PORTREATH IMPROVEMENTS COMMITTEE
BEACH CAR PARK
The recent increase in car parking charges has caused an uproar amongst some villagers and visitors to our village, others have expressed some concern at the increase, there are those who are indifferent and a few who actually agree with it. Not surprisingly this varied reaction is also reflected amongst the members of the committee. It is in fact the sort of reaction one will find in any society or group of people. That is not to say that those who object to the event, in this case the increase of charges, should be ignored. Ideally the community should have received notification and an explanation of the increases before they came into operation. I apologise for this omission and hopefully such a thing will not happen again. At the last committee meeting it was decided that the PIC activities and involvement in the village should be reported in the Parish Tram. This should help residents of Portreath to understand why some things seem to happen without any apparent reason. It may also encourage residents to put themselves up for election to the committee at the AGM each January and so help our community.
Before I deal with the increase in charges a little background may be helpful. The present situation goes back to 1963 when the PIC was reconstructed. The PIC owns the car park and a number of other properties in the village. As a charitable trust the PIC is not allowed to operate commercially. A company was formed to operate the car park on behalf of the PIC. The company, Portreath Association Ltd does not make a profit. It pays the balance of income less the relatively few expenses, to the PIC as rent for the car park. This income is used by the PIC in accordance with its constitution. In summary these objects are: -
(i) to provide and maintain a village hall and playing fields with relevant equipment
(ii) to protect and maintain the sea coast in and around the village
(iii) to provide and maintain public seats, paths and shelters
(iv) to preserve and enhance the beauty of the village and surrounding countryside
(v) it may also give financial assistance to other organisations and village organisations if such assistance is to be used for charitable purposes
Now while one could look at the above objects and feel that they have not all been attended to,
it is worth pointing out that there is a village hall, playing field with equipment for the children of the village, a bus shelter, a number of small gardens about the village, a number of benches in the village and surrounding countryside. All this has to be maintained and at times repaired or replaced because of damage by villagers or visitors to the village. Last year we paid part of the cost of removing silt from the harbour, we made a number of donations to village organisations for specific purposes (some requests were turned down as requests are not automatically granted). It seems that people do not think twice about dropping litter on village streets, we pay for this to be picked up. Greenfield gardens have been rebuilt and will soon become the responsibility of the PIC. The maintenance of this will increase our outgoings in the future. Indeed any additional facility provided increases our annual costs.
Now back to the parking charges. The decision to increase, and the scale of the increase, was not made by the PIC, it was made by the directors of PAL the company that manages the car park. Three of the five directors of PAL are appointed by the PIC. At board meetings these three directors have to consider the commercial needs of the company as well as the position and needs of the PIC. There are times when these may seem in conflict and judgements have to be made. The reason why a decision on charges had to be made was that as a result of increased use of the car park the turnover of PAL had reached the level at which the company was legally required to register for VAT. The effect of this was a 17.5% tax on the car park income which would flow through as a reduction, by the same amount, in the PIC income. VAT is a sales tax and is passed on to consumers. The increase was more than the 17.5% lost to VAT but it was thought that the additional amount should give the PIC a little more revenue to carry out its obligations. It was felt that the car park was still an attractive proposition for beach users. Those who feel that this is not justified because Portreath has nothing to offer, or it is detrimental to local business, should remember that the car park is adjacent to the beach which is very convenient for beach users. It is a beach car park and if people are on the beach they are likely to use the local shops and, importantly, the income from the car park is for the benefit of the village. For village inhabitants who want to use the car park the answer could be to buy a season ticket which allows parking all year for as long or short a period as you want.
Robert H Hamer
Treasurer
Portreath Improvements Committee
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Parish Meeting
The Annual Parish Meeting was held on 15th May and was attended by representatives of many of the Village organisations together with County and District Councillors and the Neighbourhood Beat Manager, P.C. Roberts. Several members of the public were also present
All the representatives were able to give very favourable positive reports on the many Village organisations. Both the County and District Council Reports were also very positive, intimating a very progressive future for the Parish.
The Chairman, Councillor C.J. Watts, reported on the success of the Dispersal Order during the last summer and referred to the possible implementation
of a Designated Public Place Order for the coming holiday season which would give the Police powers to prevent the consumption of alcohol in designated areas within the Village.
The Chairman also confirmed that funding of £360,000 has been awarded under the Mineral Tramways Project, towards improvements to be made in The Square, along Beach Road and the sea front car park - this part of the works has already commenced in the provision of new railings.
Annual meeting
At the annual Meeting of the Parish Council also held on 15th May Councillor Watts was re-appointed as Chairman for the coming year and Councillor Mrs. Butler was appointed as Vice Chairman.
Greenfield Gardens
Work on the upgrading of Greenfield Gardens has now been completed and a very successful 'Planting Day' was held on 22nd April when plants purchased from The Kehelland Garden Center were planted out by volunteers under the supervision of Councillor N Mathews; Ms. S. Clasper, Mrs. R. Varranneman-Eyre and Mrs. P. Krist. The seeding of the grassed areas has been carried out by the Contractors, R.H. Olds of Roseworthy, and, with the recent rain, it is hoped that the grassed areas will soon be ready for the first cut. It is anticipated that an Official Opening Ceremony will be arranged later in the season.
The Harbour
A presentation was made to the Members of the Lottery Funding Board on 21st May by the Councillor Watts, Chairman of the Council; Mr. D. Coates, the Chairman of the Harbour Association; Officials of Kerrier District Council and Cornwall Enterprise Ltd. Other Harbours involved in the Funding Application were also visited by the Lottery Board Members but the Portreath application is the only 'community based' proposal included in the application for funding.
Audit of Accounts
The audit of the Councils Accounts for the financial year ended 31st March 2006 has been successfully completed
Footpaths
An order has been issued for the trimming of the footpaths within the Parish and this work will commence shortly.
L Oates
Clerk to the Council
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Beach Clean at Portreath
On Saturday April 1st Cornwall Wildlife Trust's junior members and their friends cleaned the beach at Portreath to find out what rubbish had been brought in on the previous day's high tide. 34 children and 32 adults worked from the strandline up to the top of the beach and found a variety of objects, ranging from small pieces of plastic to a huge entanglement of rope and fishing net (see photo). In total, 8 bags of rubbish were collected.
The families recorded the debris found on a special chart provided by the Marine Conservation Society as the results were to be sent to the MCS for inclusion in their national beach litter survey (see attached report). This beach has been cleaned by CWT for the last 3 years and after the event last year a letter was sent to the café owners, detailing the amount of plastic spoons found on the beach. Possibly as a result of this there was a noticeable drop in the amount of café-based debris this year.
After the beach clean the children and their friends were led on a Rockpool Ramble by Treve Opie from Cornwall College, and they were able to see sponges and anemones not usually visible but made accessible by the extreme low tide of the day.
These families came from as far away as Tintagel, Newquay and Porthleven; and for some it was the first time they had been to Portreath, although many said they would visit again in the future. Even some local kids who had come to surf joined in, and a good time was had by visitors and locals alike.
Alison Forward, Education Officer, Cornwall Wildlife Trust
WELL DONE PORTREATH BROWNIES !
Following the Brownies success in winning through to the final of the Halford Trophy, I am really pleased to report that following a fantastic competition, which all the Brownies really enjoyed, we came second – by 1.5 points !
The Final took place on Saturday 24th May at Penrice School, St. Austell, and we all travelled there together on a mini coach due to the kindness of the Portreath Improvements Committee paying for our coach. This certainly helped team spirit as they sang songs most of the way there and most of the way back !
We had a picnic lunch together once we got to Penrice and the competition started at 2.00. They had six challenges, which were all based on a water theme. All the children who attended were winners in their own right anyway having got as far as they did in this three yearly competition, so the final results were naturally close – the difference between the winning and losing Units was only 8 points !
Both the PIC and the Guiding Association offered to treat the Unit to a fish and chip supper on the way home, and although it wasn't possible to stop on Saturday evening, everyone can be assured the Brownies will be getting a very tasty treat for having done so well.
Thank you to everyone who supported us in this memorable event and well done to all the girls who were such good competitors.
Shena Watts
Unit Guider for the 1st Portreath Brownies
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PORTREATH MILLENNIUM
COMMUNITY HALL
This venue is available to everyone, and the Hall can be used for a wide range of activities. Any individuals or groups interested in booking the Hall should contact the Bookings Secretary Mrs. Jan Sowden on 01209 842960. Hire costs are £25.00 a session (3 hours) for the large Hall and the smaller meetings room can be booked for £8.00 per session and these fees include the use of the fully equipped kitchen.
If you wish to run an event and would like to publicise the information in the next Parish Tram, please send your copy to the Editor.
chris@parishtram.co.uk
or leave at the post office
BEAT – LINES
I am pleased to be able to report that since the last edition of ‘the Tram’ the policing of Portreath and Illogan has been boosted by the allocation of an extra resource. Police Community Support Officer Vikki WHITE has now joined me and will become a familiar sight in the village. Up until earlier this year funding arrangements meant that Police Community Support Officers (or PCSO’s) were not able to work in the area. Fortunately due to a change in the way that they are funded this has now changed.
Vikki’s presence within the local area represents another positive step in our efforts to improve the overall policing service that is provided to the village. She is very keen to meet with as many Portreath residents as possible and to work with the council, school and other groups to help improve the quality of life for all.
A message that I would like to convey is if you see Vikki or myself out on patrol - don’t be shy! We will always be pleased to speak with you - whether it is because you have an issue that you would like us to try and resolve or you just feel like having a chat - we will be delighted to meet you !
-
I would like to say a big thank you to those members of the community that helped with setting up and decorating the police office. It has certainly made it far more user friendly.
I have now held two surgeries within the new office – the response for the last one was a little disappointing – although I can’t blame anyone for choosing to go down to the beach as it was an exceptionally hot day !
The next surgery at the office will be held by Vikki on Saturday 22nd July 2006 from 2.00pm until 3.30pm.
-
Monday, July 10, 2006
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
TOWN CENTRES TO BECOME 'NO-GO AREAS' FOR ALCOHOL?
09:30 - 18 May 2006
Virtually all the town centres of Camborne, Redruth and Helston could become "no go" areas for anti-social drinking and behaviour.
At its meeting last night, Kerrier Council considered a report on the making of "Designated Public Place Orders (DPPOs)" under the Criminal Justice and Police Act.
If approved, these will give police power to stop people drinking anything which they think may be alcoholic, or surrender any container which they believe may contain alcohol.
The local authority - in this case Kerrier - has power to make a designation order when it is satisfied that nuisance to the public has been associated with the drinking of alcohol in any given location.
It will not, however, be an offence to drink alcohol in those specific places until a police officer requests a person to stop drinking, at which point it becomes an arrestable offence.
The council was told that the order "is a measure to help control anti-social drinking and related behaviour by adults".
The discussion is particularly timely as police were concerned about the amount of drinking in public places throughout the day at Helston Flora nearly a fortnight ago.
With 11 arrests and numerous reported incidents of violence and drink-related crime, police are now looking at preventing drinking in specific public places in and around the town in future years.
Two areas of the district already have DPPOs imposed - Illogan and Porthleven. Kerrier now wants to replace existing Alcohol Zone bye-laws with these DPPOs.
This will have to be done before the end of August since that is the date when the current bye-laws expire.
Police have already been consulted by Kerrier, and have identified areas which an order should cover; they must be places which are associated with trouble and any new powers should not be used "disproportionately or in an arbitrary fashion which could be the case if one isolated incident led to a designation order".
"Clearly," said Kerrier, "there should be evidence of an existing problem with an assessment as to the likelihood that the problem will continue unless those powers are adopted.
"Against this background, it is possible that a single, serious incident might be sufficient to justify adoption of the powers."
The designated areas, if approved, will be: Camborne - Recreation Ground, College Street from junction with Weeth Lane to Wellington Road, Rectory Road from junction with Manor Road to Church Street, Church Street, Wellington Road, Commercial Street, Commercial Square, Basset Road from junction with Basset Street to Church Street, Trevithick Road, Church Lane, Victoria Street, Union Street, Trelowarren Street, Gas Street, Chapel Street, Gurneys Lane, Gurneys Mews, Rosewarne Road and Car Park, Vyvyan Row, Vyvyan Street, North Road, The Cross, New Connexion Street, Fore Street, Cross Street, Hoopers Lane, The Spinney, Camborne Churchyard and Cemetery.
Redruth - Harmony Close, West End from junction with Coach Lane to Fore Street, Coach Lane, Chapel Street, Little Vauxhall, Plain-an-Gwarry, Close Hill, Tolgus Hill from junction with Little Vauxhall, North Street, Green Lane, Fore Street, Higher Fore Street, East End from Higher Fore Street to junction with School Lane, School Lane, Victoria Park, Alma Place, Back Lane West, Cross Street, Station Hill, Station Road, Falmouth Road, Church Lane, Treruffe Hill, Bond Street, Penryn Street, Gas Lane, Lemins Court, Clinton Passage.
Portreath - The Harbour, Kingsley Terrace, The Pier, The Novelty Golf Course and adjacent area of sand, Seafront Car Park and Promenade
Car Park in front of the Waterfront Inn, area adjacent to and surrounding the Rescue Post, the surf life saving club and Speranza, Beach Road between Tregea Hill and the junction with Chynance.
Virtually all the town centres of Camborne, Redruth and Helston could become "no go" areas for anti-social drinking and behaviour.
At its meeting last night, Kerrier Council considered a report on the making of "Designated Public Place Orders (DPPOs)" under the Criminal Justice and Police Act.
If approved, these will give police power to stop people drinking anything which they think may be alcoholic, or surrender any container which they believe may contain alcohol.
The local authority - in this case Kerrier - has power to make a designation order when it is satisfied that nuisance to the public has been associated with the drinking of alcohol in any given location.
It will not, however, be an offence to drink alcohol in those specific places until a police officer requests a person to stop drinking, at which point it becomes an arrestable offence.
The council was told that the order "is a measure to help control anti-social drinking and related behaviour by adults".
The discussion is particularly timely as police were concerned about the amount of drinking in public places throughout the day at Helston Flora nearly a fortnight ago.
With 11 arrests and numerous reported incidents of violence and drink-related crime, police are now looking at preventing drinking in specific public places in and around the town in future years.
Two areas of the district already have DPPOs imposed - Illogan and Porthleven. Kerrier now wants to replace existing Alcohol Zone bye-laws with these DPPOs.
This will have to be done before the end of August since that is the date when the current bye-laws expire.
Police have already been consulted by Kerrier, and have identified areas which an order should cover; they must be places which are associated with trouble and any new powers should not be used "disproportionately or in an arbitrary fashion which could be the case if one isolated incident led to a designation order".
"Clearly," said Kerrier, "there should be evidence of an existing problem with an assessment as to the likelihood that the problem will continue unless those powers are adopted.
"Against this background, it is possible that a single, serious incident might be sufficient to justify adoption of the powers."
The designated areas, if approved, will be: Camborne - Recreation Ground, College Street from junction with Weeth Lane to Wellington Road, Rectory Road from junction with Manor Road to Church Street, Church Street, Wellington Road, Commercial Street, Commercial Square, Basset Road from junction with Basset Street to Church Street, Trevithick Road, Church Lane, Victoria Street, Union Street, Trelowarren Street, Gas Street, Chapel Street, Gurneys Lane, Gurneys Mews, Rosewarne Road and Car Park, Vyvyan Row, Vyvyan Street, North Road, The Cross, New Connexion Street, Fore Street, Cross Street, Hoopers Lane, The Spinney, Camborne Churchyard and Cemetery.
Redruth - Harmony Close, West End from junction with Coach Lane to Fore Street, Coach Lane, Chapel Street, Little Vauxhall, Plain-an-Gwarry, Close Hill, Tolgus Hill from junction with Little Vauxhall, North Street, Green Lane, Fore Street, Higher Fore Street, East End from Higher Fore Street to junction with School Lane, School Lane, Victoria Park, Alma Place, Back Lane West, Cross Street, Station Hill, Station Road, Falmouth Road, Church Lane, Treruffe Hill, Bond Street, Penryn Street, Gas Lane, Lemins Court, Clinton Passage.
Portreath - The Harbour, Kingsley Terrace, The Pier, The Novelty Golf Course and adjacent area of sand, Seafront Car Park and Promenade
Car Park in front of the Waterfront Inn, area adjacent to and surrounding the Rescue Post, the surf life saving club and Speranza, Beach Road between Tregea Hill and the junction with Chynance.
CROWDS FLOCK TO FESTIVAL OF SPEED
09:00 - 22 June 2006
It was a chance for thrill-seekers to open the throttle and push their machines to the limit - with not a single traffic police officer in sight. Some 200 motorcycle and car enthusiasts descended on RAF Portreath over the weekend to roar down its runway during the traditional Run What You Brung festival of speed.
Watched by big crowds, many of the adrenaline junkies topped 150mph while one dragster nudged 200mph, the fastest time at the event.
"It was fantastic - the exhilaration, the smells, the speeds - it was just like being a kid again," said the Rev Mike Firbank, a curate at Illogan, Portreath and Pool who enjoyed the racing with his wife, Kathryn, and their family.
Sitting astride a 1,450cc Suzuki dragster, Keith Bowden, formerly of Helston and now living at Plymouth, clocked 154mph during a series of runs on Sunday.
"It's like riding an exocet missile with a feeling of, please let me get to the end," he said. "I starting drag racing in the 1960s when we used to go to Santa Pod. It's fantastic to have this opportunity to do the same thing at RAF Portreath."
His brother, Phil, who reached 148mph on his Suzuki GSX R1000cc, agreed. "The buzz is the speed and the great atmosphere that is always generated here," he said.
Dominic Gallagher, also from Helston, summed up the appeal of the event after tearing down the runway at 160mph on his Honda CBR 600cc: "It's a complete feeling of freedom and adrenaline."
The two-day spectacular, organised by the Celtic Marauders motorcycle club, attracted drivers and riders from all over Cornwall and further afield, including a 10-strong group of bikers from Surrey.
Club spokeswoman Glynis Barrington-Smith said the twice-yearly event continued to grow in popularity and added: "There's nowhere else in Cornwall where bikers can go and make these runs in such a safe environment."
She thanked all those who had helped the event run smoothly, including personnel from RAF Portreath.
Adam Smith, the base's liaison officer who took charge of his ninth Run What You Brung, said: "This is a unique occasion which has exceeded a lot of expectations. People who come here want to have a good time and that makes a real difference. The grins on their faces make it all worthwhile."
It was a chance for thrill-seekers to open the throttle and push their machines to the limit - with not a single traffic police officer in sight. Some 200 motorcycle and car enthusiasts descended on RAF Portreath over the weekend to roar down its runway during the traditional Run What You Brung festival of speed.
Watched by big crowds, many of the adrenaline junkies topped 150mph while one dragster nudged 200mph, the fastest time at the event.
"It was fantastic - the exhilaration, the smells, the speeds - it was just like being a kid again," said the Rev Mike Firbank, a curate at Illogan, Portreath and Pool who enjoyed the racing with his wife, Kathryn, and their family.
Sitting astride a 1,450cc Suzuki dragster, Keith Bowden, formerly of Helston and now living at Plymouth, clocked 154mph during a series of runs on Sunday.
"It's like riding an exocet missile with a feeling of, please let me get to the end," he said. "I starting drag racing in the 1960s when we used to go to Santa Pod. It's fantastic to have this opportunity to do the same thing at RAF Portreath."
His brother, Phil, who reached 148mph on his Suzuki GSX R1000cc, agreed. "The buzz is the speed and the great atmosphere that is always generated here," he said.
Dominic Gallagher, also from Helston, summed up the appeal of the event after tearing down the runway at 160mph on his Honda CBR 600cc: "It's a complete feeling of freedom and adrenaline."
The two-day spectacular, organised by the Celtic Marauders motorcycle club, attracted drivers and riders from all over Cornwall and further afield, including a 10-strong group of bikers from Surrey.
Club spokeswoman Glynis Barrington-Smith said the twice-yearly event continued to grow in popularity and added: "There's nowhere else in Cornwall where bikers can go and make these runs in such a safe environment."
She thanked all those who had helped the event run smoothly, including personnel from RAF Portreath.
Adam Smith, the base's liaison officer who took charge of his ninth Run What You Brung, said: "This is a unique occasion which has exceeded a lot of expectations. People who come here want to have a good time and that makes a real difference. The grins on their faces make it all worthwhile."
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Theft at Bridge
Police were this week searching for burglars who broke into the Bridge pumping station, near Portreath, and stole tools.
The intruders also stole a set of keys from the compound to gain entry to a secure storage container.
The break-in happened between 3.30pm on May 26 and 7.30am on May 30.
Elsewhere, police were seeking a man who kicked a green Ford Focus, damaging the car, before he fled the scene of the attack at Barripper, near Camborne. The incident happened between 9pm and 9.30pm on May 24.
The intruders also stole a set of keys from the compound to gain entry to a secure storage container.
The break-in happened between 3.30pm on May 26 and 7.30am on May 30.
Elsewhere, police were seeking a man who kicked a green Ford Focus, damaging the car, before he fled the scene of the attack at Barripper, near Camborne. The incident happened between 9pm and 9.30pm on May 24.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Parish Tram Issue 12
Greenfield Gardens
The Parish Council's Regeneration Team has recently had considerable success with securing funding for Greenfield Gardens. Members submitted plans for a make over of the property and applied for funding from various sources resulting in £48,000 for a complete re modelling.
Ground work started in early February and is scheduled for completion in late March. The work is being carried out by R.H. Olds Amenity Landscapers of Roseworthy Camborne.
Planting of low maintenance ground cover and shrubs is being organised by Portreath Improvements Committee to be carried out on the 22nd April. Grass seeding will take place by the contractors as soon as the weather is suitable. The gardens should be ready for re- opening in late July.
Portreath Improvements Committee will be taking ownership by way of a 999 year lease. This will secure the Gardens for the village and ensure the maintenance of the property.
This project has been a village team effort, with the Parish Council, Regeneration Team and the Portreath Improvements Committee working together.
Funding for the project came from the Portreath Improvements Committee, Portreath Parish Council, Kerrier District Council and Objective One Rural Key Fund.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BEAT LINES
In my last article I referred to a project that I was working on and promised to give an update on it in this edition. By the time that you read this the project will have been featured in the local press so forgive me for any repetition. For an initial six month trial period I have arranged (with the considerable assistance of Rev Mike Kippax) to have the use of a police office within the village. The office is located at the entrance to St Mary's Church in Penberthy Road. It is my intention to use the office as a place to hold regular surgeries where I hope to meet local people and discuss any concerns that they may have. It will also be useful to use when necessary as a 'drop in' base when I am conducting enquiries or patrolling in the area.
I will only be able to use the office on an adhoc basis. I will therefore produce a notice which I intend to update regularly giving a definite time and date when I will next be in the office and available. I hope to be able to display the notice within the information board at the front of the church.
I would ask you to be mindful that it is NOT A POLICE STATION. It is not fitted with a computer and whilst there I will not have access to any of the other resources normally found within a station. If you are the unfortunate victim of a crime do not delay reporting it. Please use the reporting procedures that are already in place. The contact number to use to report a crime is 08452 777 444.
I hope that the office will prove to be a benefit to the community and will make the police more accessible. I guess that a measure of its success will be how often it is used. I'll try to be there on a regular basis so please keep an eye on the information board and come in for a chat!
A good example of what you might want to come and tell me about is the misuse of motorcycles. I am advised that there is a current problem within the village with what are now are commonly known as 'mini motos'. Apart from the size and the fact that a mini motos are often sold as a toys there really is no difference between a them and a normal motorcycle.
A mini moto must be used on private ground with the necessary permission of the landowner. If it is used on a road or other public place it must be registered, insured and taxed and the rider must hold the relevant licence.
The police have powers under certain circumstances to seize vehicles that are being used to cause annoyance. If mini motos continue to be used inappropriately within the village I will seek to seize them under these powers. If you have concerns about the way that these machines are being used please let me know. I will take action against those responsible.
On the other hand if you are the owner or rider of a mini moto please ensure that you use it in accordance with the law and with respect for those that live around you. I really would prefer not to have to seize your machine!!
PC TIM ROBERTS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PORTREATH VILLAGE CENTRE ENHANCEMENT
An Officer of Cornwall County Council, Nigel Sumpter, has been appointed to take forward to completion the enhancement proposals for the Beach Front Car Park, Beach Road and The Square. This will be done as part of the overall Mineral Tramways Project and will (literally) be building on the local ideas and consultation results for this area.
The Car Park will be the first location for enhancement works mostly over the Autumn and Winter period starting later this year with works in Beach Road and The Square planned for the following Autumn/Winter. This will avoid all works taking place together. Ownership access and highway consultation and agreements are also less involved for the Car Park.
The appearance of the Car Park will be greatly improved as a modern high quality sea front location. Tenders have already been received for new stainless steel railings and the successful fabricator is local form P.R. Laffin Fabrications Limited of Pool.
The proposals for Beach Road and The Square will be progressed over the coming year and those potentially affected will be consulted with during the development of detailed proposals. The proposals will also be displayed locally later on this year for further final comment to help with finalising the designs.
The preferred route for the Portreath Branchline Trail is along the length of the Incline and continuing on the tramway to Illogan. Preparatory work to treat the knotweed at the bottom of the main structure and vegetation clearance within the lower section has already started as the legal process to confirm the route a public bridleway gets underway beginning with an application to the Secretary of State to post site notices publishing the Trail proposals. All the necessary consents have been obtained to treat the Listed section following confirmation of the public right of way, safe guarding public access to this locally important heritage structure
All involved are committed to ensuring that the proposals respond to local wishes and will retain and enhance the character of Portreath.
Nigel Sumpter
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Incline Project
The Church/Community Incline Project meet approximately every 6-8 weeks. Very soon leaflets and flyers will be around the village promoting the work of Incline so do look out for them.
Incline continues to support the Wednesday Table Tennis Club in the Church Hall on Wednesdays 7.00-9.30, very soon we hope to have secured a second table for this growing group. The Bellydance Group meet alternate Thursdays in the same hall but starting at 7.30 until 9.00.
Once the dancing stops, on a monthly basis the group meet for a Book Club and have so far enjoyed Junk by Melvin Burgess (highly recommended), with Snow Falling On Cedars by David Guterson being the current read. The Bellydance and the Book Club are currently full but if you do want to know more, and also to help us to assess demand, do phone Terry on 01209 843181.
Mish Mash for the children has stopped after running for 18 months, but after Easter it is hoped, subject to funding, to start Mish Mash Family Mornings...time for parents, carers to join the Mish Mash children for exciting and creative activities.
In addition, CHIC continues in the Church Hall on Wednesday mornings 10-12.00, with the Veg Box scheme, books to loan and with the friendly faces of Yvonne, Avril and helpers to welcome you.
We also support the Carers Group who have recently enjoyed a stay in a Devon Hotel and an evening of bowling. Do phone Janet on 842658 or Cath on 842797 if you are a local carer and want to know more.
There is lots more to say and much on the horizon so do please look out for the information leaflets soon to be in the post office, church and school. The leaflets will contain contact numbers but until then, phone Mike on 01209 842233, Chris on 843873 or Terry on 843181 if you want to know when we next meet, if you have a community idea or want to know more.
Terry Reynard 843181
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Illegal immigrants
Two illegal immigrants and a "poisonous" gang have set up home in a Cornish college. But immigration services and the police will not be getting involved - they are two exotic lizards who found their way here hidden in transported goods, and a group of poison arrow frogs which are part of a breeding programme.
Duchy College's animal care unit at Feadon Farm, near Portreath, has welcomed the frogs, brown Anoles lizard and Peloponnese wall lizard, which will be used to help train students on its animal care courses.
Though the frogs, scientific names dendrobates tinctorus and dendrobates ventrimaculatus, sound dangerous, staff at the college have reassured people they are not.
Animal care technician, Gary Zammit, said: "These frogs will be only mildly poisonous as they lose their toxicity when bred in captivity; frogs in the wild get their poison from their food."
The brown Anoles, whose natural habitat is the Caribbean and southern USA, was found last year in a supermarket delivery of bananas and brought to Duchy College by the RSPCA. The female lizard has already mated with a lizard already at the college, resulting in two eggs which have successfully hatched.
The Peloponnese wall lizard was also brought in by the RSPCA, after being found in the clothing section of a local garden centre. It is a fully grown adult male, which is usually found in southern Greece, and is the first the College has had.
West Briton
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
boat.jpg with this
HARBOUR NEWS
It will soon be time for the boats to go back in the water. This year there will be more licensed working boats than for some time, representing a large personal investment by our Portreath fishermen, all of whom will welcome the chance to supply fresh fish, and shellfish, privately, or to businesses. All you have to do is ask. There are also some boats for sale if you fancy the D.I.Y. approach.
Although the harbour activity all but stops for boat owners during the winter, it becomes very popular for anglers of all ages, some more serious and better equipped, but all seem to enjoy and come back for more.
Nigel Sillence
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harbour Consultation Report
On Saturday 28th January the residents of Portreath turned out in force to support the Parish Council's efforts to enable the community to possibly own and run the harbour.
The turn out for the event was very good with 250 plus attending. This is at least 25% of the village population and better than the last general election.
The information was presented by a set of 12 display boards depicting the history of Portreath and some ideas of what the future could bring, a collection of black and white photographs of the harbour in it's working days, a PowerPoint presentation of proposed layout and leisure facilities and a centre table display for the public to put their ideas forward. Survey forms and attendance records were also used.
The general feeling of those who attended was to see the harbour improve and be better used, with an increase in facilities for both the fishing industry and leisure craft. There was a great deal of support to install lock gates and extend the pier and also to open the pier to the public.
There was concern about the nature of development around the harbour in the past and a suggestion that future development be in a more architecturally sensitive style.
A great deal of information was collected with the overwhelming majority in support of taking the project to the next stage which is to commission the feasibility study.
The day was a very good team effort. Organisation and manning the hall by the Parish Council's Regeneration Committee and Kerrier District Council supplying the information boards and power point equipment. Thanks also to Kerrier Regeneration team at Cowlings Mill for all their help and support.
Chris Watts
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HARBOUR PROJECT GETS THROUGH FIRST STAGE
Major regeneration work at Portreath Harbour has come a step closer with the news that a multi million pound bid to the Lottery has made it through the first assessment stage. Cornwall County Council, acting on behalf of the Cornish Harbours Project, has applied for £25 million towards the cost of a five-year project that would see extensive improvements carried out at Portreath, Falmouth, Newlyn, Newquay and Looe.
The aim is to bring disused or run down harbour infrastructure and neighbouring waterfront locations back into use for the benefit of communities.
At Portreath Parish Council's March meeting, the Chairman, Chris Watts, announced he had received a letter saying the bid had successfully moved on to the next assessment phase.
He said: "We are through the first of many stages. I am delighted our grant application has been accepted but very aware there is a long process to go through and we do have a lot of competition for the grant.
Living Landmarks anticipate contacting us by April 13 to confirm whether or not the harbour project has been long listed for a project review visit."
If successful, the Cornish Harbours project would run from 2007-12. Portreath would be regenerated and brought in to community ownership.
Julian Ridge
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
brownies.jpg with this
WELL DONE PORTREATH BROWNIES!
The Brownies continue to go from strength to strength and on Sunday the 19th March, they won through to the final of the Halford Trophy. This is a three yearly competition between all the Brownies in Cornwall, and the Portreath Brownies will now represent the Kerrier Division in June. They have really enjoyed the competition and were so excited when the results were announced in reverse order , starting with the fifth place. As the positions were being called out and Portreath's name was not being announced they got more and more excited and at last the Brownies from Camborne were called out as coming 2nd, meaning we were first, they were jumping up and down with pleasure ! They have been presented with the Halford Trophy Cup for the Kerrier Division Round 1st Place position and the Brownies will take it in turns to take it home and look after it. So very well done !!
We've been up to all sorts, ranging from having visitors to teaching us about first aid, birds and wild life, to having a visitor who is deaf and who taught them to sign their names - she's due to visit again soon with her specially trained dog. The Brownies have also been looking at the world we live in and serious issues such as endangered species and then considering the food we eat and where it comes from – chocolate was the first product on the map. And we are also lucky to have other visitors come along occasionally to help us make cards etc., some of which were made for Harbour House last Christmas and a small group of Brownies went along to sing some of their favourite carols.
Getting ready for the Harry Potter day was one of the funniest things I've seen because in readiness for the day, as well as having to make fantastically decorated black card wizard hats, one the Unit Helpers thought drop down black card glasses would be a winner (I'm considering making up a calendar with some of most successful photos and this would definitely be included!)
We're looking forward to accepting our invitation from the 1st Redruth Guides to join them in a Bollywood Dance Night, with a professional teacher showing us Indian dancing. All the funds raised that evening are going towards the Pakistan Disaster Appeal, so there's a serious side to the fun as well.
Having given you a summary of some of the things we've been doing and hopefully demonstrating that working with the children is a lot of fun, I would also like to take this opportunity of asking if there is anyone out there who would like to come along to help at any time ? – this could be on a weekly basis or on a rota, or perhaps as a "one-off" as you may have a special skill that the children would enjoy learning about .
As a charitable organisation run totally by volunteers, its always helpful to spread the "work", but when the work involves playing games, going on visits like the pantomime or Newquay Aquarium, to helping the girls with any interest badges which cover a wide range of activities, including art, circus performer, computers, science investigator, water safety (there are over 50 interest badges !) it is really enjoyable, especially when we can also enable them as a Brownie group to take part in activities they wouldn't normally be involved with, such as the Halford Trophy, or raising money for children with leukaemia, all of which gives them such a sense of achievement as well as enjoying themselves.
We're planning to run some games / or a stall at the Portreath Fun Day in August to raise some funds, so we would very much appreciate seeing you there and in the meantime, if anyone would like to contact me, my telephone number is 01209 843873.
Finally, please wish us luck for the final of the Halford Trophy in June !
Shena Watts
Unit Guider for the 1st Portreath Brownies
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Page 3 please
Designated Public Place Order
Due to last year's outstanding success of the village's Dispersal Order, Portreath Parish Council has applied for a Designated Public Place Order.
Last summer the anti social behaviour dropped to almost nil due to the Dispersal Order which gave Police the power to disperse any groups causing a nuisance. This was extremely good news to all who use Portreath for leisure and pleasure and of course even better news for all of us who live here.
To make this anti social behaviour order permanent the Parish Council have to apply for a Designated Public Place Order. The next paragraph outlines the order.
DPPOs are orders made by local authorities under powers given to them under section 13 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001. These powers make it easier for local authorities to designate places where restrictions on public drinking will apply and are available in areas that have experienced alcohol-related disorder or nuisance.
While it is not an offence to consume alcohol within a 'designated' area, the police, police community support officers and people accredited through a community safety accreditation scheme have powers to control the consumption of alcohol within that place. If they believe someone is consuming alcohol or intends to consume alcohol they can:
* require them to stop; and
* Confiscate the alcohol from people whether the drinking vessel is unopened or not.
Our Neighbourhood beat manager Constable T. Roberts has collated evidence of drink related offences over the past three years and has presented these to Kerrier District Council's Solicitor, who needs more evidence from local people and organisations to justify applying for the order.
Most local businesses have already written to support the Council in its efforts to secure the Order and now it is hoped residents will write in also. Kerrier District Council needs accounts of specific drink related incidents. Please write giving your support together with details of any incidents which need not necessarily include the specific date of the event - month and year would be sufficient. Please write to:
Parish Clerk
Cosoleth
Cambrose
Redruth, Cornwall TR16 4HS
Please help your local Council to acquire this valuable tool and stop anti social behavior in our village.
Chris Watts
Parish Council Chairman.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
please "tweak" this one
Creative Crafts
Craft workshops held in your area for adults and children
Card making,jewellery,scrapbooking, felt making silk painting and more!
Reasonable prices
The Arty Party
Childrens birthday parties with a difference.
Craft parties to suit children from the age of 4 and up.
prices start at £3.50 per child and they get to keep what they make
Get your kids to ask for an Arty Party
Call Laura for more info on 01209 713664 / 07816128562
Also ring me for details of my range in Wedding Stationery.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
crop1.jpg & crop3.jpg with this
Carers Group
Sixteen people from the Portreath Carers Group recently spent three days at the Manor House Hotel near Oakhampton. This was a time of refreshment and rest and provided the chance to enjoy favourite hobbies and to try new ones too.
The activities programme included Tennis, Badminton, Golf, Bowls and Crafts (e,g. Jewellery Making, Pottery. Silk Painting, Enamelling) and numerous other fun and relaxing activities too numerous to mention. Amongst the favourites were Salsa Dancing, Archery, Shooting and Golf with the massage and pamper sessions, walking the moors and horse riding all adding to the enjoyment.
This was a great weekend amongst friends, eating together and enjoying quiet chats as well as plenty of activity 'as and when' people wanted it..no pressure just time to unwind and relax away from the many daily demands back home. Do phone Janet or Cath if you want to know more about the Portreath Carers Group Janet: 842658 Cath: 842797.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YOGA
A PATH FOR LIFE
WHERE? Portreath Millennium Hall, Portreath.
WHEN? Thursday evening 6.00pm to 7.30pm and 7.45pm to 9.15pm.
SUITABLE FOR ALL
BRING A MAT AND A BLANKET PLEASE.WEAR LOOSE AND COMFORTABLE CLOTHING.
Cost £ 4.00 per session
Telephone Nick on 01209 610515 or 07968 310097 for more details.
BRITISH WHEEL OF YOGA TEACHER
Fully insured.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Surf Life Saving Club
All the results for the World Life Saving Champs are now on the Rescue 2006 website. http://www.rescue2006.com/2006/
Katy Whear won a silver medal in the 100m sprint
The girls team won silver in the beach relay.
For most of the other events the GB competitors finished in the top 10 places, so overall the team was 10th and placed 6th in the beach/ocean events which was very good as we are out of season.
Diane Green
Membership Secretary
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRAVELLERS JUNK CLIFF BEAUTY SPOT
A beauty spot was left blanketed with an assortment of debris, litter and junk following the eviction of a travelling community who occupied the site for several months.
The group had moved last spring onto former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath on the world-famous South West coastal footpath. After months of behind-the-scenes work Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, though one family remained when officials arrived on site on February 3.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press photographer and Portreath residnt Colin Higgs, was stunned by what he saw. "It took my breath away. It's absolutely disgusting," he said. "Everything you can think of is on the ground - tables, bits of caravans, endless fires, children's toys, mobile phones, hundreds of gas bottles. There is an incredible amount of filth."
County councillor Richard Cooper said: "I'm not anti-traveller, all I'm anti is the mess being left behind, and we have to tackle the problem.
"Ultimately it's the public who will have to pay because it's the local authority that will have to move it."
A team from Kerrier's Direct Services was on site with a digger and clearing equipment this week having already secured the area by fitting a new gate on an approach road. A spokesman said they aimed to have carried out a full clean-up operation by the weekend.
Liz Dunstan, chief solicitor for Kerrier, sympathised with villagers who had put up with their sometimes unwanted neighbours for so long. But she stressed the onus was on the council to do everything above board.
"You have to do it professionally and correctly, taking account of everybody's situation otherwise we would still be open to challenge and we could still be in this position in a year's time."
Assessments were made of the families and of the site itself before the court could evict.
"It was on the coastal footpath, it was very exposed and it was very dangerous," said Mrs Dunstan. "We never tolerated the site and we never said it was suitable."
Even though the travellers had left so much rubbish, she said the council would never have agreed to weekly removals as this would have legitimised their presence.
The travellers were believed to beheading to a site out of Cornwall.
However, this may not be the end of problems with the travelling community. Mrs Dunstan warned that new Government legislation placed the responsibility on local authorities to find sites for travelling families.
Joe Dyer, West Briton
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath
Dressed in their chef's whites, these youngsters are in training to become the best in the business.
The young men and women, all from Cornwall, are being trained to work at Jamie Oliver's new Fifteen restaurant in Watergate Bay, Newquay.
The 20 students have already been working hard to hone their culinary skills. And in just a few short months, they will work at Fifteen Cornwall when it opens in May. It is the first of Jamie Oliver's 15 restaurants to be unveiled outside London.
The chef, well-known for his crusade to improve school dinners, opened the first Fifteen restaurant in 2002. Based in Hoxton, it was inspired by the television chef's desire to help underprivileged young people forge themselves a successful career. Fifteen Cornwall will follow the same format.
Trainee Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath on the North Cornwall coast, described the training as a "golden opportunity to succeed in life".
He said: "I'm so thankful that I've been given this opportunity and I'm really going to work hard to achieve the best possible outcome I can and make my friends and family proud. You only get one life and you've got to take every opportunity."
Selected from more than 300 applicants, the 20 trainees were among a shortlist of 150 who faced interviews and selection exercises before taken on in late December. Aged between 16 and 24, they have been recruited from all over Cornwall and are currently undergoing a 12-week intensive training course at Cornwall College before they start work in the Fifteen Cornwall kitchen at the end of April.
West Briton
The Parish Council's Regeneration Team has recently had considerable success with securing funding for Greenfield Gardens. Members submitted plans for a make over of the property and applied for funding from various sources resulting in £48,000 for a complete re modelling.
Ground work started in early February and is scheduled for completion in late March. The work is being carried out by R.H. Olds Amenity Landscapers of Roseworthy Camborne.
Planting of low maintenance ground cover and shrubs is being organised by Portreath Improvements Committee to be carried out on the 22nd April. Grass seeding will take place by the contractors as soon as the weather is suitable. The gardens should be ready for re- opening in late July.
Portreath Improvements Committee will be taking ownership by way of a 999 year lease. This will secure the Gardens for the village and ensure the maintenance of the property.
This project has been a village team effort, with the Parish Council, Regeneration Team and the Portreath Improvements Committee working together.
Funding for the project came from the Portreath Improvements Committee, Portreath Parish Council, Kerrier District Council and Objective One Rural Key Fund.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BEAT LINES
In my last article I referred to a project that I was working on and promised to give an update on it in this edition. By the time that you read this the project will have been featured in the local press so forgive me for any repetition. For an initial six month trial period I have arranged (with the considerable assistance of Rev Mike Kippax) to have the use of a police office within the village. The office is located at the entrance to St Mary's Church in Penberthy Road. It is my intention to use the office as a place to hold regular surgeries where I hope to meet local people and discuss any concerns that they may have. It will also be useful to use when necessary as a 'drop in' base when I am conducting enquiries or patrolling in the area.
I will only be able to use the office on an adhoc basis. I will therefore produce a notice which I intend to update regularly giving a definite time and date when I will next be in the office and available. I hope to be able to display the notice within the information board at the front of the church.
I would ask you to be mindful that it is NOT A POLICE STATION. It is not fitted with a computer and whilst there I will not have access to any of the other resources normally found within a station. If you are the unfortunate victim of a crime do not delay reporting it. Please use the reporting procedures that are already in place. The contact number to use to report a crime is 08452 777 444.
I hope that the office will prove to be a benefit to the community and will make the police more accessible. I guess that a measure of its success will be how often it is used. I'll try to be there on a regular basis so please keep an eye on the information board and come in for a chat!
A good example of what you might want to come and tell me about is the misuse of motorcycles. I am advised that there is a current problem within the village with what are now are commonly known as 'mini motos'. Apart from the size and the fact that a mini motos are often sold as a toys there really is no difference between a them and a normal motorcycle.
A mini moto must be used on private ground with the necessary permission of the landowner. If it is used on a road or other public place it must be registered, insured and taxed and the rider must hold the relevant licence.
The police have powers under certain circumstances to seize vehicles that are being used to cause annoyance. If mini motos continue to be used inappropriately within the village I will seek to seize them under these powers. If you have concerns about the way that these machines are being used please let me know. I will take action against those responsible.
On the other hand if you are the owner or rider of a mini moto please ensure that you use it in accordance with the law and with respect for those that live around you. I really would prefer not to have to seize your machine!!
PC TIM ROBERTS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PORTREATH VILLAGE CENTRE ENHANCEMENT
An Officer of Cornwall County Council, Nigel Sumpter, has been appointed to take forward to completion the enhancement proposals for the Beach Front Car Park, Beach Road and The Square. This will be done as part of the overall Mineral Tramways Project and will (literally) be building on the local ideas and consultation results for this area.
The Car Park will be the first location for enhancement works mostly over the Autumn and Winter period starting later this year with works in Beach Road and The Square planned for the following Autumn/Winter. This will avoid all works taking place together. Ownership access and highway consultation and agreements are also less involved for the Car Park.
The appearance of the Car Park will be greatly improved as a modern high quality sea front location. Tenders have already been received for new stainless steel railings and the successful fabricator is local form P.R. Laffin Fabrications Limited of Pool.
The proposals for Beach Road and The Square will be progressed over the coming year and those potentially affected will be consulted with during the development of detailed proposals. The proposals will also be displayed locally later on this year for further final comment to help with finalising the designs.
The preferred route for the Portreath Branchline Trail is along the length of the Incline and continuing on the tramway to Illogan. Preparatory work to treat the knotweed at the bottom of the main structure and vegetation clearance within the lower section has already started as the legal process to confirm the route a public bridleway gets underway beginning with an application to the Secretary of State to post site notices publishing the Trail proposals. All the necessary consents have been obtained to treat the Listed section following confirmation of the public right of way, safe guarding public access to this locally important heritage structure
All involved are committed to ensuring that the proposals respond to local wishes and will retain and enhance the character of Portreath.
Nigel Sumpter
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Incline Project
The Church/Community Incline Project meet approximately every 6-8 weeks. Very soon leaflets and flyers will be around the village promoting the work of Incline so do look out for them.
Incline continues to support the Wednesday Table Tennis Club in the Church Hall on Wednesdays 7.00-9.30, very soon we hope to have secured a second table for this growing group. The Bellydance Group meet alternate Thursdays in the same hall but starting at 7.30 until 9.00.
Once the dancing stops, on a monthly basis the group meet for a Book Club and have so far enjoyed Junk by Melvin Burgess (highly recommended), with Snow Falling On Cedars by David Guterson being the current read. The Bellydance and the Book Club are currently full but if you do want to know more, and also to help us to assess demand, do phone Terry on 01209 843181.
Mish Mash for the children has stopped after running for 18 months, but after Easter it is hoped, subject to funding, to start Mish Mash Family Mornings...time for parents, carers to join the Mish Mash children for exciting and creative activities.
In addition, CHIC continues in the Church Hall on Wednesday mornings 10-12.00, with the Veg Box scheme, books to loan and with the friendly faces of Yvonne, Avril and helpers to welcome you.
We also support the Carers Group who have recently enjoyed a stay in a Devon Hotel and an evening of bowling. Do phone Janet on 842658 or Cath on 842797 if you are a local carer and want to know more.
There is lots more to say and much on the horizon so do please look out for the information leaflets soon to be in the post office, church and school. The leaflets will contain contact numbers but until then, phone Mike on 01209 842233, Chris on 843873 or Terry on 843181 if you want to know when we next meet, if you have a community idea or want to know more.
Terry Reynard 843181
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Illegal immigrants
Two illegal immigrants and a "poisonous" gang have set up home in a Cornish college. But immigration services and the police will not be getting involved - they are two exotic lizards who found their way here hidden in transported goods, and a group of poison arrow frogs which are part of a breeding programme.
Duchy College's animal care unit at Feadon Farm, near Portreath, has welcomed the frogs, brown Anoles lizard and Peloponnese wall lizard, which will be used to help train students on its animal care courses.
Though the frogs, scientific names dendrobates tinctorus and dendrobates ventrimaculatus, sound dangerous, staff at the college have reassured people they are not.
Animal care technician, Gary Zammit, said: "These frogs will be only mildly poisonous as they lose their toxicity when bred in captivity; frogs in the wild get their poison from their food."
The brown Anoles, whose natural habitat is the Caribbean and southern USA, was found last year in a supermarket delivery of bananas and brought to Duchy College by the RSPCA. The female lizard has already mated with a lizard already at the college, resulting in two eggs which have successfully hatched.
The Peloponnese wall lizard was also brought in by the RSPCA, after being found in the clothing section of a local garden centre. It is a fully grown adult male, which is usually found in southern Greece, and is the first the College has had.
West Briton
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
boat.jpg with this
HARBOUR NEWS
It will soon be time for the boats to go back in the water. This year there will be more licensed working boats than for some time, representing a large personal investment by our Portreath fishermen, all of whom will welcome the chance to supply fresh fish, and shellfish, privately, or to businesses. All you have to do is ask. There are also some boats for sale if you fancy the D.I.Y. approach.
Although the harbour activity all but stops for boat owners during the winter, it becomes very popular for anglers of all ages, some more serious and better equipped, but all seem to enjoy and come back for more.
Nigel Sillence
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Harbour Consultation Report
On Saturday 28th January the residents of Portreath turned out in force to support the Parish Council's efforts to enable the community to possibly own and run the harbour.
The turn out for the event was very good with 250 plus attending. This is at least 25% of the village population and better than the last general election.
The information was presented by a set of 12 display boards depicting the history of Portreath and some ideas of what the future could bring, a collection of black and white photographs of the harbour in it's working days, a PowerPoint presentation of proposed layout and leisure facilities and a centre table display for the public to put their ideas forward. Survey forms and attendance records were also used.
The general feeling of those who attended was to see the harbour improve and be better used, with an increase in facilities for both the fishing industry and leisure craft. There was a great deal of support to install lock gates and extend the pier and also to open the pier to the public.
There was concern about the nature of development around the harbour in the past and a suggestion that future development be in a more architecturally sensitive style.
A great deal of information was collected with the overwhelming majority in support of taking the project to the next stage which is to commission the feasibility study.
The day was a very good team effort. Organisation and manning the hall by the Parish Council's Regeneration Committee and Kerrier District Council supplying the information boards and power point equipment. Thanks also to Kerrier Regeneration team at Cowlings Mill for all their help and support.
Chris Watts
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HARBOUR PROJECT GETS THROUGH FIRST STAGE
Major regeneration work at Portreath Harbour has come a step closer with the news that a multi million pound bid to the Lottery has made it through the first assessment stage. Cornwall County Council, acting on behalf of the Cornish Harbours Project, has applied for £25 million towards the cost of a five-year project that would see extensive improvements carried out at Portreath, Falmouth, Newlyn, Newquay and Looe.
The aim is to bring disused or run down harbour infrastructure and neighbouring waterfront locations back into use for the benefit of communities.
At Portreath Parish Council's March meeting, the Chairman, Chris Watts, announced he had received a letter saying the bid had successfully moved on to the next assessment phase.
He said: "We are through the first of many stages. I am delighted our grant application has been accepted but very aware there is a long process to go through and we do have a lot of competition for the grant.
Living Landmarks anticipate contacting us by April 13 to confirm whether or not the harbour project has been long listed for a project review visit."
If successful, the Cornish Harbours project would run from 2007-12. Portreath would be regenerated and brought in to community ownership.
Julian Ridge
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
brownies.jpg with this
WELL DONE PORTREATH BROWNIES!
The Brownies continue to go from strength to strength and on Sunday the 19th March, they won through to the final of the Halford Trophy. This is a three yearly competition between all the Brownies in Cornwall, and the Portreath Brownies will now represent the Kerrier Division in June. They have really enjoyed the competition and were so excited when the results were announced in reverse order , starting with the fifth place. As the positions were being called out and Portreath's name was not being announced they got more and more excited and at last the Brownies from Camborne were called out as coming 2nd, meaning we were first, they were jumping up and down with pleasure ! They have been presented with the Halford Trophy Cup for the Kerrier Division Round 1st Place position and the Brownies will take it in turns to take it home and look after it. So very well done !!
We've been up to all sorts, ranging from having visitors to teaching us about first aid, birds and wild life, to having a visitor who is deaf and who taught them to sign their names - she's due to visit again soon with her specially trained dog. The Brownies have also been looking at the world we live in and serious issues such as endangered species and then considering the food we eat and where it comes from – chocolate was the first product on the map. And we are also lucky to have other visitors come along occasionally to help us make cards etc., some of which were made for Harbour House last Christmas and a small group of Brownies went along to sing some of their favourite carols.
Getting ready for the Harry Potter day was one of the funniest things I've seen because in readiness for the day, as well as having to make fantastically decorated black card wizard hats, one the Unit Helpers thought drop down black card glasses would be a winner (I'm considering making up a calendar with some of most successful photos and this would definitely be included!)
We're looking forward to accepting our invitation from the 1st Redruth Guides to join them in a Bollywood Dance Night, with a professional teacher showing us Indian dancing. All the funds raised that evening are going towards the Pakistan Disaster Appeal, so there's a serious side to the fun as well.
Having given you a summary of some of the things we've been doing and hopefully demonstrating that working with the children is a lot of fun, I would also like to take this opportunity of asking if there is anyone out there who would like to come along to help at any time ? – this could be on a weekly basis or on a rota, or perhaps as a "one-off" as you may have a special skill that the children would enjoy learning about .
As a charitable organisation run totally by volunteers, its always helpful to spread the "work", but when the work involves playing games, going on visits like the pantomime or Newquay Aquarium, to helping the girls with any interest badges which cover a wide range of activities, including art, circus performer, computers, science investigator, water safety (there are over 50 interest badges !) it is really enjoyable, especially when we can also enable them as a Brownie group to take part in activities they wouldn't normally be involved with, such as the Halford Trophy, or raising money for children with leukaemia, all of which gives them such a sense of achievement as well as enjoying themselves.
We're planning to run some games / or a stall at the Portreath Fun Day in August to raise some funds, so we would very much appreciate seeing you there and in the meantime, if anyone would like to contact me, my telephone number is 01209 843873.
Finally, please wish us luck for the final of the Halford Trophy in June !
Shena Watts
Unit Guider for the 1st Portreath Brownies
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Page 3 please
Designated Public Place Order
Due to last year's outstanding success of the village's Dispersal Order, Portreath Parish Council has applied for a Designated Public Place Order.
Last summer the anti social behaviour dropped to almost nil due to the Dispersal Order which gave Police the power to disperse any groups causing a nuisance. This was extremely good news to all who use Portreath for leisure and pleasure and of course even better news for all of us who live here.
To make this anti social behaviour order permanent the Parish Council have to apply for a Designated Public Place Order. The next paragraph outlines the order.
DPPOs are orders made by local authorities under powers given to them under section 13 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001. These powers make it easier for local authorities to designate places where restrictions on public drinking will apply and are available in areas that have experienced alcohol-related disorder or nuisance.
While it is not an offence to consume alcohol within a 'designated' area, the police, police community support officers and people accredited through a community safety accreditation scheme have powers to control the consumption of alcohol within that place. If they believe someone is consuming alcohol or intends to consume alcohol they can:
* require them to stop; and
* Confiscate the alcohol from people whether the drinking vessel is unopened or not.
Our Neighbourhood beat manager Constable T. Roberts has collated evidence of drink related offences over the past three years and has presented these to Kerrier District Council's Solicitor, who needs more evidence from local people and organisations to justify applying for the order.
Most local businesses have already written to support the Council in its efforts to secure the Order and now it is hoped residents will write in also. Kerrier District Council needs accounts of specific drink related incidents. Please write giving your support together with details of any incidents which need not necessarily include the specific date of the event - month and year would be sufficient. Please write to:
Parish Clerk
Cosoleth
Cambrose
Redruth, Cornwall TR16 4HS
Please help your local Council to acquire this valuable tool and stop anti social behavior in our village.
Chris Watts
Parish Council Chairman.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
please "tweak" this one
Creative Crafts
Craft workshops held in your area for adults and children
Card making,jewellery,scrapbooking, felt making silk painting and more!
Reasonable prices
The Arty Party
Childrens birthday parties with a difference.
Craft parties to suit children from the age of 4 and up.
prices start at £3.50 per child and they get to keep what they make
Get your kids to ask for an Arty Party
Call Laura for more info on 01209 713664 / 07816128562
Also ring me for details of my range in Wedding Stationery.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
crop1.jpg & crop3.jpg with this
Carers Group
Sixteen people from the Portreath Carers Group recently spent three days at the Manor House Hotel near Oakhampton. This was a time of refreshment and rest and provided the chance to enjoy favourite hobbies and to try new ones too.
The activities programme included Tennis, Badminton, Golf, Bowls and Crafts (e,g. Jewellery Making, Pottery. Silk Painting, Enamelling) and numerous other fun and relaxing activities too numerous to mention. Amongst the favourites were Salsa Dancing, Archery, Shooting and Golf with the massage and pamper sessions, walking the moors and horse riding all adding to the enjoyment.
This was a great weekend amongst friends, eating together and enjoying quiet chats as well as plenty of activity 'as and when' people wanted it..no pressure just time to unwind and relax away from the many daily demands back home. Do phone Janet or Cath if you want to know more about the Portreath Carers Group Janet: 842658 Cath: 842797.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YOGA
A PATH FOR LIFE
WHERE? Portreath Millennium Hall, Portreath.
WHEN? Thursday evening 6.00pm to 7.30pm and 7.45pm to 9.15pm.
SUITABLE FOR ALL
BRING A MAT AND A BLANKET PLEASE.WEAR LOOSE AND COMFORTABLE CLOTHING.
Cost £ 4.00 per session
Telephone Nick on 01209 610515 or 07968 310097 for more details.
BRITISH WHEEL OF YOGA TEACHER
Fully insured.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Surf Life Saving Club
All the results for the World Life Saving Champs are now on the Rescue 2006 website. http://www.rescue2006.com/2006/
Katy Whear won a silver medal in the 100m sprint
The girls team won silver in the beach relay.
For most of the other events the GB competitors finished in the top 10 places, so overall the team was 10th and placed 6th in the beach/ocean events which was very good as we are out of season.
Diane Green
Membership Secretary
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRAVELLERS JUNK CLIFF BEAUTY SPOT
A beauty spot was left blanketed with an assortment of debris, litter and junk following the eviction of a travelling community who occupied the site for several months.
The group had moved last spring onto former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath on the world-famous South West coastal footpath. After months of behind-the-scenes work Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, though one family remained when officials arrived on site on February 3.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press photographer and Portreath residnt Colin Higgs, was stunned by what he saw. "It took my breath away. It's absolutely disgusting," he said. "Everything you can think of is on the ground - tables, bits of caravans, endless fires, children's toys, mobile phones, hundreds of gas bottles. There is an incredible amount of filth."
County councillor Richard Cooper said: "I'm not anti-traveller, all I'm anti is the mess being left behind, and we have to tackle the problem.
"Ultimately it's the public who will have to pay because it's the local authority that will have to move it."
A team from Kerrier's Direct Services was on site with a digger and clearing equipment this week having already secured the area by fitting a new gate on an approach road. A spokesman said they aimed to have carried out a full clean-up operation by the weekend.
Liz Dunstan, chief solicitor for Kerrier, sympathised with villagers who had put up with their sometimes unwanted neighbours for so long. But she stressed the onus was on the council to do everything above board.
"You have to do it professionally and correctly, taking account of everybody's situation otherwise we would still be open to challenge and we could still be in this position in a year's time."
Assessments were made of the families and of the site itself before the court could evict.
"It was on the coastal footpath, it was very exposed and it was very dangerous," said Mrs Dunstan. "We never tolerated the site and we never said it was suitable."
Even though the travellers had left so much rubbish, she said the council would never have agreed to weekly removals as this would have legitimised their presence.
The travellers were believed to beheading to a site out of Cornwall.
However, this may not be the end of problems with the travelling community. Mrs Dunstan warned that new Government legislation placed the responsibility on local authorities to find sites for travelling families.
Joe Dyer, West Briton
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath
Dressed in their chef's whites, these youngsters are in training to become the best in the business.
The young men and women, all from Cornwall, are being trained to work at Jamie Oliver's new Fifteen restaurant in Watergate Bay, Newquay.
The 20 students have already been working hard to hone their culinary skills. And in just a few short months, they will work at Fifteen Cornwall when it opens in May. It is the first of Jamie Oliver's 15 restaurants to be unveiled outside London.
The chef, well-known for his crusade to improve school dinners, opened the first Fifteen restaurant in 2002. Based in Hoxton, it was inspired by the television chef's desire to help underprivileged young people forge themselves a successful career. Fifteen Cornwall will follow the same format.
Trainee Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath on the North Cornwall coast, described the training as a "golden opportunity to succeed in life".
He said: "I'm so thankful that I've been given this opportunity and I'm really going to work hard to achieve the best possible outcome I can and make my friends and family proud. You only get one life and you've got to take every opportunity."
Selected from more than 300 applicants, the 20 trainees were among a shortlist of 150 who faced interviews and selection exercises before taken on in late December. Aged between 16 and 24, they have been recruited from all over Cornwall and are currently undergoing a 12-week intensive training course at Cornwall College before they start work in the Fifteen Cornwall kitchen at the end of April.
West Briton
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Portreath SLSC Results
All the results for the World Life Saving Champs are now on the Rescue 2006 website. http://www.rescue2006.com/2006/
Katy Whear won a silver medal in the 100m sprint
The girls team won silver in the beach relay.
For most of the other events the GB competitors finished in the top 10 places, so overall the team was 10th and placed 6th in the beach/ocean events which was very good as we are out of season.
Diane Green
Membership Secretary
Katy Whear won a silver medal in the 100m sprint
The girls team won silver in the beach relay.
For most of the other events the GB competitors finished in the top 10 places, so overall the team was 10th and placed 6th in the beach/ocean events which was very good as we are out of season.
Diane Green
Membership Secretary
NO NEED TO BE AN OXFORD SCHOLAR TO KNOW WHAT KATY WANTS
October 20, 2005
Katy Whear’s pedigree says she was destined to compete against – and beat – Australians.Before she took up lifesaving and beach sprinting, she gained her Blue as a member of the legendary Oxford University Athletics Club – home of Sir Roger Bannister who famously beat Australia’s John Landy in the race to become the first person to run the mile in less than four minutes. Katy, 23, even took part in the 50th anniversary celebrations of that event in Oxford last year.
Now though, her focus is on retaining the world beach sprint title she won at the last world life saving championships in Italy two years ago – and also being part of a successful British team at Rescue 2006, next year’s world lifesaving championships being held in Geelong and Lorne. “Italy was my first international championships and it was great fun,” Katy said. “One of the best bits was having no pressure and no idea how I’d get on as I’d never raced in an international before. After winning the sprint, I was in total shock. The other highlight was the medals ceremony. I think it was the only time either the Aussie or New Zealand flag wasn’t at the top of the flagpole. Getting to hear a different national anthem was a nice change!”
Whear is confident the British team will do well in Australia next February, particularly after dominating the beach section at the European championships in Germany earlier this year. “Lorne is a really pretty part of the Surf Coast so I am looking forward to returning there,” she said. “I was last there in 1996.
We’ve got a great bunch of people in the GB team, too. We all get on really well, everyone is supportive of each other so the trip is eagerly anticipated.”
Sadly for Whear, she has had to turn down the chance to train in Australia in the lead up to next February’s events. “I put my boyfriend on the plane a couple of weeks ago but I couldn’t go with him because I landed a job that I couldn’t turn down about eight weeks ago,” the qualified geologist explained. Her boyfriend is David Green who has joined North Burleigh Lifesaving Club in Queensland and will represent his English club at Lorne.
“I am a bit disappointed I am not with David as training would have helped a lot,” Katy said. “In Italy we were coming out of our season while the Australians were just starting. This time it will be the other way around and that will probably make a bit of a difference.”
But Katy is hoping not too much of a difference. The Union Jack flying over the beach at Lorne and God Save The Queen on the PA would mean as much to her as the moment back at Oxford in 1954 when Roger Bannister beat John Landy to the fabled prize, then repeated his success two years later in the Race of the Century at the Vancouver Empire Games. As all Oxonian athletes would know only too well, especially one with the chance to compete against Australians, Rescue 06 comes in the 50th
anniversary of that great event.
Katy Whear’s pedigree says she was destined to compete against – and beat – Australians.Before she took up lifesaving and beach sprinting, she gained her Blue as a member of the legendary Oxford University Athletics Club – home of Sir Roger Bannister who famously beat Australia’s John Landy in the race to become the first person to run the mile in less than four minutes. Katy, 23, even took part in the 50th anniversary celebrations of that event in Oxford last year.
Now though, her focus is on retaining the world beach sprint title she won at the last world life saving championships in Italy two years ago – and also being part of a successful British team at Rescue 2006, next year’s world lifesaving championships being held in Geelong and Lorne. “Italy was my first international championships and it was great fun,” Katy said. “One of the best bits was having no pressure and no idea how I’d get on as I’d never raced in an international before. After winning the sprint, I was in total shock. The other highlight was the medals ceremony. I think it was the only time either the Aussie or New Zealand flag wasn’t at the top of the flagpole. Getting to hear a different national anthem was a nice change!”
Whear is confident the British team will do well in Australia next February, particularly after dominating the beach section at the European championships in Germany earlier this year. “Lorne is a really pretty part of the Surf Coast so I am looking forward to returning there,” she said. “I was last there in 1996.
We’ve got a great bunch of people in the GB team, too. We all get on really well, everyone is supportive of each other so the trip is eagerly anticipated.”
Sadly for Whear, she has had to turn down the chance to train in Australia in the lead up to next February’s events. “I put my boyfriend on the plane a couple of weeks ago but I couldn’t go with him because I landed a job that I couldn’t turn down about eight weeks ago,” the qualified geologist explained. Her boyfriend is David Green who has joined North Burleigh Lifesaving Club in Queensland and will represent his English club at Lorne.
“I am a bit disappointed I am not with David as training would have helped a lot,” Katy said. “In Italy we were coming out of our season while the Australians were just starting. This time it will be the other way around and that will probably make a bit of a difference.”
But Katy is hoping not too much of a difference. The Union Jack flying over the beach at Lorne and God Save The Queen on the PA would mean as much to her as the moment back at Oxford in 1954 when Roger Bannister beat John Landy to the fabled prize, then repeated his success two years later in the Race of the Century at the Vancouver Empire Games. As all Oxonian athletes would know only too well, especially one with the chance to compete against Australians, Rescue 06 comes in the 50th
anniversary of that great event.
Friday, February 17, 2006
Portreath AFC
Saturday 18th February Praze Away Kick Off 2.30pm
Saturday 25th February Illogan Home Kick Off 2.00pm Dunn Cup Round 2
Saturday 4th March Holmans Home Kick Off
Saturday 25th February Illogan Home Kick Off 2.00pm Dunn Cup Round 2
Saturday 4th March Holmans Home Kick Off
TRAVELLERS JUNK CLIFF BEAUTY SPOT
A beauty spot was left blanketed with an assortment of debris, litter and junk following the eviction of a travelling community who occupied the site for several months.
L Assorted rubbish and scrap left by travellers at Nancekuke on the cliffs between Portreath and Porthtowan. Picture by Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press
Now council tax payers are left to pick up the bill Joe Dyer reports
The group had moved last spring onto former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath on the world-famous South West coastal footpath. After months of behind-the-scenes work Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, though one family remained when officials arrived on site on February 3.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press photographer Colin Higgs, who took these pictures for the West Briton, was stunned by what he saw. "It took my breath away. It's absolutely disgusting," he said. "Everything you can think of is on the ground - tables, bits of caravans, endless fires, children's toys, mobile phones, hundreds of gas bottles. There is an incredible amount of filth."
County councillor Richard Cooper said: "I'm not anti-traveller, all I'm anti is the mess being left behind, and we have to tackle the problem.
"Ultimately it's the public who will have to pay because it's the local authority that will have to move it."
A team from Kerrier's Direct Services was on site with a digger and clearing equipment this week having already secured the area by fitting a new gate on an approach road. A spokesman said they aimed to have carried out a full clean-up operation by the weekend.
Liz Dunstan, chief solicitor for Kerrier, sympathised with villagers who had put up with their sometimes unwanted neighbours for so long. But she stressed the onus was on the council to do everything above board.
"You have to do it professionally and correctly, taking account of everybody's situation otherwise we would still be open to challenge and we could still be in this position in a year's time."
Assessments were made of the families and of the site itself before the court could evict.
"It was on the coastal footpath, it was very exposed and it was very dangerous," said Mrs Dunstan. "We never tolerated the site and we never said it was suitable."
Even though the travellers had left so much rubbish, she said the council would never have agreed to weekly removals as this would have legitimised their presence.
The travellers were believed to beheading to a site out of Cornwall.
However, this may not be the end of problems with the travelling community. Mrs Dunstan warned that new Government legislation placed the responsibility on local authorities to find sites for travelling families.
L Assorted rubbish and scrap left by travellers at Nancekuke on the cliffs between Portreath and Porthtowan. Picture by Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press
Now council tax payers are left to pick up the bill Joe Dyer reports
The group had moved last spring onto former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath on the world-famous South West coastal footpath. After months of behind-the-scenes work Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, though one family remained when officials arrived on site on February 3.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Press photographer Colin Higgs, who took these pictures for the West Briton, was stunned by what he saw. "It took my breath away. It's absolutely disgusting," he said. "Everything you can think of is on the ground - tables, bits of caravans, endless fires, children's toys, mobile phones, hundreds of gas bottles. There is an incredible amount of filth."
County councillor Richard Cooper said: "I'm not anti-traveller, all I'm anti is the mess being left behind, and we have to tackle the problem.
"Ultimately it's the public who will have to pay because it's the local authority that will have to move it."
A team from Kerrier's Direct Services was on site with a digger and clearing equipment this week having already secured the area by fitting a new gate on an approach road. A spokesman said they aimed to have carried out a full clean-up operation by the weekend.
Liz Dunstan, chief solicitor for Kerrier, sympathised with villagers who had put up with their sometimes unwanted neighbours for so long. But she stressed the onus was on the council to do everything above board.
"You have to do it professionally and correctly, taking account of everybody's situation otherwise we would still be open to challenge and we could still be in this position in a year's time."
Assessments were made of the families and of the site itself before the court could evict.
"It was on the coastal footpath, it was very exposed and it was very dangerous," said Mrs Dunstan. "We never tolerated the site and we never said it was suitable."
Even though the travellers had left so much rubbish, she said the council would never have agreed to weekly removals as this would have legitimised their presence.
The travellers were believed to beheading to a site out of Cornwall.
However, this may not be the end of problems with the travelling community. Mrs Dunstan warned that new Government legislation placed the responsibility on local authorities to find sites for travelling families.
TAXPAYER FOOTS BILL FOR TRAVEL DEBRIS
17 February 2006
A beauty spot was left blanketed with an assortment of debris, litter and junk following the eviction of a travelling community who had occupied the site for several months. Now it seems that council taxpayers will have to pick up the bill for cleaning up assorted rubbish left by travellers at Nancekuke on the cliffs between Portreath and Porthtowan. Last spring the group had moved on to former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath.
After months of behind-the- scenes work, Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, although one family remained on the site.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
A beauty spot was left blanketed with an assortment of debris, litter and junk following the eviction of a travelling community who had occupied the site for several months. Now it seems that council taxpayers will have to pick up the bill for cleaning up assorted rubbish left by travellers at Nancekuke on the cliffs between Portreath and Porthtowan. Last spring the group had moved on to former mine workings between Porthtowan and Portreath.
After months of behind-the- scenes work, Kerrier District Council took out a court order to have the 13-strong group evicted, although one family remained on the site.
Villagers and community leaders were horrified by the amount and variety of rubbish left behind by the travellers at a spot which is popular with walkers and holidaymakers.
"It makes St Day tip look like Buckingham Palace lawn. It's a pretty sad site," said John Beckinsale, a long-term resident of Porthtowan.
Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath
Dressed in their chef's whites, these youngsters are in training to become the best in the business.
The young men and women, all from Cornwall, are being trained to work at Jamie Oliver's new Fifteen restaurant in Watergate Bay, Newquay.
The 20 students have already been working hard to hone their culinary skills. And in just a few short months, they will work at Fifteen Cornwall when it opens in May. It is the first of Jamie Oliver's 15 restaurants to be unveiled outside London.
The chef, well-known for his crusade to improve school dinners, opened the first Fifteen restaurant in 2002. Based in Hoxton, it was inspired by the television chef's desire to help underprivileged young people forge themselves a successful career. Fifteen Cornwall will follow the same format.
Trainee Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath on the North Cornwall coast, described the training as a "golden opportunity to succeed in life".
He said: "I'm so thankful that I've been given this opportunity and I'm really going to work hard to achieve the best possible outcome I can and make my friends and family proud. You only get one life and you've got to take every opportunity."
Selected from more than 300 applicants, the 20 trainees were among a shortlist of 150 who faced interviews and selection exercises before taken on in late December. Aged between 16 and 24, they have been recruited from all over Cornwall and are currently undergoing a 12-week intensive training course at Cornwall College before they start work in the Fifteen Cornwall kitchen at the end of April.
Trainee Emily Ratcliffe, 19, from Launceston, North Cornwall said: "I was really speechless when I was selected. All I could say was 'wow'. I couldn't believe it was really happening."
The young men and women, all from Cornwall, are being trained to work at Jamie Oliver's new Fifteen restaurant in Watergate Bay, Newquay.
The 20 students have already been working hard to hone their culinary skills. And in just a few short months, they will work at Fifteen Cornwall when it opens in May. It is the first of Jamie Oliver's 15 restaurants to be unveiled outside London.
The chef, well-known for his crusade to improve school dinners, opened the first Fifteen restaurant in 2002. Based in Hoxton, it was inspired by the television chef's desire to help underprivileged young people forge themselves a successful career. Fifteen Cornwall will follow the same format.
Trainee Lee Hodge, 20, from Portreath on the North Cornwall coast, described the training as a "golden opportunity to succeed in life".
He said: "I'm so thankful that I've been given this opportunity and I'm really going to work hard to achieve the best possible outcome I can and make my friends and family proud. You only get one life and you've got to take every opportunity."
Selected from more than 300 applicants, the 20 trainees were among a shortlist of 150 who faced interviews and selection exercises before taken on in late December. Aged between 16 and 24, they have been recruited from all over Cornwall and are currently undergoing a 12-week intensive training course at Cornwall College before they start work in the Fifteen Cornwall kitchen at the end of April.
Trainee Emily Ratcliffe, 19, from Launceston, North Cornwall said: "I was really speechless when I was selected. All I could say was 'wow'. I couldn't believe it was really happening."
Monday, February 06, 2006
VILLAGERS KEEN TO OWN HARBOUR AT PORTREATH
People living in Portreath have given the "thumbs up" to the idea of taking their harbour into community ownership.
More than 250 people turned up for a consultation day at the Millennium Hall on Saturday, when details of Kerrier Council's proposal to sell off the harbour were on display.
After speaking to representatives of Kerrier's regeneration team, the parish council, and the harbour association, 86 per cent of residents present supported the proposal and said they wanted to see it move on to the next stage.
Chris Watts, chairman of the parish council, said the result was "a very strong mandate" to pursue community ownership.
He said: "We had a very successful consultation day. The questionnaires that people filled out showed 86 per cent support for community ownership, and that is a very strong mandate for Kerrier to take into a feasibility study.
"The parish council can now move forward to the next stage of this project by taking expert advice as to the terms of reference of the feasibility study and finding suitable surveyors to tender for the task."
Kerrier regeneration officer Scott James said the high turnout was a big advantage when applying for grant funding.
"In terms of both the Lottery application and other bids that we've got to put in, we can demonstrate a high level of support, and that's exactly what funders want to see."
Kerrier Council announced last November that it wanted to dispose of Portreath Harbour, because of high maintenance costs. It hoped it could pass into community ownership, and offered £5,000 towards a feasibility study.
In January it was announced that Portreath had been included in a potential £42 million programme of waterfront improvements, along with four other Cornish harbours.
Saturday's consultation day was opened by Julia Goldsworthy MP, one of the village's newest residents.
Mike Clayton, Kerrier's portfolio holder for assets, who also attended, reaffirmed the council's continuing commitment to the project.
Data gathered on the day will be analysed over the coming weeks.
More than 250 people turned up for a consultation day at the Millennium Hall on Saturday, when details of Kerrier Council's proposal to sell off the harbour were on display.
After speaking to representatives of Kerrier's regeneration team, the parish council, and the harbour association, 86 per cent of residents present supported the proposal and said they wanted to see it move on to the next stage.
Chris Watts, chairman of the parish council, said the result was "a very strong mandate" to pursue community ownership.
He said: "We had a very successful consultation day. The questionnaires that people filled out showed 86 per cent support for community ownership, and that is a very strong mandate for Kerrier to take into a feasibility study.
"The parish council can now move forward to the next stage of this project by taking expert advice as to the terms of reference of the feasibility study and finding suitable surveyors to tender for the task."
Kerrier regeneration officer Scott James said the high turnout was a big advantage when applying for grant funding.
"In terms of both the Lottery application and other bids that we've got to put in, we can demonstrate a high level of support, and that's exactly what funders want to see."
Kerrier Council announced last November that it wanted to dispose of Portreath Harbour, because of high maintenance costs. It hoped it could pass into community ownership, and offered £5,000 towards a feasibility study.
In January it was announced that Portreath had been included in a potential £42 million programme of waterfront improvements, along with four other Cornish harbours.
Saturday's consultation day was opened by Julia Goldsworthy MP, one of the village's newest residents.
Mike Clayton, Kerrier's portfolio holder for assets, who also attended, reaffirmed the council's continuing commitment to the project.
Data gathered on the day will be analysed over the coming weeks.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
PRESS FAIL TO PICK UP A PENGUIN
The West Briton's Redruth office received a tip off from a local resident and several 'eyewitnesses' phoned Radio Cornwall, declaring it was definitely a penguin; they had seen it. At one stage during the afternoon, hopes were high that the bird was Toga, a three-month-old penguin that disappeared from Amazon World on the Isle of Wight in December.
But as the number of press photographers, reporters and well-wishers arriving at Portreath grew, so the doubts about the authenticity of the 'penguin' also began to increase.
Eventually, two local men struggled out across the rocks to where the bird was sitting and identified it is a guillemot.
One man declared it a bit of a wild goose chase.
"More of a wild guillemot chase," declared a freelance photographer, who until then had been salivating over a potential exclusive and lucrative snap of Toga.
Apparently, a huge shoal of sand eels arrived in the harbour earlier in the day, accompanied by seagulls and seals.
It appears that the Guillermot was also attracted by the chance of a free lunch.
But as the number of press photographers, reporters and well-wishers arriving at Portreath grew, so the doubts about the authenticity of the 'penguin' also began to increase.
Eventually, two local men struggled out across the rocks to where the bird was sitting and identified it is a guillemot.
One man declared it a bit of a wild goose chase.
"More of a wild guillemot chase," declared a freelance photographer, who until then had been salivating over a potential exclusive and lucrative snap of Toga.
Apparently, a huge shoal of sand eels arrived in the harbour earlier in the day, accompanied by seagulls and seals.
It appears that the Guillermot was also attracted by the chance of a free lunch.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
MAJOR SCHEME FOR PORTREATH HARBOUR
Portreath harbour will be a major beneficiary of a £42 million programme of waterfront improvements, if a bid to the Big Lottery's Regional Living Landmarks fund is successful.
Cornwall County Council, acting on behalf of the Cornish Harbours project, has applied for £25 million towards the cost of the five-year project, which would also see major regeneration work at Newlyn, Falmouth, Newquay and Looe.
The aim is to bring disused or run down harbours and neighbouring waterfront locations back into use for the benefit of their communities.
Georgina McLaren, from Cornwall Enterprise, which would administer the project, said: "Cornwall remains one of Europe's most deprived areas, and while much of the rural coastline is in the stewardship of the National Trust, many coastal communities are still struggling to find ways to adjust to the social, economic and environmental challenges they face."
All five locations chosen for the project have been assessed over several years and, although different in character, share common goals.
In all cases their aims include the promotion of community access, active enjoyment, learning, and local enterprise. The harbours would be the focus for regeneration actions and high quality physical improvements.
Just two months ago Kerrier Council announced it wished to dispose of Portreath harbour and expressed a desire to see it pass into community hands. Portreath's inclusion in the Cornish Harbours bid would appear to be perfectly timed and to provide the resources to make it happen.
As a result, the news has been greeted with delight by community groups in the village.
Chris Watts, chairman of the parish council, said: "The parish council, the harbour association and Portreath Improvements Committee are working together on this project and we are delighted to be included in the bid. It's a really strong bid, with a good chance of success, and we're extremely optimistic about the outcome."
If successful, the Cornish Harbours project would run from 2007-12. Portreath harbour would be regenerated and brought in to community ownership; the Edwardian pier at Falmouth would be refurbished and a new marine college built; East Looe would get a new promenade on its sea front; Newquay would get a new events area and seafront pathway; and there would be a new multi-use fish market building at Newlyn.
Mevagissey, Porthleven and Hayle have been put on standby for the scheme, although the latter is expected to be the subject of a separate bid led by its private sector owners and supported by Penwith District Council.
There is a consultation day about the future of the harbour at Portreath in the Millennium Hall on January 28 from 11am to 4pm.
E-mail: julianr@c-dm.co.uk
Cornwall County Council, acting on behalf of the Cornish Harbours project, has applied for £25 million towards the cost of the five-year project, which would also see major regeneration work at Newlyn, Falmouth, Newquay and Looe.
The aim is to bring disused or run down harbours and neighbouring waterfront locations back into use for the benefit of their communities.
Georgina McLaren, from Cornwall Enterprise, which would administer the project, said: "Cornwall remains one of Europe's most deprived areas, and while much of the rural coastline is in the stewardship of the National Trust, many coastal communities are still struggling to find ways to adjust to the social, economic and environmental challenges they face."
All five locations chosen for the project have been assessed over several years and, although different in character, share common goals.
In all cases their aims include the promotion of community access, active enjoyment, learning, and local enterprise. The harbours would be the focus for regeneration actions and high quality physical improvements.
Just two months ago Kerrier Council announced it wished to dispose of Portreath harbour and expressed a desire to see it pass into community hands. Portreath's inclusion in the Cornish Harbours bid would appear to be perfectly timed and to provide the resources to make it happen.
As a result, the news has been greeted with delight by community groups in the village.
Chris Watts, chairman of the parish council, said: "The parish council, the harbour association and Portreath Improvements Committee are working together on this project and we are delighted to be included in the bid. It's a really strong bid, with a good chance of success, and we're extremely optimistic about the outcome."
If successful, the Cornish Harbours project would run from 2007-12. Portreath harbour would be regenerated and brought in to community ownership; the Edwardian pier at Falmouth would be refurbished and a new marine college built; East Looe would get a new promenade on its sea front; Newquay would get a new events area and seafront pathway; and there would be a new multi-use fish market building at Newlyn.
Mevagissey, Porthleven and Hayle have been put on standby for the scheme, although the latter is expected to be the subject of a separate bid led by its private sector owners and supported by Penwith District Council.
There is a consultation day about the future of the harbour at Portreath in the Millennium Hall on January 28 from 11am to 4pm.
E-mail: julianr@c-dm.co.uk
KEN WITNESSES VITAL WORK OF SHELTERBOX
A Portreath man has spent nine days of his own time witnessing the relief effort in one of the world's remotest areas.
Ken Wilkins, of Green Lane, who is a police inspector based at St Ives, travelled to the mountainous Kashmir region of Pakistan, witnessing first hand the scale of devastation caused by October's huge earthquake and assisting in the massive relief effort.
Mr Wilkins is also a member of the Rotary Club whose renowned Shelterbox initiative, instigated by Helston Rotary Club, has become a focus for scores of local fund raisers.
At a cost of nearly £500 each, every Shelterbox is packed and dispatched from their warehouse at the Water-ma-Trout industrial estate. Carried inside are a tent and sleeping bags for ten people, a shovel and tools, cooking aids, water purification equipment and other basic survival tools, even pencils and books for children. The difference they make is all too apparent from the positive feedback that has been received.
As well as the massive donations and very hard work of those involved in the operation at Helston, including many volunteers who turn up regularly to help with packing, another contributory factor is the work of the Rotary Club's 4R teams (standing for Rotary, Reconnaissance, Review and Recover) which fly out to disaster zones with the boxes to ensure the aid is deployed to those who need it most. Mr Wilkins is a member of a 4R team.
During his stay in the country he assisted in the distribution of sufficient Shelterboxes and additional tents to provide shelter to approximately 10,000 people. Overall the Shelterbox operation in Pakistan provided tents and the equipment listed to approximately 90,000 people. Now back in Cornwall, he said: "This part of Pakistan is a remote but beautiful area and looking out over a valley all that was left of the vast majority of homes were the roofs as the walls had just collapsed. "Some areas were totally devastated; we were shown one area which had seen a massive landslide in which an estimated 1,800 bodies were buried in the rubble.
"Each day our brief was to distribute boxes to those we had allocated them to the day before, and then go with a Kashmiri guide .... to visit more villages."
Rotary had a logistics team working at Islamabad airport getting the gear out to both other teams and this was essential as there was an incredible amount of red tape to overcome.
But there were also unorthodox means of getting aid to where it was needed: "It wasn't unusual to see men in their 60s arrive wearing just sandals, and then put the Shelterbox on their back, with a strap around their forehead tied to both sides of the box, before walking back several miles across the mountains to their families."
Mr Wilkins first became involved in the project after speaking with a colleague in the police who is also a 4R team member and he then helped pack boxes at the warehouse near Helston. He was then offered the opportunity to train to be a member of the 4R team. Just a week after completing an induction weekend he was offered a deployment to Pakistan replacing another team member who had to come back to the UK.
"Being a member of the 4R team is a great opportunity to see that the equipment fund-raisers work so hard to pay for, ends up going to the right people," said Ken. "Having done some packing I must admit that it was a pretty good moment seeing a string of green boxes going down the mountain on people's backs or hung between poles." Following his trip Inspector Wilkins would like very much to give talks and presentations to any groups interested in hearing more about Shelterbox. Ken added that groups can be any size or age, including children. Insp Wilkins can be contacted on 01736 792733. To make a donation, volunteer or for more information on Shelterbox visit www.shelterbox.org or telephone 01326 569782.
Ken Wilkins, of Green Lane, who is a police inspector based at St Ives, travelled to the mountainous Kashmir region of Pakistan, witnessing first hand the scale of devastation caused by October's huge earthquake and assisting in the massive relief effort.
Mr Wilkins is also a member of the Rotary Club whose renowned Shelterbox initiative, instigated by Helston Rotary Club, has become a focus for scores of local fund raisers.
At a cost of nearly £500 each, every Shelterbox is packed and dispatched from their warehouse at the Water-ma-Trout industrial estate. Carried inside are a tent and sleeping bags for ten people, a shovel and tools, cooking aids, water purification equipment and other basic survival tools, even pencils and books for children. The difference they make is all too apparent from the positive feedback that has been received.
As well as the massive donations and very hard work of those involved in the operation at Helston, including many volunteers who turn up regularly to help with packing, another contributory factor is the work of the Rotary Club's 4R teams (standing for Rotary, Reconnaissance, Review and Recover) which fly out to disaster zones with the boxes to ensure the aid is deployed to those who need it most. Mr Wilkins is a member of a 4R team.
During his stay in the country he assisted in the distribution of sufficient Shelterboxes and additional tents to provide shelter to approximately 10,000 people. Overall the Shelterbox operation in Pakistan provided tents and the equipment listed to approximately 90,000 people. Now back in Cornwall, he said: "This part of Pakistan is a remote but beautiful area and looking out over a valley all that was left of the vast majority of homes were the roofs as the walls had just collapsed. "Some areas were totally devastated; we were shown one area which had seen a massive landslide in which an estimated 1,800 bodies were buried in the rubble.
"Each day our brief was to distribute boxes to those we had allocated them to the day before, and then go with a Kashmiri guide .... to visit more villages."
Rotary had a logistics team working at Islamabad airport getting the gear out to both other teams and this was essential as there was an incredible amount of red tape to overcome.
But there were also unorthodox means of getting aid to where it was needed: "It wasn't unusual to see men in their 60s arrive wearing just sandals, and then put the Shelterbox on their back, with a strap around their forehead tied to both sides of the box, before walking back several miles across the mountains to their families."
Mr Wilkins first became involved in the project after speaking with a colleague in the police who is also a 4R team member and he then helped pack boxes at the warehouse near Helston. He was then offered the opportunity to train to be a member of the 4R team. Just a week after completing an induction weekend he was offered a deployment to Pakistan replacing another team member who had to come back to the UK.
"Being a member of the 4R team is a great opportunity to see that the equipment fund-raisers work so hard to pay for, ends up going to the right people," said Ken. "Having done some packing I must admit that it was a pretty good moment seeing a string of green boxes going down the mountain on people's backs or hung between poles." Following his trip Inspector Wilkins would like very much to give talks and presentations to any groups interested in hearing more about Shelterbox. Ken added that groups can be any size or age, including children. Insp Wilkins can be contacted on 01736 792733. To make a donation, volunteer or for more information on Shelterbox visit www.shelterbox.org or telephone 01326 569782.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Parish Tram Issue 11
Since the last issue of the Parish Tram there has been some progress with regard to the harbour. The parish council's regeneration team has been working closely with Kerrier District Council to work out the details of the feasibility study. The first step is to hold a public consultation day similar to the event the parish council held for the village enhancement scheme. Hopefully the results will demonstrate to KDC and potential funders the village is backing the Parish Council and the Harbour Association's efforts to commission the feasibility study.
The process of obtaining funding for the study continues, at present there are contributions from the Parish council, Kerrier district Council and Portreath Improvements Committee. Applications for further funding from various other sources including the National Lottery fund are ongoing. There have been offers from developers to assist, at present the Regeneration Team believes the project should stay independent so an unbiased study can be achieved.
A harbour charitable trust management committee will soon have to be formed. This committee will be the driving force behind the feasibility study and the harbour improvements should the study have a positive outcome. The members will most likely be drawn from the Parish Council, Portreath Improvements Committee and the Harbour Association plus other interested groups or individuals. There will be forms to register interest available at the consultation day.
The consultation day is to be held on Saturday January 28th between 11:00am and 4:00pm at the Millennium Hall, a good turn out and your support is essential to gauge the opinion of residents. The harbour project could change the village significantly in a number of areas, employment and tourism could increase, more business opportunities could become available and the harbour could become a very busy area both on and off the water. Your local councillors need to know what the opinion of residents is so they can act for the majority.
Inside this issue is an advert for the event with a very short questionnaire. Should you be unable to attend on the day please fill out the form and drop it into the Post Office or if you prefer write to the parish council.
The Clerk
Cosoleth
Cambrose
Redruth,
Cornwall TR16 4HS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
greenslade.png with this
A chance meeting
While giving out Christmas trees for the PIC in the harbour car park I met a very sprightly elderly gentleman who after we introduced each other turned out to be Captain Gordon Greenslade, the last Cornish captain to bring a coal coaster into Portreath harbour. We had an interesting chat and I later went to harbour house where we were able to talk at length about his Merchant career.
Gordon is 92 years of age, was born in Portreath and went to school here and then finished his education at Illogan Boys School. At the age of fourteen and a half he went to work in the harbour. His first boat was the Treliegh. He worked his way through the Bains fleet until April 1939 when he was made Captain of the SS Isleman. In his own words this is his account of the war years.
"At the start of the 2nd World War, I was Master of a Coasting Vessel, the SS Islesman, trading out of Portreath Cornwall, to Newport Cardiff and Barry in the Bristol Channel, for steam coal for the mines, and cement, to Preston and Garston, and to Whitehaven and Maryport for house coal. To Charlestown and Par for China clay.
In the first winter of the war, in December, one of our ships, the SS Ruban, hit the rocks off the Lizard in fog and sank - all crew saved.
Later in the war, the SS Florence Reynolds, on voyage to Newport, was in collision with one of our destroyers and sank all crew were saved.
We used to fly a Barrage Balloon at 1,000 feet from the masthead against low flying aircraft and had three Naval Gunners and a 40mm gun mounted on the stern.
We used to go in convoy part of the way, sometimes enemy aircraft attacked us.
There were moored mines, acoustic and magnetic mines and submarines about.
Later on another of our ships left Maryport for Portreath, she was lost with all hands – we don't know what happened to her – she was the SS Kyle Rona.
The SS Rosemore left Hayle for the Bristol Channel and was bombed and sank off Newquay, most of her crew were lost.
Another ship from Hayle, the Porthgarret, went ashore at the Nash Bank in a gale and Black out.
We in the SS Isleman were bombed off Bardsey Island- it was a near miss.
We came safely through the war – the only Portreath ship left."
Sandra Beckett on behalf of Captain Gordon Greenslade submitted the above to the People's War web site.
Captain Greenslade stayed with the Isleman until October 1946; he had a daughter of two at the time and wished to spend more time with his family so took a job with a firm in Redruth working with automotive coachwork.
Gordon is presently spending Christmas and the New Year at Harbour house retirement home.
Chris Watts
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Badminton club has been meeting every Tuesday night since October 2004 in the Millennium Hall and it has been great fun. We have about 16 members now, of varying abilities from regular players to complete beginners. The annual membership fee is a mere £15, which gives you insurance through the Badminton Association and each session is £2 per person. It is possible to attend as a guest before you have to join, so come and try it out.
At the moment, we are only playing on Tuesdays, but it is possible to book the Hall at other times according to availability. We have received a generous grant from the P.I.C. this has enabled us to buy a net and some shuttles so far.
It is not just a chance to get fit, it is also a social occasion and a chance to meet new friends. As there is only one court, between badminton games, we play backgammon, charades, dominoes, juggle or just chat together.
Portreath Badminton Club
At Portreath Millennium Hall
Tuesday 7-10
New Members welcome
All abilities – coaching available- all ages
Contact: Sara, tel.843213
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P.A.T.C.H
Baby and Toddler group to be held in the new Church Hall every Friday morning from 10:00 to 12:00
Come along for tea and a chat
50p
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PORTREATH MILLENNIUM
COMMUNITY HALL
This venue is available to everyone, and the Hall can be used for a wide range of activities. Any individuals or groups interested in booking the Hall should contact the Bookings Secretary Mrs. Jan Sowden on 01209 842960. Hire costs are £25.00 a session (3 hours) for the large Hall and the smaller meetings room can be booked for £8.00 per session and these fees include the use of the fully equipped kitchen.
If you wish to run an event and would like to publicise the information in the next Parish Tram, please send your copy to the Editor.
chris@parishtram.co.uk
or leave at the post office
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local Lad will play for cornwall
Sam Newman aged 15, from Portreath has been selected to play rugby for
Cornwall. Sam started playing tag rugby at Portreath school, before joining
the mini/junior rugby section at Redruth rugby club aged 9.
he still plays his rugby with the Redruth club and also for Redruth school.
Playing either center or fly-half.
His first Cornwall game will be at St Austell Against Bristol Schools on the
8th January 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C.O.G.
A dozen people went on the pre-Christmas shopping trip to Exeter on Saturday 26th November. Despite concerns over weather conditions, everyone had a good time and a smooth journey.
There will be a Spring trip before Easter, any requests welcome.
Di Helyer 842492
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Can any of your readers help?
I am trying to discover details of the last working ship to enter Portreath harbour, her name, tonnage, dates etc. Also does anyone know the date the port ceased to have its own harbour master and loss of its port status. The records should be somewhere but I've drawn a blank. I believe this to have been around 1967 or '68 just before the harbour houses were constructed. If anyone could help me I would be very grateful.
Allen Forster
68 East Pool Park
Pool Redruth TR15 3LD
allen.forster@btinternet.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.jpg or png we used last year
Your village needs you
Portreath Improvements Committee AGM 23th January 2006
7.00 p.m. in the Portreath Institute
Yes, it's January and that means the Portreath Improvements Committee elections are upon us once again.
We need members that are prepared to attend the majority of meetings throughout 2006. These are held on the second Monday of each month. The main order of business at the meetings is to make decisions on the best use of the income created by the sea front car park, which is owned by the PIC. This is a substantial sum and the Constitution states that the income is to be spent for the good of Portreath village and it's residents. Consequently the agenda at the monthly meetings can be extremely varied, ranging from litter picking and property maintenance to long term financial investment and constitutional matters.
Another responsibility is the day to day running and management of the sea front car park. This is carried out by the Portreath Association Ltd. (PAL), a small limited company that was formed because by law, a charity (the PIC) cannot trade to make a profit. Five people run the PAL, three of who are elected at the March meetings (they are elected from within the membership of the Portreath Improvements Committee) the other two members coming from the board of directors of the PAL.
If you can't spare the time to put yourself up for membership, please still come along to the Portreath Institute on Monday the 23rd of January at 7:00pm for the election and vote for the residents you want to sit on the committee. There are 24 seats available and the rules of the PIC allow all village residents aged 18 or over to vote for up to 24 fellow residents. Voting slips will be passed around on the night.
Currently the January meeting is the only time residents can attend the PIC meeting, so this is your chance to ask questions and put suggestions forward other than in writing, which you can do at any other time in the year.
The Portreath Improvements Committee is a major influence within the village and needs your support. Please come along on the 23rd of January at 7.00 and vote for those you want to represent you for the coming year.
Portreath Improvements Committee application form
To stand for election please fill out the following application:
(Applicants must reside in Portreath village, as must your two supporters.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and address of applicant:
Name and address of 1st supporter:
Name and address of 2nd supporter:
Post to:
Secretary to the PIC
5 Belerion Road
Portreath
Cornwall
TR16 4PA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual Bonfire and Firework Display
Took place on Sunday 6th November, when we were exceptionally lucky to have a "window" from the bad weather, and yet another quality display.
Thanks must go to Roger Bricknell and his team; also to PC Tim Roberts and the community Policing Team; the Gold Centre for the free use of their car park; 1st Buses for the park and ride shuttle. An especially big thank you to the Bonfire Building Team led by Trevor Tonkin, who all spent over three hours in bitter conditions that morning and to the stewards who collected donations during the evening and the Bar-B-Q team for cooking. Also the Promenade Cafe, the Retreat and the ShoreShop, who all stayed open throughout.
Mention must also be made of the many village businesses, shops and pub that continue to sponsor:
1. The Park and Ride scheme.
2. The Bonfire insurance.
3. Insurance donation to Bicknells by the PIC.
4. Attendance by St Johns Ambulance by the Parish Council.
This year the costs of numbers 1, 2 & 4 all increased substantially and without the continued support and community spirit of those mentioned, the event could not take place.
Fortunately and increase the collection money was sufficient to cover the cost of the fireworks and ensure a display next year.
Finally, thank you to those who contacted me afterwards by phone and letter; it was much appreciated.
Di Helyer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Table Tennis Club
Every Wednesday 7 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. in St Mary's Church Hall
All very welcome. Under 18s should be accompanied by parent or guardian
Please come along
Or ring Malcolm on 01209 842695 or Geoff on 01209 843181
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
copy of last quarter?
St Mary's Church Hall
Weekly Itinerary
Tuesday 19:30 Alpha course
Wednesday 10:00-12:00 C.H.I.C. Care and hospitality in the
community
10:00 Veg Boxes
19:00 Table Tennis
Thursday 10:00-11:00 Coffee Morning
19:30 Belly Dancing
Friday 11:00-12:00 P.A.T.C.H. Parent and toddler Christian
hospitality
Sunday 9:45 GroundBreakers Fun Club for ages 4-18
Alternate Greenhouse Club 12 plus youth group?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The process of obtaining funding for the study continues, at present there are contributions from the Parish council, Kerrier district Council and Portreath Improvements Committee. Applications for further funding from various other sources including the National Lottery fund are ongoing. There have been offers from developers to assist, at present the Regeneration Team believes the project should stay independent so an unbiased study can be achieved.
A harbour charitable trust management committee will soon have to be formed. This committee will be the driving force behind the feasibility study and the harbour improvements should the study have a positive outcome. The members will most likely be drawn from the Parish Council, Portreath Improvements Committee and the Harbour Association plus other interested groups or individuals. There will be forms to register interest available at the consultation day.
The consultation day is to be held on Saturday January 28th between 11:00am and 4:00pm at the Millennium Hall, a good turn out and your support is essential to gauge the opinion of residents. The harbour project could change the village significantly in a number of areas, employment and tourism could increase, more business opportunities could become available and the harbour could become a very busy area both on and off the water. Your local councillors need to know what the opinion of residents is so they can act for the majority.
Inside this issue is an advert for the event with a very short questionnaire. Should you be unable to attend on the day please fill out the form and drop it into the Post Office or if you prefer write to the parish council.
The Clerk
Cosoleth
Cambrose
Redruth,
Cornwall TR16 4HS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
greenslade.png with this
A chance meeting
While giving out Christmas trees for the PIC in the harbour car park I met a very sprightly elderly gentleman who after we introduced each other turned out to be Captain Gordon Greenslade, the last Cornish captain to bring a coal coaster into Portreath harbour. We had an interesting chat and I later went to harbour house where we were able to talk at length about his Merchant career.
Gordon is 92 years of age, was born in Portreath and went to school here and then finished his education at Illogan Boys School. At the age of fourteen and a half he went to work in the harbour. His first boat was the Treliegh. He worked his way through the Bains fleet until April 1939 when he was made Captain of the SS Isleman. In his own words this is his account of the war years.
"At the start of the 2nd World War, I was Master of a Coasting Vessel, the SS Islesman, trading out of Portreath Cornwall, to Newport Cardiff and Barry in the Bristol Channel, for steam coal for the mines, and cement, to Preston and Garston, and to Whitehaven and Maryport for house coal. To Charlestown and Par for China clay.
In the first winter of the war, in December, one of our ships, the SS Ruban, hit the rocks off the Lizard in fog and sank - all crew saved.
Later in the war, the SS Florence Reynolds, on voyage to Newport, was in collision with one of our destroyers and sank all crew were saved.
We used to fly a Barrage Balloon at 1,000 feet from the masthead against low flying aircraft and had three Naval Gunners and a 40mm gun mounted on the stern.
We used to go in convoy part of the way, sometimes enemy aircraft attacked us.
There were moored mines, acoustic and magnetic mines and submarines about.
Later on another of our ships left Maryport for Portreath, she was lost with all hands – we don't know what happened to her – she was the SS Kyle Rona.
The SS Rosemore left Hayle for the Bristol Channel and was bombed and sank off Newquay, most of her crew were lost.
Another ship from Hayle, the Porthgarret, went ashore at the Nash Bank in a gale and Black out.
We in the SS Isleman were bombed off Bardsey Island- it was a near miss.
We came safely through the war – the only Portreath ship left."
Sandra Beckett on behalf of Captain Gordon Greenslade submitted the above to the People's War web site.
Captain Greenslade stayed with the Isleman until October 1946; he had a daughter of two at the time and wished to spend more time with his family so took a job with a firm in Redruth working with automotive coachwork.
Gordon is presently spending Christmas and the New Year at Harbour house retirement home.
Chris Watts
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Badminton club has been meeting every Tuesday night since October 2004 in the Millennium Hall and it has been great fun. We have about 16 members now, of varying abilities from regular players to complete beginners. The annual membership fee is a mere £15, which gives you insurance through the Badminton Association and each session is £2 per person. It is possible to attend as a guest before you have to join, so come and try it out.
At the moment, we are only playing on Tuesdays, but it is possible to book the Hall at other times according to availability. We have received a generous grant from the P.I.C. this has enabled us to buy a net and some shuttles so far.
It is not just a chance to get fit, it is also a social occasion and a chance to meet new friends. As there is only one court, between badminton games, we play backgammon, charades, dominoes, juggle or just chat together.
Portreath Badminton Club
At Portreath Millennium Hall
Tuesday 7-10
New Members welcome
All abilities – coaching available- all ages
Contact: Sara, tel.843213
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P.A.T.C.H
Baby and Toddler group to be held in the new Church Hall every Friday morning from 10:00 to 12:00
Come along for tea and a chat
50p
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PORTREATH MILLENNIUM
COMMUNITY HALL
This venue is available to everyone, and the Hall can be used for a wide range of activities. Any individuals or groups interested in booking the Hall should contact the Bookings Secretary Mrs. Jan Sowden on 01209 842960. Hire costs are £25.00 a session (3 hours) for the large Hall and the smaller meetings room can be booked for £8.00 per session and these fees include the use of the fully equipped kitchen.
If you wish to run an event and would like to publicise the information in the next Parish Tram, please send your copy to the Editor.
chris@parishtram.co.uk
or leave at the post office
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local Lad will play for cornwall
Sam Newman aged 15, from Portreath has been selected to play rugby for
Cornwall. Sam started playing tag rugby at Portreath school, before joining
the mini/junior rugby section at Redruth rugby club aged 9.
he still plays his rugby with the Redruth club and also for Redruth school.
Playing either center or fly-half.
His first Cornwall game will be at St Austell Against Bristol Schools on the
8th January 2006.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C.O.G.
A dozen people went on the pre-Christmas shopping trip to Exeter on Saturday 26th November. Despite concerns over weather conditions, everyone had a good time and a smooth journey.
There will be a Spring trip before Easter, any requests welcome.
Di Helyer 842492
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Can any of your readers help?
I am trying to discover details of the last working ship to enter Portreath harbour, her name, tonnage, dates etc. Also does anyone know the date the port ceased to have its own harbour master and loss of its port status. The records should be somewhere but I've drawn a blank. I believe this to have been around 1967 or '68 just before the harbour houses were constructed. If anyone could help me I would be very grateful.
Allen Forster
68 East Pool Park
Pool Redruth TR15 3LD
allen.forster@btinternet.com
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.jpg or png we used last year
Your village needs you
Portreath Improvements Committee AGM 23th January 2006
7.00 p.m. in the Portreath Institute
Yes, it's January and that means the Portreath Improvements Committee elections are upon us once again.
We need members that are prepared to attend the majority of meetings throughout 2006. These are held on the second Monday of each month. The main order of business at the meetings is to make decisions on the best use of the income created by the sea front car park, which is owned by the PIC. This is a substantial sum and the Constitution states that the income is to be spent for the good of Portreath village and it's residents. Consequently the agenda at the monthly meetings can be extremely varied, ranging from litter picking and property maintenance to long term financial investment and constitutional matters.
Another responsibility is the day to day running and management of the sea front car park. This is carried out by the Portreath Association Ltd. (PAL), a small limited company that was formed because by law, a charity (the PIC) cannot trade to make a profit. Five people run the PAL, three of who are elected at the March meetings (they are elected from within the membership of the Portreath Improvements Committee) the other two members coming from the board of directors of the PAL.
If you can't spare the time to put yourself up for membership, please still come along to the Portreath Institute on Monday the 23rd of January at 7:00pm for the election and vote for the residents you want to sit on the committee. There are 24 seats available and the rules of the PIC allow all village residents aged 18 or over to vote for up to 24 fellow residents. Voting slips will be passed around on the night.
Currently the January meeting is the only time residents can attend the PIC meeting, so this is your chance to ask questions and put suggestions forward other than in writing, which you can do at any other time in the year.
The Portreath Improvements Committee is a major influence within the village and needs your support. Please come along on the 23rd of January at 7.00 and vote for those you want to represent you for the coming year.
Portreath Improvements Committee application form
To stand for election please fill out the following application:
(Applicants must reside in Portreath village, as must your two supporters.)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and address of applicant:
Name and address of 1st supporter:
Name and address of 2nd supporter:
Post to:
Secretary to the PIC
5 Belerion Road
Portreath
Cornwall
TR16 4PA
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Annual Bonfire and Firework Display
Took place on Sunday 6th November, when we were exceptionally lucky to have a "window" from the bad weather, and yet another quality display.
Thanks must go to Roger Bricknell and his team; also to PC Tim Roberts and the community Policing Team; the Gold Centre for the free use of their car park; 1st Buses for the park and ride shuttle. An especially big thank you to the Bonfire Building Team led by Trevor Tonkin, who all spent over three hours in bitter conditions that morning and to the stewards who collected donations during the evening and the Bar-B-Q team for cooking. Also the Promenade Cafe, the Retreat and the ShoreShop, who all stayed open throughout.
Mention must also be made of the many village businesses, shops and pub that continue to sponsor:
1. The Park and Ride scheme.
2. The Bonfire insurance.
3. Insurance donation to Bicknells by the PIC.
4. Attendance by St Johns Ambulance by the Parish Council.
This year the costs of numbers 1, 2 & 4 all increased substantially and without the continued support and community spirit of those mentioned, the event could not take place.
Fortunately and increase the collection money was sufficient to cover the cost of the fireworks and ensure a display next year.
Finally, thank you to those who contacted me afterwards by phone and letter; it was much appreciated.
Di Helyer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portreath Table Tennis Club
Every Wednesday 7 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. in St Mary's Church Hall
All very welcome. Under 18s should be accompanied by parent or guardian
Please come along
Or ring Malcolm on 01209 842695 or Geoff on 01209 843181
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
copy of last quarter?
St Mary's Church Hall
Weekly Itinerary
Tuesday 19:30 Alpha course
Wednesday 10:00-12:00 C.H.I.C. Care and hospitality in the
community
10:00 Veg Boxes
19:00 Table Tennis
Thursday 10:00-11:00 Coffee Morning
19:30 Belly Dancing
Friday 11:00-12:00 P.A.T.C.H. Parent and toddler Christian
hospitality
Sunday 9:45 GroundBreakers Fun Club for ages 4-18
Alternate Greenhouse Club 12 plus youth group?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, December 19, 2005
Sterling effort by pub
THE Cornwall Speakeasy Laryngectomy Club would like to say thanks to the landlord, landlady and all patrons of The Bridge Inn, Bridge, Portreath, for all their hard work on behalf of our club.
The Bridge Inn has raised £1,212 through a car boot sale, a fun day and an auction for our charity this year.
The club is a small charity, run by laryngectomy patients and volunteer nurses from Wheal Coates Ward, who donate their time to support patients who have had throat cancer. The aim of the club is to assist patients in readjusting to a normal life after they have had a laryngectomy (removal of the voice box).
The club arranges visits to attractions for the members to build up their confidence in a supportive environment.
Obviously this requires funding, and therefore the generosity in hard work, time and money from all at the Bridge Inn really will make a difference to the lives of Cornwall's laryngectomy patients.
Ron Wills
Chairman Cornwall Speakeasy Laryngectomy Club
The Bridge Inn has raised £1,212 through a car boot sale, a fun day and an auction for our charity this year.
The club is a small charity, run by laryngectomy patients and volunteer nurses from Wheal Coates Ward, who donate their time to support patients who have had throat cancer. The aim of the club is to assist patients in readjusting to a normal life after they have had a laryngectomy (removal of the voice box).
The club arranges visits to attractions for the members to build up their confidence in a supportive environment.
Obviously this requires funding, and therefore the generosity in hard work, time and money from all at the Bridge Inn really will make a difference to the lives of Cornwall's laryngectomy patients.
Ron Wills
Chairman Cornwall Speakeasy Laryngectomy Club
New county councillor
The new county councillor for Illogan and Portreath is Paul Holmes (Liberal), who won back the seat he held between 1985 and 2002 at a by-election.
His 324 votes put him 56 votes ahead of his nearest rival, Liberal Democrat David Ekinsmyth, followed by Independent Tommy Bray (268), Conservative Mary Anson (202) and Labour's Tony Bunt (84). There was a 20.47 per cent turnout.
Mr Holmes, who lost his seat in 2002 to Terry Rowe, said it was "good to be back".
"I'm delighted to be the county councillor for Illogan and Portreath again, the seat I held for 17 years.
"I have very loyal support in this area and I'm very grateful they turned out in force in such poor weather to support me. It's very humbling.
"I'm also indebted to the excellent band of workers who went out in all weathers to support me in the run up to the election."
Mr Holmes said he was keen to get back into county council life and was committed to working for the people of Illogan and Portreath.
He added: "I shall be working very hard, and in particular, I shall be making every effort to get the Trevenson Moor footpath put in. I consider that a priority."
Mr Holmes, who lives in Illogan, is a self-employed electrician. He is a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedd for his services to music, and a churchwarden at Pencoys Church, Four Lanes. He is a Cornish speaker, and a playing member of Chacewater Cricket Club.
His 324 votes put him 56 votes ahead of his nearest rival, Liberal Democrat David Ekinsmyth, followed by Independent Tommy Bray (268), Conservative Mary Anson (202) and Labour's Tony Bunt (84). There was a 20.47 per cent turnout.
Mr Holmes, who lost his seat in 2002 to Terry Rowe, said it was "good to be back".
"I'm delighted to be the county councillor for Illogan and Portreath again, the seat I held for 17 years.
"I have very loyal support in this area and I'm very grateful they turned out in force in such poor weather to support me. It's very humbling.
"I'm also indebted to the excellent band of workers who went out in all weathers to support me in the run up to the election."
Mr Holmes said he was keen to get back into county council life and was committed to working for the people of Illogan and Portreath.
He added: "I shall be working very hard, and in particular, I shall be making every effort to get the Trevenson Moor footpath put in. I consider that a priority."
Mr Holmes, who lives in Illogan, is a self-employed electrician. He is a Bard of the Cornish Gorsedd for his services to music, and a churchwarden at Pencoys Church, Four Lanes. He is a Cornish speaker, and a playing member of Chacewater Cricket Club.
A 20.4 % turnout!
Four-fifths of the electorate didn't even bother to vote in the Illogan-Portreath county council by-election. For the record, I didn't win, but over 200 voted for me and for that I thank them.
But what really worries me is voter apathy, and it's obvious that politicians aren't getting through to the people we are supposed to be serving.
Does anyone have any idea what's wrong, and what to do? Compulsory voting, perhaps? Better venues? Voting times? More e-mail, on-line and postal voting? No canvassing (because no-one believes us, anyway)? Candidate debate before voting? Freepost envelopes for all electors? More information direct to voters?
What do you think? Let me know, and I promise I will reply and send all comments to the Electoral Commission and election officers.
Back to reality, my latest charity auction is at the Victoria Inn, Four Lanes, tomorrow (Friday) at 8pm, in aid of Pencoys Church roof appeal. Please come along.
Cllr TOMMY BRAY
But what really worries me is voter apathy, and it's obvious that politicians aren't getting through to the people we are supposed to be serving.
Does anyone have any idea what's wrong, and what to do? Compulsory voting, perhaps? Better venues? Voting times? More e-mail, on-line and postal voting? No canvassing (because no-one believes us, anyway)? Candidate debate before voting? Freepost envelopes for all electors? More information direct to voters?
What do you think? Let me know, and I promise I will reply and send all comments to the Electoral Commission and election officers.
Back to reality, my latest charity auction is at the Victoria Inn, Four Lanes, tomorrow (Friday) at 8pm, in aid of Pencoys Church roof appeal. Please come along.
Cllr TOMMY BRAY
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Barn Youth Project
Portreath Youth Club has reopened after a refurbishment that has seen it transformed from a stark, uncomfortable space into a fresh, young people-friendly environment. Based in the Millennium Hall, it now boasts a coffee bar and computer facilities set in brightly-painted surroundings.
To mark the re-launch, the club has been renamed the Barn Youth Project and now offers a variety of activities for different age groups. From 6.30pm-7.45pm on Mondays, nine-to-13-year-olds take part in activities and socialise with their friends. From 8pm-9.15pm, 13-to-16-year-olds can meet in the coffee bar and play pool.
On Thursdays from 7.30pm-9.30pm there is a drop-in centre offering issue-based workshops covering such things as self-esteem, bullying, healthy eating, and drug and alcohol abuse.
Youth workers are now looking for funding to run a homework group on Wednesday evenings, when there will be a chance to learn more about computers and develop numeracy and literacy skills.
Links have also been forged with Mount Hawke Skate Park and Sportlink to help girls, aged 11 and over, to take part in new sporting activities, such as skateboarding.
Youth worker Tracy Robson said: "We work with about 50 young people every week and form an important part of the local community.
"The project is entirely run by volunteers who work incredibly hard and give up their spare time to help the youth club become the success that it is.
"We feel that it is important for the project to be young person led, enabling us to work on their specific needs and ensure their voices are heard.
"We have recently formed a new management committee, which includes two young people enabling them to voice the needs of people of their age in the community.
"We would like to thank Johnny Gyatt, Andrew King, and Ian and Peta Redmore for giving up their free time and helping to refurbish the centre."
To mark the re-launch, the club has been renamed the Barn Youth Project and now offers a variety of activities for different age groups. From 6.30pm-7.45pm on Mondays, nine-to-13-year-olds take part in activities and socialise with their friends. From 8pm-9.15pm, 13-to-16-year-olds can meet in the coffee bar and play pool.
On Thursdays from 7.30pm-9.30pm there is a drop-in centre offering issue-based workshops covering such things as self-esteem, bullying, healthy eating, and drug and alcohol abuse.
Youth workers are now looking for funding to run a homework group on Wednesday evenings, when there will be a chance to learn more about computers and develop numeracy and literacy skills.
Links have also been forged with Mount Hawke Skate Park and Sportlink to help girls, aged 11 and over, to take part in new sporting activities, such as skateboarding.
Youth worker Tracy Robson said: "We work with about 50 young people every week and form an important part of the local community.
"The project is entirely run by volunteers who work incredibly hard and give up their spare time to help the youth club become the success that it is.
"We feel that it is important for the project to be young person led, enabling us to work on their specific needs and ensure their voices are heard.
"We have recently formed a new management committee, which includes two young people enabling them to voice the needs of people of their age in the community.
"We would like to thank Johnny Gyatt, Andrew King, and Ian and Peta Redmore for giving up their free time and helping to refurbish the centre."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
