Once again, Computers 4 Africa are returning to Bodmin, inviting you to donate your unwanted PCs, laptops and any other working IT Equipment.

On 6th and 7th July, Computers 4 Africa will be holding an appeal at Former Focus, Respryn Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1DQ, between 8AM- 6PM. You are welcome to drop in and donate your unwanted PC’s, laptops, notebooks, monitors, etc that are less than 5 years old and that are in working condition.

Your donated IT equipment will be sent to school children across Africa and will be used to teach them vital skills.

All computers donated to us are securely data-wiped before being shipped to Africa. Computers 4 Africa’s desire is to see children in Africa reach their full potential.

Although we know that computer lessons are not the only way to educate a child, IT education is a useful tool that provides a child with the opportunity to develop a skill that can transform his or her life and the lives of their future families.

For more information about this registered charity, visit www.computers4africa.org.uk

 

Cornish wrestling will be making a comeback at Bodmin Beacon wrestling ring for the first time since 1860 with a tournament on Sunday 4 July.

Organised by Cornwall Council, Bodmin Town Council and the Cornish Wrestling Association, the Bodmin Beacon tournament will see the 100 foot diameter wrestling ring back in use after a gap of 150 years. Bodmin Beacon wrestling ring was an important site for the sport in its heyday, with crowds of thousands gathering to see top wrestlers such as local hero Billy the Fish.

The Bodmin Beacon tournament will include an open competition plus categories for under 16s, under 14s and under 12s. Cornish wrestling is a stand-up style, and the aim is to throw the opponent on his back from a standing position.

Ann Kerridge, Cornwall Councillor for Bodmin West, said: “Cornish wrestling is Cornwall’s oldest sport, dating back several thousand years. I’m delighted to see this tradition returning to the Beacon and hope that the tournament will become an annual event in the future. Everyone is welcome to bring a picnic and come along to watch the Cornish wrestlers fight for the title of Beacon Champion on 4 July.”

M Denholm, Mayor of Bodmin, emphasized how the event underpinned the heritage aspect of Bodmin Riding Day: “Bringing Cornish wrestling back into Bodmin will be an important day for us. The Cornish Wrestling Association was formed in Bodmin in 1923 to standardise the rules and promote Cornish wrestling in Cornwall and worldwide. I am absolutely delighted that this old traditional form of sport has come back to us in my year as Mayor of the town and look forward to watching and supporting the wrestlers on what I’m sure will be an exciting day.”

The tournament starts at 2.00pm on Sunday 4 July in the wrestling ring at Bodmin Beacon and is free to watch. It is one of a number of local events being staged as part of Bodmin Riding and Heritage weekend, a celebration of local culture and history.

To find out more about the Cornish wrestling tournament, ring Coralie Barrow, Coast and Countryside Officer, on 01208 262857.
 
The Cornish Wrestling Association is keen to compile an archive on the sport and would welcome any stories about Cornish wrestling heroes. Anyone with relevant information can contact the association via their website www.cornishwrestling.co.uk or share their information with the association at the Beacon tournament on 4 July.


  Cornish Wrestling Event Poster (PDF)
 

In accordance with Regulations 13, 14 and 16 of the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003, the Accounts and other specified documents will be made available for public inspection by any interested party.

They will be available between the following dates; 22 June – 19 July 2010, Monday to Friday between the hours of 10.00am and 2.00pm at Shire House, Mount Folly Square, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 2DQ.

Notice is given that on, or after, Tuesday 20 July 2010 local electors for the area to which the accounts relate may exercise their rights under sections 15 and 16 of the Audit Commission Act 1998 to question the Auditor about or make objections to the accounts for the year ending 31 March 2010 in writing to: Lee Budge, District Auditor, The Audit Commission, 2nd Floor, Stephenson House, 47-49 Calenick Street, Truro, TR1 2SF.

Date: 7 June 2010

Anne McAuley FMAAT MIAB RESPONSIBLE FINANCE OFFICER
  

The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor Bob Micek, presented the Bodmin Field of Hope Commemorative Book to Jesse Foot of Bodmin Library on Tuesday 18 May 2010.

The Commemorative Book has been put together with names of loved ones recorded and for whom daffodil bulbs have been planted at the Bodmin Field of Hope at Priory Lawn.

The book also contains photographs from the planting day to when the Field was in full bloom. 5,000 golden daffodils bloomed in February and March and provided a spectacular display and the appeal has raised £1025 in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The book can now be viewed and is held in the Cornish Studies section at Bodmin Library.

Photo left to right: Lynda Thomas (Community Fundraising Manager with Marie Curie Cancer Care), Councillor R J Micek (Mayor of Bodmin), Jesse Foot (Bodmin Library) and Kim Mullis (Bodmin Town Council).
  

More than 150 people turned out on Bodmin Beacon for a chance to learn more about looking after man's best friend.

Organised by Cornwall Council and Bodmin Town Council, Pets Corner and two local dog behaviorists the event on Sunday 11th of April was a chance to take your canine pet for a free health check offered by the charity, People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals.

The PDSA said: “The day was a total success we checked 43 dogs and our target is 22”.

There was a steady flow of people visiting the veterinary nurse who checked, teeth, eyes and ears, while giving advice on diet and exercise. Also on hand were St Francis Home for Animals who were offering discounted dog chipping, and Bonofido and Come to Heal dog behaviour specialists who ran workshops and a fun and games session for dogs of all abilities. Pets Corner a local shop supplied prizes and supported the day with a harness display.

Chairman of the Beacon Management Advisory Group, Peter Davies said: "The Beacon event provided a great opportunity to meet with fellow users (and their dogs) and provided to be a well attended and positive occasion.”
  

Last Friday, Bodmin Town Council hosted a coffee morning in support of the Field of Hope planted last Autumn in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Supporters were invited along for a coffee and delicious cake and had the opportunity to view the Commemorative Book where names were added in memory of loved ones and visitors could also visit the Priory Lawn where 5,000 golden daffodils, kindly supplied by Fentongollan Flower Farm, are now in full bloom. An amazing sight and a great treat for visitors to Bodmin.

The Coffee Morning raised another £226 which brings the total raised for the new Bodmin Field of Hope to £1,051.

Lynda Thomas, Community Fundraising Manager, said “I would like to thank The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor Bob Micek and members of the Town Council for helping us with this new project for the town.

Bodmin Field of Hope is now one of thousands of Fields planted throughout the UK on behalf of Marie Curie Cancer Care. If anybody would still like to have a name included in the book or make a donation please call us at the Truro office on 01872 260 500. The book will be placed at Bodmin Library once updated towards the end of April.” To access a Marie Curie Nurse, speak to your GP or district nurse. For more information, please visit: http://www.mariecurie.org.uk
  

The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor R J Micek will be hosting a Marie Curie Coffee Morning on Friday 9 April 2010 at 10.00 a.m. in the Shire House Suite. This follows on from the Field of Hope daffodil planting event on the Priory Lawn in which the Council, along with a group of dedicated volunteers, participated and helped to raise funds back in November 2009.

It is hoped that this event will go some way in raising additional funds for Marie Curie and as such all are welcome to attend. It would also be greatly appreciated if anyone is able to make and donate any cakes/refreshments to sell on the day.

Lynda Thomas, Community Fundraising Manager for Marie Curie will be attending the coffee morning and bringing along the Commemorative Book which includes all the dedications made by those people who kindly sponsored the daffodils in memory of loved ones.


Event Poster (PDF).
  

On Friday 26 March 2010 at 7.00 p.m. in the Shire House Suite, Bodmin Town Council will host a Public Meeting which will include a presentation by Rod King of the ‘20’s Plenty for Us’ organization.

The purpose of this meeting is to consider the concept of a 20 m.p.h speed limit throughout Bodmin, in order to improve road safety for the local community.

This meeting was instigated following representations to the Council by the St Nicholas Street Traffic Calming and Conservation Group.

It is anticipated that representatives from the Police, Cornwall Council and various other local organisations will be in attendance at this meeting and members of the public are invited to attend and join the debate.

  

Following the recent devastating news of the earthquake in Haiti, an enthusiastic team from Cornwall College Business decided to do something to help.

They chose to join forces with the local charity Shelterbox to raise money and help with the vital aid work they are carrying out for the people of Haiti.

The team completed a walk of approximately 85 miles between Wednesday 3 February and Friday 5 February. The walk commenced from the Cornwall College campus at Saltash via the St Austell campus, the second day took them on to the Camborne campus, before finishing at the Business Space in Truro on 5th February. The route took the team through many towns and villages, allowing them to collect along the way and a shelterbox was carried by the team for the duration of the walk.

As a gesture of support for the good work being undertaken by the team, the Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor R J Micek and Bodmin Town Council welcomed the team to Shire Hall on Wednesday 3 February and provided them with light refreshments to see them on their way on the next leg of their journey to St Austell.

ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity, specializing in emergency shelter provision. We instantly respond to earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict by delivering boxes of aid. Each box supplies a family of ten with a tent and lifesaving equipment to use while they are displaced.

Since 2001, ShelterBox has provided shelter, warmth and dignity following over 80 disasters in more than 52 countries.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to this worthwhile cause can visit the Shelterbox webpage at: http://www.justgiving.com/ccb-shelterbox

Pictured are the team from Cornwall College Business outside Shire Hall along with Councillor R J Micek (Mayor of Bodmin), Mrs Rita Micek (Mayoress of Bodmin) and Councillor E T Denholm.


NEWS UPDATE...   (Mar 23 2010)

Cornwall College Business have announced that as a result of their efforts and the generosity of the public, they were able to raise £4,656.00 for the Shelterbox charity.


  

Friday 5 March 2010 will see the people of Bodmin commemorating and celebrating St Piran, the patron saint of Cornwall.

The day begins outside the Library, with a procession commencing at 10.30am (assemble 10-10.15) including children from the town’s primary schools and Bodmin College. As the procession passes down the town’s historic Fore Street the procession will pause to pay a mark of respect at the Flamank Stone. The procession will arrive at Mount Folly where there will be speeches from local dignitaries including the Mayor and the Deputy Grand Bard, followed by rousing choruses of “Hail to the Homeland” and “Trelawney”.

After making their way to St Petroc’s Church, each school will perform songs, dances or plays associated with the rich, cultural history of Cornwall.

Androw Hawke Chairman of Bodmin St Piran’s Committee who has worked hard to facilitate the day in partnership with Bodmin Town Council said “ This event grows year on year and we are hoping for great support from the local community to make St Piran’s Day 2010, a day to remember.”

Cornish Associations from across the country have already taken up the invitation. The distinctive St Piran’s flag will be flying across the Mount Folly and there will be Cornish stalls and music. The Flag of St Piran is a vertical white cross on a black background and St Piran is said to have adopted these two colours from seeing the molten tin spilling out of the black ore in his fire.

Councillor Bob Micek the Mayor of Bodmin said “the involvement of young people is the reason why St Piran’s Day in Bodmin is so special. Their enthusiasm for Bodmin, Cornwall and our heritage is infectious and brings the whole day to life”.

The day concludes at 19.45 on Mount Folly when Trelawney will be sung following the evening procession which leaves the Library at 18:30pm (assemble 18.00-18.15) led by Cornish Piper Merv Davey and the town’s cadet and scout organisations.

CONTACTS: Androw Hawke, Chairman – Bodmin St Piran Committee 07050209716 Paul O’Callaghan, Town Clerk, Bodmin Town Council 01208 74159.

STALLS on MOUNT FOLLY: Cornish Language Partnership, Cornish Language Fellowship, Cornish Tartan Store, Cornwall Family History Service, Cornwall Heritage Trust, Cornwall Centre for Volunteers.

View Programme of Events (PDF)

  

Further to Advice from the County Forestry Officer, Bodmin Town Council will be carrying out remedial pruning of all the Irish Yew Trees in the Old Cemetery, Bodmin.

These trees have not been pruned for a number of years and for their long term health and survival, it is recommended to reduce the height of the majority to around 6 feet. For the poorer specimens, the height will be further reduced to around 3 or 4 feet to give them the best chance of regeneration.

The trees will then undergo an annual prune to maintain their height, and we are expecting that the arisings will then be able to be used for medicinal purposes, in the production of anti-cancer drugs.

Anyone requiring further information can contact Judith Hayes (Projects Assistant) or Stephen Facer (DCE) at Bodmin Town Council on 01208 74159.

  

Bodmin’s Wassailers, who receive traditional hospitality at 15 to 20 houses throughout the town on '12th Night' (6th January, being 12 days from Christmas Day) will restore a link with Bodmin Town Council dating back to the seventeenth century when they commission a new Wassailing Bowl in the presence of the Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor Bob Micek.

Dressed in top hats, dickie bows, waistcoats and tails, Bodmin Wassailers are one of only two surviving traditional visiting Wassails and are very different from Apple Tree Wassails. The Bodmin Wassail is unique in that records confirm it has survived continuously since 1640 although it was certainly well established even then.  The male only group visit houses in Bodmin singing two songs – again this is unique – one when seeking entry and another upon leaving – in return for hospitality and donations to local charities.

In the last three years the wassailers have extended the custom by going out in the afternoon to residential and nursing homes, shops and the library. Vic Legg said “This extends the tradition to many more people in the town. Wassail is a living tradition in Bodmin and is changing and developing all the time so who knows what the future may bring.”

Bodmin’s Town Clerk, Paul O’Callaghan said “The town council is delighted once again to contribute to the tradition of wassail. I shall be following in the footsteps of my predeccessor Nicholas Sprey when I fill the wassail bowl with fine wine as it begins its twelve hour journey across our town.”


Read the full article about Bodmin Wassailers here which also has links to more information(PDF).
  

Bodmin’s Christmas celebrations kicked off at 6pm on Friday 27th November with entertainment by the Pirate FM Roadshow. Father Graham from St Petroc’s Church led a lively procession of school children singing carols along Fore Street and onto the Mount Folly, where they were met by the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Maggie Denholm. Carol singing on the folly was led by Alicia Allen of Bodmin College.

The whole of the Mount Folly area was thronged with people of all ages enjoying the festive atmosphere and music. Cornwall’s girl band, Eden, supported by ‘Charlie’ who has been touring with Pirate FM performed their song and dance routines. On the invitation of the Mayor, Councillor Bob Micek, Ros and Leah McNary on behalf of ‘Help for Heroes’ switched on the lights of the magnificent Christmas tree on the Folly.

The street entertainment, Chloe the Clown and the juggler, was brilliant and thoroughly enjoyed by the young people. The star of the show was Father Christmas accompanied by his helpful elves, in his magical grotto in the Shire Hall, who gave presents to over a hundred children.

Despite the inclement weather the event was a huge success and the organisers Bodmin Town Council and the Bodmin Chamber of Commerce and Industry would like to thank everyone who had contributed to the evening including Julian Murch, Andy Rowe and their team for repairing and putting up the Christmas lights around the town, Barnecutts, Morrisons and Asda for their donations and the ladies from the Inner Wheel for handing out the mince pies.

A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to One and All

The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor R J Micek hosted the Museum Luncheon on Friday 6 November 2009, at which he was extremely pleased to present Mrs Maureen Tooze with a Citizens Award on behalf of Bodmin Town Council.

Mrs Tooze recently announced her resignation from the post of Honorary Curator after more than twenty four years which represents a wealth of hard work, pride and dedication to preserve the culture, heritage and history of the town.

Mrs Tooze (picture right with her husband Brian on far right) was born and has spent her entire life in Bodmin and will continue to work as a volunteer in the Museum following her retirement.

The Council were also pleased to note that Mrs Tooze had recently scooped the first prize in the inaugural Cornwall Celebrates Volunteers Awards in the Cornwall Celebrates Culture category.

“Footsteps to Copenhagen” is an initiative set up by a range of local organisations including Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall WI, Cornwall Transition movement, Event Cornwall, Coast, and Truro Cathedral.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of climate change in the lead up to the United Nations talks taking place in Copenhagen in December.

Declarations and pledges signed by people throughout Cornwall were recently collected and carried by a relay of cyclists starting in Penzance on October 24 October and ending at Saltash on Saturday 31 October.

During their journey, the cyclists arrived on October 28 in Bodmin where they were met by the Reverend Canon Minors on Mount Folly (see picture right).

The promotion of the “Cornish Declaration”, which sets out the intentions of Cornwall residents and visitors to lead sustainable lives, urges the Government to be instrumental in reaching a deal at Copenhagen which will keep global temperature rise to below the critical 2°C.

For more information about the initiative, you can view Truro Cathedral website's feature or download the document; Cornwall's March To Copenhagen! here:

Cornwall's March To Copenhagen! (pdf) 

Footsteps to Copenhagen Project Co-ordinator
Luci Scholes
luciclaire@yahoo.com
01872 241239
07909 530 730

The kick-off to Bodmin’s Christmas celebrations takes place on Friday 27 November when young and old are invited to come along to Mount Folly and enjoy the music of Pirate FM and local girl band Eden from 6.00 p.m.

At approximately 6.30 p.m. Father Graham, St Petroc’s Church Choir and Father Christmas will lead the children’s lantern-lit procession which will assemble outside the Library and process down Fore Street, singing carols along the way.

On reaching Mount Folly the procession will be welcomed by the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Maggie Denholm, who will join in the carol singing accompanied by Bodmin College Jazz Band.

At approximately 7.15 p.m. the lights of the Christmas tree will be switched on, followed by Father Graham and the choir leading the singing of more traditional carols on the Folly.

The Visitor Information Centre will be hosting a Santa’s Grotto where children can meet Father Christmas and receive a gift and there will also be an opportunity to join the Mayor for light refreshments in the Shire Hall. The Jury Box Gift Shop within the Shire Hall will remain open for the evening.

Throughout the evening many of Bodmin’s shops will also remain open and there will be street entertainment including Juggler Dan Brazier and Chloe the Clown to add to the festive atmosphere.

To promote this event and attract visitors, Bodmin Town Council have agreed to provide free parking in Priory Car Park from 6.00 p.m.

Both the Chamber of Commerce and the Town Council would like to thank Morrison’s Supermarket and Malcolm Barnecutt’s for their support by generously donating 1,000 and 300 mince pies respectively.

Thanks are also due to Julian Murch, Andy Rowe and their team of dedicated volunteers who assist with this event year on year by carrying out maintenance to the Christmas lights, testing of electrics, as well as the putting up and taking down of the lights in all weathers. The Town Council would also wish to extend its thanks to Chris Wilkes, Chairman of Bodmin Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Elaine Ferguson.

“Footsteps to Copenhagen” is an initiative set up by a range of local organisations including Cornwall Wildlife Trust, Cornwall WI, Cornwall Transition movement, Event Cornwall, Coast, and Truro Cathedral.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of climate change in the lead up to the United Nations talks taking place in Copenhagen in December.

One of the key elements is the promotion of the “Cornish Declaration” which sets out the intentions of Cornwall residents and visitors to lead sustainable lives and urges the Government to be instrumental in reaching a deal at Copenhagen which will keep global temperature rise to below the critical 2°C.

Members of the public are also being encouraged to sign up to the Initiative’s top ten pledges about personal actions they can take to mitigate climate change.

Declarations and pledges signed by people throughout Cornwall will be collected and carried by a relay of cyclists starting in Penzance on October 24 October and arriving in Saltash on Saturday 31 October. The cyclists will be visiting key villages and towns along the way where they will gather up declarations and pledges collected from the public and organisations by local event organisers.

For more information about the initiative, you can view Truro Cathedral website's feature or download the document; Cornwall's March To Copenhagen! here:

Cornwall's March To Copenhagen! (pdf) 

Footsteps to Copenhagen Project Co-ordinator
Luci Scholes
luciclaire@yahoo.com
01872 241239
07909 530 730

Bodmin Visitor Centre is top of the pops - and that's official.

The centre and staff have scooped the top tourism ‘Oscar’ for Visitor Centre of the Year, 2009, at the prestigious annual Cornwall Tourism Awards, held at the Headland Hotel in Newquay.

Beating off competition from across the County, Bodmin proved they are the best at giving all visitors to the Information Centre what they want – good, up-to-date information and exceptional levels of customer care.

Being the winner of the Cornwall Tourism Best TIC Award is not a new experience to the team at Bodmin. They have entered seven out of the eight years the Awards have been running – winning the gold, four times and the silver, three times.

“It was very much a team effort,” said Wendy Wright, tourism officer. “We have great esprit de corps and always put our customers at the centre of everything we do.”

“The staff are always looking for ways to drive up their standards. This summer one of the most popular improvements to the VIC services was the creation of a range of leaflets on free and purse-friendly days out. ”

But the success didn’t end there. The Courtroom Experience visitor attraction which is a re-creation of a real Victorian murder trial, was awarded the Bronze award for Best small Visitor Attraction in Cornwall, with Pendennis Castle taking the Silver award and Penlee House in Penzance taking the Gold.

Wendy said “This was the first time the Courtroom Experience had been entered into the Tourism Awards so to be awarded the bronze was such good news. Bodmin has really been put on the tourist map.”

The team at the Shire Hall including Wendy Wright, Debbie Noyce, Clare Trudgeon, Monique Jeffrey-Jones and Dawn Roberts are now eagerly awaiting news to see whether the Visitor Centre has been short listed in the regional South West awards.

Councillor Michelle Griffiths, Chairman of the Town Council’s Promotions Committee, commented “To remain in the top echelons of the Cornwall Tourism Awards year on year is a remarkable achievement and only possible with huge amounts of hard work and dedication – this is great news for the Shire Hall team and for Bodmin!”

In February 2009 Bodmin Beacon celebrated the completion of a new stewardship agreement with Natural England securing £120,000 worth of funding.

The funding will help the reserve reach its full potential as a haven for wildlife and a local educational and community resource.

If you would like to provide some feed back about the Local Nature Reserve, please download the questionnaire and return to: Bodmin Town Council, Shire House, Mount Folly, Bodmin, PL31 2DQ.


Beacon LNR General User Questionnaire
       (download pdf)

Bodmin Field of Hope Priory Lawn, Priory Park.

By kind permission of Bodmin Town Council 5,000 Daffodil bulbs will be planted on 15 November between 11am and 2pm by Marie Curie Cancer Care supporters as a symbol of hope and remembrance.

You can sponsor a daffodil in memory of a loved one and have their name entered in the Commemorative Book - money raised will help fund the Marie Curie Nurses working in the homes of terminally ill people in your area.

We are seeking help from local organisations and individuals to help with planting and promotion of this new project. If you would like to help in anyway please call the fundraising office. Bulbs for this project have been donated by The Hosking Family of Fentongollan Farm, St. Michael Penkivel. Marie Curie Cancer Care is working in partnership with Bodmin Town Council.

To sponsor a bulb or for more information please call the fundraising office on 01872 260500 or download a coupon / form to print and fill in the details to send here. These forms are also available at are available from Reception at Bodmin Town Council, Shire House.

Over the summer months, staff from Mount Folly Square’s Shire Hall invited visitors to come and design what they thought the elusive Beast of Bodmin might look like.

There were over 300 designs – some traditional black-panther style, others with multi-coloured stripes and some were even covered with glitter and brightly coloured feathers- but it was Nevena Solomon’s ingenious use of recycled sweet wrappers and attention to detail that really caught the judge’s eye.

The Mayor said “There were so many imaginative designs but Nevena’s Beast of Bodmin really stood out. I love the way she used recycled materials. She really does deserve to win the top prize”.

Nevena was invited to the Shire Hall where the Mayor and Mayoress gave their congratulations and presented Nevena who is eight years old, with her very own Beast of Bodmin and commemorative certificate.

The runners-up in the competition were 10 year old, Erin Cryer from Lancashire and Bet Saunders from Romsey in Hampshire.

To see images of the results and Nevena Solomon's winning entry, connect to Bodmin's Visitor Information Website.

It was smiles all round this week at Mount Folly’s Shire Hall, as the staff received news that they have yet again been recognised as one of the best in Cornwall.

The Visitor Information Centre has been short listed in this year’s Cornwall Tourism Awards and will be announced as the Gold, Silver or Bronze award winner at a black tie gala evening on 15th October at the Headland Hotel, Newquay.

But the celebration doesn’t end with the Visitor Information Centre.

Following the news a few weeks back that the Courtroom Experience Visitor Attraction was named in Little Chef’s guide as one of the top family days out in the UK, the staff were delighted to hear that the Courtroom too has been short listed for an award for the best small visitor attraction in the county.

Tourism Officer, Wendy Wright said “On hearing the news I was absolutely delighted for all the staff at the Shire Hall. They really deserve this recognition, be it Gold, Silver or Bronze, I am very proud of them” .

The team at the Shire Hall are no stranger to success at the Cornwall Tourism Awards. Last year they were awarded the Silver for best Tourist Information Centre and in 2007 they were announced as the Gold winner.

Bodmin Town Council is extremely pleased to announce that the Beacon Local Nature Reserve (LNR) has won the Green Flag Award, the national standard for parks and green spaces in England and Wales, for the second year running.

Councillor Spear, Chairman of Bodmin Town Council's Properties Committee said, ‘The Beacon continues to be a unique and quality public open space on the doorstep of the town and this excellent reaccreditation with the Green Flag Award for 2009 recognises the hard work and progress that has been made. However, there is a lot more work to do and with the ongoing support and partnership with Cornwall Council and Natural England the Beacon will continue to be a real asset for the town.'

Awards are given on an annual basis and winners must apply each year to renew their Green Flag status. Retaining the Green Flag for a further year is a reflection of the hard work that goes into managing the site and the progress that has been made in developing the site under the Higher Level Stewardship Agreement from Natural England.

The Beacon LNR is managed in partnership between Bodmin Town Council and Cornwall Council and with the valuable input of the community representatives who participate in the Beacon Management Advisory Group.

Pictured with the Green Flag on the Beacon are: Councillor R J Micek, Mayor of Bodmin; Councillor P Kerridge, Bodmin Town Council; Peter Davies, Chairman, Beacon Management Advisory Group; David Ferris, Community Representative & Beacon Management Advisory Group Member and Peter Gardener, Cornwall Council Sites & Trails Ranger.

Little Chef Reveals the UK’s Top 51 Family Days Out

-  Public nominations highlight some hidden treasures

- The Courtroom Experience at Bodmin’s Shire Hall comes 33rd in new Summer Guide

The Courtroom Experience at Bodmin’s Shire Hall, which is a recreation of a Cornish Victorian murder trial, has beaten off stiff competition from the UK’s top visitor attractions to be crowned number 33, in a brand new family days out guide created from public nominations.

When research earlier this year showed that British families were not spending enough quality time together, the iconic roadside restaurant chain Little Chef decided to do something about it and launched its Bring Back Family Days Out campaign. Public nominations flooded in, with families sharing their personal favourites, including both high profile attractions and places off the beaten track.

The final top 51 – chosen to celebrate 51 years of Little Chef restaurants - was based on the number of nominations, the accessibility, cost and appeal to a family group. The guide, available in all Little Chef restaurants and at www.littlechef.co.uk, includes something for everyone with excursions including well known destinations such as Alton Towers, Legoland and London Zoo, plus hidden gems such as The Forbidden Corner, Ironbridge Gorge museum, Towneley Hall in Burnley, Alnwick Castle and The Courtroom Experience.

Tom Hutton, one of the authors of a Rough Guide to Britain, said: “Ask the majority of adults to list the things they remember most about their childhood, and the odds are that days out with the family will be one of them. “The final 51 is an eclectic mix of days out demonstrating the range of fascinating things to do and beautiful places to visit in the UK. It’s great that the public hasn’t overlooked the less obvious attractions either.”

Cathy Stevenson, Marketing Director at Little Chef, said: “We’re really pleased with the response we have had to the Family Days Out campaign and hope that the guide will provide much needed inspiration to many families over the summer holidays and beyond. “Many of the attractions are free or have low entry fees, making it really easy for families to spend time together. The Out and About map, available in restaurants, also has a number of discount vouchers to help a make things even easier.”

The 51 Days Out guide can be found online at www.littlechef.co.uk and on the Out and About map, which can be picked up free of charge in all Little Chef restaurants.

The Top 51 Days Out:

1 The Forbidden Corner
2 Brighton Pier
3 Day out in York
4 Alton Towers
5 Legoland Windsor
6 Ironbridge Gorge Museum
7 Blackpool Pleasure Beach
8 Natural History Museum
9 Alnwick Castle
10 Towneley Hall Estate & Park 11 London Zoo
12 Chessington World of Adventures
13 Chester Zoo
14 Eden Project
15 Cadbury World
16 Keswick
17 Drayton Manor Theme Park
18 Heights of Abraham
19 Longleat House & Safari Park
20 Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway
21 Leeds Castle
22 Warwick Castle
23 Magna
24 Lost Gardens of Heligan
25 Wroxham/Hoveton/Norfolk Broads
26 Charmouth Beach
27 Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park
28 Glasgow Science Centre
29 Twycross Zoo
30 Ellesmere Port Boat Museum
31 Camperdown Country Park
32 Aberdeen Maritime Museum
33 Courtroom Experience
34 East Somerset Railway
35 Howletts Wild Animal Park
36 Carlisle Castle
37 Cannon Hall
38 Cambridge University Botanic Garden
39 Salcey Forest
40 RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve
41 Carsington Water
42 Look Out Discovery Centre
43 Hatfield House
44 St Leonards Farm Park
45 Nature in Art
46 National Forest Llama Trek
47 Abbotsbury Swannery
48 Markeaton Park, Derby
49 Woking Lightbox
50 Lichfield's Children's Trail
51 Moss Bank Park

The Courtroom Experience is open Monday to Saturday. First session is at 11am and runs on the hour throughout the day. The last session is at 4pm. A family ticket is £9.80. Find out more about the Courtroom Experience.

The Monkey Puzzle tree was control felled this morning (Monday 29 June 2009) at 10.15 a.m. by Special Branch Trees.

The Priory Park children's play area will remain closed for the duration of the works.

Bodmin Town Council apologises for any inconvenience that this may cause.

For further information, please contact Stephen Facer, Deputy Chief Executive on 01208 74159.
 

Computers 4 Africa would like to invite to donate your unwanted PCs, laptops and any other working IT Equipment.

Your donated IT equipment will be sent to school children across Africa and will be used to teach them vital skills.

On 14th and 15th July, Computers 4 Africa will be holding an appeal at Former Focus, Respryn Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1DQ, between 9AM- 5PM (see website for more details). You are welcome to drop in and donate your unwanted PC’s, laptops, notebooks, monitors, etc that are less than 5 years old and that are in working condition.

All computers donated to us are securely data-wiped before being shipped to Africa.

Computers 4 Africa’s desire is to see children in Africa reach their full potential. Although we know that computer lessons are not the only way to educate a child, IT education is a useful tool that provides a child with the opportunity to develop a skill that can transform his or her life and the lives of their future families.
 

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF DATE FOR EXERCISE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS

In accordance with Regulation 14 of the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2003, the Accounts and other specified documents will be made available for public inspection by any interested party. They will be available between the following dates;

17 June - 14 July 2009, Monday to Friday Between the hours of 10.00am and 2.00pm

at Shire House, Mount Folly Square, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 2DQ

Notice is given that on, or after, Wednesday 15 July 2009 local electors for the area to which the accounts relate may exercise their rights under Sections 15 and 16 of the Audit Commission Act 1998 to question the Auditor about or make objections to the accounts for the year ending 31 March 2009 in writing to: Alun Williams, District Auditor, The Audit Commission, 2nd Floor, Stephenson House, 47-49 Calenick Street, Truro, TR1 2SF.
 

On Sunday 14 June 2009, the Cornwall Branch of the Normandy Veterans Association will be parading and laying up their Standard.

The Council very much hopes that the public will turn out in their numbers to support this Commemoration as it is only because of the great service of these brave men and their colleagues in Normandy in 1944 that we can all enjoy the civil liberties that we do today.

The Normandy Veterans Association commemorates all those men who fought on and after D Day in 1944 to liberate France, Belgium and the Netherlands from enemy occupation; which was a pivotal campaign in the Second World War and a turning point in bringing peace to Europe.

The Parade will assemble in Priory Park, Bodmin at 2 p.m. on Sunday 14 June 2009. Following a short Service of Commemoration at the War Memorial, the Veterans will parade to St Petroc’s Church Bodmin where the Standard will be laid up. The Lord Lieutenant, Lady Mary Holborrow will take the salute.

The Mayor, Councillor Bob Micek, commented ‘this will be a particularly poignant occasion and a chance for Civic Dignitaries from across the County to pay respects to these brave Veterans as it is likely that because of their increasing frailty, the youngest members of the Association are approaching their mid-80s and some members are much older, that this will be their final parade’.

Notes for Editors

Further information about this event is available from Paul O’Callaghan (Town Clerk) or Laura Hancock (Executive Assistant)

Bodmin Town Council Shire House Mount folly Square Bodmin PL31 2DQ
t– 01208 74159
f – 01208 264764
e- paul.ocallaghan@bodmin.gov.uk or laura.hancock@bodmin.gov.uk

Further information about the Normandy Veterans Association is available from: Mr Eric Lomax, Hon Treasurer, Cornwall Branch Normandy Veterans Association - (01736) 374195.

On Tuesday 21 April 2009 the newly formed Beacon Management Advisory Group celebrated the success of entering into a new ten year Agreement with Natural England.

The Higher Level Stewardship Agreement replaces the former Countryside Stewardship Agreements that were previously in place on an individual basis with Bodmin Town Council and North Cornwall District Council.

This new Agreement takes a holistic view of the site and will enable the implementation and the delivery of the aspirations detailed with the Management Plan for the Beacon local Nature Reserve, which will lead to on site improvements for the promotion of the wildlife and for the benefit of the many users and visitors to the Reserve.

The Beacon is a unique Local Nature Reserve given its close proximity and location in relation to the town centre and affords people the opportunity to discover nature on their doorstep. With the formation of a Management Advisory Group for the Reserve, which includes a balance of Community and local council representation, the public’s interest and views will be a key factor to the development of the Beacon Local Nature Reserve.

(Pictured Above: left to right are: Sarah Knight, Community Representative, Beacon Management Advisory Group, Jon Cripps, Cornwall Council, Coralie Barrow, Coast & Countryside Officer, Cornwall Council, Peter Davies, Chairman, Beacon Management Advisory Group, Peter Gardner, Cornwall Council, Stephen Facer, Deputy Chief Executive, Bodmin Town Council, Hugh Tyler, Natural England Advisor (front) and David Ferris, Community Representative, Beacon Management Advisory Group).

For more information about the Beacon Local Nature Reserve, please contact Stephen Facer, Deputy Chief Executive via e-mail stephen.facer@bodmin.gov.u

Although Christmas may seem a long way off, the Bodmin Christmas Lights Committee thought you might be interested to learn what is being put in place to make Christmas 2009 a special event in Bodmin town centre:

:- Switching On Event...

This year the Christmas lights will be put up on Sunday 22 November, with the official switching-on event (including late night shopping and entertainment on the Mount Folly) taking place on Friday 27 November.

:- Gutter Cleaning...

During the course of the summer months, engineers will be checking the electrics and fittings for the lighting on the exterior of the buildings using a cherry picker. This will provide an opportunity to check and/or clean the guttering on your property.  Why not take advantage of this opportunity by making a donation to ‘Bodmin Town Christmas Lights’.

:- Small Christmas Trees...

If you would like to purchase a small Christmas tree for display outside your shop, please contact Elaine Ferguson on 01208 269250 who will be pleased to take your order and make the necessary arrangements for the fixing of the tree.

:- Sponsorship...

We hope that many businesses in the town will want to take part. If you would like to sponsor some of the lighting or make a donation, please contact Bodmin Town Council on 01208 74159. Alternatively you may wish to volunteer with the Bodmin Christmas Lights Committee who maintain, repair and erect the lights. Please contact Andy Rowe on 01208 73847 or Julian Murch on 01208 269523 for further information.
 
To obtain further information on any of the above please contact Chris Wilkes (Bodmin Chamber of Commerce and Industry) on 07968 488282 or Bodmin Town Council on 01208 74159. Visit the Bodmin Town Christmas Lights website at – www.bodmin-christmas-lights.co.uk

  Christmas Lights 2009 Poster (PDF) Download


- Bodmin Chamber of Commerce and Industry - working with Bodmin Town Council -
 

On Thursday 23 April 2009 Cornwall Council and Bodmin Town Council worked in partnership to litter pick Kinsman Estate and Treningle View, before setting off across the Beacon Local Nature Reserve.

All of this work was carried out as part of CleanCornwall week. A large amount of litter was collected and in some cases it is disappointing to note that a proportion of this waste comes from instances of illegal fly tipping, which was uncovered as part of boundary hedge maintenance work on the Beacon Local Nature Reserve.

With the removal of this material from site, the identified areas will be monitored in the future to deal with any recurring / repeat problems.

Feedback from the staff involved on the day highlight another negative aspect that detracts from the natural wildlife and beauty that the Beacon Local Nature Reserve has to offer on the doorstep to the town.

A small minority of dog owners are continuing to fail in their responsibility to pick up after their pets and dog fouling is an unacceptable practice and one which can lead to health risks for both people and other dogs as well as being unsightly and a bad experience, should you be unlucky enough to step in it.

Please pick up after your pets and help look after the Beacon Local Nature Reserve. The Beacon LNR is an 84 acre site for the preservation and promotion of wildlife and it would be a pity if this was spilt by a few inconsiderate people.

Bodmin Town Council’s Annual Town Meeting will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday 19 March 2009 prior to the Finance, Staffing and Performance Management meeting.

This meeting is open to members of the public, who are able to ask the Council questions. Any Bodmin Town resident wishing to raise specific matters which require detailed answers is requested to give prior notice with details in writing to the Town Clerk, Council Offices, Shire House, Mount Folly Square, Bodmin, PL31 2DQ.

The Council is particularly pleased to welcome Dean Ashton, Corporate Director for Children, Schools and Families for the new Cornwall Council as the guest speaker. He will be providing a presentation entitled ‘Some Numbers’ which provides an overview of the challenges faced by the new unitary authority and outlines its aspirations for the future.

Bodmin Town Council is pleased to inform that it has been reaccredited with Quality Town Council status.

The Quality Parish and Town Council Scheme was launched in 2003 following the Government's Rural White Paper, 2000.

The aim of the Scheme is to provide benchmark minimum standards for parish and town councils. The Scheme is supported by six National Stakeholders, the Commission for Rural Communities, the Department for Communities and Local Government, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Local Government Association, the National Association of Local Councils and the Society of Local Council Clerks.

The Council was awarded Quality Status in November 2004, which is a demonstration of the high standard that the Council has achieved across a wide range of criteria. The Scheme was amended in June 2008 to include additional tests to better reflect the increased professionalism of local councils. In order to achieve Quality Status, parish and town councils must demonstrate that they have reached the standard required by passing a range of tests on electoral mandate, qualifications of the clerk, council meetings, communication and community engagement, annual report, accounts, Code of Conduct, promoting local democracy and citizenship, terms and conditions and training. Bodmin Town Council has been reaccredited against this expanded range of criteria.

The Mayor, Councillor Bob Micek, commented, ‘I am extremely pleased that the Council has been reaccredited as a Quality Town Council which reflects the Council’s high standards and is effectively a ‘kite mark’ demonstrating best practice in all areas of governance.’

Picture shows former Mayor, Councillor Lance Kennedy, being presented with the Quality Status certificate by Councillor Sue Swift, Chairman of the Cornwall Association of Local Councils at their Annual Conference in Truro on Saturday 7 February 2009.

Bodmin Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) is holding a Half Term Open Day on Thursday 19th February from 9am to 3pm.

There will be hourly tours of the recycling facility where visitors will be able to see where half of Cornwall’s recycling is processed before it is sent on to become another product.

WRAP and Recycle for Cornwall will also be at the event giving advice on composting and recycling as well as running paper-making and compost safari workshops.

To book your place on the MRF tours please contact the SITA Cornwall Helpdesk 08456 300 300 and select option 1.

Bodmin Town Council Offices now stock Garden Waste Sacks for grass cuttings which are removed by local waste services and recycled as compost.

You can obtain these sacks from the Council Office Reception on Mount Folly.

Sacks cost 25 pence each or £5.00 for a bundle of 25.

The latest Development Brief document for Fore Street North and South is available to download here in two parts.

A display of the Development Plan can be seen at Shire Hall's Visitor Information Centre in Bodmin which will be shown until mid January.

To download, right click on each part and select Save Target As. Save to your Desktop and open with Adobe Reader 7 or above. You can download Adobe Reader for free here.

  Bodmin Framework Development Brief - Part 1 PDF  (Sections 1-3)

  Bodmin Framework Development Brief - Part 2 PDF  (Sections 4-6)

A report by Liz Cartwright, Cornwall Wildlife Trust
 
Twenty two people attended the St Petroc’s and Berry Tower Cemetery lichen and fungi event on the 15 November in Bodmin.

The event was organised by Cornwall Wildlife Trust for the Cornwall’s Living Churchyards Project with help from two local experts in the form of Bob Hodgson, a lichen specialist and Pauline Penna from the Cornwall Fungus Recording Group.

The most interesting areas for lichens in St Petroc’s churchyard were the north wall of the church and the Chapel of St Thomas Becket where the yellow/orange crust Xantholyta chrysodeta (a very uncommon species for Cornwall) was noted. Trees in St Petroc’s churchyard and Berry Tower Cemetery were of moderate interest for lichens. The stone and granite crosses in Berry Tower Cemetery were interesting but the limestone and slate stones were less so. Approximately 70 species of lichen were identified at each site.

With regard to fungi, the mown grass around St Petroc’s provides ideal habitat for waxcaps, a group of fungi often associated with ancient grasslands. Other grassland species also occur here, one species of interest included the Cordyceps militaris or Scarlet Caterpillar Club, so called because it grows on the buried pupae of a moth. Berry Cemetery had a wider range of habitats and the decaying tree stumps were particularly fruitful; several waxcap fungi were also noted in the Cemetery.

Many enthusiastic people came from across the county to share their knowledge and learn more about lichens and fungi, so thank-you to everyone who came.

Scores of people turned out on Friday 28 November to join the turning on of the Christmas tree lights ceremony on Mount Folly, Bodmin.

Crowds were entertained on a chilly evening by Pirate FM, with dance performances by The Vanity Girls, music from Mount Charles Band to accompany the carol singing, balloon modelling from Chloe the Clown and juggling performed by Dan Brazier.

Members of Bodmin Community Church reported that they served free hot drinks to over 300 people, many of whom would have also appreciated the mince pies that were generously donated by Morrisons and Barnicutts.

After speeches from Chris Wilkes, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mick Ryan from Vitalise Churchtown, the countdown to the turning on of the lights began and Bodmin Town Council was very pleased that Olympic Gold Medalist, Ellen Hunter, was present to turn the tree lights on. Ellen, who is picture right with Bodmin Mayor R J Micek, won two gold medals for cycling during the Paralympics in Beijing.

Particular thanks are due to Julian Murch and Andy Rowe and their team of volunteers who give up their time throughout the year to prepare the lighting displays and carry out the challenging task of installing the lights and taking them down again after Christmas.

A Report by Sara Carthew
Community Safety Sgt, Wadebridge Police Station

On Saturday 27th September a group of children from Bodmin took part in a Litter Pick as part of the Clean Cornwall Week.

Choosing to clean the route to their school, St Petrocs, they started at the top of Pound Lane and went into Priory Park, Launceston Road, Boxwell Park and part of Love Lane.

Overall they collected 6 full bags of rubbish, from bottles and cans to bits of a babys pram!

The idea to join in came from Thomas Crane, 8 years old, who when walking to school one day saw an elderly couple picking up rubbish in Pound Lane. They saw his interest and told him that when walking into town they occasionally gathered up any rubbish to keep the environment clean for everyone to enjoy. Thomas was very impressed and asked his mum if he and his friends could help. This led to him taking part in the Clean Cornwall Week this Autumn.

North Cornwall District Council kindly provided all the equipment and protective clothing for the event.

Police Community Safety Sgt Sara Carthew who organised the event and provided information packs on community safety and health would like to say a big thank you to all those who took part, giving up their time for Community Action!

Bodmin’s Christmas celebrations will begin on Friday 28 November with the switching on of the Christmas lights.

The children’s procession will assemble at 6.25pm outside the library. The group will be led by Father Graham, St Petroc’s Choir and Father Christmas down Fore Street, singing carols accompanied by Mount Charles Band. The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Maggie Denholm will then welcome the procession to Mount Folly and join in the carol singing.

Chris Wilkes, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mick Ryan from Vitalise Churchtown will give speeches prior to the switch-on at 7.10pm. The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor Bob Micek will then invite Olympian Ellen Hunter to switch on the lights of the Christmas tree which will be followed by more carol singing.

Bodmin Town Council is very pleased that Ellen Hunter has agreed to switch on the Christmas lights this year. Ellen won two gold medals for cycling during the Paralympics in Beijing and is an inspiration to us all.

Why not join us for carol singing on the Mount Folly and enjoy a festive mince pie?

The organising committee would like to pay particular thanks to Morrisons and Barnecutts for their very generous donation of mince pies for this important festive occasion in the town.

There will be late night shopping throughout the evening with many of Bodmin’s shops remaining open and allowing a great opportunity to buy those special Christmas gifts. There will be other entertainment including Pirate FM, the Vanity Girls, Mount Charles Band, balloon modelling from Chloe the Clown and juggling performed by Dan Brazier. You can even get free refreshments during the evening from inside the BCA rooms on the Folly, courtesy of Bodmin Community Church.

Thanks are due to Julian Murch and Andy Rowe, and their team of volunteers who give up their time throughout the year to prepare the lighting displays and carry out the challenging task of installing the lights and taking them down again after Christmas.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the cost of installing the Christmas lights should make cheques payable to ‘Bodmin Town Christmas Lights’ and send them to Bodmin Town Council, Shire House, Mount Folly Square, Bodmin PL31 2DQ.

Vitalise Churchtown offers local disabled schools a free day of activities.

National Charity Vitalise is asking people from the Southwest to nominate their disabled school for the chance to win a free activity day its Churchtown Centre in Lanlivery. Pupils from the winning school will be given the chance to choose from a wide range of activities around the accessible adventure centre’s 12-acre site, including climbing and abseiling, archery, canoeing and farm activities.

Disabled Schools from the Southwest can be nominated by staff, students and parents. The selected school will then be invited to visit Vitalise Churchtown for the day between January and April 2009 and enjoy the activities on offer.

This fantastic opportunity is funded by the Friends of Churchtown, long running supporters of Vitalises Churchtown Centre in Cornwall. Set on a beautiful site in the village of Lanlivery near Bodmin, Vitalise Churchtown is a fully accessible Centre offering activity breaks, day activities and day services to adults and children with physical, sensory and learning disabilities.

Churchtown has a wealth of knowledge and experience in providing services for all abilities and offers a range of activities from climbing and abseiling to canoeing and archery. The Centre has a small working farm, climbing tower, zipwire and nature trail, as well as a heated indoor swimming pool.

If you would like to nominate your school, all you need to do is fill in a nomination form, available from Tamsin Whitehead on 01208 872 148, email ctevent@vitalise.org.uk or visit www.vitalise.org.uk, telling us why the school you nominate deserves to win. The closing date for nominations is 19th December 2008

It was all smiles and champagne for the team at Bodmin Visitor Information Centre on Thursday 16th October, celebrating yet another award at the annual Cornwall Tourism Awards.

The staff were presented with the silver award, proof that they are still one of the best Tourist Information Centres in Cornwall.

Acting Tourism Officer Debbie Noyce said "This is brilliant news. It makes all the hard work worthwhile. It is a real testament to the staff's excellent customer service".

Wendy Wright, Tourism Officer, who is currently on maternity leave added "The staff are such a great team and they should be really proud of themselves for this great achievement".

The awards ceremony was held at the Headland Hotel in Newquay and was presented by flame haired comedian, Ruby Wax. Bude TIC received the Gold and Looe the Bronze. Bodmin and the other winning TICs will now go on to be judged in the regional awards.’
 

Bodmin Town Council is pleased to announce the opening of a new play area in Victoria Square, Bodmin, as part of the Council’s rolling programme of play area improvements.

Funding for the play area was generously provided by Wombwell Homes via a Section 106 Agreement which is a mechanism that delivers community benefits as part of the planning process.

The play equipment being provided is aimed at the under 5’s and includes:

A Picnic Table and Penguin Litter Bin are also provided.

The play area has been fenced with 1.2m high tango rail bow top fencing, which includes a self closing pedestrian gate.

Councillor L A Spear, Chairman of the Council’s Promotions Committee said, ‘I am very pleased to see this new play area for this part of the town which follows requests from local residents and demonstrates good partnership working between the Town Council and the Developer.’
 

Grass Valley in California is the sister city to Bodmin and on Friday 29 August a welcome reception was held in the Shire House for two of their prominent citizens, Elizabeth MacKenzie and Mark Applegate.

Elizabeth serves as one of Grass Valley's Chamber of Commerce Board Members and her companion Mark is a world class archery competitor.

Many of the residents of Grass Valley have visited Bodmin over the years and returned home with glowing reports.

Mark and Elizabeth made plans to visit the town as part of their holiday travels through France, England and finally Wales where Mark is taking part in an international archery competition.

Picture left: Mark Applegate & Elizabeth Mackenzie with Mayor Cllr R Micek, the Mayoress (left) & Cllr T Dehnholm OBE DL (right).

Debbie Atwill recently joined North Cornwall District Council as a Street Ranger for Bodmin and Camelford.

Since starting work in April 2008 Debbie has been involved in all manner of Cleaner Neighbourhood and Environmental related activities, including:


Debbie’s colleagues include Dave Wrench (Street Ranger for Wadebridge area), Rodney Hancock (Street Ranger for Launceston and Bude), Denise Taylor (Senior Street Ranger) and the Street Wardens.

‘We are here’, says Debbie, ‘to help keep our streets tidy, clean and a safe place for us all. If you see me on the streets then do say hello - I look forward to meeting you very soon! ‘

Debbie is also very interested in the Lanson Initiative to Tackle Environmental Refuse (LITTER). LITTER are a group of residents who work hard in their spare time to keep their neighbourhood clean through direct action and educational intervention and Debbie would love to see a similar group set up in Bodmin. For more information on LITTER please see their website: http://www.launcestonlitter.org.uk/

If you have a Street Scene issue that you think Debbie may be able to deal with then please call her on 01208 262800 or 07768 775928.

Applications are invited from residents, or others appropriately qualified, in Bodmin for the voluntary position of Councillor to Bodmin Town Council.

Please apply in writing by no later than 9.00 a.m. on Friday 15 August 2008 setting out in detail your reasons, knowledge and ability for seeking to fill the vacancy.

Applications will be received and the appointments made at the Council Meeting on Thursday 21 August 2008. Please address your application to:

The Town Clerk
Bodmin Town Council
Shire House
Mount Folly Square
BODMIN
PL31 2DQ

The Statement of Accounts ending 31 March 2008 will be available for public inspection on the following dates: 4 - 31 July 2008, Monday to Friday between 10am – 2pm.

They will be available at

Shire House
Mount Folly Square
Bodmin
Cornwall
PL31 2DQ.

The District Auditor is Alun Williams

The Audit Commission
2nd Floor, Stephenson House e
47-49 Calenick Street
Truro
TR1 2SF

The Auditors appointment date is 1 August 2008

Bodmin Town Council has elected a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor. 

The new Mayor, Councillor R Micek and the new Deputy Mayor, Councillor M Denholm, were welcomed into office at the official Mayor Choosing ceremony in the Public Rooms on Thursday 15 May 2008.

View images  (see right)






 

Having felt for a number of years that the Windsor Chair next to the range in Bodmin Town Museum’s ‘Cornish Kitchen’ needed a male figure, Museum President, Peter Davies, was pleased to receive the Museum Committee’s support when he suggested this to them.

Funding for a new figure was received from the Blisland Commoners Association. The lifelike statue - a Cornish farm worker reading the first edition of the Cornish Guardian - can now be seen in the Cornish Kitchen along with the many other Town Museum exhibits.  

“The outcome has been very pleasing”, said Mr Davies, “and my thanks goes to ‘Robert Farrow Workshops’ for the quality figure and I am delighted that the figure is now in situ, particularly in time for the opening of the new season. The chair belonged to my grandparents, which I gifted to the Museum several years ago. I can remember feeling very proud and grown up when allowed to sit in it in my grandparents’ scullery and feel equally proud today for it to be still in use, all be it, of a sedentary nature.” 

The Mayor of Bodmin, Councillor Michelle Griffiths, was pleased to be invited to the ‘unveiling’ of the figure on Monday 7 April when the Museum opened its doors for the 2008 season.

 
You can find out more information about the Bodmin Town Museum, including opening times, here.

 


 

After giving a lead in the campaign for a Cornish public holiday by giving council staff a day off in 2007, Bodmin is making St Piran’s Day extra special on 5 March 2008 by extending the celebrations throughout the day with the support of all the schools in the town.

The day begins at Town Wall, Bodmin, with a procession commencing at 10.30am (assemble 10-10.15) including children from the primary schools. During the procession there will be a slight pause at the Flamank Stone in Fore Street before the procession reaches its destination at Mount Folly.

Once at Mount Folly there will be speeches by invited guests from the Cornish community and this will be followed by each primary school performing two songs or dance of their choice. After lunch there will be an entertainment by pupils of Bodmin Community College.

Androw Hawke Chairman of Bodmin St Piran’s Committee who has masterminded the day in partnership with Bodmin Town Council said “St Piran’s Day 2008 in Bodmin will bigger and better than ever. The event lasts all day with three processions taking place, the afternoon procession which leaves Mount Folly at 14.00 (assemble 13.30-13.45) is open to “One and All” and all Cornish organisations are invited to take part. The Bournemouth Cornish Association has already taken up the invitation and we urge all others to attend as well. Mount Folly will be decked out in St Piran banners and there will be Cornish stalls and music throughout the day. This will be the basis for even more in subsequent years when Bodmin will be the only Place to be on St Piran’s Day”.

Councillor Philip Kerridge of Bodmin Town Council said “Bodmin Town Council has given the campaign for a public holiday a kickstart by giving staff a day off. Since then more than a thousand people have signed petition on the Downing Street website. The best possible impetus for a holiday would be if all these people and more came to Bodmin on 5 March.”

The day concludes at 19.45 on Mount Folly when Trelawney will be sung following the evening procession which leaves Town Wall at 18:30pm (assemble 18.00-18.15) lead by Cornish Piper Merv Davey and the town’s cadet and scout organisations.

Contacts: Paul O’Callaghan, Town Clerk, Bodmin Town Council 01208 74159 Androw Hawke 07981736177 Philip Kerridge 07968 892195

  St Piran's Day Poster (PDF)