Probus News Magazine - May 2021 edition

Probus News Magazine May 2021

Issue No. 256

The Free Magazine For The Community

May 2021 | 1

• Car & motorcycle MOTs • Servicing & repairs • • Vehicle diagnostics • Air conditioning service • • Tyres & braking • Vehicle sales • Performance remapping by Pendle Performance

Tel: 01872 520654 Email: service@collinsofprobus.co.uk Units 1-3, Tresillian Business Park, Probus, Truro TR2 4HF Visit us online at www.collinsofprobus.co.uk for more information

What’s inside

How to contact us...

By e-mail: editorprobusnews@gmail.com

tor s Edi New bus Pro azine g Ma

Letters

Allotment news

Junior Bake Off 2

Page 10

Page 16

Page 21

By hand: Articles for Probus News can be left at Trudgian Farm Shop in Probus Square, or Treviglas Cottage, Treviglas Lane, TR2 4LH.

Management Team EDITOR: John Denyer M: 07824 555519 H: 01726 884531 editorprobusnews@gmail.com

Open for business

A walk to Ladock

Probus School poem

Page 22

Page 28

Page 40

Front Cover: The first pint goes to Jake Morford. See page 22.

Probus Church illustration by Paul Lakeman @paullakemanwallart

Submissions deadlines

for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month.

Publication dates June

Friday 28th May

July

Friday 2nd July

August

Friday 30th July

September

Friday 27th August

October

Friday 1st October

November

Friday 29th October

December

Friday 10th December

Also available online:

SECRETARY: Peter Clarke 01726 884177 peteclarke1950@gmail.com TREASURER: Terry Hodge 01726 884495 tjhodge321@gmail.com ADVERTISING: Kaye Ludlow 07968 722430 advertisingprobusnews@gmail.com SUB EDITOR: David Meggs 01726 883443 minesaredwine@hotmail.com

www.issuu.com/ probusnews/

Probus News is a non-profit making independent voluntary organisation. Your donations are always welcome.

Public notice

CHAIRMAN: Sheila Bing 01726 883400 sheila.bing@outlook.com

The inclusion of any article or advertisement in this magazine does not constitute any form of accreditation by the editor or management committee. They are unable to vouch for the professional qualifications, etc, of any advertiser. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Descriptions Act 1975, Business Advertisements Disclosure Order 1977 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Readers must satisfy themselves that an advertiser meets all their necessary requirements. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of their authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or management committee.

DEPUTY TREASURER: Eddie Bokas 07758 246673 ecbokas13@gmail.com DELIVERY MANAGER: Tim Joyce 01726 884574 timstravels01@hotmail.com Ian Tumilty 01726 883202 itumilty@btinternet.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Vanessa McGill @probusnews PROOFREADERS: Marilyn Joyce Tania Williams and Teresa Hayhoe Printed by: Printout Ltd, Threemilestone. 01872 242534

Community news and notices Virtual nature talks Census From Ladock Wildlife Group. All events are free. Everyone is welcome.

H

AVE you completed the 2021 Census?

Topic: Dragonflies and Damselflies in Cornwall Speaker: David Cooper, County Dragonfly Recorder, East Cornwall Date: Monday 3rd May 2021 at 7:30 pm

Do you need help completing it?

Topic: Butterflies in Cornwall Speaker: Rowena Castillo-Nicholls, Nature and wildlife enthusiast, author and photographer.

Date: Monday 7th June 2021 at 7:30 pm

John Floyd, the Census Engagement Manager for West Cornwall, will be available to help you complete your census in the safe environment of your garden. He will respect social distancing.

Email Rowena on ilovecornwall8@ yahoo.com for the Zoom link.

You can contact John direct on 07542 939013 or john.floyd12@field.census. gov.uk and he will try to arrange a visit at a time convenient for all.

It is not too late to complete your census and do your bit to contribute to the future.

Do you have a problem?

Why not contact one of your local Parish Councillors for advice or visit www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk Kevin Blayney Nik Budden Steve Dalton Liza Deards James Faull Nick Gillard Ross Goldworthy Malcolm Maskill Larry Saunders-Fern Bill Sutherland (chair)

Rosparc Gwell an Nans Ridgeway Holly Farm, Truck Hill Tresowgar Cottage Fore Street Gwell an Nans Lamellyn Vean Rosparc Bosnoweth

01726 882877 07922 155600 01726 884080 07888 684425 07494 756249 01726 883926 07967 125526 01726 884368 01726 882669 01726 884007

There is currently one vacancy for a parish councillor, please contact the clerk or any of the above for details

Remember, if you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then you may contact the Parish Council Clerk Amanda Kendall on 01726 883614 (email probuspc@gmail.com). Cornwall Councillor Bob Egerton on 01726 884451 or 07785 748844 can also be contacted for advice.

4 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

Advertisers Index Accountants/Finance Robert Larter

Funeral Directors 15

Building Contractors MB Building & Windows

6

Craig Edwards

33

N & S Builders

31

Butcher and Farm Shop Trudgian Farm Shop

45

Caterers Kernow Cups n’ Cakes

W J Beswetherick

45

The Cornish Funeral Company

14

L J Tregunna

44

Health & Wellbeing Beauty, Nails and/or Massage Therapist Nicky Waters

27

Nails by Emily

6

10

Honey Bee Cleaning

36

K T Mace Housekeeping

42

Sparkling Gem

35

D May & Son

32

M A Grigg

19

Country Gardens Electrical Contractors

34

Roller Bathrooms

36

Shaun Beresford

27 15

KM Paving

7

Peter Woolcock

33

Optician Peter Donnelly

47

Restaurant/Take Away

Podiatry 7

Tandoori Spice

Locksmith Paul Gagan Paul Mulkeen

31

S J Grigg

Recall Electrical/Home Security

45

Music Lessons

Roseland Electrical

15

Emma Packer L A Nolan & Son

39

Sand, Aggregate, Concrete Suppliers 33

Kernow Mixers

34

Stone Mason & Plant Hire 35

Ed Faull

32

Taxi/Private Hire

2

Carlton Cars

48

Travel Agency

15

Graham Bishop 36

37

TV Aerial & Satellite Services Shane Perry

Painting & Decorating

27

14

PC & Network Support 36

Fuel Supplies Logs ‘n’ Coal

Chris Rogers

34

J K Electrical

Roseland Seafood

33

Ben Heather

Collins of Probus

Fishmonger

Andrew McMonagle

Alastaire Hambly

Motor Servicing, Sales, Repairs

26

14

31

34

Philip Martin

Paul Ashby Johnson

6

Brightsparks

Estate Agent/Surveyor

Plumbing and/or Heating

Janey Paul

Mobile Valeting 39

7

Hair 4 U

Roseland Podiatry

Country Stores

Fal Valley Pets

Property Maintenance

Hairdressing

Cleaning Services

Trewithen Gardens

Pet Store

35

PC Doctor Dickson

35 Probus Parish Counci

3

Hawkins Arms

18 May 2021 | 5

Now Taking Bookings

Hair 4 U TREGONY ROAD PROBUS

Acrylic and Gel Nails CND Shellac Manicures Pedicures Lash Lifts Qualified, experienced and insured

Probus based

07964 878849

6 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED HAIRDRESSING FOR ALL THE FAMILY OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 9 am to 4:30 pm (Except Tuesday 9 am - 4 pm) Saturday 9 am to 1 pm Phone 01726 882888

Established 25 Years

A Great Range of Products For Your Pet Food ● Treats ● Toys ● Collars ● Leads Grooming & Medicinal Products Over 200 Pet Beds In Stock Wild Bird Food & Feeders Logs & Kindling Large Free Customer Car Park Fal Valley Tannery Grampound ● TR2 4RX 01726 883988 www.falvalleypets.co.uk

KM Paving Ltd LANDSCAPING AND PAVING • DRIVEWAYS • PATIOS • DECKING • ASTRO TURFING • GARDEN REDESIGN • WATER FEATURES • PLANTING FOR A FREE QUOTATION CONTACT KIERAN ON 07449 100053

Roseland Podiatry Visiting podiatry/chiropody practice 07813 508740 / 01872 530715 Treatment of nails including conditions such as ingrowing, thickened and fungal nails.

Treatment of corns, callus and other skin conditions.

Diabetic and high risk foot management.

Biomechanical assessments and orthotics.

Footcare and footwear advice.

Julie Moutinho DPodM MCPod Registered Podiatrist Juliemoutinho123@gmail.com May 2021 | 7

A-Z of Probus Clubs, Societies, Organisations and some useful contacts Acoustics Night (Comrades Club) Badminton Club Bees (swarms/issues/questions) Bowling Club

Tim Joyce Pauline Partridge Tony Paddock David Meggs

07412 126774 timstravels01@hotmail.com 01726 882649 07486 295414 01726 883443

Church Floodlighting Fund Churchwarden Comrades Club Cornwall Councillor Cycling – Probus Pedallers Dance Classes Children (4Real) Football - Saturday Club Probus Youth FC - Juniors Probus FC - Seniors (First Team) Probus FC - Seniors (Reserves)

Robert Dodd Andy McCartney Bryan Trebilcock Bob Egerton Colin Brown Angie Smith Steve Flack Nigel Schofield Tony Paddock Graham Smith

01726 883408 robertjdodd@hotmail.com probus.churchwarden@gmail.com 01726 882747 01726 884451 bobegerton@mac.com 07484 740249 07825234855 contactus4real@gmail.com 07956 049727 Please send updates to 07974 577876

Friends of Probus Church

Richard Heath

07849 315432 geotechrich@gmail.com

Friends of Probus Surgery

Anthea Johnson or Verity Allen 01726 882745 grampoundroadcricketclub@gmail.

The Club House 07800915578 com Peter & Anne-Marie 01726 882208 hello@hawkinsarmsprobus.com

Church Bell Ringers

Grampound Road Cricket Club Hawkins Arms

Historic Cornwall Society

Kids Club Breakfast/after-school at Probus School

Knit & Natter Group Ladies Group Little Lights Little Acorns Pre-School Martial Arts Group Memory Cafe Mid Cornwall Wood Turners Motion Fitness (Circuit training) Over 60s Luncheon Club Parish Players (Pantomime) Playing Field Mgmt Committee Parish Church Parish Council

Primary School Primary School PTA Probus Club of Probus The Roseland Academy U3A Roseland & District Village Hall Letting Secretary Wednesday Walking Group Yoga Young Farmers Other village

07486 295414 07968 478970

.com

editorprobusnews@gmail

Vince Van Kempen-Wilson 01726 883019 vince.vkw@gmail.com Diane Gibbs

01726 882647

kidsclub@probusschool.org.uk

Eve Richards 01726 882657 or 07767 383982 Pat Gluyas 01726 882978 patgluyas68@btinternet.com Pam Cobbold 01726 882495 jplelissick@btinternet.com Sarah Brown 01726 882647 Is your group missing?

Chris Pearson 01726 883661 Let us know Jill Prisk 01726 884388 Richard Elliott 07980 449305 info@midcornwallturners.com Kay Middleditch 07812 380651 kay.louise81@icloud.com Zena 01726 882751 or Janet 01726 882927 Cathy Cadby 07860 755787 cathycadby@gmail.com Graham Smith 07968 478 970

Rev. Joachim Foot 01726 882218/07930 095687 rector@probusteam.com probuspc@gmail.com Amanda Kendall 01726 883614 www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk Angela Praed 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk Naomi Buckland 01726 882647 Nick Hibbett 01726 883093 nick.hibbett@btinternet.com 01872 530675 www.theroseland.co.uk Terry Neil 01872 530196 Frank Fuller 07749 368162 probusvillagehallenquiries@gmail.com www.probusvillagehall.co.uk Terry Hodge or Tim Joyce 01726 884495 or 01726 884574 Tony Bathmaker

07854 999612 toneupwinddown@gmail.com

Tegan Arthur

07900 797750

pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Swap and Sell

8 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

Probus Surgery update

P

ROBUS Surgery has been busy booking patients in for their second COVID-19 vaccination and by the time you read this article we will have already vaccinated over 1,700 patients with their second dose.

As well as continuing to book patients in for their second doses, we are now also moving to the next phase of the vaccination programme with the JCVI announcing the rollout of first dose vaccines to those aged 45 and over.

Probus Surgery will be continuing to vaccinate patients as and when deliveries of the vaccine arrive. We will contact you once we know we have vaccinations to offer you. We would be grateful if you did not contact us in order to keep our telephone lines free for patients who require medical attention.

Verity Allen Deputy Practice Manager

Probus Memory Café

D

UE to the Pandemic, the Probus Memory Café had to stop having its fortnightly meetings in March 2020. However, it may now be possible to start planning for a resumption of these rewarding get-togethers for individuals and their carers later this year.

For a variety of reasons, new volunteers and committee members are urgently needed to lead and restart the café meetings.

Anyone wishing to take

on a new worthwhile challenge and contribute ideas and enthusiasm and welcome people with memory loss back for some much missed social engagement, please do contact us for more information.

There are funds and a good stock of equipment already in place.

For further information, please contact Claire - promemcf@gmail.com

Probus Village Show

A

UGUST 2020 should have seen our first Probus Garden and Craft Show at the village hall. In March that year, the show committee's plans were well advanced, with schedules prepared, judges booked and prize cards printed. Then the pandemic arrived and it was cancelled, along with most other public events.

The show committee has now deliberated over whether to recommence preparations for this year, but after weighing up the options, and discussing it with show secretaries in neighbouring villages to see what they will do, we have decided once again to postpone the event.

We may be fully out of lockdown by then and returned to ‘normal’, or we might not be. Nobody knows. We want our first show to be a success and it makes sense to leave it for another year.

Hopefully, it will definitely go ahead then.

Steve Dalton

May 2021 | 9

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, We have very recently placed our two bedroom, end of terrace house at Fairfields on the market.

It can be found via www.zoopla.co.uk just search for houses for sale in Probus.

The property has a 106 clause on it, so I wanted to make the Probus community aware as it’s a great opportunity for local young people for example to get on the ladder in this crazy market.

Clause 106 means the buyer must be from the local area (Probus area) and must prove connections. Great for the younger generation of Probus to get on the ladder like we did. As it’s shared ownership you can buy anywhere from 50% of the house to 100%. If you purchase anything below 100% you pay rent on the rest which isn’t a lot.

We have had interest from further away but thankfully these were rejected hence why we wanted to make local people aware before they slowly start widening the boundaries.

Many thanks Jason Chapman Dear Editor, My research re Probus School, led me to your magazine through the Probus Group, in which I posted a few items last week.

My memory of those days recalls a Probus News, which really was a sort of corner store and not really a newspaper at all. Next to it was a Tea Shop which my two buddies (also foreigners) and I frequented regularly to supplement our meals. We three were the only 10 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

foreign types for miles around - one from Siam, which is now Thailand, one from Hong Kong, and I from Trinidad in the Caribbean. We were a curiosity! But with lots of fond memories. All the other boys were from surrounding towns/ villages, with a couple from Bristol, one from Plymouth, and another from somewhere in Dorset.

I’ve been back to Cornwall twice since the fifties, once as described in my posting to Probus Cornwall, and more recently (Christmas 2019) for a few days to attend a wedding in St Agnes. My bucket list includes spending a month in Probus or a nearby village. When is another matter.

I look forward to hearing from you, with any possible help you may offer.

Sincerely, Richard ‘Dik’ Henderson Editor: Great that you found us, Dik. If there are any Probus School ‘old-boys’ reading this that would like to reminisce with Dik - you can email him directly on dhend317@gmail.com

Welcome Mandy

I

N last month's Probus News we featured an advertisement for a weed controller/gardener to be employed by the Parish Council. Following interviews for the post, Amanda Dalton was invited to take up the role. She will be responsible for clearing weeds from the roads and pavements in the village without the use of potentially harmful herbicides.

Although the part time job is only for three hours per week, Amanda will also organise gardening opportunities within Probus, especially regarding the two ‘Jubilee Gardens’ at either end of the village that both need some TLC. Amanda said, ‘I am really looking forward to engaging with Probus residents to improve the environment here. I've been amazed by the enthusiasm shown already. The pandemic has isolated so many people both young and old, but it has also, on a positive, given

us a far greater understanding of the environment around us. This is a terrific opportunity for us all as we come out of lockdown to make our village even more beautiful and I want to encourage everyone to join me in this endeavour’.

We wish Mandy well in her new role. Be sure to say hello to Amanda as she starts working around the village. Her little dog Prim, in his distinctive blue jacket is very friendly.

Wildflower planting

S

OME readers may have noticed various areas of turf removed around the village, with little signs indicating that wild flower seeds have been sown. This is an initiative from the Parish Council that started about 18 months ago and was then postponed during lockdown. It’s back on again now and hopefully, the seeds should have started germinating by the time we get to print. Look out for lovely wild flowers over the summer.

May 2021 | 11

A message from Rev Paul Emerging life – a word from the Curate

W

E celebrated the Easter period here at the rectory in Tresillian with an easter egg hunt together with another family as we enjoyed a brief spell of sunshine and the ability to entertain in our garden. We even had a barbecue with another family one sunny evening as hope was in the air for a summer of coming out of lockdown. But now as we experience a cold snap, the doubt creeps in – will our emergence from hibernation last? Is this really the last lockdown? Will I ever feel OK shaking someone’s hand again?

The disciples, holed up in a locked room on the first Easter evening had heard stories of Jesus’ rising but were still unsure, still fearful of what lay outside, daring to hope. And then Jesus appears among them, there is joy, he breathes the Holy Spirit on them and sends them out and so is birthed the church that we are a part of today (see John 20:19-23).

Whatever happens to the weather or our regulations here in the UK we can still face the future with joy as Christians because our direction of travel has always been outward, sent by Jesus and empowered by the Spirit and with an uncrushable hope in the promise of that first Easter.

Rev Paul Salaman Team Curate of Probus, Ladock, Grampound with Creed and St Erme 12 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

If any gardeners or allotment growers have surplus produce or hen owners surplus eggs, the Probus Community Larder would be very grateful to receive donations.

Probus Bowling Club

W

E were blessed with sunny weather, with a chilly wind, when we opened the green for our 2021 season. Brian Greaves, our president opened the green, bowling the first wood to applause from those members present.

Cornwall Bowls has now told us that the leagues can start as planned so we will be holding a few practise sessions over the next week or so.

An enjoyable afternoon of bowling was had by all and we were joined by a few who tried their hand at bowling for the first time. We were unable to offer any refreshments, due to COVID-19 restrictions, but recent changes now mean we can enjoy tea and coffee with biscuits outdoors.

Editorial

H

ELLO again everyone, welcome to another packed edition of your village magazine.

We have a wide range of topics inside, and I hope you find at least one item of interest.

I include an update from the Probus Historical Cornwall Society. I’m grateful to Alan Blake for that as well as for sharing a poem that was published in the Old Cornwall Society magazine in 1991 (an extract is also in ‘The Book of Probus’ by Danny Merrifield and Alan Kent). I don’t believe we have published it here before, so I made the call to include the poem in full, even though it takes up four pages. I hope you like it - it’s sweet, sad and poignant, and even though it talks of days long gone, it’s about the village and I would argue there are parallels to be drawn with today.

The poem has echoes of the 1939 film Goodbye Mr Chips starring Robert Donat as Mr Chipping and a young John Mills as a schoolboy.

It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon type film that may bring a tear to your eye.

Also in this edition is a fabulous walk to Ladock and back via Treverbyn. It’s a fair distance (6 miles), but the views from the ridge near Treverbyn definitely make it worthwhile.

Lastly, thanks to the staff of Probus Surgery for their extraordinary efforts made vaccinating so many of us in the village. It’s much appreciated.

Enjoy the glorious month of May, Probus.

John May 2021 | 13

Plumbing Solutions

Paul Ashby Johnson

Reliable and competitive service Heating system installations, repairs, maintenance and power flushing.

Oil boiler servicing, repairs and replacements.

Complete bathroom replacements.

All aspects of plumbing and heating undertaken.

Solar panels and under floor heating.

Hot water immersions and cylinder replacements.

Work guaranteed and insured.

Call: 07717 712387 or 01726 884202 No call out charge – Free estimates

Your local funeral director...

Independent, professional & bespoke. Wide selection of natural coffins, itemised prices with no hidden costs.

‘Simple & Direct’ cremations, green funerals. DIY funeral facilitating & funeral planning.

The Cornish Funeral Company

01872 521172 www.thecornishfuneralcompany.co.uk 12 14 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

ELECTRICIAN Professional, Reliable Service,

PROBUS BASED TAXI

-No expensive call out fees-Part P Registered-

Discounted return trips

Cal David on 07968 339408 for a friendly reliable service, fair pricing and high quality work.

07968 339408

RoselandElectricalinfo@gmail.com

School and Airport runs Large parties catered for All drivers fully insured, licenced and DBS checked

24/7

4/6/8 Seaters Available

Robert Larter DipFA MLIBF Independent Financial Adviser Ruan Lanihorne 01872 500995 robert@abacusfinancialoptions.co.uk

It’s time to revisit your:

Bathroom Fitting, Plumbing, Plastering, Kitchens, Tiling, Property Maintenance & more

Savings & Investments Retirement Planning & Pension Funds Family & Business Financial Protection Inheritance Tax Planning

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Professional, Friendly and Reliable

Remove the uncertainty with a free no-obligation financial review

Contact Ben 07972 396137

bheatherrenovations@outlook.com May 2021 | 15

Probus Allotments

D

URING March and April, work started or continued on most of the new allotments in Chapel Street.

Sheds of all shapes, sizes and colours have appeared plus greenhouses and a couple of posh looking summer houses.

Raised beds were constructed, the soil dug over, prepared and planted. Fencing has been erected to keep kids and animals in place and the first flowers are already blooming.

structure with an agreed constitution.

77% of the 63 allotment holders voted, and all of them voted in favour of the new arrangement.

The committee for this year comprises Neil Glasson, Sophie Baker, Paul Stimpson, Sam Shearing and Greg Stanton, and they will be taking over the administration of the site on behalf of the trustees who manage the land as part of the Tredenham Charity Lands estate.

The allotments are a collaborative, inclusive and very social environment, with allotment holders swapping and sharing seeds and plants, as well as knowledge sharing from the old hands to the newbies - tips and tricks to get the best out of their plots.

Two of the plots are adopted by Probus School and they are appealing for any unwanted tools, seeds, pots or storage.

If there is an unwanted greenhouse in the village, that would be put to good use too. If you can help, contact the magazine and we’ll put you in touch.

Last year, a referendum was conducted at the Ladock Road allotment site over whether to create a formal committee

Images: what a difference a few months make. Chapel Street allotments in January (bottom left) and April (right) this year.

16 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

Grampound Road Cricket Club

W

We are always pleased to welcome new players. For further details email grampoundroadcricketclub@gmail.com Home fixtures for May are listed below.

E are eagerly awaiting the beginning of the 2021 season following confirmation from the England and Wales Cricket Board that recreational cricket can go ahead.

At the club’s AGM the captains were elected as follows: 1st XI: Chris Willett; 2nd XI: Sean Hooper; 3rd XI: Chris Davey; 4th XI: Martin Orpe; Ladies XI Manager: Jacko Sanders.

We are delighted to have been asked to host the finals day again this year for the Tribute Kernow T20 Crash. Coloured clothing, music and razzamatazz will be on show.

Junior Training – Monday nights from 6pm including: Ball Skills, All Stars, Dynamos, Softball, Hardball. For further details contact: grccjuniors@gmail.com Adult Training - 1st/2nd XI Tuesdays and 3rd/4th XI Wednesdays.

GRCC JUNIOR TRAINING JUNIOR TRAINING

MONDAY NIGHTS

GRCC

BALL SKILLS O P E N

1 2 3 4

N S W ,

5.30 - 6.30

2 4 / 7

U11 HARDBALL

B L A C K

S T R E E T ,

5.30 - 7.00

C H A T S W O O D

A U S T R A L I A

U13 HARDBALL BALL

6.00 - 7.30

ECB

SKILLS

U15 HARDBALL

6.00 - 7.30

GIRLS SOFTBALL

6.00 - 7.30

FOR FURTHER DETAILS EMAIL

ALL STARS & DYNAMOS

STARTS 10 MAY

grccjuniors@gmail.com

Date

Team

Versus

Duration

Start

Saturday 1st May

2nd XI

St Blazey

45 overs

1 pm

Sunday 2nd May

Ladies XI

Vitality National Women’s Club Cup

T20

1 pm

Saturday 8th May

1st XI

St Just

2 x T20

1 pm

4th XI

Newquay 4

40 overs

1 pm

Wednesday 12th May

GRCC XI

St Erme (St Newlyn East Cup)

20 overs

6 pm

Thursday 13th May

Truro College Ladies

Wellington School Ladies

100 ball

3 pm

Saturday 15th May

2nd XI

Callington 2

45 overs

1 pm

4th XI

Roche 3

40 overs

1 pm

Sunday 16th May

1st XI

Royal London National Club Championship

40 overs

1 pm

Saturday 22nd May

1st XI

Callington

50 overs league

1 pm

3rd XI

Buckland Monachorum

40 overs

1 pm

Wednesday 26th May

1st XI

St Austell (Hawkey Cup)

20 overs

6 pm

Saturday 29th May

2nd XI

Tintagel

45 overs

1 pm

3rd XI

Ladock 2

40 overs

1 pm

Tribute Kernow Crash T20 Finals

2 x semi finals then final

10 am

Monday 31st May

May 2021 | 17

18 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

Come and visit us instore to see our new extended clothing department with a wide range of products! Not got time to pop in? Why not shop online! Open 7 days a week, including bank holidays!

WWW.MAGRIGG.CO.UK

for country, lifestyle & footwear

WWW.GRIGGSEQUESTRIAN.CO.UK for all your equestrian needs

Offering a large dining area and cosy sofa’s for a relaxed feel as well as the option to dine al fresco on our balcony while you enjoy some stunning rural views of the surrounding farmland.

Pendennis, Lower Sticker, St. Austell, PL26 7JH 01726 65656 online@magrigg.co.uk May 2021 | 19

Probus Historical Cornwall Society

M

EMBERS of Probus Historical Cornwall Society not being able to meet to complete the 2020 programme have been kept in touch during lockdown by the occasional e-mail from our secretary with information from the Old Cornwall Federation and items of interest raised by members.

One such item is a poem written by a former pupil of Probus School, printed in the 1991 Federation magazine, and tells about the school 100 years ago.

A memorial to the headmaster Mr Handsombody can be found in Probus Church.

This window can be found on the left side of the south doorway.

It shows the young Christ preaching in the temple with, on the right, Mary and Joseph looking in wonder at what they are seeing and hearing. Under the words ‘They found him in the temple,’ the inscription reads, ‘In honoured memory of Henry Edwin Handsombody, MA, Oxon, Master and Headmaster of Probus School, 1875 – 1930’.

The Service of Dedication was conducted by the Bishop of Truro, Right Reverend J. W. Hunkin, on Sunday 20th June, 1948, attended by many former pupils and their families, who had subscribed to the memorial.

The society hope to resume meetings at some stage in the future when conditions are acceptable to the membership.

Meanwhile anyone interested in learning about Probus School The Book of Probus (2004) has a wealth of information.

Alan Blake Speaker secretary.

Editor’s Note: The poem is reproduced in full on pages 40-43. It tells the story of a young schoolboy, who we only know by the initials N.W. who is sent to Probus School in 1917 as a boarder.

He first has to come to terms with separation, with being a ‘new boy’, his school work, exploring the area and the joy of holidays. The poem touches on the significant impact of WW1 on the school, hints at what possibly was the 1919 Spanish Flu pandemic and gives several glimpses of village live in Probus.

20 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

The poem describes his school years, through innocent adolencence to when he finally leaves school, but looks back with fond memories of the school, his friends but especially those that looked after him so well. Those who live in and around Lewman Road and Close may learn something they didn’t know.

Junior Bake Off 2

D

URING the last lockdown a group of youngsters from Probus had regular get-togethers on Zoom and continued with their bake off. This was a repeat of what they did during the first lockdown. Each time, one person would show everyone else how to prepare and then cook a cake or something equally yummy. As the montage shows, great fun was had and the end results were very tasty.

Well done to all of the junior cooks!

May 2021 | 21

Opening up for business

By John Denyer

M

ONDAY 12th April was an important day for several businesses in Probus. The easing of lockdown restrictions meant that the pub, hairdressers and those offering nail treatments, sports massage, and other close-contact services were permitted to restart operations. Probus News went to meet a few.

her first cut in months. Ann said she was thrilled to be opening up her salon again, although a little apprehensive after a four-month closure. Ann’s colleague Natalie said bookings were very strong, so it will be a busy month or more until they have caught up with all of their regular clients.

Just after 9 am, we visited Janey Paul hairdressers in Fore Street, owned

by Dany Hancock. The first customer through the door was Ann Truckle from Treviglas Rise. Like most of us, Ann had been waiting since last December for a cut and said she ‘feels brilliant, absolutely fabulous’. Dany said she was also very excited and relieved to be back working again and is almost fully booked until the end of May. Image: Ann with client Pam Reeves

As the church clock struck noon, the Hawkins Arms’ side gate opened and for the first time since 30th December, draft beer could be sold in the ‘Out Out’ bar in the garden. Landlord and Landlady Peter and Anne-Marie Chomiak said they were happy and relieved to be serving customers again. Customers are restricted to the beer garden until mid-May, with strict social distancing, mask-wearing and other COVID-19 arrangements in place.

Image: Dany with client Ann Truckle

We next visited Hair4U in Tregony Road to find Ann Wilkins cutting the hair of Pam Reeves from Carne View. Pam said it was ‘truly wonderful’ to be receiving 22 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

The first pint to be served was for Jake Morford from Fore Street. Jake, a support worker, said he was delighted to be back in the pub and it was a long time coming. He had taken a couple of days holiday so he could properly relax and enjoy the occasion.

During the afternoon, a steady trickle of customers walked into the beer

planned to encourage customers to the pub’s large beer garden.

In the pub‘s sheltered outdoor area, getting ready for a bit of lunch was Graham and Jeanette Kemp from Chapel Street and friend Siobhan Boylan from St. Columb Major. They were all really happy to be able to socialise once more in the pub environment.

Image: Jake Morford with that memorable first sip.

garden and by 6 pm it was heaving. The author can vouch that it was the same on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday evenings that week - I felt it was my duty to check these things for the sake of an accurate article, and I’ve been checking back in regularly ever since.

Image: Graham, Jeanette and Siobhan

On Wednesday, we went back to Hair4U to interview Natalie Crowle, who was cutting the hair of Jill Prisk of Tregony Road. The phone kept ringing with people asking for appointments and Natalie was doing what she could to fit people in. Natalie said it was ‘lovely to get back to it - it’s been a long time coming’. Jill commented that ‘it was her first haircut since November. It feels better already, and Natalie has only just started!’

Image: Peter and Anne-Marie Chomiak

Peter said that they had engaged additional staff and simplified the menu to ensure that things went smoothly in the first week, and had several activities

Image: Natalie with client Jill Prisk

May 2021 | 23

Image: Nicky Waters with some of the PPE needed to help keep her and her clients safe.

Also reopening for business was Nicky Waters, who runs a beauty and massage therapy business from her home studio.

Due to the nature of this type of closecontact work, Nicky was forced to close her business for almost eight of the last 12 months - so it’s been hard. She has missed her clients terribly, many of whom have become close friends over many years.

Nicky said she has some apprehension about restarting. Still, as more and more people are vaccinated, that increases her confidence, and it’s the same for her clients too. Hygiene has always been a critical aspect of Nicky’s work, but it is even more so now. She has to allow more time between clients to ensure that everything is wiped down and completely sanitised. Nicky is down to earth and pragmatic, saying that ‘if I have to jump through hoops to keep my clients safe, then so be it, I’ll jump through hoops’.

24 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

Nicky thrives on the social interaction side of her work and is looking forward to catching up with all of her clients, some she has not seen for almost a year.

She said it was lovely to start seeing and serving her clients again, lovely to have a sense of normality again, lovely to see people smile and lovely to catch up with their lives. Good for you, Nicky.

Another person back working face-to -face is Emma Packer who is a music teacher and registered music therapist.

Emma said, ‘It’s been a really tough year for my students and music therapy clients but they have all coped brilliantly, learning how to deal with the technical issues involved in using Zoom and being patient when the sound disappears between us. There have been some laughs when I’ve had to admit I can’t hear them and they’ve told me I sound like a robot.

‘I’ve taught a lot of the tops of people’s heads, met various pets and even a cuddly toy or two. We’ve had a lot of

chats about their wellbeing alongside musical learning and it’s been good to empathise and keep a feeling of being in it together. Keeping up the piano or violin has seemed to help a lot of them and they appeared to have found enjoyment in playing and doing something relatively normal. I’ve had one pupil take the new performance exam and gain a distinction, which after having not seen each other for a year is amazing.

‘I’m so looking forward to seeing them again, being able to play duets and accompany them whilst they play is one of the best bits of our lessons, but has been too hard online.

and music therapy clients are way more resilient and adaptable than they ever realised.’

Probus based mobile hairdresser, Tammie Moore (Shinehair@Home) said, ‘It’s been fantastic returning to hairdressing after so long of not being able to do the job I love. My clients are very excited to see me arrive at their door.

‘Lockdown for me has made me realise two things: One we are like therapists to clients and they feel great when they get their hair done and two it’s perfectly acceptable to not look ‘perfect’ all the time. It’s ok if your hair, nails, tan etc. are not done. I feel this could take pressure off the younger generation of today to not feel they have to look like Instagram influencers’.

Image: Emma with one of her students Phoebe from Probus.

‘It’s been even more important to keep sessions regular for my music therapy clients. I mostly work with children and young people who have emotional and behavioural challenges and so this last year has been really tough for them and their families. Helping them to work through the grief and loneliness, the anxiety and loss of regularity has been so important. Offering them a safe place to express their emotions online and then in person has appeared to help them navigate these weird times. I feel very lucky to be able to support them.

‘I really hope that with the vaccines and roadmap that this will be the last lockdown, but I know that my students

Image: Tammie Moore all tooled up for safe working

One of Tammie’s clients, Rachel Harcom of Tresillian commented ‘Finally. No more hiding my DIY lockdown hair under hats. It is the best feeling getting your hair done. Tammie has left my hair feeling so soft and it smells amazing!’

May 2021 | 25

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28 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

A walk to Ladock returning via Treverbyn

H

ERE is a lovely circular walk for you, perfect on a dry, sunny day when the wind is light and the risk of rain is low. It's almost spot on 6 miles and will take a couple of hours, or more if you stop for a coffee at the Ladock Post Office (check opening times first), or dilly dally on the way, as I'm known to do. It's actually a simple walk, with just two hills. The highest point is 96m, and that's the start at Probus Square, and the lowest is 18 metres at the old 'bathing pools' (see page 40 for a poetic description of how these were once used) Start at Probus Square with your back to the church. Cross the road and enter Chapel Street, continuing onto Ladock Road. Pass the sub-station, Helland Cottage, Venton Glidder, and walk under the railway bridge (pictured below)

Look out for the tunnel on the left (pictured above). If you stand at the entrance, you can see daylight at the other end (or is it a train coming?), but I've never had big enough wellies to risk venturing any further. If anyone has done that, do let us know.

Continue on the Ladock Road, past the lovely hamlet at Treworyan Farm (pictured above), where the road turns sharp left, then right. Somewhere on this stretch, if you turn around, you may see the 'Diamond' trees featured on last month's front cover. After another 10 minutes or so, you reach a T junction.

May 2021 | 29

Turn left and walk downhill to Ladock.

Keep going straight ahead until you reach the B3275. |f you weren't aware, the post office is in a portacabin by the large car park on the other side of the road.

At this point, we have descended to about 40 metres above sea level, so you can guess which way we go next. Clue: it's not downhill!

Our route takes us across the Tresillian River, so take care when crossing the B3275 and enter the lane almost opposite the Falmouth Arms. Cross over the river and follow the lane, past the converted chapel, and probably what was once a village shop, as it slowly winds uphill.

You'll reach Hillhead Cottages after a few minutes. If you were heading to explore Ladock Woods, you could turn right there, but we are not doing that today, so keep on going. You'll see an 30 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

entrance to Trobus Farm on the left, but again, ignore that, just keep slowly plodding uphill. We are looking for a left turn.

At some point, you may think you've missed it, but don't worry, you haven't.

After what may seem an eternity, you finally see the delightful looking Nansough Cottage on the right. This is where we turn left and enter a rough farm track. The track gently slopes to a peak at 90m above sea level. It winds left and right. Look for the sad, lonely and damaged wind turbine on the right.

The following 20 minutes of walking is the best part of the walk for me. At the ridge, you will get some fantastic views.

See if you can spot Sea View Terrace near Fraddon to the northeast and Probus Church tower to the southeast.

Continue on the track, as it gently winds downhill until you get to Treverbyn Farm. At this point, the track turns into a metalled lane.

Continue straight on, past the quaintly named Gummow House, then even more quaint Gummow-Killow. Eventually, you reach the T junction at Spring Acre. Turn left and continue walking until you get to the bridge over the Tresillian River.

This is the 'bathing pools' that the old Probus School schoolboy refers to (page XXX), where once the young people from the village would bathe, dive and swim in the river, and perhaps some still do.

Beyond the river, you'll see the railway bridge and the T junction with Ladock Road. It's a blind junction and a fast road, so take great caution crossing.

This time take the track in-between the bridge and the old garage.

Go through the gate and walk up the footpath and follow all the way to Lamellyn Farm. You'll be pleased to know that this is the last hill today. Walk through the farmgate, turning right and go past the back of the farmhouse. Go through another gate and walk along the drive, with its lovely views of the village. Walk past Lamellyn Vean and turn right into Chapel Street.

Hope you enjoy the walk.

John May 2021 | 31

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May 2021 | 37

I remember when...

T

HIS is the 17th article taken from the Probus Old Cornwall society handbook published in 1982.

Miss Tresawna I remember - do you? The adventures and excitements of ‘Probus Nation’ with all the laughs about the way Probus balanced its budget. Seats 2/- and children 1/6. Well, some of the seats were forms borrowed from Probus School and even so the children sat on the windowsills, but reserved seats meant real chairs!

Can you remember ‘The Mystery of Daffodil Island’? It was amazing how twenty-four people managed to be secret agents and pirates at the same time! Even ‘Lidgee’s’ bus appeared on stage at the old parish hall. And we had ice-creams too! Real luxury in 1957 sixpence a tub!

Well, do you remember the fun we had as ‘Probus Players’? We painted the scenery and gloried in the stunning costumes and make-up. Some of us were mermaids - comb, glass and all!

We had great fun with ‘How Probus got its Hall’ and visited Buckingham Palace, the Hawkins Arms and the Jubilee Lamp all in the space of an evening.

The Jubilee Lamp has become a reality again and Probus has its new hall so why don’t we revive the tradition of ‘Anyone who can’t take a joke had better stop at home’!

38 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

What’s this?

Where’s this?

W

ELL done to Sue Dowding who was very quick to identify the ‘where’s this?’ question proposed by Pat Naylor last month.

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Probus School 1917-1921

by N.W. I first arrived at Probus by the train Along with Turner and some other boys Unknown to me, and I felt very small And not a little frightened as I climbed, The first of very many times, the hill Called Little Truck. Now, half-way up this hill, Again for the first time, I met the man Whom later on I learned to fear, and then, As time went on, to honour and respect, Later to love - the Head of Probus School, Who had what seemed to me a funny name For Hansombody was the Old Man called.

He seemed so very old, though I suppose His age was hardly more than sixty years.

He greeted me, and we together went Up to the School. My first term had begun.

I won't pretend I liked my first term much For new boys had those menial tasks to do Which, in those days, were common to most schools, Like fetching water for the senior boys And doing many things to qualify For membership of the Long Dormitory.

When half-term came, I went to Truro on A horse-drawn 'bus - one called, I think, the Dove.

I met my Mother there, and we had tea, Fine splits and saffron cake - a special treat For then the war was on and food was scarce.

I journeyed back upon the 'bus again, And I expect I shed a tear or two.

For six more weeks of servitude must pass Before the holidays.

But, at long last, The joyful day arrived, and we went down, A merry band, to catch the westbound tain Or, for Devonians and other boys, The train for Plymouth and beyond, for both Arrived within the hour. I still recall The Old Man's words (for he came down to see His boarders safely on the train) when I, Full of excitement, bade him 'Au revoir'.

'The church bells will be ringing out today In Helston, I expect' he said, and smiled.

40 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

The holidays were over in a flash And I was back again, no new boy now But one who had made friends, at least with some.

I wasn't very good at football but I didn't mind the work, although, like most, I found the Latin difficult, and maths.

A problem in more ways than one until At last the penny dropped. The Chemistry, Taught by a smart young lady called Miss Howell, Was quite beyond me - although I liked Miss Howell As many of us did.

As time went on, I came to know the district around about, For Sunday walks with 'Jimmy' Lewman took Us around the countryside. I never liked Them much but now, in retrospect, they give A pleasure that I felt not then, and names Of farms and villages come back to me Barteliver Farm, Geen Mills and Gummow too, Trewithen and Tresillian, Grampound Road, Golden, Trelowthwas, and that little place Between the bottom of Truck Hill and that Of Little Truck, which, for some reason not Remembered now, we knew as Lower Shanghai.

When summer came, we went down after school To bathe; the swimming pool had diving boards And when I'd learnt to swim, quite quickly done, I loved it there, for cricket was a game At which the School was very good, while I Was just a rabbit, never scoring more Than two or three in practice games. This term On Sundays, after evening service at The village church where Mr. Tucker played The organ and where Canon Westmacott, The parish priest, held forth, we used to go For walks instead of in the afternoon, And these were pleasant strolls and suited me Because I was not fond of walking far!

So time passed on until the Armistice.

Most of the boarders were in bed with 'flu' Or convalescent after it, and I'd Been helping in the kitchen, washing up And taking meals up to the dormitories, And there were not enough boys fit and well To celebrate the news with a football match.

May 2021 | 41

So, strange to tell, we went down to the range And had a shooting contest; odd indeed To choose this way of welcoming the end Of that sad conflict wherein many men Who had been pupils there at Probus school Had lost their lives, but there seemed nothing else That we could do on that half-holiday.

That was November. By the Summer Term The mistresses had left or were about to go.

Miss Howell departed, Mrs Sparham had Already gone, Miss Beard as well, and that Poor gentlewoman, one Miss Beresford.

Lemon returned and Mr. Goodbourne came; The young men of the village came home (Those who were able to), the Victory Sports Were held, the food improved, and we began (For we were growing up) to notice more Than we had done the girls we saw in church, And waves and smiles were often interchanged No more as yet. Our fixture lists improved And we would go to play our matches now Against men's teams in villages around Instead of only schools. We visited St. Stephens, Gorran, Veryan, Gerrans and St. Clements once a year, and others too.

Those time moved on, Examinations came, Friends left, 'Bim' Hocking, 'Clinker' Fishwick and Then 'Daddy' Gard, but Teague, Phil Nicholls and The mighty Rodd remained. New boys arrived, And Probus School lived on. At morning break We went to Mrs. Pentecost's and had, For just a penny, coffee and jam tart (with cream upon the jam), for sixpence had To last a week until were sixteen And had a shilling - oh, what affluence!

Sometimes the Day Boys brought us apples or Such gifts as that; they were a pleasant lot, Ralph James, who travelled daily in a trap Drawn by a pony, Scholar, Kennedy, And Mitchell from Trelowthas down the hill.

By this time, naturally, we were young men And took more interest in the girls around.

There were no streetlamps in the village then And Sunday evenings in the wintertime, When we came out of church, we'd talk to some, Or even walk down to the milestone A little down Truck Hill, and then dash in Lest we be missed at suppertime or seen

42 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

By Members of the Staff as we took leave Of our fair friends, down by the lower gate.

Good fun it was, and we did harm to none.

I still recall the coat that Lyly wore, A brilliant red it was and, to my eyes, She was a vision of true loveliness As she walked up the aisle to take her seat Among the others in the ladies choir.

But there was Olive too, a charming girl Who, since she went to chapel, was not seen So often, precious more for that maybe, And others were there to entrance our sight All aged now, but on them blessings rest, For they brought joy, and joy is rare enough At last exams were over, and the time Had come for me to leave. With heavy heart I bade farewell to friends and the Old Man, to 'Jimmy' Lewman too, and his wife Who, as the Matron, had looked after us And boys before us all our school career.

So many things all three of them had said Remain within my memory and will stay a part of me until my dying day.

They were three splendid people, and I pray That God will bless them. May they rest in peace.

Image: A dormitory at Probus School (undated) May 2021 | 43

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New craft group

A

YEAR ago, Suzanne Downes was just about to launch a new craft group in the village but along came COVID-19. Now that restrictions are starting to relax, she hopes to get her craft group off the ground and wrote to the Probus News asking for help.

During the first lockdown, Suzanne supplied card kits free to the farm shop and the garage to give out to village children. She hoped the kits would be made into cards and given to NHS workers or others working on the front line, just as a ‘thank you’. To help them put the cards together, Suzanne created videos and posted them on a Probus Craft Group Facebook page that she had created.

Suzanne is a 74-year young crafter who used to run a craft group in London before moving back to Cornwall four years ago. She has built an extension to her bungalow in Lewman Road, creating a purpose-built space for 4-6 people for craft workshops.

Suzanne has been crafting since she was in single figures. (She says that’s both age and dress size) and can turn her hand to most crafts.

The idea is that craft classes would be mornings or full day with lunch supplied.

There will be a small cost involved to cover all materials needed, with no obligation to purchase anything else.

Classes would vary from themed to general handmade cards but always emphasising having fun and making new friends. Suzanne’s workshops are for anyone, from complete novices to experienced and like-minded crafters.

Suzanne says that crafting is not only the ability to provide people with an item they can use, give away as a present or 46 | Probus News Magazine | Issue 256

sell. It also can support your well-being and for those who live on their own, a chance to meet others with similar interests.

As of the time of writing, we are still not yet able to have meetings in people’s homes. Still, Suzanne wants to get herself known within our community, so once the current restrictions allow, she has broken the ice.

If you would like to find out more about Suzanne and her classes. Look on the Facebook page ‘Probus Crafts Group’ or just call her directly on 07970 781720.

Detail from some of Suzanne’s cards:

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