uk
COTEHELE’S
70,000
MAGICAL
GARLAND
flowers
YOUR ULTIMATE el
Nad !ik
GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS
IN CORNWALL
Festive fairs, fabulous food
and unforgettable events
Lowe n £3.99
PAUL BARBECUE ON
AINSWORTH FOOD & DRINK THE BEACH
cooks up a AWARDS forget the turkey
festive feast meet the winners says Ben Quinn
RADMORE’S OF TRURO
Fine Antique and Modern Jewellers
Visit our exquisite shop premises situated in the heart of Truro and enter a reflection of our past heritage and beauty. Specialist collections of Georgian,
Victorian and Edwardian jewellery, set with rose and old cut diamonds complimented by the most breathtaking gem stones.
Complementing our gorgeous jewellery we also stock the finest collection of antique silver from the Georgian period through to modern day.
Valuations provided for insurance, probate, repair and replacement purposes. Repairs and commission of bespoke work undertaken by skilled
goldsmiths at the shop premises. Beautiful selection of diamond engagement rings always in stock, antique and modern.
Timeless beauty – Fine antique and modern jewellery from a bygone era.
1-2 Duke St, Truro TR1 2QE | 01872 277 217 | david_ radmore@yahoo.com | www.truro-jewellery.co.uk
Welcome
M
y 13-year-old son will the humans couldn’t be further
not forgive me for away from those supermarket
telling this story – but adverts that seem to be designed
when he was six he to make your Christmas feel
got a rather splendid acid green disappointing unless you have
Grit stunt scooter for Christmas; endless numbers of family
he couldn’t have been prouder members and neighbours
riding it in to school in the New demanding piles of mini samosas
Year. And when some Year 6 boys and smoked salmon vol-au-vents
admired it, he turned around and without falling out over Brexit or
told them with no uncertainty. whose turn it is to do the washing
‘Thanks, I got it from Santa.’ up. So instead we do our own
thing. Christmas Eve is a chance
‘Christmas day was spent building to go out for pizza (yes, pizza) rather grown-up cheeseboard.
complicated Lego Star Wars sets and sing deranged versions of Boxing Day is the official start
and arguing with the inanimate Christmas carols on the way of the James Bond Marathon, the
instructions even though they home. Burns household’s attempt to the
never, ever had a piece missing.’ Christmas day was once spent work our way through all 26 films
building ever more complicated by the end of January (we are all
Spoiler alert! Those days of Lego Star Wars sets and arguing allowed one veto).
Santa Claus have pretty much with the inanimate instructions So here’s my Christmas gift
gone (we still leave something even though they never, ever had to you all, create your own
out for Santa, just in case), but a piece missing (by the end of the traditions, don’t cling to the old
Christmas continues to have its build, I certainly had lost a few ones or try and recreate those TV
charms and most of it comes marbles). Now it is the build up adverts. Nadelic Lowen! ◆
from creating new Christmas for the Doctor Who Christmas
traditions each year that allow us special that dominates our day. CAROL BURNS,
to have fun and not create scenes At Christmas dinner, the crackers Editor, Cornwall Life
where one of us is shouting ‘but have been replaced with table 01803 860916
we always do that’. presents and the endless rounds carol.burns@archant.co.uk
Our small and bijou family of the Quality Street/Cadbury You can follow Carol on Twitter
where the cats almost outnumber Roses tins have morphed into a @CornwallLifeEd
Becky Millington Toby Buckland Adam Henson Simon Tregoning Juliet May Paul Ainsworth
26
8 This month
News and views
11 Kernow Splann!
Merv Davey
14 Beach of the
Month
A bracing dip at
Porthminster
17 Classic Cornwall
Simon Tregoning
20 Capturing
Cornwall A blizzard
on the Lizard
26 Top picks
Christmas markets
113 Countryside
Adam Henson
53 Antiques
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Your ultimate guide to
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FABULOUS FOOD AND
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forget the turkey
62
UNFORGETTABLE EVENTS
Food heroes
says Ben Quinn
PLUS
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GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS
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SPI DER
SENSE S
Newquay Zoo has
welcomed the world’s
heaviest tarantula to its
community – a Goliath
bird-eating tarantula.
Despite its name, the
arachnid rarely feeds on
birds, but eats insects
and other invertebrates
instead. An adult Goliath
birdeater can weigh in
at a spine tingling 170
grams – the same weight
of a hamster. Since arrival,
she has moulted her entire
exoskeleton – the hard
outer skeletal structure.
Moulting allows the spider
to grow, and to regenerate
broken limbs. Her leg span
is currently nine inches,
and will continue to grow.
‘Whilst we appreciate
that these aren’t
Christmas
in a pasty
If Christmas dinner feels just a
bit too much effort this year – or
you can’t wait to get stuck in –
Warrens Bakery has come up
with the perfect solution. The
three bird pasty features turkey,
chicken and duck combined with
cranberry and apricot stuffing
topped with a sage crumb.
For the sweeter-toothed, there
is also the Christmas Pudding
Pasty: rough puff pastry filled
with a Christmas pudding filling
including apples, sultanas,
currants and traditional mixed
peel all soaked in brandy. The
finishing touch is a pretty pink
sugar topping.
You can pick one up throughout
the Christmas period at one of the
Warren shops. Find out more at
warrensbakery.co.uk
D
ecember brings us
the darkest days and
longest nights of the
year and an excuse
for ‘party time’, not that we
ever need to invent reasons to
celebrate the seasons in Cornwall.
Measured astronomically the
actual day of the Winter Solstice
can vary between the 20 and
23 December. This year it will
be on 21 December but for a
Cornish custom that takes place
in Mousehole each year it is the
end of the solstice period that is
celebrated on 23 December.
The magic begins in the
early evening with the lantern
procession and you will begin to
hear people sing ‘Tom Bawcock’s
Eve’ as they weave down through
the village to the harbour. Once
the procession reaches the
harbour the traditional carol
singing starts and the world
famous lights, delayed whilst the
lanterns arrive, are switched on
to great dramatic effect. Later
in the evening the song is picked
up in the local pubs where
eventually the character of Tom
Bawcock himself appears bearing
the traditional dish of Star Gazey
Pie. So what is Star Gazey Pie?
Well the song starts with a chorus
which gives a hint:
Henrys of Falmouth
Ready for Christmas 2018!
L
ast time we were featured in jackets, Anna Lascata ladies tweed coats Dorset coast, it was important for us to
Cornwall Life, we could hardly exuding both warm and exquisite style include both nautical as well as country
believe that five months have are proving to be a popular Christmas clothing to acknowledge our love of the
passed since we collected the present choice… sea. After two wonderful years of living in
keys and four months since opening Matching Fairfax and Favor boots and Gloucestershire we had to attend to our
Henrys of Falmouth; We are now handbags with the Hicks and Brown hats longing to be back by the coast! Flushing
enjoying our first winter and looking will guarantee an outfit that will stand had always held a special place in our
forward to Christmas! out from the crowd whatever the weather hearts so when Falmouth was suggested
Selecting brands and pieces that serve this December! as a location for our second store, we
to keep our customers feeling warm and As a small husband and wife run didn’t need to think about it for very long!
dry whilst retaining style, has been an business (sorry, we mustn’t forget Providing a service that allows us to
important and enjoyable process for us. Henry, our golden retriever his two take the time to talk with and listen to
Alongside essential winter wardrobe shops are named after!), receiving our our customers is an important factor for
staples, we have also ensured that Henrys customer’s thoughts and feelings on their us. Along with the quality brands and
offers an interesting and varied choice experience in our shops has always been products that we sell, we hope to create
of Christmas gifts; who wouldn’t be an important part of our development and a traditional service that allows our
delighted to find a piece of cashmere in journey. So far, we have been delighted by customers an experience that is enjoyable
their stocking?! Snoods, gloves, scarves the feedback on our brands and customer and memorable.
and hats stylishly boxed in merino, service, and of course on the iconic So, whether you are looking for a
lambswool and cashmere, coastal themed building that 48 Arwenack Street is… Musto waterproof coat for wet and
silver jewellery, hip flasks and wallets are Having a passion for both country and windy beach walks, a stylish merino
just some of the products available. coastal life, we set up Henrys of Moreton sweater for the obligatory Boxing Day
Dubarr y, Musto, RM Williams in the beautiful town of Moreton in ‘walk and pub’, something stylish for
and Schoffel have not disappointed Marsh in 2015 with the sub-title Coast that special Christmas gift or would just
with their winter collections; from to Country. Having returned to the like to come and say hello, we would love
beautifully crafted capes to toastie warm Cotswolds after a period of living on the to welcome you…
0RQWK THE
Porthminster,
St Ives
S
t Ives has long been a favourite
with sunseekers and its winter
programme of events ensures
there is no let-up in attractions
even when the winter weather sets in.
At Porthminster there is always
something a bit special on offer. This white
sandy beach rarely stays empty whatever
the weather.
One of its many attractions is The
Porthminster Beach Cafe – boasting an
incredible menu, amazing views and a
well-earned reputation for keeping it
Cornwall. This award-winning restaurant
specialises in Mediterranean and Asian
seafood cuisine so come hungry and
prepared to be impressed.
This month there’s plenty going. Head
to the harbour where there’s a Christmas
market (of course) and its stunning
harbour will be filled with twinkly lights
and Santa arrives by boat to great roars
from the crowds.
New Year is also a sight to behold – the
town is swamped by thousands of revellers
dressed in costumes who are rewarded for
their efforts by a stunning firework display
over the harbour to mark midnight. On
New Year’s Day, you can join hundreds
of brave souls and take part in an out of
season dip. This tradition, repeated at
nearby Hayle and Sennen Cove (among
others) starts at 11am and lasts as long as
your circulation. Dozens of people turn out
to cheer the brave swimmers. ◆
stives-cornwall.co.uk
E
ver heard of ‘Kettle
Genies’? They are
responsible for the voice
which lures you away
from your heavy deadline task to
make yet another cup of tea.
I am working from home
quite a lot these days and I have
noticed that the genie’s call to the
kettle is that bit louder at home
where I have less background
noise and fewer witnesses. I
know that I am not alone, there
are a lot of us working from home
in Cornwall. Apparently, we are
above average because we have
50% more self-employed workers
than the rest of the country. And
it is not just the self-employed.
There are times when I have
risked the Truro morning rush
hour on a Friday only to whisk
through unimpeded and have to
kill 20 minutes in a Costa – now
they have really loud Kettle
Genies – because half of Truro’s
workforce are at home staring
at their laptops with their hands
over their ears.
A chap called Francesco Crillo
has the answer for us all. He
Doing it at home
invented a time management tool
called the Pomodoro Technique.
But first, I feel obliged to answer
the pressing question of how a
management methodology came
to be named after an Italian
tomato? Well, that was the shape
Simon Tregoning discovers the joy of working from
of the egg timer that Mr Crillo home with the aid of a laptop and an egg timer
used to manage his time.
You might be thinking that
Francesco’s system relies on the
ticking of the timer to drown out task allowing the gentle ticking pencil tick on a piece of paper ABOVE:
the sound of that pesky genie. to massage your focus. When the are best. After the break (tea or Setting a timer by
It obviously helps, but that is timer rings, step away from the other) set the timer for the next your laptop can
help you focus
not entirely it. This is how it task for five minutes and record 25 minutes and get your head on a task
really works. Set the timer to 25 your ‘Pomodoro’ with a satisfied down. Once you have marked up and avoid
minutes and get down to your flourish. Again, keep it simple, a four Pomodoros reward yourself unscheduled
with a longer break of 15 to 30 coffee breaks
minutes.
Who knew, after all the
‘Who knew, after all the angst and studies about low
productivity, all that was
angst and studies about low required was a pencil, a piece of
paper and a tomato-shaped egg
productivity, all that was timer. So, get online, order your
egg timer and start ticking off
required was a pencil, a your Pomodoros. Alternatively,
put a tea cosy over your kettle. ◆
piece of paper and a tomato
classic.co.uk
shaped egg timer?’ @classiccottages
CORNWALL
TILE CENTRE
I
t’s getting towards that time of
year where many of us hope for
a covering of the white stuff to
make the festive season more
festive. We all know that the
chances of snow at Christmas in
Cornwall are extremely small but
stranger things have happened
and, after all, it is only nine
months ago that we were stunned
by the ‘Beast from the East’
leaving many parts of the county
looking like the arctic.
The Met. Office was very
thorough in its forecast of the
impending wintery weather
and being a photographer I was
Cottages in Church Cove
glued to the screen watching the
progress of Storm Emma as she
moved slowly northwards to meet it happened but I didn’t want an indication of my dedication
the Beast of the East, across the to risk driving during heavy to photography. And I wasn’t
English Channel. On 28 February snowfall so I decided to gamble entirely sure whether she thought
forecasts suggested that the two on the reliability of the weather I was crazy for heading out into
would collide over The Lizard forecast and headed out to The the snow or for heading out when
where we would see significant Lizard before Emma arrived. there hadn’t actually been any
snowfall. The last words spoken by my snow!
Early in the morning I tuned in wife Sarah as I headed out of the Anyway I was well-prepared.
to BBC Radio Cornwall and there door were ‘You’re crazy!’ To be In the car I had a shovel, flask,
was no sign of snow. The Lizard honest I don’t take much notice blanket, de-icer, scraper, plenty
is a great place for landscape of this phrase any more because of fuel, food, warm waterproof
photography and rarely sees she often thinks I’m crazy, in clothing, a toothbrush and a
snow. I wanted to be there when fact I take it as a compliment; spare pair of underpants. The last
two items are not listed in the times before in such different wading through snow up to my ABOVE:
Automobile Association’s ‘Winter conditions. First I walked down thighs but in other places it was Looking across
Emergency Kit’ but I was thinking to Church Cove; then out past possible to see the frozen ground. Housel Bay to
Lizard Light
longer term. I knew I could get to the Housel Bay Hotel onto Pen With an offshore wind and
The Lizard before the snow but if Olver; then back into the village sometimes slippery conditions RIGHT:
I got stuck there I could stay in a for a pasty before heading west the route from Kynance to Lizard David Chapman
hotel until it thawed. to Kynance Cove and then south was not easy, I was grateful that I captured (and
In fact I first hit snow as I along the coast path to Lizard had walked this route many times covered) in snow
on The Lizard
passed the turning to Kynance Point. before and I knew every twist and
Cove, so it wasn’t far to Lizard Conditions were challenging to turn of the path, so even when
village where I parked the car say the least. I had just come back the margins were blurred by lying
and headed into a coffee shop. from Finland where temperatures and blowing snow I could pick
The snow was falling too heavily were technically much lower but out the route.
to be able to take photographs so I The Lizard was certainly more My phone, which stopped
sat and waited. inhospitable due to the strong working for a while due to the
When the heavy snowfall easterly wind. It’s difficult to cold, tells me I walked at least ten
abated a little I headed out on estimate the depth of the snow miles. At each location I stopped
foot to all the beautiful spots because the wind was blowing and waited for a momentary
that I have visited so many it into huge drifts. At times I was burst of sunlight to pick out a
David’s tips
If the snow in your photos is Snow photos can work well
grey then you should over- in cloudy or sunny conditions
expose a little, or wait for the but sunshine will help to bring
sun to shine; snow can look blue out textures in the snow and
in shadow areas or if there is a make the sky more dramatic;
lot of blue sky, if you don’t like I tend to find that woodland
this effect try to take photos snow scenes are best when it is
when the sun is lower in the sky cloudy.
or compose photos with less It’s important to expose
dominant shadow areas. the photos carefully so that
Foreground is important in the snow is bright but not
landscape photography. If the over-exposed; when taking the
foreground is dominated by photos you should review your
snow it is important to look for images and look for highlights
textures and shapes within the (most cameras can be set to
snow. Avoid including large, show over-exposed areas; see
plain white areas. your camera’s manual).
focal point in the landscape so I had jack-knifed on the snow. I Where to take photos on The Lizard
could take a photograph. In all I was trapped! Thankfully a JCB
was walking for about five hours. arrived and within an hour the The Lizard is a very diverse location for
When I got back to my car people lorry was gone. landscape photography with coastlines facing
told me the road to Helston I didn’t need all the items in my east, south and west. It tends to be that the
was passable so I headed back personalised Winter Emergency east-facing coast is best in the morning and
towards home and even popped Kit and I was home before dark; the west-facing coast best at sunsets. The Most
into Porthleven on the way. the roads I encountered had Southerly Point experiences its best light in
That might have been a been kept quite clear and I felt winter when the sun rises from the south east
mistake because the only a sense of elation. I must admit and sets in the south west.
incident of the day took place in there were times during the day, My favourite views are: looking across Housel
Porthleven car park. When I went particularly when walking from Bay towards Lizard Lighthouse; Kynance
back to my car to set off home at Kynance to Lizard in a blizzard, Cove; Lizard Point; Cadgwith Cove; Coverack
the end of the day I found a lorry that I did wonder whether I had harbour; the pretty cottages and church in
had tried to turn on the sloping made the right decisions, but Church Cove; Poltesco (the old serpentine and
entrance to the car park and crazy? Well, maybe! ◆ pilchard factories).
B
Top 7
uy local is an ethic we should all
live by and at Christmas there
are so many opportunities to
support local businesses when
shopping for gifts or festive food. It’s better
for the local economy, it’s better for the
environment because goods are produced
close to home and it’s often better for your
purse too.
CHRISTMAS
Support local businesses and artisan
producers by shopping locally at
Christmas. And with many special markets
and events packed with producers, food
MARKETS
stalls and entertainment, it might even be
fun too!
Here’s a Cornwall Life guide to some
of the best seasonal markets. Regular
Farmers’ Markets in your area will also
offer some Christmas cheer too…
6–9 DECEMBER
PADSTOW CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL
The four-day Christmas Festival
in Padstow manages to attract
many top chefs to deliver cookery
demonstrations and there’s always
plenty of entertainment on hand. It’s
a shopper’s paradise with more than
100 stalls in its famous Christmas
market, packed with artisan crafts
and locally-produced food and drink.
The free-to-attend event also
features live music, a lantern parade,
Santa’s grotto, and fireworks display
(Friday 7 December, 8.30pm).
A full list of events and participants can
be found at padstowchristmasgestival
28 NOVEMBER–2 DECEMBER
MADE IN CORNWALL
CHRISTMAS FAIR
Think of products from Cornwall and
pasties and clotted cream spring to
mind. The Made in Cornwall Scheme
was set up over 25 years ago to help
people recognise a whole range of
genuine Cornish products, identified
by the familiar engine house icon.
There are now over 200 members
making it the largest region origin
scheme in the UK. Look out for their
label everywhere you shop. It will
be seen in great numbers at the
Made in Cornwall Christmas Fair
on Truro’s Lemon Quay Piazza.
There will be plenty of food and drink
on sale, as well as lots of brilliant gift
ideas from local artists and craftmakers
with over 90 traders taking part. Keep
up-to-date on their Facebook page:
facebook.com/officialmadeincornwall
1–2 DECEMBER
HELSTON FARMERS MARKET
This thriving market, which is open
all year round on the first Saturday
of each month (except January) has
more than 40 local producers from
within a 20-mile radius selling top
quality produce from 9.30am to 1pm
in the town’s Old Cattle Market.
In December the market expands to a
whole weekend.
helstonfarmersmarket.co.uk
2 DECEMBER
BUDE CHRISTMAS FAYRE
The popular Christmas event in Bude
has expanded over the past nine years
and is staged in the Parkhouse Centre
and The Castle. The focus this year is
on children and families with Santa
putting in an appearance in his Grotto
in the Castle. He will be giving out
wooden Christmas decorations for
children to decorate in the Christmas
arts and crafts room to take away.
Alongside the stalls there will be
live music with Christmas songs and
carols, and refreshments in the form of
mulled wine, mince pies, roasted horse
chestnuts, and even stone baked pizzas.
The fair is open 11am–4pm.
visitbude.info
POLSUE FARM
TREGONY
Guide price: £1.695m
rohrsandrowe.co.uk info@rohrsandrowe.co.uk
01872 306 360
rohrsandrowe.co.uk info@rohrsandrowe.co.uk
PROMOTION
FEAST FOR
£38, marquisanddawe.co.uk
THE SENSES
A little bit of fun goes a long way to making
family memories to treasure
Embroidered red
Christmas tablecloth,
£50, raggedrose.com
Hessian snowflake
table runner, £8.95,
luckandluck.co.uk
TRADITIONALLY
BEAUTIFUL
Classic styling will bring the joy of the season to all
who attend your Christmas dining table
Rose gold
sequin table runner,
£16.99,
gingerray.co.uk
PINK FIZZ
Embracing the festive shade is sure
to put a smile on your face Lulu champagne flutes (4), £41.95, annabeljames.co.uk
I
f you’ve recently purchased a Tactile style and high-end finesse are
holiday home, it makes sense the trademark of luxury projects
to let it out when you can’t
use it. The luxury let market
in Cornwall in particular is
booming, so we caught up with
Elaine Skinner, design director
of Camellia Interiors, a Cornwall-
based interior design studio, who
regularly advises owners on how
to capitalise on this potentially
lucrative niche. We asked her
what a new holiday homeowner you want to achieve from the once it’s been done, your interior
should know before hiring an outset – the more planning done designer won’t be offended if you
interior designer. early on, the more realistic costs dismiss an idea. You are paying
‘Before you get started, try can be. They can then advise you them for a project you love and
to keep these four key things in on what else can be achieved and it’s their job to deliver. If they add
mind and your luxury holiday what provisional sums are likely an element you dislike, say it and
home refurbishment will be to be. Far better than getting confidently move along. While
completed on time, on budget and three-quarters of the way down the interior designer may not
look exactly how you dreamt it the road and bolting additional agree with your design choice,
would, which ultimately means work on that blows the costs and the final decision is not up to
maximising your revenue and timings and leaves everyone them. Remember, the project
investment,’ explains Elaine. falling out! is your home, not theirs, so it is
ultimately your decision as to
1. Hire the best – interior 3. Talk money early on – while it what design elements stay and
design is a business, albeit a would be nice to think that your which ones go.
creative one, so you will want interior designer has your budget Understanding these things
to hire an Interior Designer in mind – this usually isn’t the will keep your relationship with
with ideally a master’s degree in case. Unless you clearly discuss your interior designer friendly
design, a long practice history your monetary limits at the start, and smooth. If your professional
with luxury holiday home your designer is going to choose relationship is on track and you
industry experience. There is the best features in quality and understand how the business
a big difference between an structure. If you have hired the works, you should be pleasantly
interior designer and an interior right designer, they will give surprised with the final outcome
decorator, who has often only you some ideas on what changes and maybe even come in under
done a short course or is self- to your design plan need to be budget!
taught. If you’re working on a made to help you stay within that ‘Please remember interior
remodel, changing the layout budget and advise you on what designers are skilled professionals
to achieve better functionality is or is not essential in the luxury and should be treated as such.
through the space and require market. So, set your emotions aside and
guidance beyond aesthetics, then Decide also if you want them to make a business deal with your
an interior designer is your best source and supply everything, or designer – a deal that makes
choice. if you want them to source while everyone happy and creates a
A well-connected interior you supply, as their fee structure lasting home design that you will
designer has many skills and will vary accordingly. Most love for years to come,’ finishes
resources that they can pass onto interior designers make their Elaine. ◆
you plus they will consider every money from the discounts they If you have a refurbishment or
element of the property and can get through supplying – so it pays renovation project of a luxury
advise on all the associated trades to be upfront from the beginning. holiday home you need help
needed. with or to speak to Elaine please
4. Remember you can say no – call 01872 248592 or email
2. Write a wish list – your interior while it might not be easy to say hello@camelliainteriors.co.uk
designer will need to know what that you don’t like something camelliainteriors.co.uk
Looking for
the ideal heating
solutions for
your home?
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Cornwall is not short of
unique Christmas celebrations
– but top of everyone’s list
is the Cotehele Garland – a
stunning display featuring
40,000 dried summer flowers
– and this year visitors can
expect even more flora with
an installation made up of
20,000 cut out flowers to
mark the centenary of the end
of World War I
PHOTOS: Ewen MacDonald
up and this year we can expect a kicked off and we were picking garland created by nearby ABOVE:
bumper garland. Alongside the every day. schools, ‘We give them plants to Dominique
main garland a smaller one is I like the Helichrysum, which is grow and pick and dry them and has worked
with visitors to
created by local schoolchildren. the strawflower,’ ‘I like the paper come and make their garlands Cotehele and
Each spring schools are given roses because they are delicate while we make ours. Sometimes beyond to cut out
seeds to grow and can donate and I like the paper daisies they come back with buckets of around 20,000
their flowers. This is added to because they are quite bold and flowers, sometimes just a few. We printed flowers
spare flowers from the garland. the paper grasses or Bunny Tails never know what we are going to
Despite the snowy spring, this are really soft. get,’ adds Vicky. ◆
year has been a bumper year ‘We’ve tried to colour theme
for the flowers. ‘We’ve got about it to the red white and blue and 15 November–31 December
45,000 flowers picked and dried we’ve never had an artist to (except 25–26 December),
and about 14 varieties, says help us so that’s quite special. 11am–4pm
Cotehele gardener Vicky Dillion It’s going to be something very Price: normal admission
who is marking her 18th garland different.’ charges apply
this year. ‘Things took a long Alongside the garland they St Dominick, nr Saltash PL12
time to get going because of the decorate a doorway and the barn 6TA
weather but then things really is decorated with a children’s nationaltrust.org.uk/cotehele
TH I NGS
TO D O
Instant colour goes a
long way in winter and
pots filled with burgundy
red skimmia, scented
Christmas box and violas
add an instant splash
of colour. The range of
winter colour pot-fillers
grows every year with
evergreen grasses for
those with urban tastes or
Season’s greetings
cottage garden classics
like primroses and pansies.
All can be planted now
– provided the compost
isn’t frozen. On the veg
plot, harvest sprouts from
It’s traditional to bring outdoors inside wood-burner. When aflame on the grate the bottom of the stems
for Christmas though you needn’t restrict everyone makes a wish for next year. up and with cabbages,
your pickings to holly and ivy. Add some My hope, as always, is that I don’t burn leave the trunks of the
contemporary tones and silvery sparkle the Christmas dinner – easier said than plants in slicing an ‘x’ with
with the wispy silver clematis seed-heads, done when sipping festive cheer! But food a knife across the severed
aka Old Man’s beard, sprigs of aromatic is the central theme of the month with the ‘trunk’ to reap a second
eucalyptus, rosemary and cotton lavender. last of the carrots, red cabbage, beetroot smaller crop of collards
I also buy bundles of willow for making and swede gathered from the veg plot. later in winter. Indoors,
the base of wreaths and what’s left over Once cleared I tickle over the soil so that keep houseplant cyclamen
makes excellent supports for beans and the lumps are left for frosts to break down cool, in a bright spot and
sweet peas to scramble over in summer. and to expose any slugs to the birds. One watered from beneath
Experimenting with new plants for our other job I always do – egged on by three for the longest-lasting
Yuletide arrangements has become a excited children – is to dig out and dust off flowers. Don’t forget our
tradition at home, as has heading out to the sledge from the back of the garage. feathered friends at this
the woods to collect a Yule log for the Just in case... time: with ever fewer
berries and nuts in the
hedgerows, birds migrate
into our gardens looking
Their evergreen leaves can other plants would fail and one thing…
brighten every part of the brightening up gloomy Make sure pots can drain
garden from the shade spots. Best of all they’re by checking drainage holes
under shrubs to hanging pretty much immune to aren’t blocked and raising
baskets. The rule of thumb the attention of slugs. containers up on pot feet.
CORNWALL CALENDAR
(per calendar)
1 calendar £8.99
T
here’s little doubt that
decorating the Christmas
tree is an essential part
of getting into the festive
spirit. And whether you string
up the lights on a tree filled with
hand-me-down decorations or
each year have a new colour
scheme, we invest a lot in our
festive ornaments.
It’s a tradition that goes back to
the early Victorian period in the
UK, when the trend was brought
over from Germany, and while
decorations at this time mostly
came in the form of handmade
paper decorations and candles
to light the trees up, our love of
decorations has been unwavering
ever since. But, as well as our
obvious sentimental attachment
to the tradition, there is also a
potential financial incentive to
consider as they can often fetch a
high price at auction, especially
for the more unique and quirky
pieces on offer.
For instance, German Fir Tree Toys in a Christmas Market
ornaments from the Victorian
period do particularly well in
‘The better
America. Dresden ornaments, popularity in design. Gary
which are embossed cardboard explains that this means things
more money
websites for up to $2,850USD, £100-£150.
while early German wax However, the most crucial
they bring’
Santa Claus figurines known thing to remember when looking
as Belsnickels are popular at collecting and selling your
in collector circles, with one ornaments is that timing is
fetching $10,000USD recently the festive lines that big everything. ‘Christmas is the
in auction. manufacturers release every time when these items really
‘The more quirky the better year, which are popular in the fetch the money obviously,’ Gary
at Christmas,’ auctioneer Christmas auctions. For example, explains. ‘They can be picked
and valuer Gary Don Swarovski glass did some boxed up really cheaply in the rest of
PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO
(garydon.co.uk) tells star decorations with certificates, the year if you’re very careful.’
me when I ask him what which can now go for up to £460 His advice is that you want to be
people should look out for. in auction, while Wedgewood selling items in late November
‘And obviously, it’s like Christmas plates can sell for up to and early December, but picking
most things and especially £20-£30 a piece at the right time them up in January or February
modern items, the better of year. time. So whether you’ve got some
the name, the more money Antiques valuations are also, old antique decorations hanging
they bring,’ he adds. of course, dependent on trends, around, or are just intrigued to
One place that with decorations from the 1950s see what bargains you can buy, it
Gary suggests people and 60s doing particularly well seems that now is definitely the
purchase from is at the moment, given their time to give it a go. ◆
Address
Postcode
Telephone Mobile
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Address
Postcode
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Paul Ainsworth is chef-patron of Paul Ainsworth at No.6 and
Rojano’s in the Square and owner of Padstow Townhouse. He
was awarded a Michelin star in 2013 and holds 4 AA rosettes
paul-ainsworth.co.uk
Chistmas on
Photo: Emily Whitfield-Wicks
the menu
Christmas has to be one of any chef’s favourite ingredients, so
what has Michelin-starred Paul Ainsworth got on his menu
C
hristmas in the beach with the Ainsworth I recently finished filming
Southampton when I family and return around midday a new BBC 1 show called Best
was a kid was all about to get cracking with the dinner. Christmas Food Ever with Irish
my mum. It was the I, of course, am the one cooking. chef and food writer, Catherine
one time of the year when she I like to play a sneaky trick on my Fulvio. The show will be aired
would put her feet up and totally family, they all think I’m such a in the two weeks leading up
chill. She always tells me how saint for cooking on Christmas to Christmas and will show
she loved seeing us all together, Day as they think I’m always myself and Catherine preparing
sat around the table enjoying the cooking and should be given a seasonal dishes worthy of every
most amazing food. Christmas day off. I must admit though, I Christmas table. It was such a joy
dinner was a big deal in my love it. I use every pot, pan and to film and we really had a blast
house. We’d have a starter, main utensil I can find – I think every with the celebrity guests. I really
and dessert. I never actually chef is guilty of this. I think I’m so hope you get a chance to tune in!
knew what a starter was when I happy to cook because I know I’ll I also think Christmas is
was younger, I just knew it was be excused from washing up duty about giving back and helping
something you had before your later! There really is no better others. Earlier this year, my wife
dinner when it was a special adrenaline rush then plating up Emma and I became charity
occasion. We’d have smoked for 12 hungry faces! ambassadors for The Cornwall
salmon with blinis or as I used to We change up the menu Air Ambulance. It is our aim
call them, mini pancakes. Mains every year but this year I think to help raise £2.5million for
would always be roast turkey, I’ll really mix things up and do the ‘New Heli appeal.’ After
ham and all the trimmings. I a ‘Surf and Turf’ style dinner. meeting the team at HQ a few
remember my mum pre-ordering A rib of beef and whole roast months ago, we knew we had
her meat at M&S weeks before turbot with all the trimmings. to be involved. The appeal
Christmas, she’s probably the It’s something different and will aims to bring a next generation
most organised individual I’ve please everyone! I do go quite air ambulance helicopter to
ever met. over the top with the trimmings, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
I remember the excitement but they are one of the best things by 1 April 2020. On the 10th
of Father Christmas so vividly. I about Christmas. For example, December, myself and fellow
wouldn’t sleep a wink the night last year I took brussel sprout chefs Angela Hartnett and Neil
before Christmas Day – god tops, fried them off with spring Borthwick will be co-hosting and
knows how they snuck the onions, chilli, ginger and mixed cooking a six-course menu at
presents into my room, there in a handful of white crab meat. It Rojano’s in the Square. I first met
must have been something strong was honestly the highlight of my Angela and Neil whilst working
mixed in with my hot chocolate. I day. I always serve up Christmas under Gordon Ramsay and we’ve
think it’s the one time of year that dinner in big bowls and platters. been great friends ever since.
everyone in the family helps with Just let everyone help themselves BBC Radio Cornwall’s Daphne
the cooking. It’s a very special – that’s part of the magic. Skinnard will be hosting a Q&A
time of the year. Buy a cut of As for prepping in advance, throughout the night too. Tickets
meat you wouldn’t usually cook, I would highly recommend it. are £120pp with every penny
the posh wine glasses come out Make your gravy a week before raised going toward the New
the cabinet, boxes upon boxes and freeze it and wash, chop and Heli Appeal.
of chocolate in the larder and peel your veg the night before. The past five months of
cheese, lots and lots of cheese. Making sure you have the perfect Cornwall Life have been an
Now that we have a little girl, pre-dinner drink is also crucial, absolute joy and it’s such an
the excitement and magic has in my house anyway! Sarah honour to have this column.
returned to our household and Clements is the head sommelier Thank you to the editor, Carol.
we are making traditions of our at No.6 has suggested our ‘Earl and all you loyal readers. Have
own. Every Christmas morning Grey 75’ cocktail. It’s super easy an amazing Christmas and see
we go for a beautiful walk along and delicious (recipe below). you in 2019! ◆
Method
Gently stir all ingredients together
and pour into a champagne flute.
TH E W HOLE
Method
Preheat the oven to 165 °C.
ROA ST R I B OF Remove the beef from the oven and TOP: Paul
Place the turbot into a large roasting BEEF W ITH leave to rest for at least one hour. Ainsworth in his
tray and lightly brush all over with BÉ A R NA ISE kitchen at No.6
soft butter. Season well with sea salt. SAUCE For the béarnaise sauce add egg
which holds a
Michelin
yolks and white wine vinegar to a ABOVE: Paul
Place the thyme on the turbot. Cover Ingredients whisking bowl. joins fellow
the baking tray with tin foil and place 4kg rib of beef chefs Angela
in the oven. 3 egg yolks Place the bowl over a pan of Hartnett and
Neil Borthwick to
1 tbsp white wine vinegar simmering water and whisk
co-host and cook
Cook the turbot for about 400ml clarified butter – melted continuously until the yolks are a six-course menu
20–25 minutes and with a meat Chopped chives cooked and the mix is light and fluffy. at is Padstow
thermometer probe the thickest part Chopped tarragon restaurant
of the turbot (near the neck). When Juice of 1 Lemon Remove from the heat and slowly Rojano’s in the
Square to raise
it’s between 45–50 °C take out the pour the butter into the yolk mixture
funds for the
oven and leave to rest for 10 minutes. Method as you continue whisking until the New Heli Appeal
Preheat the oven to 165 °C. Season mix is stiff and smooth. from Cornwall Air
Finish the turbot with fresh sea salt the beef with sea salt and place in Ambulance
and lime zest. the oven. Add the chopped herbs to the
béarnaise sauce and finish with
Serve with boiled new potatoes Turn the beef every 15 minutes until salt and a little lemon juice. Serve
finished with chopped dill and butter. the core temperature is 54 °C. generously with the sliced beef.
ROA ST POTATOE S
T
he Sardine Factory upbringing that I did.’ And we have a relaxed, friendly
began life as a fish cellar Ben’s restaurant will take the environment overlooking the
in the 1880s and was catch of the day, landed feet water.’
used for processing away in Looe Harbour, to create Ben, who has three children
sardines and later as fishermen’s a flexible lunchtime and evening between the ages of ten months
stores, but the building wasn’t menu of everything from nibbles and eight years, says the
in a safe state to be renovated. and small bites to whole plaice, children’s menu has gone down
Instead it was demolished John Dory and Cornish lobster. well and grilled fish with green
but the materials preserved ‘The fish is all fresh off the boat in veg and potatoes is particularly
to rebuild it in the style of the Looe,’ says Ben. ‘A lot of the fish popular with youngsters.
old building, which sits in a that’s landed here and Plymouth The £1.5 million Sardine
conservation area. and Brixham will go to London Factory project received funding
A new restaurant forms part and all over the place. Availability from the Coastal Communities
of the project by Looe Harbour can change but we’ll just take the Fund and European Maritime
Commissioners to provide a lot and build the menu around Fisheries Fund and will add to
heritage centre and create job what there is.’ the leisure offering in Looe with
opportunities in what was a Ben, who is also chef patron at a heritage centre and a climbing
Grade II listed building. ‘I used to wall. As well as generating job
sit outside the building and fish ‘We’ll take all the fresh opportunities, The Sardine
when I was a kid and I always Cornish sardines we Factory Restaurant will act as a
knew it as an old sardine packing can get and chargrill training restaurant working with
factory and then fishermen’s them whole, simply, and catering colleges in Cornwall and
stores,” says chef Ben Palmer at serve with a salad’ Plymouth.
teh Sardine Factory Restaurant. And are sardines on the menu
‘When people ask me why I the Greedy Goose in Plymouth at today’s Sardine Factory? ‘Of
wanted to be a chef, I say it was and executive head chef at course,’ laughs Ben. ‘We’ll take
growing up in Looe, working in Glazebrook House in South all the fresh Cornish sardines we
the restaurants and seeing the Brent, says the response from can get and chargrill them whole,
fish landed on the quay. local people has been great with simply, and serve with a salad.
‘I always wanted to come back enthusiastic five-star reviews on They’re great at a very reasonable
to Looe and open a restaurant TripAdvisor. price and they’re proving very
because I was raised by the sea ‘We’re using local produce and popular.’ ◆
and I wanted my kids to have the we’re not mucking around with it. thesardinefactorylooe.com
L–R: Tanya Forster and Andy Cooper, L–R: Anita Rennie, The Shore Restaurant, Jude
Archant South West Kereama, Kota Restaurant, Paul Stephens, Mullion
Cove Hotel
L–R: Naomi Hutcheon, The Great Cornish Food L–R: Michael & Dianne Smith, L–R: Rachel Haime, Cornwall Life, Nicole Thomas,
Store, Maggie Bray and Chris Reynard, Waitrose Porthminster Beach Café Carbis Bay Hotel and Kim Coulson, Polgoon
HIGHLY COMMENDED:
Charlie’s, Tintagel
Gylly Beach Café, Falmouth
Below:
Pub of the Year
Presented by John Coulson of Polgoon
HIGHLY COMMENDED:
Pandora Inn, near Falmouth
Rashleigh Arms, St. Austell
Above:
Independent Retailer
of the Year
Presented by Jill Bailey of Cornwall Life
HIGHLY COMMENDED:
Idle Rocks Hotel, Truro
Samphire Restaurant/The
Headland Hotel, Newquay
Left:
Cornish Product /
Producer of the Year
Presented by Andy Cooper of
Cornwall Life and accepted by
Chris Reynard of Waitrose on
behalf of Green Cow Dairy
HIGHLY COMMENDED:
Ben Prior, Ben’s Cornish
Kitchen, Marazion
Thomas Hannon, The Rising Sun, Truro
Above:
Restaurant of the Year
Presented by Laura Wood on
behalf of Straight to the Sauce
079890 24737
awpainter@mail.com
Help us to celebrate our recent CORNWALL LIFE FOOD AND DRINK AWARD with a visit to the
ATLANTIC VIEW RESTAURANT to experience our award winning cuisine and stunning View!
From 1st December until the 22nd December we are offering CORNWALL LIFE READERS 15% OFF
our Dinner Menu and a glass of bubbles on arrival!
Why not join us every Sunday for a Traditional Three Course Sunday Lunch served from 12.30pm
until 2pm in the Atlantic View Restaurant which boasts amazing views over Mounts Bay.
Have yourself a
Canteen Christmas Christmas in Cornwall brings the outside in,
and your menu should do the same, says chef
Ben Quinn from Canteen Cornwall
PHOTOS: Ewen MacDonald
B
en Quinn has his we have succeeded! our approach to festive food.
own unique take on But back to Christmas. In many The only rules when it comes
Christmas cooking; ways we are quite conventional to the dishes we serve are
free from convention in our thinking about what this that they must be honest and
and infused with show-stopping time of year means to us. Family heart-warming. Our style of
flavour, these are dishes to cook (immediate and extended, food = peasant: deep, rich, and
together and eat together this traditional and urban) coming smoky, often laced with warming
festive season. together to cook, eat and make spices, it delivers both comfort
‘In some ways, Christmas at memories; plates so loaded with and stimulation for tired winter
Canteen is just like the rest of the food they are guaranteed to taste-buds.
year – it’s all about community. induce a mid-afternoon food If you’d like to join our Canteen
A year ago we set out to create coma; long tables packed with family over the festive period
a hub for Cornwall’s year- noisy guests of all ages, wearing we would love to see you. You
round community of kindred ridiculous hats and telling bad will find details of what we
spirits; somewhere good people jokes… Everyone has their own are up to during the holiday
could come together to refuel, family folklore surrounding on our social media feeds or at
reconnect, work and support Christmas but that return to canteencornwall.com.
each other. Come push open our simple child-like joy is universal. HAPPY Christmas from us all
door on a blustery winters’ day In lots of other ways, we are at Canteen. ◆
and judge for yourself whether resolutely unconventional in canteencornwall.com
Method
Brisket is a great cut – full of flavour,
cheap and wonderful on the day or
days after as a beefy equivalent to
ham!
DISCOVER PAN
ASIAN CUISINE
To make a reser vation please use our
“book now ” button through our website
NEWQUAY - CORNWALL
WWW.KAHUNARESTAURANT.CO.UK
01637 850440
3 nights for 2
available
until
March
2019
Nick Reader, Underwater 2
(collodion wet plate photograph)
THE GAZE
T
hroughout the Christmas season, is a handmade, one-off work of art.
Whitewater Gallery present an Artist David Pascoe’s passion for shape
exhibition of work that showcases and colour is reflected in his finely crafted,
the precision, skill and beauty kiln-formed glass. Working from his West
inherent in three of the arts’ most refined Cornwall studio, he combines creativity
disciplines – photography, glasswork and with the highly specialised discipline of
silversmithing. glass-fusing, creating incredibly detailed,
Fine Art photographer Nick Reader dazzling designs that bring light and colour
trained at Edinburgh College of Art, and together in his distinctive bowls, vases and
now lives and works in North Cornwall, feature platters.
creating specialist ‘wet plate’ works that Jeweller Marsha Drew uses ancient
use a 150-year-old collodion and silver techniques and traditional silversmithing
nitrate process to create images of unique tools to create pieces inspired by the
quality. The photographs in this collection natural beauty of the Cornish coast. Her
have been taken underwater with a high- elegant, handcrafted rings are made from
resolution camera, then converted into sterling silver, combined with 18 carat
collodion wet plate panels using a 19th gold, and precious and semi-precious
century plate camera, meaning each panel stones. ◆
T
IMAGES:: ate St Ives is a striking through their juxtaposition. flattened style which seem
Stills taken from space whatever the The new exhibition features to hold the balance between
Nashashibi/Skaer artwork on display, work by such luminaries as Paul staying on the wall and falling
Why are you
Angry? 2017
but a new exhibition Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Paul through the frame. Perhaps a
© the artists featuring work from Tate’s Nash, Pierre Bonnard, Louise more eloquent conceptual piece
permanent collection has a stellar Bourgeois, Jo Spence and Lee than Banksy’s recent Girl with a
line-up. But this is no random, if Miller, among others (and this Balloon shredding.
beautifully selected, exhibition. is after you’ve walked through The commissioned work
The work is set around choices the exhibition where Picasso sits includes five films as a starting
made by two artists whose work at right angles with (the much point to explore key ideas that
was commissioned by Tate. resonate across the exhibition,
British artists Rosalind ‘British artists Rosalind from the portrayal of women
Nashashibi and Lucy Skaer Nashashibi and Lucy and the representation of global
(working together under the Skaer (working together cultures to issues around political
moniker of Nashashibi/Skaer) under the moniker of conflict. But it is the exploration
pose the question: can curation Nashashibi/Skaer) pose of the male gaze that fascinates.
be its own artwork? the question: can curation Alongside their individual
Head to Tate St Ives and be its own artwork?’ practices, Rosalind Nashashibi
decide for yourself. Their and Lucy Skaer have been
exhibition combines the artists’ copied but never bettered) linear collaborating as Nashashibi/
collaborative films with their work of Mondrain. Skaer since 2005. Their artworks
selection of artworks from the Developing the theme of – mostly made using 16mm
Tate collection and other sources. exhibition-making as an artwork, film – centre on art, artists and
Art from different places and there can be few collections architecture. One retraces Paul
times have been brought together offering more inspiration. Gauguin’s travels to Tahiti, while
to generate connections with Matisse is represented through others explore works by Henri
Nashashibi/Skaer’s own practice two paintings and a series of four Matisse and Paul Nash.
and spark new ways of looking bronze wall hung sculptures. The Perhaps most enthralling is the
at well-known artworks simply paintings feature his signature film Why Are You Angry? (2017).
paintings of bathing beauties is the most surreal image of that Nashashibi / Skaer
that adorn (and take up much movement. Thinking through other Artists
is on show until 6 Jan 2019 at Tate St Ives
more room) on the walls. The There is also a series of Jo
image goes beyond a challenge Spence’s self-portraits in the
of the female form in art. Widely terminal stages of her cancer; is it
known as a fashion and fine art that she is a woman that compels
photographer Miller spent her or that we are seeing cancer
formative years in Paris during eating away at human body?
the 1930s working as a model The walls also feature
and assistant to Surrealist master installation prints which fill the
Man Ray. wall top to bottom. Created from
But most inspiring of all, small watercolours, the simple
she spent World War II as a images demand attention, and an
war correspondent sending ever closer view.
dispatches to Vogue when she The exhibition will also show
covered the liberation of Paris, Ambassador 2005 – the first
and the concentration camps artwork that Nashashibi/Skaer
at Buchenwald and Dachau. made together; Flash in the
Her image of herself in Hitler’s Metropolitan 2006 – made in the
garish bathroom stands as one world-famous museum at night
of the world’s most powerful and and Our Magnolia 2009 – a film
memorable images of war (her that re-imagines Paul Nash’s
image of a drowned Nazi comes Flight of the Magnolia 1944. ◆
a close second). And perhaps it tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives
Little
Christmas Mouse
Pot Hanger, £5.99,
thefarthing.co.uk
Measuring Spoons
£8, debenhams.com
Flying high
Oviedo to receive an honorary degree 1992
C
ornwall has the
‘The Circle
Under the Sea
is set around
the Scilly Isles
and is a sort of
adventure story’
His daughter continued: ‘Lord
of the Flies is obviously dad’s most
famous work and I’m certain
the beaches of Newquay were
the inspiration for much of that
book. I remember talking with
dad about the Peter Brook film
adaptation; there was a scene
when the choir was walking William Golding was born at his grandmother’s house in Newquay and used
along the beach and he said: “I Cornwall’s beaches to inspire his writing – Holywell Bay was said to be the
did that!” and I’m certain this was spot of Lord of the Flies
from his time at Newquay.
‘But it wasn’t only Newquay.
The essay he wrote for the – a bit near a busy road – but dad think he treasured his childhood
acceptance of the Nobel Prize, was a bit deaf by that stage and memories and didn’t want to taint
which is in a volume called he didn’t let it worry him too them. He returned to Holywell
Moving Target, refers to a very much! They loved going around Bay with Melvyn Bragg for the
specific experience he had on the buying furniture for the house filming of a South Bank Show
Cornish coast when he was a little which they bought with great episode to try and find a place
boy. I’ve tried to find the exact pleasure. He was a great worrier that had helped inspired part
place and I think it’s somewhere and he would worry about the of Lord of the Flies and he was
near Holywell Bay, but he tried trees at Tullimaar and it had enraptured by the Atlantic Ocean.
to use that memory to explain some splendid walls and he was ‘It’s not only the beach in Lord
his sense of doom towards continually trying to dig the ivy of the Flies that was inspired by
climate change. He became very out of the walls, even in his later Cornwall – it is everywhere in his
concerned about it and tried to days. It is a lovely, bright house work and was an inspiration to
use his experiences in Cornwall – quite the opposite of the home him throughout his life.’
to try and convey that. in Marlborough which was a bit As Sir William poignantly
‘The Circle Under the Sea is set dark and spooky. once said: ‘You’ve got anybody if
around the Scilly Isles and is a ‘He obviously cherished his you can say “once upon a time”
sort of adventure story – he went memories of Newquay, but convincingly.’ Few writers have
to the Scillies with a friend from rarely returned there because I done it better. ◆
Oxford in his early twenties and
again, it obviously left a huge Tullimaar House in Truro is still a
impression on him.’ Golding family home
In 1985, having been awarded
both the Booker Prize and the
Nobel Prize for Literature in
previous years, Golding and his
wife Anne decided they wanted
to live in Cornwall permanently
and moved to Truro. They bought
the beautiful, rambling Tullimaar
House and lived there very
happily until his death in 1993.
His daughter Judy continued:
‘We still own Tullimaar. My
father and mother were really
happy there. It’s a beautiful house
Bottoms up! Enjoy a festive tipple with these Christmassy cocktail recipes
SPICED 1751
N EGRON I
Ingredients:
25ml Gin Lane 1751 ‘Victoria’ Pink
25ml Lillet Rouge
25ml Luxardo Bitter Bianco
10ml spiced berry cordial
Method:
Stir ingredients in a cocktail shake
TH E COTS WOLD and pour into a rock glass over large
DISTI LLERY cubed ice. Garnish with a sprig of
HOT TODDY redcurrants sitting on the rim, dusted
Ingredients: with icing sugar
50ml Cotswolds 2 slices of
1616 Barrel fresh lemon
Aged Gin Cloves
1 bar spoon of Hot water to
honey top up
20ml lemon juice 1 cinnamon stick
Method:
Stud the rind of the lemon slices with CL A S SIC EG G NO G
the cloves. Combine all the ingredients Ingredients:
in a heat-proof glass. Top up with 300ml milk
hot water and stir until the honey 150ml double cream
has melted and the spices infused. 1 vanilla pod, split
Decorate with the cinnamon stick. 1 cinnamon stick
3 large British Lion eggs, separated
75g caster sugar
175ml dark rum or Bourbon whisky
(optional)
A little freshly grated nutmeg
Method:
In a pan combine the milk and
cream, the vanilla pod and
cinnamon. Bring to the boil over a
medium heat, then set aside to cool
and infuse for 30 mins. Place the
egg yolks and 50g of the sugar in a
bowl and whisk until they are pale,
fluffy and leave a trail. Remove the
spices from the milk, then slowly
whisk it into the egg mixture, then
P
ondering a jumper
again for your dad, a
food hamper for those
friends you can’t think of
anything else for? Why not give
a gift that will really count – and
donate to one of Cornwall’s many
charities? Handing over the
money to support their chosen
interest will show you care –
about them and the things that
matter to them. Many charities
offer a special gift donation for
Christmas.
Looking for something with
a small price tag? Big or small
charities say even a small amount
can make a big difference to the
work they do. Or if you have
limited funds consider giving a
little of your time instead.
COR N WA LL W I LDLI FE
T RUST
Cornwall Wildlife Trust has protected
Cornwall’s wildlife and wild places for more
than half a century. The charity is currently
raising £16,000 for their Marine Strandings
Network which has recorded every stranded
animal reported over the last 25 years in a
bid to understand and reduce the increasing
number of dolphins and porpoises being
found on Cornwall’s beaches.
cornwallwildlifetrust.org.uk/donate
THE RNLI
A huge charity, but you can make one-off donations
to given directly to a certain lifeboat station.
Around 95 per cent of the RNLI’s total income comes
from donations so this organisation that provides
lifeguard cover on so many of Cornwall’s beaches
each year relies on the generosity of supporters
and their fundraising efforts to fund the training
and equipment our volunteer lifeboat crew and our
lifeguards. Already this year the RNLI has aided
24,000 people who got into trouble in the water.
Donate online for acknowledgement receipt by
email or call 0300 300 9990. And you will get a
thank you letter which can presented to the gift
recipient. rnli.org
CATS PROTECTION
Cats Protection carry on our
work to ensure a bright future
for all the cats and kittens.
Donating to Cats Protection saves
the lives of cats. Your donation
will help provide food, shelter,
care, veterinary treatment and AONB TRUST
help find new homes for cats Almost a third of Cornwall sits in an ‘Handing over
and kittens in need at the Cats Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Protection Adoption Cornwall which has the same status and level the money to
Centre. cats.org.uk/donate of protection as a National Park.
Cornwall’s AONB Charitable Trust their chosen
is set up to manage, promote and
protect these stunning areas of the interest will
county.
Donations are currently used to show you care –
provide funding to local community
projects in the AONB through the about them and
Environment Landscape Fund.
Find out more about what they the things that
do and how you can donate at
cornwallaonbtrust.com matter to them’
86 Cornwall Life: December 2018
CHRISTMAS IN CORNWALL
Metallic, £265
marc-cain.com
The breathtaking view from Penally Hill of Penally Point and Willapark is
just one of the high points of the Boscastle walk
FACT FI LE
Start/parking: Lerryn, SX140569
FAMILY
much of her childhood and youth in St Ives
ROUTES
1.GODREVY: TO THE
LIGHTHOUSE
Head to the beach at the Camel Estuary FACT FI LE Landranger 200; Harvey’s SWCP 1.
Start/parking: Padstow Harbour car
park. Alternative car parks in Link Road Refreshments: Wide choice in Padstow
and the Lawn
Public Toilets: Padstow
Terrain: Streets and fairly gentle Coast
Path Public Transport: Plymouth City Bus
daily via Bodmin and Wadebridge, 0871
Maps: Ordnance Survey Explorer 106; 2002233 www.travelinesw.com
BUDGETING
T Celebrating yuletide
he days are short and
the nights are long but
that is no excuse to go
into hibernation, why
not head out for a bracing walk,
explore and enjoy the twelve
Christmas is about more than gifts – so get out and
sections of the Cornwall Area of enjoy Cornwall’s wildside and discover its history
Outstanding Natural Beauty as it
takes on its winter mantle during
and take part in its dare devil traditions
Yuletide.
Yule (Old Norse) or Yuletide
is the festival that has its origins
in Paganism and is thought to
be connected with the ‘Wild
Hunt’ of the long-bearded god
Odin and the pagan Anglo-Saxon
M draniht. This year ‘Yuletide’
begins 21 December and runs
through to 1 January 2019.
As is evidenced by the wide
range of ancient relics spread
throughout Cornwall our
splendid Cornish landscape has
played a significant part in the
significance of this pre-Christian
celebration generally associated
with the northern winter solstice.
Long before the rise of
Christianity, 21 December was
celebrated as the rebirth of the
‘Child of the Sun’. The belief was
that through the love of the
pagan Gods new life was born.
This pagan ritual manifested
itself through the Yule, Log or
‘Block’ as it is known in Cornwall. light of the Saviour with the 20 December the Cornish Bush is ABOVE RIGHT:
The ‘Block’ was thrown on to growth of Christianity. brought indoors and hung from Brave the
an open fire and whilst it burnt Another Cornish Yuletide a beam and just before midnight bracing winter
on the beach:
the Cornish Bards would call tradition is the construction of a candle is lit and a circle dance photographer
everyone together to tell stories a ‘Cornish Bush’. Holly, mistletoe is performed under the Bush to Debbie Ashton did
around the fire, in time the light and ivy are woven around a three welcome in the ‘God of Light’. for this image of
of the fire came to represent the dimensional wreath of withy. On Nowadays there are more Widemouth Bay
modern traditions such as the
ABOVE:
Christmas and Boxing Day
Sea and snow: a
swims and the Cornwall AONB snowy Trevallas
is the perfect place to enjoy St Agnes. Photo:
this chilly activity although Beth Simons
definitely not recommended for
the feint hearted. There are 10 LEFT:
The Hurlers on
stretches of Cornish coastline
a rather bleak
within the AONB offering a Bodmin Moor
range of beautiful beaches. were captured in
Swimming on these days are winter by Lynda
normally organised events and Murnaghan
it is advisable to only brave
the Cornish waters if there is a
lifeguard present.
Santa Fun Runs are also a
great way to keep fit and stay
warm with many being run in
aid of good causes. Santa Fun
Runs take place throughout
for me
a business
loan for John
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A DOG’S LIFE
ALEXANDRA PEARCE
T
he colder months are a
great time to check out
some local woodland
and Trevaylor Woods
near Penzance is the perfect
hidden gem for a winter walk.
Access to the woods is down
a bumpy slope, the entrance of
which is marked by two dog bins.
The bottom opens up to some of
the most charming woodlands in
the county; characterised by lots
of tall beech trees and a shallow
river running through the middle.
The woodland is charming and
best enjoyed during the colder
months, when the vapour swirls
up from the river and the multi
coloured leaves litter the floor. It
is a fantastic walk for children as
well as dogs, as the moss covered
trees with twisted branches have
a magical essence about them
and the triangular-shaped holes
in the bases of some trunks give
an appearance of fairy doors.
The woods are really tranquil;
quiet except for the sound of
running water. As you walk you
will see evidence of previous
human activity, such as concrete
gates posts and metal-looking
Wood retreat
contraptions. The nearby village
Escape Christmas and head to Cornwall’s
is ’New Mill’, suggesting the mystical woodlands with your four-pawed friends
water flow would have once been
used as part of a corn mill which
‘The woods are Facilities: There are bins at the a Christmas day swim at one of
really tranquil; quiet entrance and Penzance has cafés the following places:
except for the sound and toilets nearby. Charlestown Beach.11.30am;
of running water’ Coverack Harbour. 12.30pm;
Wildlife: Nuthatches and robins are Crooklets Beach. 11am; Hayle Bay.
would explain these features. two of our woodland winter birds 11am; Porthminster Beach. 12pm;
There are few places to that become more prominent during Sennen cove. 11am; Trevaunance
cross to cross the river, but the this time of year, so keep an eye on Cove. 11am
homemade wooden bridge the scarce branches for flashes of
provides a fun way to explore the red and blue. PAWFECT PRESENT
other side. The trees eventually If your dog feels the cold, why
end, however you will reach a Christmas Day in Cornwall not treat them to a beautiful
small stone style, which leads has atradition that doesn’t hand-crafted coat this Christmas?
to a thin field, and at the other involve presents or turkey… the Handmade right here in the
end another field where you can Christmas Day Swim! Why not county, Beau Beau’s dog coats
continue your walk towards New brave the cold and take your are made to measure and fitted
Mill. dog with you, you can even to ensure your dog gets the right
help raise much needed funds fit. You can choose between
Rating: Easy. for Cornish charities. From a macs, bespoke coats and fleece
dare by the landlord of a pub jackets with a choice of a range of
Access: There are limited parking in St Agnes, to a bet between a patterns and colours. Head to their
spaces outside Trevaylor retirement doctor and his friend in Coverack, website for more information:
home. Not recommended for there are some great reasons for beaubeausdogcoats.com ◆
wheelchairs and pushchairs. Wellies this tradition, so do something cornwalllife.co.uk
recommended. different and take your pooch for @pearcealex1
A
s I get older (and
older) I find in
myself a surfeit
of sentimentality,
culminating in the approach to
Christmas – I see in my mind’s
eye our three excited little boys
hanging their stockings on the
mantelpiece, calling up the
chimney to Father Christmas to
please bring them this, that or
the other (all artfully arranged
by auto-suggestion of course);
the excitement of the mince
pie, carrot and sherry left to
fortify the old gent (about to go
on, still, in households all over
the country) and now see the
old rituals returning in the next
generation with a tear in my eye,
naturally.
I have written before about
Scillonian customs: lights,
tractors dressed as sleighs,
markets, bands and carol singing,
so will try not to repeat myself –
always a risk.
So in thinking what to write,
I remembered the farmer’s
grandmother – my Scillonian
mentor and guardian angel – and
A time to relax
her happy reminisces from her
early middle age, when pre
income-tax on Scilly, the farm
was bringing in a good income
through daffodils and scented
narcissi (sent to the Old Covent
Garden of that time) and she
had some money burning a hole
Christmas on the Isles of Scilly is a magical time, but its
in her handbag. She told me also a time to remember holidays – and people – past
how she so looked forward to
her Christmas shopping which
had to be done in October. She
would sit by the fire over several Joan – now not quite as robust as that Christmas would be with
evenings, leafing through glossy she was at 103, and in our very my relatives, sorely missed
brochures and filling out mail lovely Park House Residential as they were. What overly
order forms for presents for her Home on the Park in Hugh Town. high expectations I had of my
huge extended family, alight The staff there recently won an turn – it all had to be Good
with the pleasure of giving. award for exceptional caring, Housekeeping perfect, leaving
Relations travelled from all which was richly deserved. So me, like so many others, too
points of St. Mary’s to stay for now I’m quite at home there too tired to enjoy it all. Or indeed,
two or three days. One of them as the family visit constantly. one year, to remember to keep
was the founder of the Scillonian They offered me a job there the water topped up around the
Temperance Society so not recently, should the restaurant Christmas pud, allowing it to
much fun for those who enjoyed business go pear-shaped. Of glue itself to the bottom of the
a tipple. Mind you, Nanan’s course there are already pear pan in a splendour of splintered
teetotal mother used to deploy a shaped pears in our kitchens. glass bowl. I seem to remember
large glass of ginger wine to help Our family Christmases cutting the top half off and
unwind after a tough shopping alternated between Scilly and serving it with an extra large
trip in Town or lengthy Sunday Berkshire. One bargain I made clump of holly.
Service! when I came to live in the bosom Have a happy (and relaxed)
She was a sister to dear Auntie of the farmer’s family would be Christmas. ◆
Visit: cornishcottageholidays.co.uk
Together we can make a difference!
HOLIDAYS
Christmas?
What Christmas ‘Tis the time to be merry – but it doesn’t have
to be all about the festive season
D
ecember isn’t all
about Christmas;
it’s for lamenting on
the year passed and
looking forward to what’s to
come. And the latter could be a
well-deserved holiday with the
people who mean the most to
you. If it isn’t already, Cornwall
could be the destination of family
get-togethers, where you all
remember the good times, feel a
warm glow whenever the county
is mentioned and make the effort
to go to at least once a year. Take
the children, take granny and
grandad or just take the two of
you – there’s a special place for
everyone in this county. Little
ones will always remember beach
holidays with pasty-stealing
seagulls and that first taste of
clotted cream ice-cream. Find
a family place to stay where Kingcup Cottage
memories can be made, like the
aptly-named Beach Walk. It’s set
above the beach on the renowned
Maenporth Estate, a collection
of properties near Falmouth Kingcup Cottage is one of five booking up fast. In these winter
that have use of leisure facilities private farm cottages and sleeps months, your pets will enjoy
such as an indoor heated pool, six so adults can enjoy the peace sniffing out new sights and
children’s play area and tennis and tranquillity of the Cornish sounds from the comfort of a dog-
courts. Beach Walk itself has a countryside near Mawgan Porth. friendly cottage, or a house with
lovely lawned garden surrounded Take the children on a woodland its own stables. If you’ve babes
by woodland grounds with plenty walk to the wildlife lake or stay in arms, find out more about
of wildlife to spot, perfect for closer to base; on site there are our Baby Plus properties where
autumnal breaks as well as mid- plenty of distractions with an owners have gone above and
summer beach holidays. With outdoor play area as well as a beyond to make their home-from-
a beach café and a restaurant barn full of games. If you ever home as welcoming to babies
popular with locals, adults tire of the view from the elevated as possible and family friendly
are as well catered for as the patio area, head to the nearby cottages have more than our
younger ones. If family members coast for beach days and clifftop generous minimum inventory,
are feeling left out, plan ahead walks. If friends feel left out, they with toys and games, even
for a multigeneration holiday, can come along too by booking computer consoles and the latest
quality time for grandparents one of the other four conversions tech, to keep everyone happy.
and grandchildren (and not just in the grounds. Classic has With all of Classic’s cottages
so the elders can babysit!). Head handpicked only the best places meeting exacting standards, we
to north Cornwall and stay on to stay across the county, with want every guest to sit back, relax
The Flower Farm. All on one new properties for you to discover and say ‘wow’ as soon as they step
level to help the less mobile, in 2019 and old favourites through the door. ◆ classic.co.uk
Port in a storm
Abby Driver discovers the foodie capital of
West Cornwall awaits in Porthleven
D
espite growing up in ABOVE: Porthleven is quickly becoming ended up staying for their whole
Cornwall, I’m ashamed Porthleven renowned as a foodie destination set - I’d recommend you watch
to say until recently Harbour. Photo: and I was very excited to try Kota out for them if you like your
Ewen MacDonald
I had never visited (kotarestaurant.co.uk), where covers epic and original. Think
Porthleven. I’d heard of it, sure. BELOW: Cornish ingredients are given Metallica melded with Journey.
Nobody could have missed the Harbour View an Asian twist. It was exactly as We spent the next day in
news of it’s battering in the 2014 Cottage I had hoped; fresh fine dining Penzance – just 15 minutes
storms, or failed to see the iconic full of punchy eastern flavours. away by car – where our dog
photo of the clocktower getting I haven’t stopped raving about had the best day of his life thus
utterly drenched. Perhaps it my starter of beetroot carpaccio far at Jubilee Pool’s annual dog
was exactly that which had kept dotted with shemeji mushrooms day. It was exactly as fun and
me away. But as we drove into in a rich soy and rosemary wholesome as it sounds. Next on
the town on a balmy October dressing. And my dining partner the agenda was a hearty walk
afternoon, it was clear I had been declared his main – pan fried and we plumped for a circular
missing out. hake with curried mussels, route taking us from Porthleven
Just three miles southwest of cauliflower and puffed rice – the out to The Loe and wrapping
Helston, Porthleven is a small best meal of the year. back in around the coast. It was
port where life spirals outward On the way home, we heard an absolute pleasure to walk
from the chunky stone quay. We something loud and fabulous boasting sweeping coastal vista,
stayed at Harbour View Cottage coming from The Harbour Inn views across the largest natural
and soon discovered, to our and discovered local Cornish freshwater lake in Cornwall and
delight, it is very much a literal band Three Minute Warning woodland scenes to boot. We
name. The living room window playing a raucous set of covers to finished up with a well-earned
offered up a picture-perfect view an even more raucous crowd. We drink in The Ship Inn which,
over the harbour and town and, cosily hunkered into the hill,
had the weather raged, I would would be another great storm
have been perfectly content to sit watching spot.
and storm watch. Sad to leave Porthleven, we
Alas, the sun was out and we extended the holiday vibe with
had planned a weekend packed a trip to Rinsey Cove on the way
full of adventure. First up we home. It’s a precarious walk
took a walk into the centre of down, but the views more than
Porthleven with every intention make up for it. Stop at the top and
of heading to the famous clock check out the impressive recently
tower. But the sunny terrace restored engine house. ◆
of the Harbour Inn proved too Find out more and enquire here:
irresistible and we ended up porthlevenholidaycottages.
stopping en route for a cold Korev co.uk/properties/harbour-view-
in the sun. cottage-2
look after
wildlife
this winter
This can be a really harsh time of year for Britain’s wildlife,
so here’s a handful of ways you can help your local furry
and feathered friends this season courtesy of the RSPCA
WORDS: Llewelyn Lowen
Retirement homes across the UK are ensuring everyone can have a happy Christmas
W
hile Christmas
is traditionally a
time of family and
celebration, for
those of us who have lost people
or who live away from our loved
ones, it can be also be incredibly
lonely. This is inevitably
something that becomes more
acute as we age, with the charity
Age UK estimating that there
are over 1,200,000 lonely older
people in England alone, as well
as their research in 2017 finding
that nearly a million (928,000)
older people felt lonelier at
Christmas time.
Tackling such a pervasive issue
is certainly an intimidating feat.
Thankfully there are plenty of
dedicated people who are helping
to combat this. Through music,
companionship and cultivated
programmes of activities,
retirement homes and sheltered
living across the country are
working hard to alleviate the
stigmas of loneliness, as well as
make this time of year a little itself thanks to their dedicated
more special. ‘Music is one of the staff.
One of the many ways that ‘The main aim is to spread
care home groups hope to reduce greatest tools that these the joy and the therapeutic
loneliness is by opening up their benefits of live music to isolated
doors at Christmas to those who homes use to spread joy and vulnerable individuals who
might be spending it alone. The wouldn’t be able to access it in the
nationwide Abbeyfield care home at Christmas time’ community,’ junior fundraising
group run an annual campaign officer Lucy Dinnage explains.
called Coping at Christmas to And it really works, as she tells
publicise the way they do this. and houses in the country will me that they have had great
The initiative invites over 55s be offered companionship and feedback with people getting up
who live alone to come in and laughter over home-cooked food. and dancing, as well as breaking
have Christmas dinner at some It’s not just care homes getting out into song, which creates a
of their collection of care homes, involved in the Christmas really fantastic atmosphere in
as well as offering overnight spirit, with sheltered living the concerts. Lucy tells me this
stays and entertainment free-of- developments also working hard is invaluable both for breaking
charge. The hope is that those to make sure no-one feels alone down barriers between residents
who visit their over 500 homes during the season. Villages run and staff, as well as providing
by Churchill Retirement Living an opportunity for relatives to
for example link up with nearby see their loved ones enjoying
schools and community choirs to themselves.
arrange Christmas carol services ‘It can be a really lonely time for
in their Owners’ Lounges. some people and I think we often
Music is one of the greatest forget that,’ she adds. ‘It’s really
tools that these homes use to important to do activities like
spread joy at Christmas time, this because they do bring people
thanks to the memories it together and they help people
can help evoke, as well as the to not feel so lonely. It makes
benefits it can have on people’s Christmas feel like a celebration.’
mood. This is the major ethos of So, whether you’re concerned
charity Music in Hospitals and about your family having a lonely
Care, a UK-wide company that Christmas or you’re dreading
puts on concerts in care homes the day yourself, it seems like
throughout the year, with a we only need to look to our local
special programme of Christmas retirement homes for the offer
events that often include three of a welcoming hand this festive
performances on December 25 season. ◆
D
ecember is the busiest
and quietest month on
the farm. That’s not as
much of a contradiction
as it sounds. The weeks leading
up to Christmas can be utterly
The two sides
of Christmas
manic for poultry farmers and
especially for turkey and goose
breeders. It’s the same for winter
veg growers, Christmas tree
suppliers and anyone who runs
a farm shop or rents a stall at a
farmers’ market. Our commercial
farm is an arable and sheep
For some this a frenetic period, for others it’s time to put
enterprise so it’s relatively quiet the feet up and reflect on what has been quite the year
at this time of year, although
we’re keeping a watchful eye on
our pregnant ewes to make sure
all the mums-to-be and their also a good time to reflect on the was thrilled to take part in
unborn lambs are safe and well. year just gone. the landmark programmes we
But the calm of the working The extreme weather, freezing made to celebrate Countryfile’s
farm is more than compensated then sweltering, dominated 2018. big birthday; the three specials
for by the bustle of the visitor First the ‘Beast from the East’ put we filmed on the royal estates
attraction we run, the Cotswold spring sowing on hold and hit at Windsor, Sandringham and
Farm Park, which is in full festive the early harvest hard for many Balmoral. Even now, months
swing right up until the end of farmers. A few months later the later, people are still asking if we
Christmas Eve. The staff, indoors summer heatwave saw six long made up the story of the Queen’s
and out, put in an amazing weeks without rain, scorching herd of Jersey cows sleeping
amount of effort to make sure arable crops and devastating every night on water beds. Hand
everyone is in the seasonal spirit, yields. It’s been tough on on heart, it’s absolutely true.
but of course the hardest working livestock, demanding for farmers There was more magic at this
individual of all is the jolly chap and financially damaging. year’s Countryfile Live when we
in the red suit and the white Away from the farm, welcomed well over 100,000
beard. He’ll leave us just in time Countryfile celebrated its 30th people and recreated Adam’s
to leap onto his sleigh for the big anniversary this year; in the Farm in the grounds of Blenheim
night shift on the 24th, but for the fickle and fashion-conscious Palace. I loved seeing people’s
rest of us that’s when the most world of television anything reactions as they came face to
frenetic activity of the entire year that stays the course for three face with our rare breed livestock
turns into the quietest time of decades has achieved something for the first time.
year. Feet up, family close by and remarkable. I’m very proud So it’s been a memorable 12
a roaring fire on the go. That’s to have made a contribution months, for all sorts of reasons.
what I call Christmas bliss. It’s to the show’s success and I Here’s to a happy 2019. ◆
UNTIL 20 DECEMBER
EDEN PROJ ECT
As the biggest tourist attraction in you can see behind the scenes in Santa’s
Cornwall, the Eden Project always offers cosy tent including the elves’ bunkbeds,
something special for visitors at Christmas. the pigeonholes full of children’s letters,
This year a spectacular new show will and all the stockings laid out ready for the
transform the iconic biomes and grounds big day.
at the Eden Project near St Austell into a After settling down for a story beside an
magical landscape of lights and music. open fire, each child can enjoy a special
Giant light projections will create moment with the man in red. You will
a moving sea of colour across the need to book for this experience and there
slopes of the outdoor gardens while are several relaxed sessions for a more
the spirit of Christmas will be brought informal encounter, developed with the
to life through light installations and Sensory Trust.
musical performances in the Biomes. On Another firm festive favourite is the ice
performance days this son et lumiere rink at Eden which is open from the festive 15 DECEMBER
spectacle takes place between 5pm and season until February with a number of MOUSEHOLE
8pm and is free for all visitors. different sessions every day to suit all ages. CH R ISTM A S
Father Christmas will also be setting Ice skating sessions and visits to see LIGHTS
up camp with his merry band of elves Father Christmas are in addition to the It’s hard to believe, but this
between November 24 and Christmas Eve. normal Eden entry (which offers a full day year Mousehole celebrates 55
There are letters to sort, presents to deliver, of things to see and do) and can be booked years since the first display of
and a very important sleigh to prepare and online by visiting edenproject.com. Christmas lights in the little
fishing village when a local
artist organised a campaign
to brighten up the harbour
at Christmas. This year the
Mousehole lights will be turned
on at 6.30pm on 16 December
and there will be an open-air
carol service at the entrance
to the North Quay with the
Carolaire Choir, made up of
members of the Mousehole
Male Voice Choir, Mousehole
Methodist Church and
friends from the community
together with the Pendeen
Silver Band. The lights are on
every evening until 4 January
but will be dimmed on 19
December between 8pm and
9pm, as they are every year,
to remember the 16 people
who died during a 1981 storm,
including eight volunteers of
Pendeen lifeboat the Solomon
Browne.
Visit mouseholelights.org.uk
for details.
19–21 DECEMBER
A V ICA R OF DI BLEY
CH R ISTM A S
She may have disappeared from our TV
screens, but Vicar of Dibley Geraldine Granger
is back for a stage production at the Acorn,
Penzance, by local group Seven Stones Theatre
Company.
Geraldine, Alice, Hugo and Jim Trott are
all there for A Vicar of Dibley Christmas and
a rollercoaster ride of festive tomfoolery,
including hilarious scenes from the
unforgettable Christmas Lunch incident and
the Christmas Nativity.
It follows the highly successful performance
of The Vicar of Dibley by Seven Stones at the
Minack Theatre last year.
The production is suitable for the whole family
and is at the Acorn, Penzance, for three nights.
Book online at theacornpenzance.com
6–9 DECEMBER
PA DSTOW CH R ISTM A S FESTI VA L
The most star-studded event on artisan crafts and locally-produced food festival is one of my favourites,’ adds
Cornwall’s December calendar is and drink. Nieves.
undoubtedly the Padstow Christmas The free-to-attend event also features ‘I get most of my seafood and fish from
Festival, spearheaded by local food live music, a lantern parade, Santa’s Cornwall and I just love it. Padstow
heroes Rick Stein, Paul Ainsworth, and grotto, and fireworks display. has amazing crabs and the fish is super
Nathan Outlaw (pictured above). ‘We’re always delighted to be able fresh. I also love the restaurants.
Their presence helps to attract lots of to show off the talent of so many ‘Cornwall is quite similar to northern
top chefs to the North Cornwall coast to incredible chefs, and are overwhelmed Spain, and Padstow reminds me of the
take part in the festival, now in its 11th by the number who travel from all over town I grew up in outside Bilbao, so I
year. the country at such a busy time of the feel connected.’
This year chefs appearing include year,’ says festival organiser Tina Evans. The two chef stages will feature
Michael Caines, Phil Vickery, Brian ‘The Christmas festival has been more than 60 cookery demonstrations,
Turner, Angela Hartnett, Mitch Tonks, instrumental in giving the town an out- as well as food forums and themed
Jack Stein, Mark Hix, Glynn Purnell and of-season economic boost, so it’s great workshops.
Channel 4’s Million Pound Menu judge, to see that Padstow continues to attract A charity Santa Fun Run and Cycle on
Atul Kochhar. some of world’s best chefs.’ the Sunday will raise funds for Cornwall
The festival is one of the largest of its Festival favourite, Nieves Barragán Hospice Care and the popular firework
kind in the country, attracting tens of Mohacho, also returns to Padstow this display is on Friday 7 December at
thousands of people to the picturesque year, flushed with the success of her 8.30pm.
harbourside town. new London restaurant, Sabor, which Nathan Outlaw will open the festival
As well as showcasing the talents has been listed among the top ten in the in the Sharp’s Chefs Theatre at midday
of celebrity and local chefs, Padstow country, despite having opened only a on 6 December.
plays host to more than 100 stalls in its few months ago. For full details go to
famous Christmas market, packed with ‘I love Padstow, and the Christmas padstowchristmasfestival.co.uk
A Vicar of Dibley
Christmas – Christmas. Time!
Friday 14 Dec (7.30pm)
19, 29, 21 December
7.30pm plus an extra matinee
at 2pm on Friday.
E
veryone loves Christmas and can be tailored to individual your child comes home with a
– children even more family needs. Mention that part in the traditional nativity
so. There’s something church bells are rung at midnight play, tell them why their part is
about this day that when to signal the beginning of the important. Something so simple
looked through a child’s eyes Christmas celebration and at the helps keep the traditions alive.
seems almost magical. It’s a day start of midnight mass, which is a Then there is food (which
where families come together, hugely important to the Catholic many will also undoubtedly link
giving presents to one another and Christian faith. to Christmas). Describe to your
and enjoying a hearty meal. Teaching about traditions little ones how in Norway their
But are we allowing the values doesn’t have to be limited to just
and traditions of Christmas to your own. Discovering how other ‘When your child comes home
be overshadowed by material cultures and religions celebrate with a part in the traditional
expectations? The need to have the festive season can make it nativity play, tell them why
the next best thing seems to even more interesting for your their part is important’
be overtaking the teachings to child. Discuss how other religions
children of values that have been have different celebratory
instilled in many of us. But how festivals such as the Hindu version of Christmas pudding is
can we make sure these traditions festival Diwali and the Muslim a special bread called ‘Julekake’.
don’t disappear? holiday Eid. Or perhaps mention how a grand
If you ask any child what Schools around the UK will market is held on Christmas Eve
they love about Christmas Day, undoubtedly stage their own in Jamaica, and why in Japan
answers will most definitely nativity scene, so this is the KFC has become such a tradition.
include receiving gifts. However, perfect time to learn how it’s It is our responsibility to ensure
the older generation’s answers celebrated in other countries. In we are instilling priceless values
may well be different, with many Italy, for example, the famous and traditions, so allow your
stating an enjoyable day with nativity crib scene is hugely children to fully discover the true
loved ones is what they look important and they wait to put essence of this holiday. It may
forward to the most. Teaching the figure of the baby Jesus in the even make you open your eyes to
these festive values is simple scene on Christmas Eve. When the true meaning of Christmas. ◆
F
or a school that prides happiness of the girls is what shape or form.
itself on excellent drives us and the happiness of the ‘Girls that come out of the
behaviour and good girls is what’s key and when girls end of Truro High School are
manners, there were are happy they will achieve and independent, they are confident.
some pretty unladylike squeals they will thrive.’ We refer to the steely core, they
coming from the girls of Truro Formerly of Harrow Hong know what they want and they
High School recently. The Kong, Mrs Matthews has been know that they can achieve it.
reason? The discovery that the struck by the special atmosphere There are no ceilings for our girls
School has just been ranked around the school – a relaxed but they are also kind, they’re
as the Top Small Independent yet productive vibe where girls compassionate. They know that
School in the whole of England take risks, try new things and they can change the world in a
for A Levels. are encouraged and supported to good way and that they will go
It is a tremendous accolade become the best that they can be. on to make a difference.’
BELOW:
for the girls and their staff and In the changing rooms, ballet To find out more about what
Pupils enjoy
marks the highest academic tutus hang alongside racing Truro High offers to girls aged downtime out in
ranking ever achieved by a school drivers’ overalls, for every pupil 4–18 contact the Registrar on the school’s leafy
in Cornwall. An astonishing who plays tennis there are two 01872 242904. grounds
59% of all A Level passes in 2018 who play football. This is a place
were at grades A*/A – that’s 64% where old-fashioned stereotypes
higher than any other school in are very much frowned upon.
Cornwall. These girls want to try everything
So is this an academic and they want to do it now.
hothouse or is there a balance She explained: ‘The single sex
to be struck before attaining environment provides girls with
the dizzy heights? The answer an opportunity to be completely
is very much the latter says new free from stereotypes. They come
Headmistress, Sarah Matthews. into school and they are the
She said: ‘It’s really important leaders in every single discipline
to us that we are academically and it means that they can be
strong – and we are – but the happy to achieve in any way,
A digita
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If you would lik e
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Tel: 07584 3114
Y
ou will probably know
the Eden Project as a
world-class garden or
for the architecture
of the Biomes or even as a
spectacular venue for live music.
But we also like to think of
ourselves as a community hub
or, as some here like to dub us,
Cornwall’s village hall.
Our mission is to highlight
the connections between plants
and people but we are also about
connecting people with one
another – community is a value
that I believe we take particularly
seriously here in Cornwall.
By the time you’re reading this
column, Eden will have enjoyed a
month of participation in projects
that are all about those human
connections.
Each November we are proud
to host the Cornwall Macmillan
Making a
Christmas Fair, the annual
market that raises vital funds for
Macmillan Cancer Support. In
previous years the fair has raised
more than £600,000 for people
connection
with cancer in Cornwall.