Bodmin Life | Spring 2023 | Issue 08

Spring has sprung!

Well, spring is finally here - at last! The days are drawing out and we’re beginning to see the first signs of new life, from the wildflowers pushing their way out of the ground to the sweet little lambs playing in the fields.

With such a drastic change outside, in this issue of Bodmin Life we have turned our attention to nature and the environment, and how spending time outside of the four walls of our homes, offices and classrooms is so important.

Beth Woolley from Plastic Free Bodmin, who appears on the front cover of your magazine, tells us about her passion for making Bodmin a clean, tidy and positive place to live. Read her interview on pages 24 & 25.

With the warmer months on their way, intoBodmin gives us some advice on the best springtime veggies for beginner growers, for those who are veg patch-curious, on page 8. Bodmin Way updates us on their news and events, plus we have two packed pages of Wosson, so make sure you pop some exciting community events in your diary!

While we bid farewell to the dark, cold days of winter for another year, and open our arms to the hopefulness of spring, take a look at your magazine, read about all the wonderful things and people in your community, and perhaps even find another great business to support!

Contacts

CONTENT

Rosie Cripps

Head of Community Engagement rosie@life-media.co.uk

Mimi Attenburrow Junior Community Engagement mimi@life-media.co.uk

Emma Eccles Junior Community Engagement content@life-media.co.uk

Barbara Brittain Bodmin-based writer news@bodminway.org

ADVERTISING

Claire Pearce

Head of Client Engagement claire@life-media.co.uk

Kim Ashworth Junior Client Engagement kim@life-media.co.uk

Ellie Mason Growth Director ellie@life-media.co.uk

Kenny Marshall Publisher hello@life-media.co.uk

Claire Fry Business Administrator admin@life-media.co.uk

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, the publisher accepts no liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or ommisions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Bodmin Life does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication.

100 years 100 stories

Bodmin Jail’s new exhibition marks 100 years since the last prisoner left

Bodmin Jail is throwing its doors open to the public and welcoming one and all to the ‘100 Years, 100 Stories’ exhibition. Visitors are invited to experience this unique exhibition which features 100 objects placed around the attraction, each telling a story from the Jail’s intriguing history.

Jess Marlton, General Manager at Bodmin Jail said, “Our family friendly exhibition will feature objects and tales to be enjoyed by people of all ages. Our hope is that people are intrigued by the Jail’s vast array of stories and will continue to visit to learn more about this building’s history and heritage throughout our 100 Years celebrations in 2023.”

Jess continued, “The 100 objects have been carefully curated by our team of experts, and each tell their own tale of love, loss, debauchery, retribution and new beginnings throughout the almost 250 years since the Jail was built. We have also opened three further cells and introduced scent into the building to further enhance the immersive journey. The spaces and stories are deeply personal, as if the prisoners have just walked out of their cells and left behind a tantalising glimpse of the past.”

Alongside its immersive experiences, the Jail also holds itself to its educational responsibility to keep the stories of its inmates alive and share the history with generations to come.

The ‘100 Years, 100 Stories’ exhibition is running until the 30th April, and access is included with general admission to Bodmin Jail.

For more information please explore their website: www.bodminjail.org

“The 100 objects each tell their own tale of love, loss, debauchery, retribution and new beginnings.”

Style it out in Bodmin!

Bodmin’s Sustainable Fashion Workshops

Bodmin may not be known as one of the fashion capitals of Kernow but it is certainly celebrated for its well-stocked charity shops, full of new and preloved high street bargains.

Rebecca Wood, who is driven by her enthusiasm for community and sustainability has worked hard to raise funds to offer the people of Bodmin a series of free sustainable fashion workshops.

Rebecca told Bodmin Life, “I am not from an affluent background and I believe my lifestyle reflects how many others live in Bodmin. I don’t have the disposable income to follow the latest fashion and buy new and so I have always reinvented my older items.”

She continued, “I felt I would upcycle more if I could develop those skills. I wondered how many others felt the same and so I wanted to facilitate the sharing of those skills and knowledge to positively impact the environment and the community.”

The FREE workshops will take place every Tuesday from the 7th March for 12 weeks between 5pm-7pm at Shop 14 (next to Oggy Oggy). Bring your own items to upcycle or use the free materials and clothing items that have been kindly donated to the project.

I don’t have the disposable income to follow the latest fashion and buy new and so I have always reinvented my older items.

The workshops will host creative professionals specialising in various skills including embroidery, natural dyeing, patchwork, sewing machine skills and more.

Rebecca hopes to develop this project to conclude in a fashion show in June that celebrates local creativity, sustainability and community.

These workshops are suitable for ages 16+. All under 18's must be accompanied by an adult.

Thanks to the support of

FEAST Cornwall, intoBodmin, The Bodmin Lions, Plastic Free Bodmin, Discovering 42, the charity shops of Bodmin and individual supporters from the community, Rebecca’s dream of accessible upcycling sessions have become a reality.

All ‘the know’ to grow your own!

Seeds to sow in March…

Why not welcome in the spring with some seed sowing and growing, either in your garden or in a grow box on your windowsill!

Bodmin Life took some top tips on seasonal seeds from Bella Bown, horticulture and art therapist, who for the last nine months has been caring for the intoBodmin garden with her team of volunteers.

The project that improved, developed and shaped the garden space behind The Old Library may have come to an end, but here are some seed suggestions for herbs, vegetables and edible flowers that are best sown in March, soon to brighten up any spring/summer meal!

Outdoor Herbs: Marjoram, mint, rosemary.

Indoor Herbs: Basil, chives, thyme, parsley & sage

Outdoor Edible Flowers: Calendula, borage, lavender, chamomile, nasturtiums

Outdoor Vegetables: Artichokes, beetroot, broadbeans, Brussel sprouts, carrot, garlic, kale, leek, onions, peas, potatoes, parsnips, radish, spinach, spring onions.

Indoor Vegetables: Aubergine, chillies, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes.

Fun ways to fundraise

Nicola Cooper knows how it’s done! Local groups and charities receive donations raised at Bodmin’s bingo nights. It’s a winning combination as people enjoy the evening and the recipients are grateful for a financial boost that supports their work in the community. Originally the bingo was a one off to encourage people to get out and about after COVID. It soon became a weekly Monday evening event at Shire House Suite.

Nicola told Bodmin Life: "Bingo allows the community to socialise without spending a fortune and the money raised makes a difference to good causes. A win-win all round.”

Organisations in receipt of the proceeds include Bodmin Relief in Need (BRIN), Bodmin Town Band, Lanivet under 5s, Nanstallon preschool, St Petroc’s Church youth group, Little Berries Nursery, Pencarrow Cricket Club, Bodmin Youth Football, Bodmin Food Bank, Bodmin Christmas Lights and Bodmin Camera Club.

Nicola said: “The bingo nights will continue, and with the community's support, many more good causes will benefit.”

Nicola is no stranger to fundraising. Over the last four years, including when Nicola was mayoress, she and her team have raised more than a whopping £28,000! Some of the beneficiaries are Macmillan Cancer Support, Little Harbour Hospice, Chestnut Appeal for Prostate Cancer, The Cove Macmillan Support Centre Treliske and Mind Cornwall.

Pioneer project

‘Winter Warmer’ has provided a warm space and much more since October 2022. Every Friday morning from 9.30am at St Petroc’s Parish Centre, next to Priory Park, people can spend time together, enjoy hot food and drinks and take away meals all for free.

‘Winter Warmer’ is one of the ways Rev’d Elaine Munday, Pioneer Minister for the Bodmin Team Ministry, offers friendship and support to those living in Bodmin.

The six-month project was set to finish at the end of March, when funding runs out, however, Rev’d Elaine plans to continue the weekly get together. The name, of course, will have to change as the warmer weather comes our way! Whatever the name, a very warm welcome will be extended to everybody on Friday mornings for a long time to come.

Rev'd Elaine told Bodmin Life: "Part of my role as pioneer minister is to support people in Bodmin and it's great to be in a position to do this through funding and donations from individuals and the churches in the Bodmin Team Ministry."

A message from Revd Paul Holley

They say that 80 is the new 60. People in their eighties are doing all sorts of things they never have dreamed of. Too often in past decades you reached retirement and died soon after. Now we can set our sights on thriving for another 20 years.

That may be the case for many of us, but not all. Illness and disability can leave people with a very poor quality of life in their later years. The idea of healthspan rather than lifespan is now the ‘in-thing’; not so much how long we live but how healthy we are on the way. A good healthspan depends on good genes, good luck and good choices. How we live and where we live makes a difference.

Is Bodmin a good place to age well? The folk at Bodmin Way would like it to be better. I’m sure we all would. We hear a lot about the ageing society these days. Let’s try and make it as positive experience as we can. We can’t do much about good genes, but maybe we can improve our chances and choices. Let us know if you want to help us do this.

Revd Paul Holley - Chair, Bodmin Way

Together for wellbeing

The Community Circle initiative will launch in the early part of 2023. Its aim is to draw people together to help one another in challenging times.

The idea of a ‘circle’ represents inclusivity. The Community Circle hopes to embrace a wide variety of people so that ideas and energies are pooled in creative and productive ways. The opportunity to volunteer and to enjoy activities will help ward off loneliness, improve wellbeing and find practical ways of coping with the current energy and cost of living crises.

Many of its activities will take place in the Parish Centre, which Bodmin Way is looking to renovate to allow better access and comfort. Existing projects provide a welcome platform for people to join the circle, for example, the weekly Time Together cafe and the support people receive through home visits. Bodmin Way’s other projects will continue, including the Community Larder, crisis support, courses, walking and cycling, concerts, cultural events and supportive church communities with their offer of life celebrations such as affordable weddings.

The Community Circle is open to everybody in Bodmin and the surrounding villages. It gives the chance to forge friendships, eat and have fun together in a warm space. As the warmer weather arrives, day trips will be available, including trishaw tours along the Camel Trail for the more adventurous! There will be access to Bodmin Way’s Parish Nurse, who will offer preventative care as well as signpost people to expert support.

Mo lost her lovely locks but gained more than £600 sponsor money for Bodmin Way Community Larder. Other ways to volunteer are available!

For more details and how to get involved visit www.bodminway.org/community-circle and facebook.com/BodminWay.

Bodmin Way Community Circle

Events

BODMIN TEAM MINISTRY

Sunday Services

St Petroc’s Bodmin - 10am

St Stephen’s Nanstallon - 10am (first Sunday monthly) and Evensong

6pm (third Sunday monthly)

St Meubred’s Cardinham - 9.30am

St Hydroc’s Lanhydrock - 9.45am

Lanivet Church - 11am and Evensong 6pm (first Sunday monthly)

Spring Sing!

Spring Services across the team for everyone

Mothering Sunday - 19 March

Palm Sunday - 2 April

Good Friday - 7 April 9.30am at St Meubred’s, 10am St Hydroc’s (Matins) and 2pm at St Petroc’s, Lanivet and St Hydroc’s

Easter Sunday - 9 April

Beacon Beast Marathon – The Bodmin Way

Sunday 16 April (based on the walking route of The Bodmin Way) with aid stations at St Stephen’s, Lanivet and St Meubred’s and refreshments all day with presentations of medals and cups at St Petroc’s

The all-age choir meets on Thursdays from 5pm to 6pm at Parish Centre next to Priory Park. The spring sing will start on 2nd March to 6th April with performances at The Old Library on 8th April and St Petroc’s Church on 9th April.

Updates at bodminway.org/courses. Book your place via messenger bodminway.org/courses or info@bodminway.org.

The Kinsman & Treningle Community Hub

the Kinsman and Treningle Hub provides a warm, safe space for residents to come and take part in groups or activities.

The hub also serves to link residents with outside organisations that can help them with whatever they need helping with. Grace O’Donnell, who manages the hub alongside a team of passionate volunteers told Bodmin Life, “Our main focus is on strengthening the amazing sense of community that already exists on the estate”.

Grace said “Groups and activities normally happen at the hub because residents feel like there's a need for it, so if you have an idea, let us know! Also, we are predominantly run by volunteers so we welcome others that would like to do the same, at the hub.”

Grace continued, “I have been working for the hub for the last year, but I used it as a resident for 2 years before that. It's run by a ‘Volunteer tenants and residents association’ and some of the people involved have been there since the hub opened! The whole focus of the hub is around community and it's amazing to see people coming together to help each other out in one way or another.”

Currently running at the hub is a sewing bee, friendship cafe and a hub study group with an additional youth group and a toddler group hopefully starting up again soon! Community Heart also run ‘Doing club’ on a Tuesday and they offer community meals throughout the year.

The team at the hub also organise a ‘fun day’ every year for their residents. They have games, stalls, face paint and arrange local organisations to come over to host workshops. Residents turn up rain or shine to enjoy themselves and the community spirit shown on this day fills all involved with joy!

COMPETITION

WIN a guided tour of Pencarrow House for 2 people, plus a proper Cornish cream tea!

To be in with a chance of winning a guided tour and cream tea for two, simply see if you can spot Hank the dog! Then head to www.bodminlife.com to fill out our form and we’ll select the winner.

Enter now at: www.bodminlife.com

Terms & Conditions: No purchase necessary. Entrants must be over 18. Competition excludes employees of Bodmin Life or Pencarrow House and Garens plus their families and anyone else connected to the above promotions. Prize is a guided tour of Pencarrow House and a cream tea for two. Prize must be pre-booked. Prize can be redeemed between April and October, any day except Saturday. Prize is non-transferable and non-exchangeable and no cash alternative is available. Winners may be asked to partake in publicity if required. One entry per household. The publishers decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

We have the best dressed statues

50 acres of tranquil gardens to explore

Guided house tour revealing the secrets of this enchanting house & family

Peacock Café - homemade cakes, refreshing drinks and delicious light lunches

Garden and house trails for kids - plus under 16’s go free in the gardens! Gardens are dog friendly with plenty of beautiful woodland to r

Washaway,

PL30 3AG Tel: 01208 841369

www.pencarrow.co.uk

H OUSE GAR DENS AND

Adventure is around the corner!

The days are getting longer and (hopefully) a little warmer, the buds are emerging and with it, Cornwall begins to unfold, building to its busiest season.

Pubs, restaurants and cafés are starting to extend their opening hours, historic properties are opening their creaky doors and attractions are calling all visitors. It is often said that you can forget to explore what is on your own doorstep. Luckily, there is such a wide variety of exciting things to do and explore in and around Bodmin that there is no need to travel too far afield for fun.

Here are just a few of our favourites!

The History Fans

Bodmin is steeped in history and there is a lot to explore from the wells dotted around the town, Bodmin Museum, Bodmin Keep: Cornwall’s Army Museum, to the impressive and memorable attraction that is Bodmin Jail. Have you explored the latest activities and exhibitions they all have to offer?

The Curious Minds

There is so much to learn and explore at Cornwall’s Science Museum, Discovering 42! They have tactile exhibits, regular activities and a café with a smoothie bike!

The Wanderers

Enjoy the beautiful, well-trodden paths around the Beacon Nature Reserve or take a short drive out of town and wander wistfully around Pencarrow House and its breathtaking gardens.

The ‘Cycle’ paths

If you’re ready to pick up the pace after a chilled winter then there is a great selection of places to enjoy a day of cycling. Hop onto the Camel Trail with café stops along the way, explore more of our rolling countryside at The Lanhydrock Estate or explore the light-dappled paths under a forest canopy at Cardinham Woods.

Take on the Camel Trail this spring!

Our green spaces are finally becoming… well, green again…and those beautiful quaint little flowers are beginning to appear in hedgerows, fields and gardens.

So what could be better than to get outside and truly feel the benefits of spending time in nature?

Luckily for us here in Bodmin, in just a few short steps (or a quick cycle) out of the town centre we can reach the Camel Trail. A beautiful route whatever the weather that guarantees a fun day outdoors whether on your own or with family and friends. Enjoy a little light exercise (unless you fancy tackling the whole 18 miles of the Trail) and explore our beautiful local area.

Snail’s Pace Cafe

Need some fuel for a long bike ride or walk ahead? Stop off at Snail’s Pace Cafe, open from 18th March, for hot drinks and delicious homemade cakes - the perfect post or pre-cycle pick-me-up!

Wendfordbridge

This historic hamlet lies just 6 miles from Bodmin, and takes its name from an old bridge on the River Camel. This part of the Trail is beautiful, taking in the glorious sights of Bodmin Moor.

Bodmin Jail

Bodmin Jail is always worth a visit. Discover the history of Bodmin and its people, and grab a bite to eat or a drink to fuel your walk or cycle along the Camel Trail!

Discover nature

Exploring the local area and immersing yourself in nature is easy with the Camel Trail on your doorstep. Follow a pretty stream and marvel at the beautiful countryside along the way. Perhaps see if you can spot any birds, insects and other wildlife along the way!

An inspiring collaboration built in Bodmin.

Two artists that have both been featured independently in past editions of Bodmin Life have become an inspiring music duo.

Jen Groeber, artist, composer and producer at Ruinarte and Bodmin based music studio, Morvil Studio, met Robert Gillet ‘Robbie’ of Beneath the Tracksuit during her community outreach project, Studio Bodmin which took place early in 2022.

Local poet, MS warrior and mental health activist, Robbie was one of the artists who applied. Almost a year on, a unique and inspiring collaboration has evolved and on February 3rd Ruinarte and Robbie released the first of a series of albums, 'Beneath, Vol. 1'.

Jen, who is also a qualified Psychiatrist, told Bodmin Life, “The album explores the experience of living with a neurological disorder and the consequent mental health struggles that can accompany it.”

Robbie stated, “Mental health issues and invisible illnesses are not often talked about and many people carry that burden alone. I hope this album will inspire and comfort those it reaches.”

And it could reach far, as the collaboration continues all the way to America! The cover has been designed by Atom St. George from California, “who tells his own story of living with MS through the medium of art.” A partnership built through shared artistic expression via social media.

Jen continued, “It was an honour to musically explore Robbie's journey with him and work together on creating a sound that reflected both of our influences and experiences.”

Bodmin is a buzzing hub of creativity and there are many organisations all over the town that are holding supportive and friendly spaces that promote skill sharing, collaboration and creative wellbeing. Take a look at our ‘Wosson’ pages and see if there is an activity or workshop that could benefit you!

Find Jen, Robbie and Atom St George on Instagram: @ruinarte / @morvilstudio/ @beneath_the_tracksuit/ @atomstgeorge

It’s about the community. What needs to be shown is the commitment from the town. Without them there isn’t a ‘plastic free’ Bodmin…

Bodmin: Plastic Free Approved Status

Bodmin is awarded ‘Plastic Free Communities’ Status as it takes action against single-use plastics.

Bodmin has joined a network of communities across the UK who are leading the way to tackle throw away plastic at source. The town has been awarded ‘Plastic Free Community’ status by marine conservation charity, Surfers Against Sewage (SAS), in recognition of the work it has done to start reducing the impact of single-use plastic on the environment.

Communities are not expected to be completely ‘plastic free’ to gain this status, but the initiative encourages and supports communities to take positive steps towards dramatically reducing single use plastics by setting objectives and requirements. Any individual or group can sign up via the ‘plastic free communities’ website and volunteer themselves to begin a community’s mission to gain ‘plastic free approved status’ from SAS.

Bodmin’s journey began when Beth Woolley started the campaign in 2021 after struggling to source plastic free items during lockdown. Beth decided that rather than complain, she would use her frustration to try and make a change locally.

Beth has been extremely eager to express how this is a community achievement. It may be something she started, but it is something that couldn’t have been accomplished without a huge number of proactive supporters in the town.

Beth told Bodmin Life, “It’s about the community. What needs to be shown is the commitment from the town. Without them there isn’t a ‘plastic free’ Bodmin. Businesses like Celtic Produce with their refills and the commitment from Oggy Oggy Pasty Company, Discovering 42 and Snail’s Pace café, are making a real and tangible difference.”

After registering with the SAS Plastic Free Communities movement, Beth began to pull together key organisations and businesses in the town to put a five-point plan in place. The objectives include setting up a community led steering group, instigating the SAS Plastic Free Schools education programme, getting local council commitment and working with local businesses, organisations and community groups to spread the word and minimise the amount of disposable plastics they use.

Bodmin Town Council’s support has been integral in securing the plastic free status with thanks to Cllr Pete Skea for being a particularly proactive supporter. They have pledged to reduce single use plastic within the local council, and they will soon be rolling out an events charter that will help advise on how to reduce single use plastics for anyone or organisation putting on larger scale events in the town. The project has seen an incredible amount of ‘Community Allies’ which have also been an essential part of this achievement. These are businesses, schools and community groups that have pledged their support of the project and then made small changes or wish their own inspiring work to contribute to the success of the campaign.

This includes, for example, the Rotary’s reduction of single use plastic at events, all the wonderful things happening at The Curious School of the Wild and the persistent good work from the Bodmin Tidy it Team.

Beth has been delighted by the overwhelming response from a diverse range of groups in Bodmin and describes it as, “inspiring community action”. Currently there are over 25 Bodmin based community groups, businesses and organisations signed up as supporters of the project.

Congratulations to all of those involved for their contribution and success in gaining Bodmin this status.

Follow ‘Plastic Free Bodmin – News’ on Facebook and Instagram @ plasticfreebodmin. If you are a business, community group or individual and wish to get involved, contact Beth at: plasticfreebodmin@gmail.com.

For more information about the campaign visit: www.sas.org.uk/plastic-pollution/plastic-free-communities.

Mustard roast beef and spring veg

Ingredients:

● Beef joint of choice from Seaview Farm Shop

● Wholegrain mustard

● Onion, chopped into wedges

● Rosemary

● Salt and pepper

● Spring veggies such as garden peas, green beans and carrots.

Indulge in this delicious roast beef with all the trimmings, perfect for Easter with all the family, or for a simple Sunday roast at any time of year. You can purchase the beef and veggies from Seaview Farm Shop!

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC (fan).

2. Rub the beef with two tablespoons of wholegrain mustard and season with salt and pepper before placing on a roasting tray with the onion and springs of rosemary. Prep your veg while the oven is coming up to temperature.

3. Place the beef in the oven for just under an hour or until the meat is to your liking, then remove from the tray and cover it, leaving on a board to rest.

4. While the veg is cooking, have a go at making a delicious rich gravy using the meat juices left in the tray. All the flavour from the herbs and onion will also enhance the delicious gravy.

5. Slice the beef and place on a board, accompanied by the spring veg and a jug of amazing gravy, and let everyone tuck in! You might be lucky enough to have some leftovers, but don’t count on it!

Don’t forget the Yorkshires!

A classic roast beef accompaniment, mix the simple ingredients of eggs, milk and plain flour to whip up some fluffy Yorkshire puddings in the last half an hour of cooking…

We now cook a Midweek Roast with all the trimmings every Wednesday from 12.30!

At Sea View we cook a full breakfast and lunch every day of the week from 9am. We have toasted sandwiches, ploughmans, lasagne, steak and ale stew, chicken or vegi currys, sausages and mash with cider sauce, pork chop, and lots more, all come with a side salad, crisps, or veg and sauce.

All meals are home made with produce from our own farm, expect good quality food, good size portions, and reasonable prices, every one welcome!

Sea View Farm Shop, Higher Tynes, St Teath, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30 3LR 07966 201 945 www.seaviewfarmshop.co.uk

Winning design chosen

for Bodmin’s St Piran’s Day water bottle!

When it came to planning Bodmin’s annual St Piran’s Day celebrations for 2023, the question was asked: “Could something be done to provide an alternative to single-use water bottles?”

So it was decided to source reusable bottles that everyone would be able to use, and remember this special Cornish event with. To make things even better, the graphics on the bottles were to be designed by one of the town’s children!

Plastic Free Bodmin (PFB), Bodmin Way and Bodmin Life set up a logo design competition, with the cost of the bottles, design and prizes covered by sole sponsor Proper Cornish.

The competition’s themes, ‘What I love about Cornwall’, ‘What interests me about the natural world’ and ‘Ways to protect the environment’ inspired more than 50 children to design a logo.

Russell Becker, of Rocket Pixels (rocketpixels.co.uk), agreed to incorporate the winning design onto 400 bottles.

First place is a design by 11-year-old Merix Robins. After a variety of creative ideas, Merix designed an acrostic within a St Piran’s flag, with the message ‘Keep it Clean’. Second place went to Arthur Buck with Brooklyn Francis awarded third place.

Keeping ‘Baner Peran’ flying in Bodmin

On the 6th March 2023 Bodmin will celebrate St Piran’s day in its own special way.

The 5th of March is the National Day of Cornwall known as St Piran’s Day. Saint Piran is the patron saint of tin-miners and has been linked through legend to the discovery of tin and the wealth it brought to Cornwall.

In Bodmin, hundreds of children gather outside The Old Library led by fiddle, pipe and drum, to Mount Folly for speeches, singing and dancing.

Keith Truscott from the organising team said: “In the run-up to the event, team members take an accordion and fiddle to local schools to run through the dances and Cornish songs.”

The procession then continues to St Petroc’s Church where schools present a Cornish themed song, poem or play, followed by a pasty lunch.

Kevin Marshall, the committee’s chair said: “Bodmin’s St Piran’s Day is so special because it’s all about the children. Their enthusiasm is infectious, as they bring Cornwall’s traditions alive in a way not seen elsewhere.”

Winner Merix accepts his prize from Mayor Phil Cooper

Coldharbour FarmCottages

PODIATRY CLINIC IN BODMIN

HCPC and ICO registered BSc (Hons), MSc, MChS

SERVICES

REMOVAL OF HARD SKIN (CALLUS) AND CORNS

NAIL CARE INC. INGROWN, THICK AND FUNGAL NAILS

ATHLETES FOOT, VERRUCA & OTHER SKIN CONDITIONS

DIABETIC ASSESSMENTS AS PER NICE GUIDELINES

MUSCULOSKELETAL ASSESSMENT

ORTHOSES

ASSESSING AND TREATING FOOT, ANKLE AND LOWER LIMB PAIN

FREE OFF-ROAD PARKING

Six self catering holiday cottages close to Bodmin

Moor and the beaches of North Cornwall

Excellent for holidays, short breaks, family celebrations or somewhere special for your extra guests. Childrens play area and games room.

Wosson Bodmin!

Regular EVENTS & activities

Bodmin Local History Group – Usually meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7.30pm in the Shire Suite, Priory Park entrance, Mount Folly. Exceptions in 2023 are in April & August. Please see our website for full details. Contact: j.lewis100@me.com

Bodmin Inner Wheel Club - The club meets monthly at The Weavers Restaurant in Bodmin at 6pm. If you’re female and over the age of 18 years and are interested in joining, contact the membership officer on 07391892721.

Royal Air Forces Association - The Bodmin branch meets on the second Tuesday of the month, 10.30am, at the Masons Arms, Bodmin. Phone 01208 243478 for further details.

Beacon Quilters - Meeting on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month, 7pm-9pm at Callywith College. Contact Mary Norman for information - 07460313777.

Armed Forces Veterans Breakfast Club - The Bodmin branch meets on the third Saturday of the month, 10am, the Lanivet Inn. Find the club on Facebook for further information.

Bodmin Camera Club - The group meets on Monday evenings at St Petroc’s Parish Hall. Go to www.bodmincameraclub.org.uk for information on how to join and club updates.

SlimmingWorld Bodmin

SkillSHARE - Meets every Tuesday, 1pm-4pm, at 81a Fore Street. Learn a new skill or develop familiar ones. Refreshments served.

Bodmin Gaolbirds WI - The Bodmin Gaolbirds meet on the second Wednesday of the month, 7pm-9pm, Lanhydrock Memorial Hall. Come for a taster session, membership fees not due for the first two months.

Platform One – A curated night of music every 2nd Wednesday of the month showcasing local singer/songwriters and the stories behind their work. 7-10pm at The Old Library, Bodmin. Contact: helenwhittread@hotmail.co.uk

Open Stage Bodmin - An open stage event held every 3rd Wednesday of the month where any act of any genre can perform. 7pm-10pm at The Old Library, Bodmin. Bar available for snacks and drinks. Contact: mimi@intobodmin.co.uk

Knit & Knatter - Wednesdays, 10.30am12.30pm at The Old Library Cafe for anyone enthusiastic about knitting and crocheting or would like to get started.

Time Together – Every Wednesday from 10.30am – 1.30pm a social and open space welcomes everyone to the Shire House Suite.

continued on page 33

The Bodmin & District Horizon Club - A social / recreational club for adults 18+ with a learning disability/ physical disability. Every Thursday night from 6.30 - 8.30pm at Bodmin College. Please email hello@horizonclub.org.uk.

Bodmin Wellness Hub (Cuppa Companions)

- Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 1.30pm – 3.30pm, pop along to the Old Library in Bodmin for a free cup of tea or coffee and meet new people.

Mayor’s Charities Quiz Night – Every last Sunday of the month at the Shire House Suite at 7:30pm. Team of 4 - £12 per team. To book your table contact: 01208 76616 or text 07939973450 or just turn up!

Yoga Class - Every Thursday, 10am for 10.15am start, held in The Shire House Suite. All welcome. Contact Jan for more details on: millwaysjanet@ outlook.com 01637 880604 or 07799 244785

St Neots Choral Society - Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings in the Chapel Room in St Neot. For more information visit: www.stneotschoral.org.uk

Family and Children’s activities

Bookstart Rhymetime for 0-5 years - Join a friendly and fun environment on Fridays at 10am at Bodmin Library, Chy Trevail. Storytime with crafts for 0-5 years – Saturdays at 10:30am. Older siblings welcome. Bodmin Library, Chy Trevail.

Lanivet Baby Group - Thursdays, 9.30am-11am at Lanivet Community Centre, for children aged 0-2. £2 per family, hot drink included. Join their Facebook group for more information.

Bodmin Way Youth Club - For children aged 11+, meeting on the second Saturday of the month at St Petroc’s Parish Centre. Email info@bodminway.org to book.

Bodmin Youth Band - Rehearsals on Wednesday evenings, 6.30pm-8pm at Bodmin Band and Social Club. Email bodminyouthband@gmail.com

KBSK: All Things Youth – Youth night every other Tuesday starting from Jan 10th at The Old Library, Bodmin from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. For Ages 11+. Drop in. Run on Donations. Contact: info@kbsk.co.uk for more information.

KBSK - Performing arts group for young people, led by Adie Dove. Go to www.kbsk.co.uk for the class timetable and more information.

Spring Activities and Events

Bodmin’s Sustainable Fashion Workshops Free weekly upcycling fashion workshops every Tuesday for 12 weeks from 7th March at 5pm7pm at Shop 14 (next to Oggy Oggy). Contact Becky: beckyoke@hotmail.co.uk

Easter Trail at Pencarrow House – Sunday 9th and Monday 10th April. Look for clues, solve puzzles and claim your prize on the Easter trail at Pencarrow House. Don’t forget that kids go free in the gardens too! 10am -5pm. For prices and more information visit: pencarrow.co.uk

Teddy Bears Picnic at Pencarrow House – 28th May. There will be storytelling, teddies of all shapes and sizes and cakes for sale. Normal garden entry applies. 10am-4:30pm. For prices and more information visit: pencarrow.co.uk

Learn a new skill

Discover our range of leisure and qualification courses in Bodmin

• Bookkeeping

• Counselling Skills

• English

• English for Speakers of Other Languages

• ICT

• Languages

• Maths

• Music Technology

And many more…

Bodmin Adult Education Centre

0S, Chy Trevail, Beacon Technology Park, Dunmere Road, Bodmin, PL31 2FR (for sat nav please follow PL31 2QE)

To browse our courses and to enrol please visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/adultlearning

Call 0300 1231 117 Local charges apply

Ways to feel good this

spring

Get 2023 off to a good start…

We get it: the start of a new year can mean endless pressure to change parts of yourself or set unrealistic goals.

Maybe if we could be more content with the way we are and the way we look, and instead focus on introducing healthy habits for our mind and body, we could learn that feeling good comes from within and being kind to ourselves. Here are some gentle ways to introduce some feel-good activities into your daily routine…

Move your body

Exercising for yourself is so important. On days when your mental health can be a little low, simply getting outside for a quick 20-minute walk, finding a gentle yoga routine or even braving the chilly waters for a quick dip in the sea or a local river, can really help clear the mind and ground you.

Creating art

Art is subjective, so even if you have always thought you’re no good at painting, drawing or creating, give it a go and see what you come up with! Grab some art supplies, or head out into nature with a sketchpad and a mini box of watercolours to see how the outdoors can inspire you.

Journaling

Journaling is a fun and creative way to help you set realistic goals, acknowledge how you are feeling and reduce feelings of stress or anxiousness. If this is something you would like to practice every day, or even a few times a week, why not treat yourself to a new notebook and pens, and try and set aside ten minutes a day to note down your thoughts, what you want to achieve and something that has made you happy that day.

Here at Define we believe it’s important to enjoy the process of making a house a home, whether you are looking for a contemporary on trend design or a more classic traditional style, with over two decades of experience we will work alongside you to create the perfect bespoke plan for your home.

We design, fit and install Kitchens, Bathrooms and Bedrooms that we create, including any built-in furniture and can also provide other services such as electrical and gas installation, so we will be right with you from beginning to end. Come and visit our gorgeous new spacious showroom and let us help you make the best use of the space you have with our creative ideas.

PL15 7ED

01566 777233 | definekitchens@btconnect.com www.definelaunceston.co.uk

Annual Pass Adult £9 Child £5

Look out for the fantastic year-round programme of events, hands-on activities and skills-building sessions for all ages at Cornwall’s Army Museum.

Family group rates available.

Enquiries: 01208 72810 bodminkeep.org.uk

Unit 2 Pennygiliam Way, Pennygillam Industrial Estate, Launceston

Walking picks with

Emma

It’s sometimes easy to forget that we live in one of the most picturesque areas of the UK; lucky enough to live in an area many flock to in warmer months, we have many gems on our doorstep.

As the first few weeks of 2023 proved exceptionally wet and grey, I was itching to get out to clock up some miles on foot and have some adventures out and about! High-pressure finally arrived, and I jumped at the chance for a good yomp, much to the delight of my dog Mabel. Opting for an easy 3 mile (4.8km) circular walk from Respryn Bridge, we enjoyed a lovely walk around the Lanhydrock Estate in glorious winter sunshine.

Setting out from Respryn Bridge (parking’s easy here, free if you’re an NT member), we followed the River Fowey downstream, its water thundering past after the recent torrents we’d had, taking us through sun-dappled woodland. Leaving the bottom of the valley, some steeper paths took us by fields of grazing sheep, an old disused quarry, and on into more hilly woodland. After a short climb, we found ourselves on a more level path with impressive views over the Fowey Valley.

We shortly found ourselves at the picture-perfect Gardener’s Cottage with its walled garden, surrounded by beautiful early flowering camellias and magnolias. Keeping to the path, we wound our way down to Lanhydrock House itself, a picture of sleepy perfection in the sunshine as it’s closed until March. Taking the beech-lined Avenue downhill through picturesque parkland, we passed by the stately looking Newton Lodge gatehouse, and were soon back at the carpark and our starting point –ruddy-cheeked, and so very grateful for the sunshine!

A circular walk from Respryn Bridge to Lanhydrock

Digital health solutions in the South West

Imagine a world where you receive a welfare message from your grandma’s TV remote control, take her on a virtual tour of the hospital so she knows what to expect during her appointment, and then enter a ward that’s just been cleaned by a busy robot.

It might sound futuristic, but it’s not as far-fetched as you think; all these life-changing eHealth initiatives are currently being developed right here in Cornwall.

Many of the county’s eHealth businesses have one common source of support – the University of Plymouth’s eHealth Productivity and Innovation in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly (EPIC) project. Since 2017, EPIC has helped more than 150 organisations throughout the South West with academic support from subject matter experts at the university, professional development events, and grant funding through the Challenge Fund. The project recently supported the attendance of several small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) at the Slush start-up event in Helsinki, Finland, where they made valuable connections with potential investors.

Mike Trebilcock, CTO of digital health software solutions provider Tango3, was one of the attendees. The company is currently in the pilot stage of prototyping a small GPS device that can be attached to defibrillators in order to track their location, minimising the length of time the devices are out of action.

Tango3 is an amazing business,” said EPIC researcher Samantha Prime. “They’re truly embedded in the community and really passionate about what they do – very worthy of EPIC’s support.

EPIC, a collaborative project, part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the South West Academic Health Science Network, might be drawing to a close this spring, but the legacy of innovation will continue.

Extremely proud

Project manager, Jay Amies said: “We have seen some truly incredible eHealth developments in the South West over the past few years and the organisations that EPIC has supported will no doubt continue to strengthen the digital health ecosystem by providing real world solutions for their local communities. We’re extremely proud of what EPIC – together with all our partners – have accomplished.”

For more information about the EPIC project, visit: www.epicehealth.co.uk

attendees at the Slush start-up event in Helsinki

VR technology being demonstrated at the EPICentre

Spring Cleaning

Who to turn to in the local area to help clear away the cobwebs

The spring traditionally makes us want to declutter and clean. Here are a few local businesses that may be able to help you with your tidying to do list!

As the sun shines, the mud turns green with fresh grass shoots and the sweet-smelling breeze of a changing season glides by, some may get the urge to clear the garden ready for those summer barbeques or family Easter egg trails. Remember to leave those overgrown patches for the wildlife, but if you need a hand with landscaping or with those unwanted weeds then Williams Garden Services might be able to give you a hand.

If you are feeling the winds of change in your life and want a fresh lick of paint throughout the house, then Graham Luck Decorating Services may be available to transform your home.

Or perhaps you just need to call ProShine Window Cleaning to clean those windows and let the light in!

Featured Williams Garden Services Williamsgardenservicescornwall.co.uk 07907 734106

Graham Luck Decorating Services 01208 76944 / 07941 003550

ProShine Window Cleaning

07568 490497

Levow Kesson

A fun choir from St Neot

Want to give something new a go in 2023? What about joining a local choir?

Under the musical directorship of Heather Taylor, Levow Kesson, based in St Neot, performs a fun and vibrant repertoire with contemporary favourites like Chilcott and Lauridsen, standards by Billy Joel and The Beatles, as well as world music such as African folksongs and Slavonic music.

The choir is a small established group of singers; their exciting and ever expanding repertoire means that they are ready to invite new voices to join them. Choir members are friendly and mutually supportive when the singing is challenging.

The choir has helped to raise funds for many local causes and various charities. Events in 2022 raised over £1,600 plus a contribution to the Royal British Legion.

Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings in the Chapel Room in St Neot.

If you are interested in finding out more, a full range of contact details are available on:

www.levowkesson.com

Win a pair of tickets to the event of your choice with intoBodmin

Fancy winning tickets to one of intoBodmin’s fantastic events?!

This edition we have linked up with intoBodmin to offer our readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the event of your choice (see www.intobodmin.co.uk/events for wosson).

Q:What TV show Matricks Illusion was featured on?

Entries close on 5th May 2022

No purchase necessary. Entrants must be over 18. Competition excludes employees of Life Community Media or intoBodmin plus their families and anyone else connected to the above promotions. Prize is a pair of tickets to the event of your choice. Prize is non-transferable and non-exchangable and no cash alternative is available. Winners may be asked to partake in publicity if required. One entry per household.

Music, Theatre & Comedy

THE OLD LIBRARY

AND OTHER VENUES

Hedluv & Passman - Comedy Beasts of Bodmin - Comedy

Sat 4th March | 7pm

Pay what you feel - £8 /£10 or £12

Kindle - Theatre

Sat 18th March | 7pm

Pay what you feel - £8 /£10 or £12

Caracana - Music

Fri 24th March | 7pm

Pay what you feel - £8 /£10 or £12

Book at www.intobodmin.co.uk

Sat 15th April | 7pm | Shire House Suite

Pay what you feel - £8 /£10 or £12

Cat Florence - Music

Fri 28th April | 7pm

Pay what you feel - £8 /£10 or £12

Matricks Illusion as seen on Britain's Got Talent!

Sat 20th May | 2pm & 7pm

Bodmin College - Studio Theatre

Pay what you feel - £12 /£14 or £16

Williams Garden Services

HAIR

Cutting, styling, colouring, treatments, gents & children’s cuts

BEAUTY

Waxing, tinting, nails, lash perming, ear piercing, spray tanning & make-up

Our team consists of highly trained knowledgable staff who have been in the industry for many years.

We love welcoming new guests into our salon.

01208 76733 24 Lower Bore Street Bodmin PL31 2JY The Hair Lounge Cornwall thehairlounge_cornwall

You need a will!

You don’t have to write a Will in the UK, but if you don’t, the UK government can decide who inherits your assets. Having a correctly authored and witnessed Will ensures your estate is distributed as you wish. It can also:

• provide significant protection for your home from long term care costs, and

• ensure that suitable guardianship arrangements are made for your dependants and pets.

Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA)

LPA’s are important if you become mentally incapacitated. If this situation arose, you would need someone to help you make decisions regarding your welfare and financial and property matters. LPA’s enable you to nominate a person, or persons who you trust to handle your affairs, if you are unable to do so.

This is relevant to you now! I am a professional local will writer who will visit you at home to discuss your requirements.

• Professional will writing service in the comfort of your own home.

• Feel confident your instructions are drafted precisely and confidentially.

• Couples can protect their home from residential care fees.

• Lasting power of attorney.

• Living Wills.

Anita is a member of the Society of Will Writers Prices are reasonable (no VAT)

Adventure Week

Beacon Academy in Bodmin had a fantastic end to the term with the grand opening of their newly installed climbing boulder!

This was a momentous event attended by the whole school, chair of governors, Rob Blackhall, and director of The Tide Climbing Centre, Sophie Rearden. All the children made an incredible effort, dressing up as superheroes and well-known explorers to celebrate. The week leading up to this event was enjoyed by every year group with a whole host of adventurous activities planned. From some of the youngest children in the school starting their very own fires at Badger Forest School to the oldest children Tobogganing at Plymouth Snow Sports Centre, every child pushed themselves outside of their comfort zone, developing resilience and a real love for the great outdoors.

Other years groups enjoyed climbing Rough Tor and visiting The Hurlers, walking part of the southwest coastal path at Trevone Bay, and making the most of their wonderful school grounds, mountain biking and go karting.

This exciting week wholeheartedly embodied Beacon’s school aims: Be Brave, Be Brilliant and Believe. What a brilliant way to end such a wonderful half term!

Proper Cornish are proud to sponsor

Bodmin’s Beacon Beast Marathon

The award-winning Bodmin pasty maker, Proper Cornish, is delighted to announce that it is the main sponsor for this year’s Beacon Beast Marathon in Bodmin which takes place in April.

BEACON BEAST MARATHON –THE BODMIN WAY!

The Beacon Beast Marathon, which takes place on Sunday 16th April and is in its second year, is a celebration of the community spirit of Bodmin, taking in the sights and scenery of the Bodmin Way.

The route takes in the delights of Lanhydrock National Trust Estate, Redmoor Nature Reserve, the Bodmin Beacon and Cardinham Woods. This will be an enjoyable event for runners, volunteers and spectators alike with a mixture of trail and road running that incorporates roads, woodlands, fields, footpaths and stiles and the challenge of around 3000ft of elevation.

There will be trophies awarded to both male and female finalists who finish in first, second and third place and all runners who finish the course will receive a bespoke medal and a t-shirt.

Entry fees apply to runners and all proceeds are shared with local charities and communities. Last year the marathon raised £2,400 which was split between 17 charities within the local area of Lanivet, Nanstallon, Cardinham, Lanhydrock, and Bodmin.

Chris Pauling, managing director at Proper Cornish, said: “As a major employer in Bodmin with a key focus on health and wellbeing, we really appreciate the benefits that can be gained by taking part in the marathon. As part of our ongoing community support, we are delighted to be the main sponsor for this year’s Beacon Beast Marathon. I am sure it will be an enjoyable day for everyone attending and it’s a fantastic way to raise money for local charities and the community. We wish all runners the very best of luck.”

To take part as a runner, visit the website www.beaconbeast.org.uk.

Entries close on Saturday 1st April and runners must be 18 years of age plus.

Image: Bodmin Camera Club photo by Robert Dawson

Networking events this spring

Your Partnerships offers local businesses a friendly, flexible networking opportunity, to make the connections that will make a difference. Connect with people who can help you develop, and become your customers and suppliers, at face-to-face networking throughout the county.

Events occur monthly on fixed days:

Marketing & Advertising Networking

1st Monday, 9am, Victoria Inn, Threemilestone Innovation Centre events

1st Wednesday, 9am, rotates around three innovation centres.

Property, Investment, Construction & Trade

2nd Monday, 9am, Holiday Inn Express, Bodmin.

Breakfast Networking

2nd Wednesday, Pearl and Trawl Inn, Wadebridge.

NetWALKing

3rd Wednesday, 9.30am, Borough Arms, Dunmere, Bodmin.

Open House - The Big One

3rd Thursday, 9am, Victoria Inn, Roche.

Networking Workshop

4th Tuesday, 9am, Victoria Inn, Roche, for new and existing members.

Charity, Trust and CIC meeting

4th Tuesday, 10.30am, Victoria Inn, Roche.

Networking

4th Wednesday, 10am, Falcon Hotel, Bude. Online events also take place throughout the month, with different focuses, and international reach. Free 30-day trial for all. For all events, see the website for full details at www.yourpartnerships.co.uk

A new king, a new era

Get the coronation chicken sandwiches out, chuck that Victoria sponge onto the plate and throw the bunting and flags out again, it’s time to have another right royal celebration!

2022 was the year of Her late Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee, and in true British fashion we threw a celebration to remember, one that the world watched in awe.

In July 2022, not too far away over in Launceston, the community poured into Launceston town square as His Majesty and the Queen Consort, then the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, visited our town as part of their royal tour of Devon and Cornwall.

All eyes across the globe will be on us yet again as our country celebrates the reign of King Charles III as he takes his seat upon the throne alongside the Queen Consort. The coronation will take place on Saturday, 6th May at Westminster Abbey, London, and will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. His Majesty ascended to the throne upon Queen Elizabeth’s death on 8th September 2022. The Coronation will be steeped in tradition and is certainly an event to remember, whether you’re a royalist or not.

The Buckingham Palace website states: “The Coronation will reflect the monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.”

Are you planning a community event for the Coronation? Let us know, email content@life-media.co.uk