023 and started a Masters in psychology, focusing on the relationship between exercise and mental health.

Alongside her academic studies, she has also become a qualified personal trainer, a mental health first aider, and completed a GP referral qualification—equipping her with the expertise to support individuals using exercise as a tool for recovery and wellbeing.

LAURISSA BARRIBALL

Brian Etherington Meat Company

It was while working as a chef de partie at Rick Stein’s that Laurissa Barriball became interested in the provenance of food and began to fall in love with the idea of learning more about the skill of butchery. Since joining Etherington’s as an apprentice, she has not looked back, last year completing her Level 3 with ‘Distinction’. And to top this, earlier this year she won two national awards from the Institute of Meat Society.

In the words of company MD Mark Etherington, “Laurissa brings great knowledge of local produce and a genuine enthusiasm to learn, both of which are incredibly valuable to us.”

CONNOR RILEY

Northlayer

Young entrepreneur Connor Riley launched his IT company, Northlayer, just a couple of months after turning 18. It wasn’t his first commercial venture, however, starting his first business aged 13, scaling it and exiting five years later.

Experienced beyond his years, in addition to Northlayer, Connor is also behind the Harrison Group, a holding company with a range of business ventures, including co-working spaces & serviced offices, cafes, and a wine subscription service.

And just for good measure, 19-year old Connor is also chair of the Launceston Chamber of Commerce, believed to be the youngest-serving chair in Cornish history!

ALLY BREEN

Tech Cornwall

In the words of Tech Cornwall director Niki Davies, Ally Breen is “an outstanding professional who brings

BILLIE WOOD

ALLY BREEN

LAURISSA BARRIBAL

LEXIE WILLIAMS

CONNOR RILEY

OLI RILEY

a rare combination of adaptability, problem-solving, and relentless drive to everything she does”.

Since joining the Tech Cornwall team as a marketing and events assistant two years ago, Ally has transformed areas of the business which have had a direct impact on the Cornish tech community and Tech Conwell’s Youth Programme.

Among a long list of achievements, Ally led the first Agile on the Beach Youth Day – a pioneering event for 200 young people, sponsored by PWC

LEXIE WILLIAMS

Stephens Scown

“A force to be reckoned with.” Lexi Williams has created a hugely positive impact since joining as Stephens Scown’s first-ever solicitor apprentice.

Having joined the law firm in 2019, Lexie consistently displays boundless positivity, ambition and focus by continuing to achieve outstanding academic results and adopting a pro-active approach to developing her practical legal skills. She was one of the drivers behind the firm’s push to achieve B Corp certification and is an advocate for promoting the idea of balancing people, planet, and profit in her encounters with clients.

Outside of work, Lexie is a keen sportswoman and high-performance coach for the England Touch Rugby team.

TYLER HARRIS

St Petrocs

Joining St Petrocs eight years ago as the charity’s first-ever finance apprentice, Tyler Harris’ journey has been described as a “true success story”. Now finance manager, Tyler’s ability and helpfulness have made him a key figure in the charity, and his contributions go far beyond finance.

He actively supports St Petrocs’ wider mission by engaging with organisational events, working directly with clients and getting involved in initiatives that support some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

Outside of work, Tyler is a talented musician and as the drummer for Ultra Violets, he has played at Boardmasters and recently supported McFly on tour!

JACK CLIFFORD-WING

Wing of St Mawes

Cornwall is renowned for its fishing industry, which contributes over £170 million to the local economy, supporting 8,000 jobs. Throughout his journey at Wing of St Mawes, Jack Clifford-Wing has gained firsthand experience of the trade; from buying fresh fish from local fisherman and markets, to filleting, preparing, selling and delivering products to chefs and homes nationwide.

Jack is committed to protecting Cornwall’s natural environment and is a member of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust Advisory Board where he advises on the sustainability of individual fish species for the Cornwall Good Seafood Guide. He also presented at the Cornwall Sustainable Food Summit at Nancarrow Farm.

TOM HOLLOWAY

The Pig at Harlyn Bay

Cornwall’s culinary scene has an enviable reputation in the UK and it’s one that looks set to continue in the coming years thanks to talented young chefs like Tom Holloway.

Tom has been at The Pig for ten years, starting out as an apprentice and working his way through just about every kitchen role, up to head chef at the age of just 24.

Tom is always seeking innovative ways to improve The Pig’s kitchen and business, ensuring it positively impacts both team community.

“Sustainability, seasonality, and collaboration are at the heart of what we do,” he says, “and I’m passionate about pushing boundaries while staying true to our ethos.”

SAMUEL GILL

Behaviour Change Cornwall

Sam is a young Cornishman on a mission to remove plastic from Cornwall’s coast by the ton and recycling what his business recovers into lifetime-guaranteed products to ensure the plastic never re-enters the sea.

On a mission to remove plastic from Cornwall’s coast by the ton.

Sam founded Behaviour Change Cornwall in 2018, having previously worked on ocean plastic at the Eden Project and during his Masters of Research in Sustainable Futures at the University of Exeter. He is currently working on building the UK’s first dedicated ocean plastic recycling lab near Fowey.

OLI RILEY

Film maker

Aged just 15, Oli Riley won a competition – Re-script the Future – providing him with use of a production house and £25k to turn his idea into a ten-minute short film for environmental streaming platform WaterBear.

The finished film ‘Tide to Nature’ tells the story of how his struggle with dyslexia was turned on its head when he learned to surf, showing how nature can nourish and guide oneself through life. The film premiered at the Aegean Film Festival.

That set him on the road and since then he has produced more than ten films over the past two years, often promoting new music from up and coming Cornish artists.

Continued on page 36

OLIVER ELWELL-DEIGHTON

TouchByte

A rising star in Cornwall’s vibrant tech sector, Oliver Elwell-Deighton is a senior software developer at TouchByte and earlier this year was named Truro & Penwith College’s Apprentice of the Year.

Ollie has demonstrated leadership, innovation and a remarkable work ethic, representing TouchByte on the global stage, leading technical demonstrations from the USA to Saudi Arabia.

A rising star in Cornwall’s vibrant tech sector.

Beyond his technical contributions, Ollie is a team player who mentors junior colleagues and contributes to the growth of Cornwall’s tech sector.

His passion for innovation, combined with his dedication to problem-solving, makes him a role model for young professionals in the industry.

SAM OATEY

Oatey

Media

Sam Oatey began filmmaking at the age of 11, back when he received his very first camera.

Fast forward to 2011 and had Sam officially established Oatey Media and since then, has developed it into one of the top video production agencies in Cornwall, collaborating with a diverse range of clients across various sectors including manufacturing, lifestyle, and education, both locally, nationally and internationally.

Clients include the likes of DHL, University of Exeter, Hello Fresh, NFU Mutual, GWR, BBC, Griggs, NHS, Creative England, Cornish Sea Salt, Aspects Holidays and the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association.

PHOEBE CJ REYNOLDS

Surgassists

Phoebe CJ Reynolds is the founder and director of Surgssists, which claims to be the first and only virtual reality software designed to simplify complex medical terminology and anatomical structures, enhancing patient consent.

VICTORIA WESSON

Lost Gardens of Heligan

Victoria Wesson is event manager at the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a role that was created especially when she joined in March after spending three years at The Land’s End Hotel. Alongside that, she also runs her own business as a wedding specialist, providing creative ideas to ensure her clients enjoy the most memorable wedding day of their lives and her attention to detail is second to none.

Recently, Victoria was a runner up in the West Country Women’s Awards and was the youngest in the category.

ISABEL CUDE

Goat Gallery

Isabel Cude’s top achievements have been within the art community and the local charity sector.

Being the longest-running member of the Tate Collective is one example. Working her way up from a member to a paid position within the team, giving up evenings and weekends each week to host events and workshops to enrich the art community. Other achievements within the art community include the Mayor of Porthleven unveiling her tribute to British artist Peter Lanyon, that was put on the side of a café.

Most recently, along with her family, Isabel has opened a gallery in Hayle, called Goat Gallery – a not for profit project she put together to support the local art community.

WILLOW CRISTINI Turn to Starboard

The longestrunning member of the Tate Collective. Continued from page 35

The tool, which was over a year in development, offers a new approach, where patients participate in a 3–4-minute virtual clinic session, guiding them through procedural steps and potential risks. This research-backed method improves patient understanding by simplifying intricate medical information.

Nominated for the Women in Business HealthTech Awards, Phoebe holds a Masters in business management, an SEO Optimisation qualification, and has six years of MedTech experience.

Willow Cristini has been working at Falmouth-based veteran’s sailing charity Turn to Starboard for the past three years. What started out as a summer job ultimately became full time last year, upon her graduation from Bristol University.

While her job title is special projects co-ordinator, this doesn’t really do justice to the many skills she brings.

From planning and overseeing complex projects to dealing empathetically with veterans, Willow is said to excel. Just to give a flavour of her many accomplishments, she has built databases and implemented complex systems to support the charity’s operational needs and also built and designed our new website.

Her attention to detail is second to none.

WILLOW CRISTINI

VICTORIA WESSON

SAM OATEY

Look after them and they will look after you.

SMART BUSINESS

Financial success and social responsibility needn’t be conflicting obstacles, but complementary objectives, says Castle Beach Café owner and 30 under 30 Class of 24 winner, Emily Davidson.

I want to tell my story of how community connection and employee wellbeing have hugely benefited my business, in the hope that it will inspire other business owners. It’s difficult to demonstrate how positive actions can result in social, environmental and financial success without some element of virtue signalling, but I’m going to give it a go!

Having worked in this industry for many years, I too have been on the receiving end of this – one employer even said “yeah yeah, we’ve all got things going on, I don’t want this to affect the quality of your work, the company needs you right now” when I told him that my mum had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and had just three months to live (I resigned that night). When I became a business owner, I knew exactly the kind of boss that I didn’t want to be.

To be clear, by prioritising staff wellbeing, I don’t mean a toxic workplace that is masked with a biannual pizza night. I mean creating a space where the team feel valued, cared for, and motivated to work hard. It’s important to understand that your staff are not robots that should be trained to work efficiently by the minute, but people with much more important concerns going on outside the workplace. I believe that coming to work should be a fun and motivating break from their personal lives, and in turn I know that my team will work hard and eagerly offer help when needed. Or as my Dad would say; ‘what goes around comes around.. look after them and they will look after you’.

This isn’t just idealism, it’s smart business. We have never had a problem attracting and retaining talent, and our staff turnover is practically 0%, which saves a lot of time hiring and training new people – something I am very proud of in a business that wouldn’t typically offer long-term career prospects. There is also this to consider – people talk, particularly in a small Cornish town where everybody knows everybody, your reputation is everything. I’m sure you enjoyed that gossip about my former boss a few paragraphs up, and the general public would be no different. If you treat your staff badly, people will find out.

This isn’t just idealism, it’s smart business.

Most people in Cornwall have done a stint in a minimum-wage job within the tourism industry. Each and every member of my team, my friends and my family have a story to tell about a previous employer; from missing a friend’s wedding because they couldn’t get time off, the boss keeping the tips, being denied a lunch break or blamed for poor visitor numbers during bad weather. Sadly, I think there is a lack of respect for hospitality and retail workers, not just from the general public but from employers.

I am proud to share that my little café has forged such a meaningful and authentic connection with our customer base, that a community fundraiser collected just under £5k for solar panels to offset our huge energy bills, and the cost of the panels was reduced by the installation company (thank you, GreenGen) because of our community-centered ethos. This story alone is testament to the primary economic (and environmental) benefits of the power of connection. The community also came out to help clear up the debris after several bouts of storm damage made the local news last year, and they have been advocates for our planning application to rebuild (now the beautiful space pictured). With visitor numbers to the region fluctuating, it feels incredibly important to build these lasting relationships with local people.

It feels reassuring to know that the community have our back during hardship, and likewise I hope that they know they can come to us during their times of need. So, without blowing my own trumpet too much, I hope that I have illustrated the benefits of being a kind boss and a socially responsible business owner in Cornwall!

OCEAN VIEW

Ocean Housing Group has appointed a new chief executive.

Jitinder Takhar has joined the St Austell-based housing association following the retirement of her predecessor Mark Gardner.

A highly-experienced leader, Takhar brings more than three decades of industry experience and strategic strength to Ocean Housing, which oversees the management of over 4,500 homes in Cornwall.

Takhar began her career at Bristol Churches Housing Association before spending more than a decade in senior leadership roles encompassing Local Spaces, Homes for Lambeth and 13 years as the executive director of Spectrum Housing Group.

INTERIM CEO AT WILDANET

Neil Conaghan has been appointed interim CEO of Liskeard-based broadband provider, Wildanet.

Conaghan is currently the CEO of fellow Gresham House-backed alternative network provider, GoFibre. He will continue in that role while assuming leadership of Wildanet in an interim capacity, working closely with the senior management team.

Conaghan’s appointment follows a difficult period for Wildanet. In February it announced a number of job cuts as part of a restructuring process. A month later, it was confirmed thar CEO Helen Wylde-Archibald had left the company.

Wildanet chairman, Martin Harriman, said: “Neil brings extensive industry experience and a strong track record of leading fibre broadband rollouts. His dual role will support the ongoing execution of Wildanet’s Project Gigabit contracts and the broader strategic ambitions of both Wildanet and GoFibre.”

TRUSTEES ON BOARD

Cornwall’s sight loss charity has announced the appointment of four new trustees who are set to bring a wealth of insight and experience to the board.

iSightCornwall, which is due to celebrate its 170th anniversary next year, has welcomed Mel Richardson, Beatrix Love, Jahred Love and Rhys Morris to its board.

Mel Richardson is well known within the business community for her work as manager of Newham’s Business Improvement District.

Beatrix Love is an iSightCornwall client, she is registered severely sight impaired and so she brings lived experience of sight loss to the board.

Jahred Love works as a software and electronics engineer and as husband to Beatrix, brings his own lived experience with sight loss.

Rhys Morris is a retired manufacturing manager wholearned about iSightCornwall when his late wife suddenly lost her sight and became a client. He is also an active member of Lions International and has a wealth of experience in fundraising, charity, and raising awareness.

ARTISTRY IN DENTISTRY

An internationally distinguished cosmetic dentist is joining Wadebridge Dental.

Dr Jason Smithson has over 25 years’ experience and is also an in-demand worldwide lecturer, teaching dentists minimally invasive composite bonding techniques.

Practice principal, Dr Andrew Taylor, said: “We are delighted to welcome Dr Smithson to our dental practice. Patients, both registered with the practice and patients from self-referral, can access world leading restorative and cosmetic care.”

MEL RICHARDSON

JAHRED LOVE, BEATRIX LOVE AND RHYS MORRIS

COMMUNITY PRIDE

New research published by VisitEngland demonstrates the positive cultural and social impacts that tourism has on local communities across the UK.

The report - ‘The Social Value of Tourism’ - found significantly higher levels of community pride, sense of wellbeing and social cohesion amongst residents living and working in areas frequented by both domestic and international visitors.

People living in tourism areas were 23% more connected to their communities. 58% of residents surveyed in these destinations felt connected to their community compared to 35% elsewhere. Those living and working in tourism areas were also more likely to be proud of their local area with sense of pride-inplace scoring 12% higher overall than in ‘non-host communities.’

The research, which considered a range of social and cultural measures, also found that almost 80% of people surveyed felt more positive after travelling in the UK and more than 70% felt healthier or more replenished after their trip.

VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates said: “As this report demonstrates, tourism’s true value extends much broader than its economic benefits, creating connected communities where people want to live, work and visit and enriching community life.”

TRAVEL AGENCY IS A TUI HERO!

An independent travel agency from Newquay has won a top national award. L&K Travel returned home from the TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies Awards in Manchester as TUI’s Community Hero. Director, Jessica Gardener, said: “We want to thank every single person in our fantastic community for coming together and making this possible. Without the generous donations, support and motivation from you all, we wouldn’t have achieved what we did.”

CRUISE SEASON STARTS

The Isles of Scilly have welcomed their first cruise calls of 2025, marking the start of a busy season ahead.

Ocean Nova’s visit was the first time in decades a cruise ship had docked alongside St Mary’s Quay, made possible

ST IVES PREMIER INN

Premier Inn has won a planning appeal to build a 90-bedroom hotel in St Ives.

Cornwall Council had originally rejected the controversial plans in April 2024, despite its own planning officers recommending the scheme for approval just a week earlier.

Planning permission is now granted for the demolition of the existing care home at

by her relatively small size and the high spring tide.

Other cruise ships to have visited recently include MS Ambience, MS Borealis and Silver Endeavour. A total of 53 ships – five more than last year - with capacity for a total of 28,000 tourists, are expected to visit the Isles of Scilly in 2025.

Trewidden Road and erection of a hotel along with associated landscaping, car parking and associated infrastructure.

Louise Woodruff, property acquisitions manager at Whitbread, said: “We are very pleased that our planning appeal to bring Premier Inn to St Ives has been allowed. We will now work with the owner of Trewidden Care Home to complete the purchase of the site.”

COLLEGE CELEBRATION

Cornwall College Camborne has celebrated the launch of the final part of its £12 million Government-funded transformation project.

The college showcased the redevelopment of its iconic Tamar Tower, with the 1960s building completely modernised, including upgraded classrooms, bespoke facilities and contemporary office spaces.

Perran Moon, MP for Camborne, Redruth and Hayle, said the redevelopment was a clear example of public investment delivering local impact.

“Cornwall College is an essential part of Cornwall’s industrial future, in delivering the skills that we need to support business growth in Cornwall. Projects like this show how Government funding can create real, lasting benefits, not just for education, but for the wider community and local economy.”

Ongoing campus works include expanded green and social spaces and a new weather-resistant energy centre to support sustainability.

ADVERTORIAL

PASTY WEEK BOOSTS SCHOOLS

Cornish Pasty Week raised £16.5k to help fund cooking in schools across the county. The cash will help buy cookers, aprons and other equipment, fund food-related field trips and provide cookery sessions.

So far, more than 20 schools have successfully applied to receive funds and the window is still open for others to do so.

Cornish Pasty Week is organised by industry body the Cornish Pasty Association (CPA) and raises money for the Cornish Pasty Community Fund.

Highlights this year included a whirlwind tour by mascots Mr and Mrs Pasty, a pasty-making

masterclass at St Mabyn Primary School and the grand finale, a headline-grabbing World’s Fastest Crimper contest.

Cornish Pasty Week has been running since 2018 and this year’s edition was hailed by the CPA as one of the best.

CPA chairman, Jason Jobling, said: “This year a whole host of events gave us a pasty week to remember.

“It was great to see the support continuing to come in from the pastymaking community, with sponsorship by key suppliers and donations from Cornish pasty shops far and wide.”

Schools wishing to apply to the Cornish Pasty Community Fund can find more information on the CPA website.

PATENT BOX TAX RELIEF – ARE YOU MISSING OUT?

By Frederick Noble, British and European Patent Attorney at Albright IP.

Did you know that a lower rate of corporation tax can be paid on profits derived from patented inventions? It is a valuable relief, with eligible profits being taxed at just 10%.

INSPIRING THE FUTURE

A leading digital marketing agency has been sharing top industry insights with the Exeter & Falmouth Women In Business Society.

WATER TESTING FIRST

A south west technology company is launching a first-of-its-kind water quality testing device to protect public health, giving everyday water users real-time insight into the health risk posed by taking a dip.

While traditional water quality tests take 24 hours or more to produce results, the handheld Bactiquick, designed and created by Molendotech, based at the Health & Wellbeing Innovation Centre in Truro and the University of Plymouth Brixham Laboratory, provides reliable results in just 15 minutes. It also detects a wider range of bacteria than most other tests.

Founder and chief scientific officer, Professor Simon Jackson, said: “Our breakthrough technology provides rapid results and is much more reliable. Water users no longer need to rely on traditional methods and choose between skipping a dip if there’s a pollution alert or risk getting sick if they take the plunge. Everyone deserves to know the water quality before diving in.”

The latest statistics, however, indicate that only around 1,600 companies are claiming annually. Why? Perhaps the perceived complexity is putting people off, but the statistics also prove that it’s a system that works for SMEs as much as the big boys.

Absent any other good explanation, it seems to me that simply not enough people know about the scheme, or realise they are eligible to claim. The eligibility criteria are actually reasonably wide, with both patent owners and exclusive licensees able to claim the relief. The company claiming relief does not actually have to have taken part

At a recent workshop aimed at inspiring the next generation of young thinkers and leaders, Stewart Roode and Andrew Thomas from HookedOnMedia led a lineup of guest speakers covering everything from SEO and social media to content marketing and analytics.

Roode said: “We were delighted to be asked to share a glimpse of life in the digital sector in Cornwall and showcase the career opportunities that exist locally.

“With Cornwall’s tech sector booming, there is an increasing need to retain local talent and the university’s Penryn campus provided the perfect backdrop to inspire these young creatives.”

Several water companies are in discussions with community groups to support in rolling out the use of Bactiquick in localised areas. The technology is also being trialled among community swimming groups, environmental campaigners such as Surfers Against Sewage and public organisations.

in inventing the invention – “qualifying development” can happen afterwards, to implement the invention in a product.

Taking advantage of the Patent Box does require a certain amount of planning ahead. There does need to be a patented invention and it is essential that a patent must be applied for before the invention is publicly disclosed. Failing to protect innovation at all has consequences extending far beyond tax, of course.

The Government recognises this and indeed the whole point of having this tax incentive in the first place is to encourage UK business not only to innovate but to properly protect that innovation. It is a

GIGS MIGHT FLY

The team behind the Isles of Scilly’s new Cultural Centre and Museum has launched a crowdfunding campaign to help raise £35k to install the iconic Klondike gig at the heart of the Town Hall on St Mary’s.

The Gigs Might Fly campaign is spearheaded by Scilly Arts and Heritage, the charity managing the new cultural centre and museum in the Isles of Scilly, and will help them realise their vision of making the historic Klondike the “majestic centrepiece” of the Cultural Centre and Museum, due to open spring next year.

Stories from the Klondike and other island gigs will be included in the new museum in the Town Hall, celebrating Scilly’s gig rowing history and the shift in gigs’ roles from pilot boats, lifesaving and working vessels to the racing boats of today.

By suspending the historic boat in a cradle from the ceiling, the plan is to create a spectacular centrepiece for the new Cultural Centre and Museum at the Town Hall – the new home to the Isles of Scilly Museum and an indoor live arts venue and community hall.

valuable relief and in our experience can pay for the cost of obtaining protection many times over.

So if you are working on inventing something – and that really means solving any technical problem in a new way – get in touch and discuss how to protect not only the invention, but the profit.

CONNECTED

Cornish business life photo gallery.

COODES PARTY

Staff, clients and business contacts gathered at the Upper Deck in Falmouth for Coodes’ annual summer drinks reception.

CAROLINE CARTER (BUSINESS CORNWALL) AND ANDREW PRINCE

JENI LUKE (COODES), CLIVE KESSELL (REALLY USEFUL ADVICE) AND SAM WINTERS (CMN)

IAN HARRIS (CONSULTANT) AND JADE EDWARDS (TOWERGATE)

ELISE ALMA (COODES)

TOM HARVEY-JAMES (GROUNDSURE)

JO MORGAN (COODES)

BROCK (YOUR PARTNERSHIPS)

ROYAL VISIT

HRH The Princess Royal opened Cockwells’ training academy and launched its new Hardy 45 European.

BOOK LAUNCH

The Lost Gardens of Heligan hosted the launch of Poet Laureate Simon Armitage’s new book, Dwell - a collection of poems inspired by the gardens and the wildlife that call it home.

MARK STEER (HELIGAN FARM TEAM)

POET LAUREATE AND SIR TIM SMIT (FOUNDER OF HELIGAN)

MIKE SHEPHERD

KING’S AWARD BUSINESS BREAKFAST

The spotlight was shone on the King’s Award for Enterprise and its most recent winner, The Lost Gardens of Heligan, at a special business breakfast event at Teagle Machinery, led by Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho to recognise the Duchy’s exceptional businesses.

FINANCE IN CORNWALL

The Lighthouse Cinema in Newquay was the venue for PKF Francis Clark’s popular Finance in Cornwall conference.

GEMMA LLOYD-JONES, KYLIE ORCHARD AND CLAIRE HART

JOHN BROWN (CORNWALL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE)

ADRIAN DAVIES (ICE TRIKES) AND SIMON HUGHES (WILDANET)

PENNY PADDLE (SPENCER WEST) AND REBECCA LOTO (CORNWALL INNOVATION)

JAMES STAUGHTON (DEPUTY LIEUTENANT), LAURA SMIT-CHESTERFIELD (HELIGAN), COLONEL SIR EDWARD BOLITHO AND TOM TEAGLE (TEAGLE MACHINERY)

4

CORNWALL

CLIMATE CARE

Fibre Hub, Pool

As the world faces increasingly devastating climate-related disasters, why do so many people believe that climate change is all a hoax? cornwallchamber.co.uk

5 BISHOP FLEMING FINANCE

SEMINAR

The Alverton Hotel, Truro

Hear from expert speakers as they share timely insights and practical advice on the issues that matter most to your business. bishopfleming.co.uk

5 ROYAL CORNWALL SHOW

Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge

Every year, for three days in June, the best in entertainment, agriculture, shopping and competition can be found at Royal Cornwall. royalcornwallshow.org

6 BUSINESS CORNWALL LIVE!

Royal Cornwall Showground, Wadebridge

Join us for a lively networking breakfast at the Royal Cornwall Show, with guest speaker Rebecca Tonks from St Ewe Free Range Eggs. eventbrite.co.uk

10 PIRAN NETWORKING BREAKFAST

Norway Inn, Perranarworthal

Referrals-based network that meets every other Tuesday, building strong relationships and working for one and all. eventbrite.co.uk

11 CORNWALL BIG LUNCH

St Mellion, Saltash

Join Your Partnerships for an incredible day of connection, collaboration, and community at The Big Lunch — one of the most anticipated networking events in the south west. yourpartnerships.co.uk

12 WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCH

Penventon Hotel, Redruth

All are welcome to Your Partnerships’ Women in Business lunch on the second Thursday of each month. yourparnerships.co.uk

18 WOMEN IN BUSINESS LUNCH... BREAKFAST ACTUALLY!

Truro Golf Club

Connect with fellow female professionals. This event is perfect for all women looking to grow their business and make meaningful connections. eventbrite.co.uk

For further details of these and more events visit businesscornwall.co.uk

To publicise your event for free, email news@businesscornwall.co.uk

EVENTS

June 2025

19 THE PIG DIPPERS

The Pig at Harlyn Bay

Cornwall Chamber and Tremayne Taylor Financial Planning have teamed up with The Pig at Harlyn Bay to create The Pig Dippers –a monthly net-swimming and breakfast club. cornwallchamber.co.uk

19 YOUR PARTNERSHIPS OPEN HOUSE

Victoria Inn, Roche

Join YP for a morning of breakfast, banter, and brilliant connections at its original Open House event - the birthplace of Your Partnerships. yourpartnerships.co.uk

25 CORNWALL CHAMBER BIG BREAKFAST

St Michael’s Resort, Falmouth

This month’s Chamber breakfast is co-hosted by Peaky Digital. Network with other Cornish businesses and listen to some fantastic speakers. cornwallchamber.co.uk

26 NETWORK HFC

Hall for Cornwall, Truro

Network HfC gathers a free-range collective of individuals from business, creative, tech and media, for an informal monthly get-together. hallforcornwall.co.uk

DENNIS LUCAN

Investment portfolio manager at Falmouth University’s Cornwall Angel Netwwork

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?

When I was young I was always drawn towards entrepreneurship, innovation and investment.

When I wasn’t on a mountain bike, I spent my time experimenting and learning how things worked - be it mechanically, innovation or business related. Those elements remain at the heart of who I am now, personally and professionally.

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST FULL-TIME JOB?

WHAT’S IN YOUR POCKETS?

The recipe for spontaneous adventures: car keys, phone and cards.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO RELAX?

Although my days of extreme sports are long gone, the passion for hands-on projects remains. I am a petrol-head and Jaguar Land Rover enthusiast with a slowly growing car collection. I spend most of my free time tinkering under the bonnet, polishing and waxing in preparation for car shows or road trips.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

One of the highlights was meeting my mentor and future business partner while at University of Westminster. I met Colin when he presented his company as a visiting lecturer. What started as a mentor–mentee relationship turned into a five-year long partnership, the first six-figure, multi-year contract, over 100 SMEs supported and a series of angel investments .

WHAT HAS BEEN THE WORST MOMENT IN YOUR CAREER?

One phone call in July 2021. Colin rang to tell me that he has been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer but he felt optimistic about the treatment. Five months later Colin passed away at the age of 68. What followed were the most painful months when I had to update each of our joint clients and stakeholders. This was one of many reasons that led to my decision to relocate to Cornwall in 2022.

IF YOU COULD INVITE ANY TWO PEOPLE FOR DINNER, WHO WOULD THEY BE AND WHY WOULD YOU INVITE THEM?

Sir Ian Callum, the designer behind the timeless curves of some of the best modern Aston Martin and Jaguar cars ever made and Warren Buffett, chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION?

Not a destination, but a road trip across the south of France to the south of Italy in the right grand tourer.

IF YOU COULD BE GOD FOR A DAY, WHAT MIRACLE WOULD YOU PERFORM?

I would like to continue having a positive impact on the regional economy.

Although not a job, I reached a professional level as a mountain bike rider, but money was always a struggle and competitive bike parts were very expensive.

In my early teens, I invested my pocket money - a pound or two a day - in buying and selling used bike parts until I achieved the bike spec I needed to be competitive. It gave me a great sense of accomplishment to work my way up and afford a competition bike - I still have it on the wall in the garage.

Create an infinite source of alternative, non-polluting, internal combustion fuel that puts an end to the global reliance on fossil fuels and mining of critical minerals needed for electric vehicles.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE DOING IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME?

I see myself as a strong advocate for Cornwall’s success in attracting private inward investment and becoming one of the greatest sandpits of innovation in the UK. I would like to continue having a positive impact on the regional economy, taking the Cornwall Angel Network to ever new heights.

I HEAR AND I FORGET; I SEE AND I REMEMBER; I READ AND I UNDERSTAND.

Whatever printed literature your business requires, be it a leaflet, a brochure, an annual report & accounts, a newsletter or even a magazine, Tonick can help...

info@tonickbusinesspublishing.co.uk 01209 718688

Cornwall Innovation Centres – supporting businesses and helping companies to grow. Offering flexible, managed and modern workspace combined with access to business support and academic research.

• Fantastic easily accessible locations –Penryn, Pool & Truro

• On-site parking

• Fully-flexible contract – no lease and 30 days’ notice terms

• Access to business support and academic research for start-up & established companies

• Networking, Workshops & Community events

• Dedicated centre team

• On-site meeting and conference facilities –discounted for centre -based customers

• Café on site

• Virtual - Affiliate Membership

• Shared office spaces - Formation Zone

• Private office spaces For more information: enquiries@cornwallinnovation.co.uk www.cornwallinnovation.co.uk 08000 129 500

ACCOUNTANCY TAX ADVICE

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INHERITANCE

Big picture accountancy in Cornwall, with a team of in-house experts.

Get in touch for a meeting – it’s free.