News and views September 2019

Exciting times ahead for Kernow Stone!

Due to consistent annual growth, Cornish stone specialists Kernow Stone have recently undertaken an exciting new move to a new premises on Dundance Lane, Redruth. This means more factory space, a bigger showroom and, crucially, a more central and prominent location, making it easier than ever for Cornish home improvers to see what this superb firm has to offer.

The growth also means the team is able to provide an even better and more efficient service! So, if you’re embarking on a home project and would like to see how the finest natural stone could be used to complement your home’s location and interior scheme, why not pop in and join the team for a coffee?

For more information call 01209 862770 or visit www.granite-worktops-cornwall.co.uk

Holiday memories to last a lifetime

Perched on the hillside with panoramic coastal views is the wonderful, five star, family owned Wooda Farm Holiday Park. Located in the pretty seaside town of Bude on Cornwall’s dramatic north coast, Wooda Farm is surrounded by soft golden sandy beaches, perfect for long summer days by the sea.

Spend your days soaking up the warmth of the rays, splash in the natural sea pool on Summerleaze beach, stroll along the coast path, catch endless waves on the incoming swell, seek some shade in the onsite bluebell woodland, or spend some time beside the fishing lake. Providing you with the chance to reconnect with nature and loved ones in this stunning location.

So, if you want to create memories that will last a lifetime then book your summer holiday to Wooda, because trust us, it’s so much more than a holiday park.

For more information call 01288 352069 or visit www.wooda.co.uk

Get your wardrobe millimetre-perfect

At the Redruth workshop, RRW Shopfitters use top-of-the-line joinery and manufacturing equipment to build the finest bespoke furniture for your home as quickly as possible. Owner Ben tells us: “We only use the finest commercial grade materials and fittings that are proven to stand the test of time. Unlike flat-pack alternatives, our doors don’t chip easily, and our hinges and drawers won’t wear out after a few short months.” RRW also provides bespoke wardrobes for any space  perfect if you’re working with a fiddly area that won’t take traditional wardrobes, or even just to maximise on the space you have by building into alcoves. “Our favourite wardrobe projects are the difficult ones, we’ll turn unusual into usable and excel at building into awkward ceilings, tight corners and alcoves.”

For more information call 01209 807160 or visit www.shopfitters-cornwall.com

Relax and rejuvenate at the Rosevine

Situated on the stunning Roseland peninsula, renowned as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Rosevine Hotel provides a truly mesmerising base from which to explore this captivating corner of Cornwall, one where you can enjoy beautiful coastal surroundings and boutique rooms. Set within a Georgian family house, the apartment style rooms are spacious and comfortable for family, friends and couples to enjoy alongside the hotel’s facilities, which include an indoor heated pool and a restaurant with magnificent views onto the manicured lawns. Why not choose a sea view room and wake up to the call of the ocean, or enjoy coffee with your loved ones on the balcony while you plan the day’s adventures?

For more information call 01872 580206 or visit www.rosevine.co.uk

Virtual furnishing is the answer

When putting your house on the market, it’s the photos that will help to capture your buyer’s imagination, but what if your property is empty or a new build without any furnishing?

According to My Place in Cornwall, Virtual Furnishing could be the answer. This innovative technology can make empty rooms look inviting and stylish, which in turn helps to create positive responses from potential buyers. The availability of 3D design software is the perfect tool to stage a home, with end results that truly help to make your property look its best.

The Computer Generated Virtual Furnishing service is available to help get the very best out of a property listing and brochure. So, if you feel your property would benefit from a computerised makeover to maximise its potential, contact My Place in Cornwall.

For more information call 01208 813874 or visit www.myplaceincornwall.co.uk

CSA announces the launch of new website

CSA Architects has recently launched a brand-new website featuring an inspiring portfolio of the bespoke Cornish projects that the company has worked on, as well as presenting more detailed information about the various services that CSA provide.

Hear the architects’ perspective on the challenges and revelations that each project brought forward, accompanied by immersive images and drone footage of the completed homes.

Find out about the Truro based RIBA Chartered Practice; the architectural services on offer and their vision; meet the experienced team you could be working with, and stay up to date with the news feed which highlights the most recent projects, social media announcements and office events.

So head over to the website and take the first steps in creating your dream Cornish lifestyle today.

For more information call 01872 265310 or visit www.csa-architects.co.uk

Clothing and giftware to crack a smile at

Gone Crabbing is a small British independent business that specialises in designing ocean inspired gifts and clothing. Top quality t-shirts and hoodies for both kids and adults, tea towels, kitchenware, mugs, soap, handcream, candles, windbreaks and so much more, all available through a raft of UK stockists and online. There’s a gift for everyone, from babies to their doting grannies. New this year is the ‘Billy the Squid’ hoodie and the ‘Crabby before Coffee’ tea towel. Or why not spruce up your kitchen with a ‘Dressed for Dinner’ apron? Or give a pal with a sense of humour some Anti Winkle handcream? Providing you with a bit of seaside fun to take home with you until you can get the sand between your toes again.

For more information call 01485 211111 or visit www.gonecrabbing.co.uk

An innovative business

Owned by Lisa and Jason Thomas, Innova provides beautiful outdoor buildings designed to withstand the hard extremes of Cornish weather. Lisa explains: “We make beautiful pods, shepherd huts and garden rooms made with care and attention to detail with the best quality materials and highly skilled staff.”

The high-quality fixtures and fittings with these outdoor buildings include underfloor heating, kitchenette’s, Bluetooth speaker systems and decked porch areas. It’s possible to tailor each pod to your exact requirements and thanks to the company’s aspiration to manufacture the highest-quality buildings on the market, at the best prices, you know you’ll be gaining the most from your investment – whether it’s a commercial purchase or a home garden project.

For more information call 01209 890069 or visit www.inovva.co.uk

Oh help! Oh no! It’s a Gruffalo!

The Gruffalo will be strolling out of the deep dark wood to visit the Bodmin & Wenford Railway this September. Join the team at the railway for steam train rides, family fun and activities on 28th and 29th September, with The Gruffalo making personal appearances at intervals each day. It’s a special year for Julia Donaldson’s world-renowned children’s book, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the publication of The Gruffalo, and 2019 also marks an important anniversary for the Bodmin & Wenford Railway – 30 years of steaming passengers down the line and back in time – so even more reason for celebration! Train tickets for The Gruffalo’s September visit are on sale now and expected to sell out fast. Bookings can be made on the website or give the team a call to find out more.

For more information call 01208 73555 or visit www.bodminrailway.co.uk

Introducing FestWest PZ

Set to take place between 18th and 22nd September this year, FestWest PZ promises to bring together IMS Prussia Cove, Tim Boulton, Tim Dean, Penlee Theatre, The Acorn and Exchange Penzance. Supported by Penzance BID, it’s sure to become an annual highlight!

With events taking place in venues across the town, this year’s productions include Straviansky’s The Rite of Spring, Debussy’s Estampes, Haydn String Quartet’s Op. 77 No. 1, and Thomas Ades’ The Four Quarters. Highlights of a strong recital programme include Susan Tomes, Charles Owen and Dominic Degavino, plus the Castalian and John Law Quartets.

If this sounds like your idea of a festival heaven, with a superb selection of stays around the town and a wealth of fantastic restaurants hiding in tucked away locations along its historic streets, be sure to book your tickets soon!

For more information visit www.festwestpz.co.uk or www.lovepenzance.co.uk

A toast to Curio’s latest offering!

From the award-winning Curio Spirits Company, Cornish Cup is a summer tipple inspired by the traditional punch used by the British Navy during the 17th century.

Using their Mullion Dry Gin base, the team of distillers have blended their own bespoke botanicals to create a Chai tea infused in the Cornish Cup. In terms of flavour, expect citrus orange, malty Assam, cinnamon, cardamom and Cornish honey.

Designed to be enjoyed communally, mixed with seasonal sippers such as lemonade with thyme or ginger beer, this is the perfect convivial drink. Yet another big hit from the award-winning, Mullion based spirit company, Cornish Cup is testament to Curio’s dedication to the craft of distillery.

For more information call 07980 943391 or visit www.curiospiritscompany.co.uk

Be proud of your patio or drive with Patio Clean

After selling its product nationally, the team at Patio Clean has decided to provide Cornwall with an exclusive cleaning service. With the help of European partners, Patio Clean has introduced the Terrazza Mc brush to Cornwall. Designed in Belgium to clean any external and internal surface, this unique, patented system will restore stone, decking, block paving or one of countless others, with just a small amount of water and no damaging high pressures. Indeed, this environmentally friendly company leads the way in patio and driveway cleaning, offering a bespoke service that enables you to protect the home you love.

For more information call 07817 575450 or visit www.patioclean.co.uk

Celebrating Cornwall Hospice Care’s staff

Cornish charity Cornwall Hospice Care has celebrated the long service of its nursing staff, acknowledging those who have worked for five, ten and 15 years with lapel badges and an Exemplary Service badge for those who have served for 20 years or more.

Mount Edgcumbe Hospice nursing staff in St Austell have clocked up an amazing 360 years of service between them. At St Julia’s Hospice in Hayle, the team have reached 101 years of commitment! For them all, it was an occasion to take a few minutes and have a cuppa, a slice of cake and to reminisce about years gone by.

“Cornwall Hospice Care couldn’t provide the years of support and care that it has done for the people of Cornwall without the loyalty and dedication of its staff,” explains Director of Patient Services, Gina Starnes. “I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone!”

For more information call 01726 839156 or visit www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk

Unearth a hidden garden paradise

Travelling along the main road from Helston to Penzance you could be forgiven for missing the cornucopia of fascinating plants and explosions of colour that lie beyond the gates of Trevena Cross Nurseries, on the outskirts of the village of Breage. Nestled just off the main road is a large Cornish garden centre, behind which sits a huge growing nursery spanning the equivalent of 25 football fields!

Experienced growers of a huge range of plants for more then 40 years, including the most unusual, Trevena Cross is a horticultural paradise. What’s more, the team’s national delivery service makes it possible to enjoy a precious piece of this beautiful spot in your garden, even if you can’t fit it in your car for the drive home!

All of this, plus the highly regarded Garden Kitchen Café, generous shop and free children’s animal hunt means everybody will enjoy a trip to Trevena Cross this summer.

For more information call 01736 763880 or visit www.trevenacross.co.uk

Centenary celebrations for Glanvilles!

This September sees Glanvilles of Wadebridge celebrate 100 years in the town.  Owned and run by the same family it is still very much a thriving business.

To celebrate, as well as launching their new range of Wüsthof chef’s knives, Glanvilles are giving away more than £1,000 of  Kitchencraft vouchers, along with a host of other prizes!

On 7th September, Mr Christian Derbyshire, a chef and representative of Wüsthof and Scanpan will be talking about the incredible eco-credentials of these two leading companies and demonstrating some great knife skills. Be sure to pop in and take advantage of special promotions on the day.

On 14th September, join the team and Mr Patrick Gardener, Director of  T & G Woodware, Bristol-based suppliers and manufacturers of everyday and bespoke woodware and mills. From 2.30pm, as well as cutting Glanvilles’ prize winning celebratory 100th birthday cake, Patrick will be drawing the winning tickets. In order to be entered into the draw, simply spend £10 or more (per transaction) in store between now and 5pm on 13th September.

For more information call 01208 812860 or visit www.glanvillesofwadebridge.co.uk

Upgrading has never been easier!

It seems that every day, technology is becoming more advanced, so much so that it can be hard to keep up – especially financially! This is where the Easy Upgrade payment plan from Stormfront may just come in handy.

With Easy Upgrade you can say hello to the newest tech right now, while spreading the cost with low monthly payments. What’s more, at the end of the plan, you can either upgrade to the next latest and greatest product, or simply pay off the balance of the agreement and keep your device.

Simply choose the product and any accessories you wish to purchase, choose a 12, 24 or 36 month plan, then at the end of the plan either return your device and upgrade, or pay the balance and keep it!

With prices starting from as low as £22.83 per month for a MacBook Air and £8.79 for an iPad, you can’t afford not to check out Easy Upgrade!

For more information visit www.stormfront.co.uk/easyupgrade

Why limit  your outlook?

Offering a made-to-measure system to suit your project, including Juliet balconies, verandas, decks, staircases, even around swimming pools, Vantage Balustrades make it possible to achieve a seamless look in your outside space that maximises those incredible Cornish views.

Whether your home looks out over the coast or rolling countryside, Steve Burton, Managing Director of Vantage Balustrades, conceptualised the frameless balustrade system, as he puts it, “to achieve a high-end finish with easy installation.”

The system, which is called, Solus, can be easily installed by you or your builder. “We can also recommend experienced local installers,” Steve continues, explaining that he and the team are at the end of the phone or email, ready to help offer design and technical advice to help you realise your dream look for your home’s exterior.

For more information call 01726 829250 or visit www.vantagebalustrades.co.uk

Dementia support and respite at home with Bluebird Care

Longer and healthier lives are one of modern medicine’s greatest achievements, however it also means growing numbers are supporting partners or family with dementia. Of course, you want to be there and care for your loved ones, but you also need support, so you can pop to the shops, or visit friends and family, even just to take a break for some sea air. But how can you do this when you need to keep a constant eye on your loved one? Live-in Companionship Care is a lifestyle choice for many who want to remain in the comfort of their own home but welcome a little support when needed.

Rated ‘Overall Outstanding’ by CQC, Bluebird Care provide local trained live-in care professionals for discrete companionship at home. Experienced in caring for dementia, companions have their own bedroom and allow you the space to live separate lives, but are always on hand when needed.

For more information call 01872 276006 or email midcornwall@bluebirdcare.co.uk

Calling Cornwall’s plant seekers!

Have you been inspired by the planting of Cornwall’s amazing gardens this year? If so, perhaps now you’re trying to replicate some of these incredible schemes at home. If you’re a ‘plant seeker’, be sure to make a stop-off at Bodmin Nursery because in most cases, the plant you are trying to track down will be there, just waiting to be found!

The nursery’s team of keen plantsmen and women are always on hand to assist and if needs be, identify any plants in question. Perhaps it’s that particular variety of Agapanthus, a desirable shrub you’ve seen around, or a deeper hue of lavender? Well, plant seekers, at Bodmin Nursery, you have arrived at your destination!

For more information call 01208 72837 or visit www.bodminnursery.co.uk

Kneehigh’s Asylum heads to the beach

Kneehigh Theatre’s bespoke pop-up venue is back this summer in a brand new location – the beach! Until 22nd September, the Asylum tent will be pitched on Carlyon beach in the heart of St Austell Bay.

When you visit you can expect world class theatre from this internationally renowned Cornish company, plus delicious food and drink, live comedy, music and pop-up events.

Along with performances of The Dancing Frog and Kneehigh’s Ubu! A Sing-along Satire, Kneehigh will present a wild medley of stunning shows from their friends and collaborators. With parking on site and tickets from just £9, Kneehigh’s Asylum on Carlyon beach is the perfect way to soak up some culture whilst making the most of a day by the sea, so be sure to add it to your summer diary! For tickets, simply call or visit the website.

For more information call 01872 267912 or visit www.kneehigh.co.uk/asylum

Cornish Tea makes national impression

The Cornish Tea and Coffee Company is the UK’s fastest growing tea and coffee producer. A family business with four generations’ experience stretching back to the 1800s, Cornish Tea provides its hand-blended selection of loose leaf teas in beautiful presentation jars – the most wonderful accompaniment to the classic British afternoon tea.

This being the case, we weren’t surprised to hear that Cornish hotel, Polurrian on the Lizard – which serves Cornish Tea in both their restaurant and in their luxurious rooms – recently won ‘Best Presented Afternoon Tea of the Year’ from the London-held Food and Beverage Magazine Awards. In fact, it was the only hotel in the south west to be shortlisted to the final 15!

Comprising a selection of sweet and savoury treats and served with a glass of refreshing Camel Valley Brut, Cornish sparkling wine and, crucially, a cup of Cornish Tea’s Smugglers Brew, Polurrian’s afternoon tea blew the judges away. Cornish Tea Owner, Duncan Bond and his team have a superb relationship with the hotel, supplying them with their company’s delicious loose-leaf teas, so Duncan was understandably delighted by the result, telling us “we’re incredibly proud to support the Polurrian on the Lizard.”

But it’s not just the speciality hand-blended teas and hand-roasted coffees that this superb Cornish firm has become renowned for. Along with his team, Duncan offers exceptional customer service too, distributing to businesses throughout the UK and abroad, as well as offering quarterly deliveries to households across the UK, ensuring you never run out of tea or coffee again!

For more information call 01503 264476 or visit www.cornish-tea.co.uk

Landscaping your way with Quercus

A well-established business, Quercus provides a variety of home improvement options such as building renovation, new builds, carpentry, joinery and landscaping at affordable prices.

The landscaping avenue of the business allows you to transform your garden and grounds, as we hear from owner Dominic, who tells us: “Whether you have a hard or soft landscaping project in mind, we have the skill and knowledge to do an excellent job for both domestic and commercial environments.”

As part of the landscaping service, Quercus can implement: natural stone paving; water features; garden design and makeovers; planting schemes; turfing; hedging and pruning; tree surgery; and more! So if you’re planning on revamping your garden or grounds, get in touch with the Quercus team today.

For more information call 01637 499251 or visit www.quercuscornwall.co.uk

Simon Jewell set for exciting Porthleven exhibition

Taking place from Friday 20th September to Thursday 26th September at The Customs House Gallery, on Porthleven’s harbourside, the Simon Jewell exhibition offers you the opportunity to admire his stunning paintings.

With a focus on the Cornish landscape and the coast of the Lizard peninsula in particular, Simon’s work aims to convey emotion and a distilled sense of place. Whilst discussing his painting techniques Simon tells us: “When painting I use oils and acrylic, avoiding using a brush where possible and instead using a palette knife, my hands and found objects.”

There will be a private viewing for Simon on Saturday 21st September from 2pm until 4pm and you can witness him painting first hand in the gallery on Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th September.

Typical of The Customs House Gallery’s calendar of events, this exhibition is most certainly not to be missed.

For more information call 01326 569365 or visit www.cornwall-art.co.uk

Bring Cornwall into your new kitchen

Cornwall is experiencing yet another incredible summer. The natural light here has been an inspiration for artists from around the world for many years. Retallack Kitchens like to think that their kitchens not only reflect the beautiful county in which they are based, but draw inspiration from their surroundings too.

Although proprietors David and Jo have both spent most of their lives in Cornwall, they never tire of the amazing views and colours that surround them: deep blues to match the seas and sky; coppers reflecting the sunsets that enhance the coastline. These colours work in nature, so why not in your kitchen?

With all tastes and styles catered for by Retallack Kitchens, David and Jo like to think they can provide you with a unique look. No matter what the style, they can still incorporate all modern day appliances without compromising on the look.

The most sought-after modern convenience at present is the hot water tap, most of which now incorporate filtered cold water too. These are ideal for people not wanting the bother of a kettle, or extra taps or jugs cluttering up the sleek lines of their new kitchen and covering their prized new worktop.

So much variety and choice can be imposing when starting to consider a new kitchen, which is where David and Jo come in, advising and guiding you through the options and choices. Being an independent, family run company, Retallack Kitchens advise without bias, creating exactly what you want and need.

For more information call 01208 873283 or visit www.davidretallackkitchens.co.uk

You can’t beat a good Cornish pub

You can always expect a warm, hearty welcome when you visit the West Country, nowhere more so than its fine collection of waterside pubs. Offering a superb portfolio of over 180 self catering holiday cottages in stunning locations throughout Cornwall, the team at Toad Hall Cottages tell us just four of their favourite pubs by the sea.

On the tranquil banks of the Helford river you’ll find the Shipwright Arms, one of Cornwall’s loveliest, family friendly seaside pubs. Watch the ebb and flow of the river over a glass of something chilled, and take your pick from the superb food on offer.

If you love sweeping sea views, head to The Port William Inn on the Trebarwith Strand, not far from Tintagel Castle. Perfectly placed to take in the untamed beauty of the north coast, the Port William Inn has glorious sunset views of Kernow.

Perhaps one of Cornwall’s most characterful pubs, the Pandora Inn rests on the edge of Restronguet Creek, at the mouth of the Fal estuary. Dating back to the 13th century, the Pandora Inn is recognised by its thatched roof, flagstone floors and low-beamed ceilings, along with its sumptuous menu and amply stocked bar.

If you’re visiting Polperro then The Blue Peter Inn, with its friendly staff, tempting menu and magnificent quayside position, is every inch a traditional mariner’s retreat. It boasts a string of awards too, including a Certificate of Excellence from the British Real Ale Guide, and a Taste of the West Gold!

For more information call 01548 202020 or visit www.toadhallcottages.co.uk

Holiday home tips

In an ongoing series of holiday home tips, George from Cornish Traditional Cottages stresses the importance shopping around when preparing your property to let.

Another way to save money running a holiday let is to shop around for utility providers. George suggests comparing tariffs and services for electricity and gas suppliers. “Most offer combined tariffs,” he explains, “but don’t assume these are cheaper than having separate providers. The same applies to internet connections: check out online deals as some companies offer generous discounts if you sign up online or pay by monthly direct debit.”

It’s also important that you review your utility suppliers regularly. George suggests that every 18 months is a good time to do this, with a view to changing over to a cheaper provider.

A similar principal should apply to buying furniture, fixtures and fittings. Although it can be tempting to scrimp in order to bring down your initial outlay, George tells us: “It’s worth buying the best you can afford, including energy saving appliances, since quality furniture will last much longer and create a better impression among your guests. Maximum efficiency appliances, ultimately, will save on costs in the long run.”

Finally, look out for seasonal sales. Those just after Christmas have excellent discounts and you’ll be able to equip your holiday let with quality items for less!

For more information call 01208 895354 or visit www.corncott.com

Your new office:become a qualified surf or SUP instructor

Change your career or gain extra income by becoming an ASI qualified surfing or SUP instructor. ASI is the world’s international governing body for instructors and schools, its head office being located in Bondi beach, Australia, with UK offices located in Hayle on the north Cornish coast.

ASI Instructor courses are recognised as the world’s finest, and are delivered in Cornwall, across the UK and worldwide. As an instructor, you can work in Cornwall or travel the world; with ASI you’ll love your role.

For more information call 01736 756884 or visit www.academyofsurfing.com

Your last chance to get hold of a Cornish Waves book

The limited edition Cornish Waves book is almost sold out; nearly all 1,000 copies have made their way onto many coffee tables or book shelves for people to enjoy. Waves Surf Art Gallery owner and book curator Mike Lacey tells us: “I’m so elated with its response, I can’t thank everyone enough for picking up a copy – it means the world to me. I had such an epic time making it. It took six months to produce and seemed such a great idea at the time, if only I’d known what I know now, publishing your own book is not as easy as it sounds! The good news is I’m pushing forward with plans to release a new one next year, time allowing, featuring all my newest work since volume one, so please keep an eye out for an official announcement on the website.”

For more information call 01326 368369 or visit www.wavesgallery.co.uk

Sunday Sleepovers at the manor

Make Sundays that extra bit special with dinner, bed and breakfast. After all, Sundays should be about slowing down and carving out some time to reflect
and relax!

Merchants Manor’s Sunday Sleepover, available from 1st September, is the perfect way to get more from your weekend. Heat up in the barrel sauna, step into the aromatherapy steam room and take a dip in the manor pool, all of which are freely available throughout your stay.

Then, enjoy a hearty Sunday lunch or dinner before retiring to your plush room, where robes and slippers are the uniform of choice. With prices starting from just £85 for two people, if you feel like making more of your weekend, why not contact the Merchants Manor team and get yourselves booked in?

For more information call 01326 312734 or visit www.merchantsmanor.com

Driftwood Contemporary

The team at Driftwood Contemporary are pleased to invite you to their gallery in St Ives on 20th September, from 6pm to 8pm, to meet world-renowned architect and artist, Ingo Glaestch.

A trained architect and architectural illustrator, Ingo has worked in some of the world’s most respected architectural practices. From a distance, Ingo’s work is often perceived as the crisp line of drawn ink – the traditional medium for architectural studies – but as you get closer, you’ll see his technique is truly unique. Pouring the paint in a continuous flowing line onto canvas without touching it, once drawn, it cannot be corrected. With exceptional coordination, he turns the challenge of control into a liberating process, creating works that are visually stunning and real statement pieces due to their size and complexity.

With the promise of bubbly and canapés to boot, this event is not one to be missed!

For more information call 01736 795643 or visit www.driftwoodcontemporary.co.uk