News and Views May 2018

Join in celebrating Cornwall Hospice Care’s Make a Will Week

Cornwall Hospice Care recently launched a new community initiative thanks to money left to the Cornish charity in Wills. The first two Neighbourhood Hubs opened in Penzance and Wadebridge this year; plans are afoot to open six more across the county!

The hubs are designed to take the charity’s expertise out of the hospices and into the communities, helping people living with terminal illnesses, as well as their families and carers. One of those supported is Rex, who tells us: “The Hub team have helped make my life so much better. It’s good to know them by name and to have that personal contact.”

The Hubs prove the value of legacies to the charity and feature as part of Cornwall Hospice Care’s Make a Will Week. Between 14th and 18th May, local solicitors are offering their Will writing services in exchange for donations to the charity.

To find out more visit www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk

Mel Chambers brings an ancient craft into the modern day

According to Mel, the art of inlay tiles (or encaustic, as it’s technically known) dates back to pre-13th Century and has been used to decorate everything, from the most elaborate palaces to the simplest of pots, for generations, across the globe.

This unique craft has been brought well into the 21st Century by local Cornish artist Mel Chambers of Alchemy Tiles. Meticulously handcarving each inspiring image, quote or piece of poetry is just the beginning of this extensive process, Mel tells us. “After this, they are inlaid with coloured clay, scraped back, glazed and then slowly raw fired, making each piece completely bespoke and original.”

From the smallest of tiles to the grandest kitchens and bathrooms, each of Mel’s pieces is a work of art in its own right.

For more information call  07768 193848 or visit www.alchemytiles.com

Get the blood pumping this spring at Kernow Adventure Park!

Now the temperatures are finally starting to rise, some of you will be looking for ways to get out on the water. Unfortunately though, thanks to the recent weather, the sea is still pretty cold!

Kernow Adventure Park is the perfect place for a spot of action on the water. Located in a beautiful reclaimed quarry near Falmouth and founded in 2013 as a stand-alone wake boarding park, Kernow Adventure Park now offers an impressive, fully-fledged inflatable Aqua Park. The team has also invested in stand-up paddle boards! Discussing the upcoming season, founder Alex tells us: “Being accessible to everyone and allowing them the opportunity to practice safe watersports and gain the benefits of exercising outdoors is all part of our ‘Kernow culture’.”

The best part is, by quoting ‘cornwallliving10’ you can get 10% your day – bargain!

For more information email info@kernowadventurepark.com or visit www.kernowadventurepark.com

Kneehigh’s unique brand of theatre returns to Cornwall

Kneehigh’s Asylum is back in a brand-new site at The Lost Gardens of Heligan this summer and plans are afoot to create the ultimate night out. This year it’s all about breaking the rules in style, with pop-up shows, surprise acts and spontaneous events invigorating a season of world-class theatre and epic live music.

Cheer as daft dictators are overthrown; hear a vast Karaoke choir (you!) sing together in perfect protest; watch lovesick amphibians hop to the beat; and go quackers for the return of Cornwall’s favourite, flightless duck! The Asylum will run from 2nd August until 22nd September. Tickets for UBU Karaoke!, The Dancing Frog and FUP are now on sale via Hall for Cornwall.

For more information visit www.kneehigh.co.uk, or join WeAreKneehigh on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Time to relax and revive at The Clearing Spa

Nestled in the stunning Cornish countryside on the south coast is The Cornwall Hotel, Spa & Estate, a luxurious four-star hotel with an emphasis on attending to every comfort. As well as fantastic food and lavish accommodation, one of its crowning glories is The Clearing Spa, complete with treatment rooms, steam room, dry sauna, fitness suite and a large infinity pool overlooking the historic walled garden. It’s the perfect location to unwind and re-energise in glorious surroundings.

What’s more, The Clearing Spa has just announced the appointment of a new spa manager, Lauren Roberts, who brings a wealth of experience with her, having worked as a beauty therapist, deputy spa manager and spa manager in a range of locations including on cruise ships and some of Cornwall’s most prestigious hotels.

Lauren tells us: “I’m really excited to be joining the team at The Cornwall, bringing my enthusiasm and passion for creating a truly luxurious experience for guests.”

So, with Lauren in place, now is surely the perfect time to give it a go and enjoy some proper pampering. The Cornwall is currently offering a one-night ‘Relax & Revive’ break for two, from only £259. Stay in one of the beautifully styled bedrooms, dine at the Elephant Brasserie, with £26 dinner allowance each, tuck into a hearty Cornish breakfast, and make the most of all the spa facilities. What’s more, you can savour your choice of a rose facial or scalp, neck and shoulder massage each. Sounds like bliss!

For more information call 01726 874051 or visit www.thecornwall.com

Stylehome delivers bespoke window styling at its very best

As architects make more use of modern building techniques, incorporating larger, more complex shaped windows to maximise light and views, dressing them has become far more challenging.

At Stylehome, the team firmly believes that because each property and client has different requirements, each curtain and blind needs to be designed individually, bespoke to the unique needs of each customer. Occasionally an off-the-shelf solution may not be available or could result in an unsatisfactory compromise. Mark Mitchell, Managing Director at this impressive Cornish business tells us: “We enjoy working with our customers to maximise the potential of each
room’s interior quality of light, as well as the views outside. We have a proven track record of solving difficult window shapes and providing solutions.”

So if you have a challenging window or a view that deserves something special then why not pay Stylehome a visit?

For more information call 01872 560500 or visit www.stylehome.co.uk

Water you waiting for?

People in Porthleven are getting very serious about stopping waste plastic getting into the sea. Refresh Porthleven, a smart new initiative set up by a group of volunteers, has created reusable cups and bottles allowing people to refill rather than use and throw away single-use plastic.

Many cafés, restaurants and shops are now selling the freshly designed Refresh Porthleven water bottles as well as their bamboo coffee cups. By using one of these or any other refillable bottle, you can get free water refills at any café or restaurant if you see the Refill sticker on their window. What’s more, if you take your bamboo coffee cup into practically anywhere that sells coffee, they will give you a discount!

Dai Lawton, spokesperson for Refresh Porthleven, says,“We’re overwhelmed by the positive response to our anti-plastic campaign and the way businesses are supporting it. Now the season’s here, there’s the opportunity for local people to get more involved.”

There’s now a call for more volunteers, to help them get Plastic-Free status, for their stall events such as the Porthleven Food Festival and Lifeboat Day, and also for their Surfers Against Sewage beach and harbour clean on the
15th April.

For more information visit www.refreshporthleven.org.uk

Made in Cornwall, loved nationwide

Exclusively designed by founders Rebecca and Allison in Cornwall, Cream Cornwall’s flagship store in Falmouth enjoys harbour views, replicating Cornwall’s coastal heritage in the designs that have brought nationwide fame to the wares available here.

In each beautiful product from Cream Cornwall you’ll find Cornwall’s distinct coastal identity, and the owners’ shared background in textiles, design and trend forecasting affords the entire range a level of quality that keeps customers returning time and time again.

Buying quality goods that are made here at home is growing ever more important to British shoppers, and Cream Cornwall epitomises the importance of local industry with products that exude individuality and opulence, across a range that’s proving a refreshing option for homeowners up and down the country.

For more information call 01326 317253 or visit www.creamcornwall.co.uk

Blue Yonder – take the journey at Treasure

Home to a range of inspiring gifts, crafts, vintage wares and the Cornish Craft Cavern, and showcasing more than 60 Cornwall-based makers and artists, Treasure, Penzance is truly a characterful shop.

Treasure owner, artist and author, Susan Fowler, recently released her debut book, which can now be found on sale in Treasure at 73 Market Jew Street. The autobiography titled Blue Yonder, A journey to creative heaven in Cornwall, From lawyer to artist, explores Susan’s career, which has seen her leave her job as a successful lawyer to pursue her passion for art, and it’s truly an inspiration for anybody who dreams of exploring their creative passion. Join Susan on her journey, experience her highs, share her lows, and see what it really means to make a change. Who knows, it might just be the nudge in the right direction that you’ve been looking for!

For more information email sjfowler@live.co.uk or visit BlueYonderSusanFowler on Facebook.

Paula Bolton – the artist behind the wire

Having grown up in Cornwall and recently graduated from Falmouth University as a fine art print maker, ArtHeart founder, Paula Bolton built her portfolio of work through links with Goonhilly Earth Station four years ago, and she’s still an Artist in Residence, holding studio space and freedom of access to the site.

“My site specific prints are on permanent display in the curved corridor at Goonhilly and can be viewed by invited visitors, or by prior arrangement.”

Paula tells us: “I am a STEM Ambassador with a passion for STEAM (the ‘A’ standing for art), engaging with students and the wider community about the exciting ‘spacey’ things happening in Cornwall.”

Paula is currently producing a body of work called GHY52, which you can follow on Twitter. This project documents a year in the life of Goonhilly and will culminate in a public exhibition at the iconic earth station.

For more information email paula@artheart.me.uk or visit www.artheart.me.uk

Learn the tricks of the trade with Zebrafinch Hair

Located in the centre of Falmouth, Zebrafinch Hair really is a salon with a difference, offering extended appointment times so that your time in the chair is never rushed. Owner Zeb Gethen also has very flexible hours, which means you can get an appointment seven days a week.

He tells us: “It’s a one-on-one service, which allows me to take time and get to know you and your hair. I like to focus on how you manage your hair at home, so your cut fits your lifestyle and the time you spend (or don’t spend) on your hair.”

Over the summer Zeb will be doing styling sessions for groups and individuals. “Come and relax in your own private salon, where you’ll be pampered and leave feeling much more confident in styling your own hair! You’ll learn to get more of a salon finish, learning the tricks of the trade to get the look you want, whether it’s Hollywood glamour, beachy waves or sleek and sharp.”

For more information call 07548 539267 or visit www.zebrafinchhair.co.uk

Introducing Cheese on Coast – St Ives’ premier cheesemonger!

Cheese on Coast was born through a love of all things cheese, with research turning love into a profession and a true passion. The owners of this new Cornish business are the first and currently the only two in Cornwall with a qualification in cheese, accredited by the Academy of Cheese, as well as being proud members of the Guild of Fine Food.

Founders Nick and Claire have one aim: to promote delicious artisan cheeses produced on farms and in some cases matured in caves, using recipes that can date back centuries. The team currently offers a beautiful range of cheese from Cornwall and around the south west as well as exceptional cheese from around the globe.

The shop over two floors also offers fine cheese related giftware and lots of delicious accompaniments for cheese.

For more information visit www.cheeseoncoast.co.uk or cheesestives on Facebook.

Innoscent Cleaning launches range of natural, eco-friendly cleaning products

Founded earlier this year by Rebecca Varcoe, Innoscent Cleaning has quickly become popular with Cornish homeowners thanks to her exemplary service and fantastically effective homemade cleaning products.

Now, Rebecca is delighted to announce that, “in addition to offering our cleaning services, we will soon be launching our fantastic cleaning products for sale. All of our products are made by us and are 100% natural, biodegradable, toxin free and vegan. In line with our eco-friendly ethos,
we will also be offering a fill/refill service at a discounted price to encourage recycling.”

Innoscent Cleaning products will be available at The Newquay Community Orchard Spring Fayre on Sunday
29th April, as well as the forthcoming Cornwall Home and Lifestyle Show from Saturday 5th to Sunday 6th May.

For more information visit www.innoscentcleaning.com or call 07876 829426 

Porthleven photographer making waves

Surf photographer Mike Lacey has been amongst the elements in Cornwall this winter, capturing some of his best images to date. Mike tells us: “It’s been the most amazing winter in Cornwall for me as a wave photographer and to have snow several times in Cornwall was so amazing to see and photograph. It was more like an Icelandic photo shoot for a few days! This icicle shot at Praa Sands was for me a standout photo from the winter and seeing it in a big HD metal print really brings it to life. I’m doing a lot of filming in the waves at the moment too, which can be seen on the big screen in the Porthleven gallery. It’s so mesmerising watching these waves break in slow motion!”

For more information visit www.wavesgallery.co.uk

Introducing Cornish Wine Tours – new to Cornwall this year!

This year sees the launch of Cornish Wine Tours, an exciting new day tour based in north Cornwall. Cornish Wine Tours founder Kate McBurnie will be running the tours five days a week from her hometown of Padstow and visitors can expect to explore Trevibban Mill, Camel Valley Vineyard, Knightor Winery, as well as Polgoon and Bosue Vineyard. The tours offer a fun and informative day out that is unique to
the Duchy.

The Cornish Wine Tour minibus can seat groups of up to 13, meaning that whether you are a couple or part of a larger group, nobody gets lumbered with the hassle of having to be designated driver, and what’s more, the full day tour comes with a three-course lunch served at one of the vineyards! Most importantly, you’ll have plenty of opportunities
to enjoy Cornwall’s finest award-winning wines.

Kate tells us: “Our tours offer the chance to visit all these beautiful vineyards in one day, sample their wines, and perhaps learn a thing or two along the way about the vineyard and production. You don’t need any prior knowledge about wine – simply a love of trying new things and exploring what Cornwall has to offer. We want you to sit back, relax and enjoy a fabulous day of wine tasting.”

With tours running throughout the summer and with lunch and wine tasters all included in the incredible price of £125 per person per full day, or just £75 per person per half-day, what’s not to love?

To book your tour  email info@cornishwinetours.com or visit www.cornishwinetours.com

KinetIQue’s incredible IQ Diamond REALLY IS FOREVER

Introducing the award-winning KinetIQue Jewellery, creators of the IQ Diamond – a ground breaking, unique, lab-grown diamond that has put this ethical Cornish company on the map.

Fully ethical and conflict free, the IQ Diamond is the socially responsible stone for today’s socially responsible buyer, being the most diamond-like gem in nearly every aspect. The IQ is tougher, brighter and more affordable than natural diamond, meaning you can have a bigger, brighter stone without costing the Earth.

In line with their socially responsible ethos, KinetIQue provides a wide range of luxury jewellery both in the UK and abroad using eco-friendly and fair trade precious metals. They are also specialised in bespoke design pieces for that unique touch.

Why not visit the website and read what others are saying about them?

For more information call 01208 592066, email info@kinetique.uk or visit www.kinetIQue.co.uk

Don’t miss Push the Boat Out Day at the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club, Falmouth

All ages and abilities are warmly invited to Push the Boat Out Day at the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club on Saturday 12th May between 11am and 5pm. Families and children are most welcome, and anyone can just pop along and see if the RCYC floats their boat!

Have a go at yacht or dinghy sailing. Lifejackets and qualified instructors are all on hand and on the day you can enjoy trips around the harbour. The RNLI will be in attendance, giving anyone who needs one a free life jacket check. What’s more, visitors can discover the fabulous waterside club house and bar, chat with club members and get the lowdown on the club’s facilities, including its free launch service to get you out to your boat, the RYA courses that are on offer, exciting weekly races, free weekly social sailing, plus a fun year-round social programme. It’s a great place to make friends and get out on the water, and the best part is there’s no need to own a boat to be a member, so why not pop along and give sailing a go?

For more information call 01326 312126 or visit www.royalcornwallyachtclub.org

Holiday home tips

In the latest instalment of his series of holiday home tips, George at Cornish Traditional Cottages discusses how to buy a holiday home in Cornwall.

It’s important to dig beneath the surface of your favourite Cornish towns to understand the property market and tourist economy, George explains. “Monitor the property market for a few months, see which properties move and which stay on the market. Talk to holiday letting agents to understand which properties appeal most in which locations. It’s also worth checking sold house prices to get a feel for market valuations versus actual sale prices.”

George stresses the importance of doing your research, whether online, on foot, or talking to locals and tourists. “Get a feel for a place and its prosperity as a holiday home destination, then talk to some professionals. We at Cornish Traditional Cottages can point you in the right direction and we usually have some homes on our books that are currently for sale – a great opportunity to buy into something that’s already working and with an existing repeat client base.”

George explains the importance of figuring out what it is that’s drawing visitors there, how long they’re typically staying for and whether they’re repeat or first time visitors.

Finally, when you’ve settled on an area, use a property finder service. “If you’re not able or inclined to source, search and visit holiday homes for sale in Cornwall, there are buying agents that specialise in doing this for you. They’ll often know of properties that are not yet on the market, but like any service, this will come at a cost.”

For more information call 01208 893980 or visit www.corncott.com

Kernow Springs unveils Eco Garden Pods at new Padstow showroom

Introducing the all-new multi-purpose Eco Garden Pods from outdoor spa specialists, Kernow Springs. These new garden buildings can be used in a multitude of ways, from outside office spaces and garden rooms to saunas, and they incorporate the same eye catching design as the company’s wood fired hot tubs that have already taken the UK by storm.

Business Director Martin Dean explains: “We’re very excited to offer our new Eco Garden Pods in either barrel, box or oval design, satisfying the growing demand for more outdoor living space.” Kernow Springs’ new improved showroom at Trevisker Garden Centre, Padstow will be hosting its Grand Opening on the last Bank Holiday weekend in May, from Saturday to Monday, where you’ll find some great promotions on new Eco pods, and the ever-popular wood fired hot tubs. You can even book yourself into the on-site Wild Spa!

For more information call 07779 374017 or visit www.kernowsprings.co.uk