Callington, Bude, Werrington Seconds and St Blazey also win on the opening day CALLINGTON Seconds are amongst the favourites for promotion and they started with a four-wicket success at Holsworthy. The home side’s innings never gained any momentum as Alex Mortimore claimed 3-33 to leave the Trees in strife at 56-4. They did recover admirably to post 192-7 as firstly Jack May dug in for 25 before Sam Stacey (43no), Brendan Harris (13) and Guy Beagley (18no) provided the acceleration. Cally opened up with Jack Greening following his winter move from Holsworthy and he made 25 before falling to Beagley. But it was another former Stanhope Park favourite that proved the difference as Matt Shepherd smashed 78 from 63 balls. A late wobble saw the hosts muster some extra bowling points as Aussie Noah Pigdon (2-35) and skipper Ryan Walter (2-33) took a brace apiece. Promoted Luckett were beaten in a high-scoring thriller by much-fancied St Blazey at the Chapel Field. Both innings followed a similar pattern with hefty top-order runs followed by a flurry of late wickets. Blazey knocked up 249-8 from their 45 overs after winning the toss. New captain Ben Griffiths led the way with 77 with further contributions from Rory Dixon (25), Matt Bennetts (48) and South African Ruhann Brenner (43). Leion Cole had the fine figures of 3-28, while Mark Southcott (1-28) and James Wilkinson (2-44) were also effective. Ryan Brown and debutant Toby May both made 48 either side of opener Luke Brenton’s 76, but it was former Luckett paceman Angus Harley that got the job done as his 4-32 slowed the hosts down. Nithin Gowda (2-41) and Rory Dixon (2-61) took crucial wickets. Lanhydrock have stated their aim for a promotion and it was former captain Ben Attfield’s inspired spell of bowling which gave them a 50-run success at relegated Wadebridge Seconds. Debutant Amir Khan made exactly 50 and Attfield a run-a-ball 27 as the Bodmin-based club were dismissed for just 154. But despite being a long way off par, Attfield’s superb spell of 6-18 changed the course of the game. He took out the early order before returning later on to wipe out the tail. Jack Trethewey (2-16) provided fine support in the middle. In Division Three East, Boconnoc ran out nine-wicket winners over an understrength Roche Seconds at Trezaise Road. It was Roche openers Antony Leaney and Fred Kertai that got off to a flyer, but once they were both dismissed the wheels fell off in spectacular fashion as Jon Niblett and fellow slow bowler Lee Penrose shared eight wickets. Niblett had the remarkable figures of 5-16 from 7.5 overs, while Penrose (3-13 off 6) provided fine support. The chase was over in just 19.2 overs as Aussie Rhys Morgans smoked 85 not out from 57 balls. Martin Hunn took the superb figures of 7-29 as Callington Thirds won by eight wickets at Launceston. The swing bowler ran through the home side’s top order in a remarkable spell of bowling which saw the hosts dismissed for just 64 in less than 17 overs. He received fine support from Oscar Crichton who bowled key man Dan Tilley for nought, while Jim Shorten (2-8) chipped in at the end. Tom Neville made a quickfire 31 in reply with Toby Beresford-Power (15no) and Ollie Bennett (14no) finishing things off. Comments Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Further Links Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 Truro, Redruth, Callington and St Austell also win on the opening day PROMOTED Grampound Road were given a rude awakening in the gulf in class in the top-flight after 2023 champions Wadebridge ran out 99-run winners on Saturday. The Swans chose to bat after winning the toss but were soon in trouble at 43-3 with former Cornwall all-rounder Antony Angove (2-25) taking two wickets. But what followed next was a remarkable display of hitting from James Turpin. Having stood down as captain over the winter, he proceeded to smack 137 from just 115 balls with ten fours and seven sixes. His fifth-wicket partnership of 149 with Charlie McLachlan saw the latter contribute just 27 as they eventually finished on 263-8. The Road attacked the new ball with Callum Wilson, who had earlier made 29, and Turpin given a hammering by Dave Hoskings. He smashed 54 from just 24 deliveries as he and Angove put on 57. But once Angove was dismissed by left-arm spinner Matt Lawrence (3-38) the wheels fell off in spectacular fashion as they slipped to 83-5 with Lawrence and Aussie Lachlan Crump taking all five. Sri Lankan pro Ravi Karunarathna and wicket-keeper Harry Gregory (50) raised hopes with a partnership of 59, but once Karunarathna went for 30, the final five wickets fell for just 22 runs with former Roadie Matt Robins taking 4-13. Callington eased past Werrington by four wickets at Moores Park. Cally chose to field and although Mohammed Danyaal took two early wickets, the Tron were in decent shape at 71-2 before Sri Lankan pro Thulina Dilshan was caught behind off debutant Spencer Whatley. John Moon went for 55 to Danyaal (4-36) with the score at 100 and from there the innings slipped to 132 all-out with Graham Wagg (3-5) and Harry Sawyers (2-14) sharing five wickets. Cally got off to a decent start through Aidan Libby and Liam Lindsay (32), and although Adam Hodgson took 4-22 including debutant Xavier Clarke for a golden duck, 26 from Max Tryfonos plus a brisk 14 not out at the end from Ben Ellis ensured 19 points for the Greens. Truro won by four wickets at Helston who saw Somerset’s Lewis Goldsworthy out for a third ball duck. He was one of three wickets for veteran Rob Harrison (3-28) as the Blues made 178 all-out. Opener Billy Taylor made 59 but of the rest only Steve Jenkin (29) passed twenty. Indian professional Akhilesh Sahani took 2-32 on debut. Truro soon slipped to 2-2, but half centuries from Ted Phillips (68) and Adam Price (51) got them over the line. Goldsworthy took 3-59 with his left-arm spin. Redruth earned a workmanlike six-wicket victory over visiting St Just at Trewirgie. The Cape Road visitors ground their way to 172 all-out with just five balls of their innings unused. The returning Justin Stephens led the way with 40 while veterans Neil Curnow (28) and Gavin Edwards (25) also chipped in on a day where six players reached double figures. Australian Justin Beaton, who is a UK passport holder, took 4-38 on debut, while Cornwall off-spinner Ellis Whiteford was superb for his 4-28. St Just had a chance with Redruth 106-4 having seen Toby Whiteford (28) and Elliot Stoddard (36) make starts, but they couldn’t shift Sri Lankan pro Dulash Udayanga (50no) and the returning Lloyd Brock (30no) as the winning runs came in the 47th over. [email protected]Further Links Coach John Stevens and Head Coach Murray Westren have been mightily pleased with their charges this season Van on its side and engine torn out after major impact Emergency services were called out in the early hours of this morning (5th May) to a serious single-vehicle collision on the A39 near St Kew Highway Wadebridge Community Fire Station confirmed they were mobilised at 3:46am to the scene where they found a small van on its side following what they described as a “significant impact” with the vehicle’s engine found laying on the roadside The driver of the van had absconded before fire crews arrived No information has been released about the driver’s whereabouts at this stage Wadebridge firefighters made the vehicle safe and dealt with a fuel spill at the location Devon & Cornwall Police and Cornwall Council Highways also attended the incident and website in this browser for the next time I comment Follow CornishStuff on Facebook - Like our Facebook page to get the latest news in your feed and join in the discussions in the comments. Click here to give us a like! Follow us on Twitter - For the latest breaking news in Cornwall and the latest stories, click here to follow CornishStuff on X. Follow us on Instagram - We also put the latest news in our Instagram Stories. Click here to follow CornishStuff on Instagram Got A News Story Or Event To Share With Cornwall editor@cornishstuff.com Sign up for the latest daily news in Cornwall from us Privacy Policy – Cookie Policy CornishStuff is owned by and part of Check It Out Ltd © 2024 - 2025 Website Designed in Cornwall by Springer Marketing • All Rights Reserved This old market town offers the best of all worlds – beautiful beaches, a thriving indie hight street shops and property that can still be described as affordable. Part of our Top 300 Places to Live series Vote for Wadebridge in our Cornwall Best Places to Live Readers Vote: Portscatho & Gerrans, Roseland Carbis Bay Cawsand and Kingsand Fowey Porthleven Bude Penzance St Agnes Don't already know how splendiferous we are? Read the Muddy Stilettos story We love to connect with like-minded brands and clients. If you’re interested in working with us click here for national and regional contacts. Whether you want to leave your feedback, ask a question or need help - click here to get in touch with us Reader Treats Terms & ConditionsRead our Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions here has welcomed a new minibus that will help people throughout Wadebridge and the surrounding areas The goal is to help individuals and communities remain active If you want to find out more about this brilliant transport service please contact TAP (Transport Access People) or Age UK Cornwall's Community Transport services on 01872 223388 A TEENAGER from Holsworthy has died from his injuries after a fatal road traffic collision in East Devon Police were called to reports of a single-vehicle incident involving a car on Pinn Lane in Otterton during the early hours of April 29 Other emergency services also attended the scene with paramedics from South Western Ambulance Service Trust (SWAST) called due to the injuries of those involved in the incident The road was closed for several hours after the incident while investigations were undertaken by officers from Devon and Cornwall Police’s road policing team An 18-year-old man from the Holsworthy area sustained serious injuries after the incident and despite the effort of paramedics Two teenagers were arrested by Devon and Cornwall Police after the incident. An 18-year-old from the Wadebridge area was later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and while under the influence of alcohol He was later released on bail pending further enquiries into the incident The man was also taken to hospital after the incident but was later discharged An 18-year-old from Bodmin was also arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving but later ‘de-arrested’ while he remains in hospital recovering from his injuries Police have launched an appeal for information after the incident and are asking for anyone who may have information witnessed the incident or might have dash cam footage that could assist officers with their investigation to come forward using reference number 50250105506 A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “We are investigating a fatal road traffic collision near Otterton on Tuesday April 29 and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward “Officers were called to reports of a single-vehicle road traffic collision involving a car on Pinn Lane “An 18-year-old man from the Holsworthy area sustained serious injuries “Two other men were injured in the collision “Local road closures were put in place while officers from the Roads Policing Team carried out an examination of the scene The road closure was handed over to highways at around 1.30pm “An 18-year-old man from the Wadebridge area was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and on suspicion of driving whilst unfit through drink was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving “If you witnessed the incident or have any information or dashcam footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police via our website or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50250105506. Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us A LLOYDS banking branch which was set to close in February has had a short-term reprieve Lloyds, on Molesworth Street in Wadebridge had been previously announced to be closing in February 2025, leaving the town without a banking branch A subsequent review of banking provision in the town by payment provider LINK deemed that an ATM (Automated Teller Machine) cash machine with the ability to deposit and withdraw cash would be sufficient as a replacement, dashing hopes by some in the town for a banking hub, similar to one in Bodmin. However, in new documents confirming the bank branch closure, it has been confirmed that there will be a stay of execution, with the closure date moved to July 1, 2025, while the previous date had been February 17, 2025. A Lloyds Bank spokesperson said at the time of the initial closure announcement:“As many customers now choose to bank through their mobile app or online, visits to our Wadebridge branch have fallen over recent years. The local Post Office offers everyday banking, with cash also available at close by free-to-use ATMs. Customers can also manage their money through our mobile banking apps, online, by calling us or speaking to a Community Banker.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Several candidates have already announced they will stand for election, with a Labour MP candidate defecting to Reform WITH only weeks remaining for nominations for the upcoming Cornwall Council election to be submitted to the local authority, one of the areas where a ballot box battle is forming is the ward of Wadebridge East and St Minver. It is one of the 87 wards comprising the seats at Cornwall Council and has already at this stage seen several nominations announced. Candidates for three parties have announced that they are standing in the ward, currently occupied by Conservative councillor Carol Mould, the portfolio holder for neighbourhoods. Amanda Pennington, former mayor for the town has announced she will be standing as the Green Party candidate in the ward. Having recently taken a break from party politics in order to focus on the work to help save the Wadebridge leisure centre and get it operating on behalf of the community, Mrs Pennington says she is ready and willing to serve. She said: “I have officially been selected as Green Party Candidate for Wadebridge East & St Minver. Having spent 11 years as a Wadebridge Town Councillor and former mayor, I have the experience required and have already fought and saved our local sports centre from closure.” The Liberal Democrats have announced Rosie Moore as their candidate for the seat. Ms Moore said of her candidacy: “Having grown up in a rural village just outside Wadebridge I’m passionate about supporting our brilliant MP Ben Maguire as we speak up for residents and fight for positive change. “With a background as an environmental scientist and my current role as a chemistry lecturer, I’m deeply committed to protecting our environment and helping our community thrive. Together, we can build a brighter future for Wadebridge East and St Minver ward.” The choice of Reform UK for their candidate in this ward has raised a few eyebrows locally, with Robyn Harris, a former Wadebridge town councillor who once described herself as ‘very socialist’ when seeking the Labour party’s nomination to stand in Plymouth Moor View in 2022, which was won by Fred Thomas. She was later nominated as the general election candidate for North Cornwall in 2024, coming fourth prior to her recent defection to the right-wing party led by Nigel Farage. Ms Harris said upon her announcement as the candidate: “Cornwall is facing significant challenges and having worked in local government, I have a clear understanding of the issues we face. With strong leadership and financial skills, I am confident in my ability to bring about real change. My deep-rooted connection to the rural community fuels my drive to make a difference.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us The woman’s injuries were described as life-threatening AN investigation has been launched after an elderly woman sustained life-threatening injuries during a road traffic collision in Wadebridge Police were called to reports of a collision between a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van in the afternoon of Tuesday a local man and woman in their 80’s were taken to hospital after the incident with the woman’s condition described as ‘life-threatening’ by police It is believed that the Vauxhall collided with the unattended parked van prior to colliding with a stone wall at the exit of the car park area A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Police investigating a serious road traffic collision in Wadebridge are appealing for any witnesses to come forward. “Police were called to reports of a collision involving a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van at Wadebridge Medical Centre, at the exit on to Jubilee Road, Wadebridge, at around 2.55pm on Tuesday, February 25. “The Vauxhall collided with the parked and unattended Nissan in the car park area and then went on to collide with a stone wall at the exit of the car park area at Jubilee Road. “The front seat passenger, a local woman in her 80s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital. “The driver, a local man in his 80s, was taken to hospital with serious injuries but these were not considered life threatening or life changing. “Devon and Cornwall Roads Policing Team and local response officers attended. Following an investigation at the scene, the road was re-opened at around 9pm. “If you witnessed the incident or have any information or dashcam footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police online or by calling 101 quoting log 442 of 25/2/25.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us It is used by breeding swans but has been flooded recently A stone 'swan island' has been raised by a group of volunteers - after becoming submerged by rising tides. The stack next to a medieval bridge is used by breeding swans but kept being flooded by recent super moon tides. The island in Wadebridge, Cornwall was last refurbished 28 years ago but has since suffered erosion. Volunteers gathered up to lower three tons of stone and two tons of earth from the bridge to raise the island by about one metre. Cornwall councillor Robin Moorcroft, who organised the volunteers to get the materials down to the island at low tide, said he decided to take action after he "noticed the swans on the nest, building away as they do". He added: "Unfortunately, a few days later, we came back down and we'd had particularly high tides, and I saw the swan sticking her head in the water looking for the eggs. "It was really heartbreaking. So, I spoke to a few lads, and really, as they say, the rest is history." Adrian Langdon, a local naturalist and warden of the local bird reserve told of the significance, saying: "Swans and the swans nest have always been a part of the community. Children walk this way to school every day." Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us For best viewing experience of this website Please enter a place name in the search bar Environment Agency Updated: 15:48 (UTC+1) on Tue 6 May 2025 Fine and settled under the influence of high pressure but skies soon thin to leave a dry and settled night with clear spells though not as cold as recent nights with most places remaining frost free Wednesday brings a mixture of sunny spells and cloudy skies Widely dry and settled with high pressure dominating this week Dry across the majority of the UK with clear or sunny spells for many areas as high pressure dominates the weather pattern across the UK thicker cloud is likely in the far north for a time with some patchy rain and drizzle in north and northwest Scotland cloud will probably thicken in parts the southwest with a few showers in places with a small chance some of these could be heavy or thundery Winds will mostly be light with daytime temperatures likely to be slightly above normal for the time of year although there is a chance of some cold nights Fairly typical weather for the time of year is most likely through this period fine and dry weather is more likely to dominate although this may be interspersed by occasional spells of rain and showers with a risk of heavy rain and thunderstorms in places temperatures will most likely be near to or slightly above average Concern Wadebridge hosted an Easter-themed afternoon cream tea, raising more than £4,300 for their charity supporting older people. It was a cracking Easter for one local charity in Wadebridge which raised over £4,300 during a fundraiser. Concern Wadebridge at The John Betjeman Centre hosted an Easter themed afternoon cream tea with over 30 people attending for delicious cakes, sandwiches and of course jam and cream! The event helped to raise over £300 for the operations of the charity, which seeks to support older people in the community. Concern Wadebridge supports people over 50 and/or have a disability but the centre and its facilities are open to everyone to use. It hosts daily a variety of classes and activities, and the rooms are available to hire for everything from charity events to children’s birthday parties. Em Burt, manager of Concern Wadebridge said: “It was a lovely atmosphere. We love hosting events like this and bringing people together over some good home cooked food and a cuppa – our only downfall is that we are over feeders, so everyone went home with a box of treats to enjoy.” In the run up to Easter, Em came up with a brainwave to email all the town’s businesses and ask if they would kindly all donate a £5 gift voucher each so that she could make one big hamper full of the vouchers for one lucky winner. In return she would take a photo of the business giving her the voucher and post on social media – this was the start of something unbelievable. Em said: “Within minutes an email pinged back to say they would like to donate £15 and another to say £25 – fast forward and I have now been in over 60 photos - I am a bit like where’s Wally. “The support from not only the town but other businesses from St Columb and Polzeath has just been amazing. People I had not emailed were calling me in the street asking if they could donate to have a photo. The businesses that the nature of their work would struggle for vouchers gave us other gifts like wine and designer sunglasses! “In the end we had about £1,200 in vouchers and about another 25 prizes. I was so overwhelmed but the positive response. Last time we hosted a big raffle we sold about 1,000 tickets so I decided I would order 1,500 this time but the response from the public was amazing – I had one person buy £100 of tickets, another £50 so I had to keep ordering more and more.” At the time the raffle was drawn the charity had raised £3,980. Em put this on social media to say thank you to everyone and received even more donations. She added: “I said just £20 short of £4,000 and within minutes two people donated the £20 and another person added £10 so we actually raised £4,030! Thank you to everyone – it’s just amazing!” All the money raised helps the charity to host support groups and activities for everyone in the local community. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Further Links A PERSON has been taken to hospital with ‘serious injuries’ after a single vehicle road traffic collision near to St Kew Highway Emergency services attended reports of an incident on the A39 during the afternoon of Wednesday Police have confirmed that one person was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “We were called to reports of a single-vehicle road traffic collision involving a car on the A39 at St Kew Highway, Bodmin “One person has been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries “Local road closures were put in place.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us A TEENAGE boy was arrested on suspicion of an offence under the Communications Act 2003 after a nursery received calls threatening to kill. Officers from Devon and Cornwall Police were called to Sticky Fingers Nursery in Wadebridge on Tuesday, January 28 after staff at the facility received a phone call where the person made threats to kill. A 15-year-old boy from the local area was arrested that evening on suspicion of an offence and later released on police bail, while a second teenager attended a voluntary police interview in relation to the incident. Police have said that they don’t believe there is any wider risk to the public, with officers conducting reassurance patrols in the area as part of this. As part of the investigation, police have issued a plea to people not to speculate about the incident on social media, adding that they will be working with the nursery as the investigation progresses. A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “We are investigating a report of a suspected hoax call being made to Sticky Fingers nursery in Wadebridge on the afternoon of Tuesday, January 28, where a person made threats to kill. “Officers have conducted a number of enquiries into this matter and these continue. “A 15-year-old boy from Wadebridge was arrested on Tuesday night on suspicion of an offence under the Communications Act 2003. He has since been released on police bail. “A second teenager has attended a voluntary police interview in relation to this incident. “Our officers have been conducting reassurance patrols in the area and we do not believe there is any wider risk to the public. “We will continue to work with the nursery as the investigation progresses and do ask that you refrain from speculating on social media about this matter.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us I HAVE just returned from a nice few days away in Tenerife with Leanne, so it was lovely to get some sunshine and re-charge the batteries. It was back down to earth with a bang when we returned home on Sunday evening with temperatures a lot colder back here, although they tell me it is much milder than it was while we were away! It worked out Taunton was the only jumps meeting to survive the weather last week and we had just the one runner, Saccary. He made his hurdling debut and jumped well enough and he will improve for the experience. We did have a winner at Wadebridge point to point on Sunday. We took three horses down there and the day got off to a good start with Fighter Allen winning the novice riders conditions race with Rian Corcoran on board. I started former Hennessy winner, Celestial Gold’s career at Wadebridge and it’s unique, not everyone’s cup of tea but it is a great little track, and it is nice we are able to support the West Country point to points. My son Jack and his friend Oscar went and have caught the racing and point to point bug! They enjoyed their day helping and leading up and especially collecting the prizes with the cup now being proudly on display in Jack’s bedroom! The weather promises to be better this week and not so cold so fingers crossed we get a full programme of action but there is an element of doubt over Tuesday and Wednesday’s jumps fixtures going ahead with frost still in the ground. We have two runners at Newbury on Wednesday, Jurancon (in case Plumpton is abandoned) and Lady Balko but the track must pass at 3pm inspection on Tuesday afternoon. There are no inspections planned at present at Hereford although their going description is described as frozen in places and monitoring so it will be no surprise if an inspection is called at some point. Activist in declared to run here. On Thursday, we have runners at Wincanton and likely to include King Turgeon in the Somerset National. He is in great form at home and it will be nice to get him back on the track. He will need to improve again to win off a career high mark but it looks a good opportunity for him. On Friday, we have entries at Windsor and Market Rasen and over the weekend, we have entries at Ascot, Haydock, Taunton, Fakenham and Windsor. Remastered is entered in the re-scheduled Veterans chase at Market Rasen on Friday and is likely to take his chance but keep checking the Daily News on the website for all the latest news. Tel: 01984 632731[email protected]Follow us Further Links Trehytte will be a five-bedroom home of 'exceptional quality' built to the 'highest architectural standards' this stipulation regulates the construction of new isolated homes in the countryside the so-called ‘Gummer’s Law’ was first introduced in 1997 by the then minister John Gummer (now Lord Deben) In order to qualify for planning approval under Paragraph 80 the design must be ‘of exceptional quality’; reflect the highest architectural standards as laid down by a regional review board; help raise standards of design in rural areas; and also ‘significantly enhance’ its immediate setting and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area Despite the evident financial risks involved this was the route taken by young Cornish developer Charlotte Wheatley and her builder partner when she bought 2½ acres of ‘Heligan-style’ which were previously part of the Lower Treneague estate at St Breock eight miles from St Merryn and 10 miles from Harlyn Bay a ‘mini-Eden’ bordered by a stream with inter-connecting ponds myriad native and imported plants and abundant wildlife with little sign of its existence from the passing lane and less than a mile from the centre of Wadebridge there was little or no chance of ever being allowed to build a house there With the odds seemingly stacked against them the couple jumped through every conceivable planning hoop before finally securing planning consent to build a genuinely net-zero-carbon timber-framed house with four reception rooms five bedrooms and four bathrooms on three floors with a covered balcony on the top floor providing sensational treetop views over the gardens Having completed the basic groundworks and landscaping building is now under way with completion expected a year from now With work proceeding apace, Trehytte (sort of Cornish for ‘tree-house’) is being offered for sale through Humberts in Truro with selling agent Duncan Ley quoting a guide price of £3m. FIREWORKS are set to kickstart 2025 in style in Wadebridge after its council announced the event will go ahead. Wadebridge Town Council had previously issued pleas for volunteers to help. A spokesperson for the council said: “We're welcoming 2025 with a spectacular fireworks display that will take place on New Year’s Eve. “The fireworks display will be launched around midnight from Jubilee Playing Fields (weather permitting). If there are adverse wind conditions on the evening of the fireworks this could be relocated to the skatepark area – please note this will not be known until the evening. “The fireworks will create a stunning finale to end the year for both visitors and residents of Wadebridge. “We hope it will give the public an opportunity to come out and enjoy the display.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Relegated Wadebridge Seconds start at home to Lanhydrock as promoted Luckett and St Austell Thirds take on St Blazey and Werrington Seconds Bond Timber Cornwall Cricket League Division Two East preview – Saturday, May 3 RELEGATED Wadebridge Seconds start life back in the third-tier with a home game against neighbours Lanhydrock. The Swans’ stay in County Division One was brief – just the one season to be exact – but they held their own for much of it and will fancy themselves to be at the business end come August. Lanhydrock arrive off the back of a decent winter which has seen them bring in Australian leg-spinner Rowan Evans, while top-order batsman Amir Khan could be a superstar in the division having moved down from London. He racked up over 600 runs in the Surrey Championship so should be a formidable force in the third-tier of the Cornish game. Lanhydrock skipper Jamie Eldridge has admitted he wants his side to be pushing for the promotion slot as well, but has to do without four players as Jamie Taylor, Josh Taylor, Mike Horne and Ryan Butler are all away. Wadebridge are missing Charlie McLachlan and Tom Wood who are in the first team for the afternoon, while the hard-hitting Alex Forward who scored 75 not out in midweek at St Minver, is also absent. However, Alek Gill and nephew Kieran are both back from neighbours St Minver and are named in a team which has a familiar look to it. Paul Menhenick is the new captain. WADEBRIDGE SECONDS: Charlie Ellis, James Cox, Ross McLachlan (wkt), Alek Gill, Jamie Beare, Paul Menhenick (capt), Kieran Gill, Charlie Hawken, Joe Wilson, Ollie Bate, Steve Gunner. LANHYDROCK: Jamie Eldridge (capt), Amir Khan (wkt), Luke Buckland, Jack Trethewey, Ben Attfield, Christian James, Ryan Beaumont, Jacob Eldridge, Rowan Evans, Fred Brown, Brian Barnicoat. LUCKETT cruised to the Division Three East title last term and face a tricky home date with St Blazey. Luckett are without influential batsman Andrew Hoskin, opening bowler Rob Piper and all-rounder Adrian Berry, but batsmen Luke Brenton and Toby May are named in the team having arrived from neighbours Callington. The other new signing, off-spinner George Wilkinson, is also absent. Both men should rack up the runs alongside the top run-scorer last year, Ryan Brown. St Blazey have a similar side to last year but with three key additions. South African all-rounder Ruhaan Brenner, who bats high up and bowls left-arm spin, scored 568 runs and took 49 wickets in the Cheshire Premier League and could prove to be the signing of the summer, while youngsters Toby and Reuben Clarke have made the short trip from St Austell. They name a near full-strength side which has plenty of firepower with the bat. LUCKETT: Ryan Brown (capt), Luke Brenton, Toby May, Henry Wilkinson (wkt), James Wilkinson, Marc Brown, Adam Piper, Dan Pearce, Leion Cole, Jonny Hoskin, Mark Southcott. ST BLAZEY: Ben Griffiths (capt), Rory Dixon, Matt Bennetts, Ruhann Brenner, Nithin Gowda, Paul Carne (wkt), Riley Carne, Josh Carne, Andy Thomas, Angus Harley, Steve Gilks. ST AUSTELL Thirds are in the division for the first time with survival the aim. However, with a thriving club and plenty of places across all four teams, they are sure to be competitive, particularly when the firsts and seconds are at full strength. They head up the A30 to last year’s runners-up Werrington Seconds. With the first team missing three and a couple of others out, Werrington are far from full strength but start as favourites on home soil. Lee Houghton makes a debut having joined from Bude, while talented youngsters Sam Smeeth and Ed Walters look set to be features in the side all season. St Austell have a new captain in the shape of Nick Matthews who will hope his mix of older heads and teenagers can pull off a surprise or two in a tough division. WERRINGTON SECONDS: Rob May, Ed Walters (wkt), Lee Houghton, Dan Warring, Rob Dymond, Jason Seldon (capt), Tyler May, Dan Jenkin, Ian Searle, Sam Smeeth, Nick Oldaker. ST AUSTELL THIRDS: Nick Matthews (capt), Joe Baker, Andrew Bennetts, Ollie Clarke, James Higman, Henry Johnson, Tom Mallet (wkt), Kieran Nile, Matt Nile, Theo Osborne, Stuart Wilder. CALLINGTON Seconds have one of the stronger teams and squads on paper and they start with the always-awkward trip up to Holsworthy. Such is Cally’s strength in-depth at present in the first team, Jack Greening has to start in the seconds and goes to the club he left over the winter. With first team vice-captain Matt Shepherd also included, it could be interesting. Alex Mortimore is back after a year off to lead an exciting attack which also includes Ben Alford and Ryan Hodge, while teenage leg-spinner Harvey Poad gets a chance. As well as Greening, Holsworthy have also lost seamer Rob Mitchell to St Austell. Aussie Noah Pigdon has the difficult task of replacing Herschelle Poggenpoel as the overseas player, while the rest of the side is similar although teenage batsman Rory Piper looks set to be given a run in the side. HOLSWORTHY: Chris Pomeroy (wkt), Aiden Gerry, Noah Pigdon, Rory Piper, Ryan Walter (capt), Jack May, Sam Stacey, Brendan Harris, Lewis Chidley, Guy Beagley, Graham Wild. CALLINGTON SECONDS: Jack Greening, Matt Shepherd, James Brenton, Blake Tancock (wkt), Rich Brown (capt), Peter Tancock, James Moon (wkt), Ben Alford, Alex Mortimore, Ryan Hodge, Harvey Poad. ST MINVER have had to deal with the late departures of four players, but earned a superb nine-wicket success over neighbours Wadebridge Seconds in the preliminary round of the Hawkey Cup on Wednesday night. They welcome a Bude side that finished third last term, although the Seasiders are also missing a couple. St Minver do have South African all-rounder Reece Thompson back as the overseas player, while Jonny Centini has resumed the captaincy following the departure of Alek Gill back to Wadebridge. Gill and nephews Kieran and Jack have gone, while Charlie Hawken has also made the same move having originally rejoined the club from the Swans. The well-travelled Ross Keast is back at St Minver from Lanhydrock and is dangerous with the swinging ball, but the rest of the side is similar. Bude are missing opening batsman James Sharman, all-rounder Matt Williams who can only play at home, and batsman Matt Whitefield. Richard Dymond is set to open the batting on debut, while David Sillifant also makes his first appearance having arrived from Launceston. ST MINVER: Ben Hawken (wkt), Antony Ash, Jake Keast, Jonny Centini (capt), Reece Thompson, Rob Hawken, Ross Keast, Dean Jeffery, Rob Hawken, Neil Meneer, Andy Rathborne, Josh Sanders. BUDE: Wayne Adams, Richard Dymond, Warren Rumble (capt, wkt), Harry Dymond, James Turner, Ant Buchanan, Andrew De Rosa, David Sillifant, Matt Mansbridge, Brett Hunter, Mark Whitefield. [email protected]Further Links The charity supports those experiencing child bereavement A NORTH Cornwall funeral director has donated £500 to support the work of a Cornish child bereavement organisation R J Bray & Son, located in Wadebridge made a donation to Penhaligon’s Friends from their charitable fund This fund was established in 2013 to commemorate David Bray’s 30 years with the family business The Bray Fund has provided thousands of pounds worth of funding to various community groups and charitable organisations in Wadebridge and surrounding areas Penhaligon’s Friends is celebrating 30 years of providing specialist support annually, working with more than 1,000 children and young people throughout Cornwall annually who have lost a family member or friend Since 1995, the charity has provided a supportive environment that enables grieving children to share their experiences as they move through their healing process Assistance is offered to family caregivers to help them respond appropriately to the needs of bereaved children and young people The charity also facilitates training in childhood loss and grief for family caregivers funeral director at R J Bray & Son said: “Over the many years that I have worked in the funeral profession I have sadly had to conduct many funerals that have involved bereaved children We wanted to give this donation to Penhaligon’s Friends to help them with the fantastic work they do.” Julie Parker, chief executive of Penhaligon’s Friends said: “We are so grateful to David and his family for supporting our work through the Bray Fund. It will help us continue providing help and support to young people aged 4 to 18 across the county. In the Wadebridge and surrounding area, we have supported 51 children from 30 families during the last year.” To learn more about Penhaligon’s Friends visit penhaligonsfriends.org.uk Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Matt Lloyd’s late goal denies Camels victory THE final River Camel derby for managers Paul Rowe and Reg Hambly ended all square in atrocious conditions at Bodieve Park. Almost biblical rain meant on any other evening the chances of getting through the second half would have been close to zero, but despite that both sides provided an entertaining spectacle. Both sides were in the race to finish seventh and Camelford boss Reg Hambly made just one alteration from the side that had eased past Wendron United 3-0 in their last game. Veteran defender Dan Metherell started at left-back in place of teenager Bailee Deignan. On the bench, Sam Watts was available again as was dual-registered attacker Cam Bidgood. With the match being part of the SWPL Ground Hop, a large attendance descended. For Paul Rowe it was the final game of a seven-year spell, while for Hambly, who lives in the town, it was the penultimate fixture of his 34th and final season in charge of the Camels. The Bridgers edged the first half, applying plenty of pressure and had several corners and set-pieces, although Josh Colwill was barely tested. In the final ten minutes of the half three big chances were created, two of which fell to the visitors. Wadebridge’s Lewis Webber set up on the edge of the area but fired over, before the Camels went desperately close. First, Josh Caddy’s cross from the right found Andy Boxall 15 yards out, but his shot was superbly blocked on the line, and from the following corner, the in-form Adam Sleep sent a header narrowly wide. Conditions deteriorated rapidly after the break, but chances still came. After sub Cam Bidgood missed an open goal with the help of the puddle, he made up for it with 20 minutes to go as he finished off Sam Watts’ delightful ball in from the right. But with five minutes of normal time remaining the Bridgers equalised. After a Camelford pass got stuck in the mud, the ball was sent out wide where a cross was met by the returning Matt Lloyd who gave Colwill no chance from six yards. Camels boss Reg Hambly admitted a point was about right considering the conditions and circumstances around the game. He said: “Overall the conditions dictated everything as although it made for an entertaining spectacle, good football was at a premium. “But at the end of the day considering it was Paul Rowe’s final game and my penultimate one, a draw was a fair result and I think both parties were probably happy with a point apiece.” Camelford end their season with a trip to Dobwalls on Friday night (7.30pm) and Hambly admits it’ll be an interesting night. He said: “We’ll look forward to it. I went along to Bodmin on Saturday (a 3-0 win for Dobwalls) and you can see why they are where they are. “It’ll be a tough test but these are the sort of games why you manage in this league. “It’s going to be a fitting end for me and I’m looking forward to the game.” CAMELFORD: Josh Colwill; Olly Taylor, Sam Wade (capt), Tom Crowe, Dan Metherell; Kenley Dyson, Ross Beare, Andy Boxall; Josh Caddy, Adam Sleep, Mark Gusterson. Subs: Ryelee Deignan (gk), Bailee Deignan, Shae Cardiff, Cam Bidgood, Sam Watts. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Students from Wadebridge School gained valuable hospitality skills as part of an initiative to encourage the next generation of hospitality talent STUDENTS from a North Cornwall school were given a hands on catering experience after a visit from the food team of one of Cornwall’s best-known pub chains. St Austell Brewery’s food team paid a visit to Wadebridge School alongside its trusted associates from Truro & Penwith College to support the Cornwall Hospitality Collective, a community group which seeks to share best practice in hospitality between its members and encouraging training of future generations who may seek to enter the industry . As a business which seeks to nurture the next generation of talent in the hospitality industry, the St Austell Brewery team worked with 100 Year 10 students, guiding them through the process of preparing a delicious mackerel niçoise salad on the day. As part of the students’ GCSE Catering and Hospitality studies, the hands-on experience not only enhanced their curriculum but also offered them valuable insight into the exciting career opportunities within the industry. Long-standing fish supplier from St Ives, Mathew Stephens, generously donated the mackerel and Westcountry Fruit Sale supplied the rest of the ingredients. Their support enabled the brewery to showcase the very best of Cornish produce while inspiring the chefs and hospitality professionals of the future. Jon Kelley, early careers manager at St Austell Brewery, said: "I am particularly proud to have been able to spend some time at this school, as not only does it serve families in Wadebridge itself, but it also supports families in the wider community – from Padstow, through Rock and Polzeath, up to Port Isaac and beyond. “Hospitality is a key career opportunity in these areas, and I believe it’s vital that we continue to engage and inspire young people to explore the rewarding paths available in our industry. Seeing their enthusiasm today has been fantastic, and we look forward to supporting more young talent in the future." Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Police and coastguard were involved in the search Police and the coastguard were called to reports of a missing woman in Wadebridge at around 2.40am on Tuesday, October 29. After a search reportedly lasting most of the night, with residents reporting sighting a helicopter in the skies above the town, a woman was located ‘unresponsive’ at a bridge on Molesworth Street. Despite attempts at revival, she was pronounced deceased with her next of kin informed of the news. Formal identification is yet to take place, with the death not being treated as suspicious by police, and a file is presently being prepared for the coroner. A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed: “Police were called at around 2.40am on Tuesday, October 29, following reports of a woman going missing in Wadebridge.  “An extensive search was carried out and a woman was located unresponsive at a bridge in Molesworth Street. “Despite best revival efforts of the coastguard, the woman was pronounced deceased. “Her next of kin has been informed. Formal identification has not yet taken place.  “The death is not being treated as suspicious. A file will be prepared for the coroner.” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Engineers are reported to be on the way to repair the fault APPROXIMATELY 1500 properties in a North Cornwall town have been left without electricity after a large-scale power cut. National Grid has confirmed that it is repairing a ‘high-voltage’ fault with its network in the Wadebridge area. 1,477 properties are impacted by one of the two power cuts, with a further 37 on the other side of the River Camel impacted by a ‘low voltage’ network fault. Among the properties and businesses affected is the Estuary Bakery of Barnecutts, which has confirmed it will close for the afternoon as a result. It is the latest power cut to impact Cornwall, which has seen engineers drafted in from other parts of the country as National Grid battles to restore electrical power after damage caused by Storm Darragh. It is presently estimated that the properties could have power restored by 4pm. A spokesperson for National Grid said: “We are aware of this power cut outage which was raised at 1pm this afternoon and our engineers are working to get the power returned as quickly as possible. We are sorry for any inconvenience this is causing you. “There is currently a fault on our overhead network. Your supply may go off and on while we work hard to resolve this.” Fire and ambulance service also in attendance The extent of injuries is not yet known, with the response to the incident involving multiple emergency services. A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Police were called at around 8.30am on Tuesday November 26 following reports of a road traffic collision involving a car and a lorry near St Issey. “The fire and ambulance service were both called and a road closure put in place. “A number of people are believed to have been injured. The extent of their injuries is not yet known.” A spokesperson for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service added: “ Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us There are currently no plans for a banking hub in the town despite the final bank closing in early 2025 A PETITION has been launched by a Cornwall councillor seeking to persuade the operators of the ‘banking hubs’ to open a branch in Wadebridge. The petition, launched by councillor Robin Moorcroft, seeks to persuade LINK to reverse its position that a full banking hub is not required in the town. It comes ahead of the final bank branch withdrawal in the town, with Lloyds bank set to close in February 2025. While a banking hub is being launched in nearby Bodmin, in the store formerly occupied by Clark’s Shoes on Fore Street, it has been decided that Wadebridge only requires a deposit service, such as the service presently operated at the town’s post office. Disagreeing with this assessment, Cllr Moorcroft said that in his view, this position is incorrect and the introduction of a full banking hub would not only just benefit the residents of Wadebridge but those of adjacent towns such as Padstow. In the petition, he said: “In February 2025 the last remaining banking branch in Wadebridge - Lloyds will close. LINK are a business aiming to ensure that access to cash through ATM's by working with all major banks and building societies is easy and to support those who find this difficult. LINK work alongside the Government, Regulators, the public and consumer groups. “LINK have assessed that Wadebridge is not in need of a Banking Hub but is suitable for a Deposit Service. We believe a Banking Hub is not just for Wadebridge, but would also benefit the wider community and outlying parishes - Padstow, Rock etc. Banking hubs are shared spaces on high streets across the UK that allow customers from multiple banks to deposit and withdraw money, get face-to-face help, carry out regular banking transactions, have private rooms for one-to-one discussions. “These hubs are becoming more important as individual bank branches continue to close. In addition to the hubs, withdrawal and deposit machines are also being placed in libraries and community centres. “This petition will not guarantee a Hub, but can show the depth of feeling within our community and those around Wadebridge for the decision to be reviewed.” Cash Access UK has been approached for comment. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us EACH week, hundreds of planning applications come before Cornwall Council’s planning department seeking to win approval for various plans right across the Duchy These plans can comprise of a number of different reasonings – ranging from permission to replace windows or listed building consent ranging up to large house building developments or changing of use of a building Within this large and often complex system there are a number of formats from which planning advice and approval can be sought These range from full applications where all the details which comprise a proposed development or work to a building are submitted where further details are yet to be confirmed an outline application with reserved matters for appearance may not confirm the final proposed development but rather seek permission in principle An example of this is one for an outline permission for 20 dwellings on land with reserved matters for appearance and scale; the reserved matters would require further permission later for their inclusion Other types of applications include pre-application advice requests, where would-be developers submit often outline proposals to a local authority to ascertain whether it is likely to gain support or not prior to submitting a planning application The vast majority of applications are decided by planning officers employed by a local authority under ‘delegated powers’ meaning they do so on behalf of their employer some applications are ‘called in’ by local councillors to be discussed at an area’s strategic planning committee meeting meaning the final decision rests with a committee of councillors An application for a lawful development certificate for the proposed commencement of construction of a wildlife pond with ‘associated re-contouring works and landscape enhancements’ at an industrial premises has been refused – because it does not offer enough of a biodiversity net gain The application was made regarding Spinnaker House Saltash who sought the lawful commencement certificate to indicate compliance with the planning permission which allowed the construction of the wildlife pond Cornwall Council told the applicant: “It is considered that the development granted planning permission under reference PA24/04937 is subject to the statutory biodiversity gain condition under Paragraph 13 of Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as set out under the section 'any additional information' in relation to decision notice PA24/04937 dated 2 September 2024 No submission under Paragraph 13 of Schedule 7A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 has been submitted to the Local Planning Authority for consideration or been approved the biodiversity gain condition requirement under reference PA24/04937 has not been met and a biodiversity gain plan must be submitted and approved by the Local Planning Authority before development can commence “This application which proposes lawful commencement of the development under decision notice PA24/04937 without compliance of the statutory biodiversity gain condition is therefore refused for the reasons set out.” Following the approval in 2022 of outline planning permission for over 200 homes at Bodieve, Wadebridge a reserved matters application featuring fuller details of the proposed development has now been submitted to Cornwall Council by Vistry Partnerships and associated infrastructure and open space which will include two play areas provision for teenagers and drainage basins The housing includes ten one-bed apartments 124 three-bed houses and 36 four-bed houses The majority of new homes would be two storeys with a handful of 2.5 storey homes and one bungalow there will be three new junctions onto the B3314 providing access to the site Application details also include 1.75 hectares of new woodland planting raised table treatment at junctions for traffic calming a central green space delivering varied woodland planting and key tree planting along a new link road The streets would be tree-lined and there would be an orchard The site is divided into four distinct character areas Higher Bodieve would be located in the north-east of the site and encompasses the main site entrance The Avenue would be located in the north and follows the principal road through the site Bodieve Mews would be located on the east and west periphery and be less visible The Courtyard would be isolated from the other areas Wadebridge Town Council said: “An extension has been agreed by the Planning Officer and this application will be considered at the April Full Council meeting Wadebridge Town Council note that there is no material to show that Conditions 6 and 7 will be satisfied and as such the planning application is incomplete and Wadebridge Town Council will be requesting further information Remaining items will be deferred for discussion at next meeting.” Neighbouring parish council Egloshayle Parish Council added: “Not supported pending submission of highway link road details in accordance with planning approval conditions stipulated by the Planning Inspector in August 2022.” Of the two public comments submitted thus far one comprised an objection and the other an observation The plans are currently under decision by Cornwall Council Proposals for a detached self-build dwelling on land at Shippen Barn St Pinnock has been refused by Cornwall Council on the grounds of a ‘poor design’ The proposals were seeking to replace an extant planning permission for a new two bedroom dwelling on the land with the new proposals seeking to build a two-storey building instead of the approved single-floor layout Cornwall Council’s planners told the applicant: “The proposal would result in poorly designed residential development which does not align with the policies for housing growth 7 and 9 of the Cornwall Local Plan and paragraphs 11 and 84 of the NPPF and would offer visually harmful built form which would be uncharacteristic and incongruous within its immediate setting and would have a undesirable urbanising effect on this rural landscape and would erode at the surrounding agricultural character contrary to policies 12 and 23 of the Cornwall Local Plan “Whilst the provision of a new dwelling would provide for some benefits through helping to address the housing crisis and offering economic benefits during the construction phase these benefits are not considered to outweigh the identified harm presented through the adverse impacts to this designated landscape within the Looe and Seaton Valleys AGLV on balance it is considered that the proposal is not acceptable and is therefore recommended for refusal All other matters raised have been taken into account but none is of such significance as to outweigh the considerations that have led to the conclusion.” • Keep up to date with the latest planning applications and other statutory notices (such as alcohol licensing and probates) that affect where you live by visiting our online Public Notice Portal – be the first to know by visiting www.publicnoticeportal.uk/cornish-times-series. Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us AN ELDERLY woman, who was the passenger in a vehicle which reportedly collided with another vehicle and a wall at a health centre in Wadebridge, has passed away Police were called to reports of an incident involving a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van at Wadebridge Medical Centre during the afternoon of Tuesday was taken to hospital with injuries considered as serious but not life threatening or life changing was airlifted with what police reported as being life-threatening injuries police have confirmed that the female passenger passed away two days after the incident as a result of her injuries They are also appealing for anyone with information that they haven’t previously spoken with to come forward to assist with their enquiries A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “A woman has died following a road traffic collision in Wadebridge “Police were called to reports of a collision involving a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van at Wadebridge Medical Centre at around 2.55pm on Tuesday February 25. “The front seat passenger, a local woman in her 80s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital, however, she sadly passed away on Thursday, February 27. Her next of kin has been informed. “Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has dash-cam footage and has not yet spoken to police is asked to call 101 or contact police via the website quoting log 442 of 25/2/25.” Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Second half tries from Crowther and Dunn set up grandstand finish Wadebridge Camels Seconds 23 Liskeard-Looe 22 THE Lions fought back from 13-0 down but were eventually edged out by 14-man Wadebridge at Molesworth Field. Team selection was difficult with a couple more players going onto the injury list, one of them being up and coming number eight Adam Dack, but the club was helped by Colts Dan Crowther and Ethan A’Lee making themselves available with both going on the bench. There was also the return of Jay Mason at scrum-half, which allowed Greg Gillbard to revert to outside-centre. The match was only five minutes old when the Lions fell foul of the referee’s whistle and conceded a penalty, which was slotted for 3-0. On 17 minutes the home side scored a converted try during a sustained attacking move, and when a second three-pointer was added six minutes later it was 13-0. At the restart an incident occurred where a Wadebridge forward received a red card, and a penalty given to Liskeard and this was sent to touch. At the ensuing lineout the Lions caught and drove the ball with hooker Archie Doidge crashing over in the corner for an unconverted try. In the 40th minute with Liskeard on the attack inside the home 22, with a clear path to the whitewash, one of the Wadebridge defenders deliberately knocked the ball forward, thus stopping the advantage. The referee had no other option but to award a penalty try to Liskeard with a yellow card being shown to the perpetrator, taking the score to 13-12 at the whistle. It had been a difficult half for the Lions but the two late tries ensured they were just a point behind. On 45 minutes Liskeard lost number eight Cian Goldsmith to the bin but they held out. In the 55th minute with the Liskeard defence working overtime to stop any Wadebridge attack, the home side took a snap chance of a drop goal and this sailed through the uprights to increase the lead to 16-12. On the hour mark a defensive mix-up allowed the home side in for a converted try, thus ensuring an 11-point lead. In the 63rd minute, after personnel changes had been made to the Lions line-up, replacement centre Dan Crowther, dotted down for an unconverted try to make it 23-17. With the Lions forwards now dominant , eplacement back rower Ollie Dunn crashed over for a good try. Unfortunately the conversion attempt hit the woodwork and bounced clear to make the score 23-22. There was to be no further scoring despite Liskeard trying everything to get the extra points to secure the victory. View from the touchline was that Liskeard’s response from 13-0 down had been good but unfortunately not enough to secure the victory. But despite the loss the Lions had secured two bonus points by virtue of crossing four times and losing within seven. The Liskeard supporters’ man of the match award, sponsored by Liskeard and District Sports Association, as decided by former Lions John Catchpole and Steve Yeo, was awarded to Jay Mason. The next match for Liskeard is this coming Saturday, at Perranporth for a match postponed from December. Any travelling support would be appreciated. LISKEARD-LOOE: Kieran Underhill, Jack Badnall, Greg Gillbard, Will Cameron, Sean Simmons, Mike McCarthy, Jay Mason; Will Stuart, Archie Doidge (capt), Jack Wilton, Mike Prowse, Billy Warner, Andy Rowe, Will Hoskin, Cian Goldsmith. Replacements: Ollie Dunn, Dan Lethbridge, Dan Crowther, Ethan A’Lee. Tries: Doidge, penalty try, Crowther, Dunn; Convs: McCarthy; Pens: N/A. Liskeard-Looe man of the match: Jay Mason. Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us FIREWORKS are to be banned on council land in a North Cornwall town after calls to avoid their use to mitigate the distress on animals Wadebridge Town Council has confirmed that, with the exception of Guy Fawkes’ night on November 5 each year it will not allow use of its land to host fireworks events and will ‘actively discourage their use’ elsewhere The decision comes after the council undertook a survey between August 16 and September 13 to gauge the views of residents The future of the New Year’s Eve display in the town is uncertain, with the council electing to make a decision in June of each year, with sponsorship of the event by local bodies including the chamber of commerce local businesses and the town team having a factor in whether this event will go ahead in future years A spokesperson for Wadebridge Town Council said: “The council has received, over the past few years, correspondence from Parishioners regarding Fireworks displays in town At the Full Council meeting in November 2023 it was determined that before a decision regarding fireworks was made by the Council the views of the community be sought “Survey questions were structured regarding the role that the town council has in fireworks events in town the town council funds the New Years Eve fireworks event The town council permits Firework Displays to take place on town council land for Wadebridge Carnival and the Chamber of Commerce for late night shopping These events are funded by the aforementioned organisations The fireworks display held at the rugby club is an event held and funded by the rugby club The town council is the landlord for the rugby club as the land at the rugby club is town council land “Questionnaire results were published on the town council’s website Councillors discussed the feedback received from the questionnaire and debated at length at the full council meeting on January 15 the town council acknowledged the environmental impact of fireworks and agreed to reduce the number of fireworks events in the town across the year as well as the need to manage road closures and necessary safety measures were all essential considerations of the decision to be made due to the historic significance of this date Wadebridge Town Council will not consider or accept requests from third parties to hold firework displays on its land and will actively discourage their use elsewhere “For New Year’s Eve, Wadebridge Town Council will seek sponsorship/funding from pubs, Chamber of Commerce and the Town Team and reassess annually, by a full council vote in June whether to proceed with New Years Eve fireworks for the coming New Year.” “If you have any queries please contact the town clerk, by phone on 01208 817080 or by email : [email protected].” Tel: 01579 342174[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us He has been given 28-months for his actions A ROGUE builder who lost his customers £150,000 and left one home uninhabitable has been sentenced to 28 months in prison after being prosecuted by Cornwall Council. James Christopher Smith, 45, from Wadebridge, pleaded guilty to participating in a fraudulent business under Section 9 of the Fraud Act 2006. Smith was trading as Cornwall Building and Roofing Contractors, however, after a number of complaints about his work, Cornwall Council’s Trading Standards team launched an investigation in February 2023. In total, seven victims were identified, with the fraud resulting in losses of around £150,000. In one case, Smith was contracted to construct a single-storey timber frame extension. There were delays in the progress of the work and money demanded for materials that were never ordered. A building inspector from Cornwall Council identified 30 failures of building regulations and the extension had to be demolished. In another case the consumer agreed a £184,000 contract with Smith to remodel a bungalow. Despite a deposit and numerous staged payments, many of the materials were never ordered. The property was eventually left uninhabitable, with no windows, doors, heating, or electrics. In both of these cases the homeowners were required to seek further finance to get the projects finished. The investigation uncovered a range of unfair practises including; On February 13, Smith was given an immediate custodial sentence of 28 months at Truro Crown Court. Martyn Alvey, the portfolio holder responsible for public protection at Cornwall Council, said: “Yet again we’re frustrated to see the upset and distress caused by the fraudulent actions of one individual. Whilst the loss agreed was £150,000, we know that the true cost of remedying the work has run into the tens of thousands for many of his customers. “Cases like this seriously affect consumer confidence in the local building trade, but we hope that sentences like the one given today act as a significant deterrent and demonstrates just how seriously Cornwall’s Trading Standards Team and the courts take these matters.” Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us The ad-free version is ready for purchase on iOS mobile app today we couldn't find that page";var n=e.querySelector("h2");return n&&n.remove(),{staticContent:e,title:t}},d=function(e){var t=document.createElement("button");return t.innerText=e,t.classList.add("error-page-button"),t},f=function(e){var t=document.createElement("div");t.id="recirculation-404",t.classList.add("brand-hint-bg");var n="\n \n \n Tick here if you would like us to send you the author’s response A woman has died after the car she was a passenger in collided with a van and then crashed into a wall in Wadebridge Emergency services rushed to the scene of the collision involving a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van at Wadebridge Medical Centre at around 2.55pm on Tuesday the force has since said the woman died of her injuries on Thursday Devon and Cornwall Police said: "The Vauxhall collided with the parked and unattended Nissan in the car park area and then went on to collide with a stone wall at the exit of the car park area at Jubilee Road." Police are still appealing for information from anyone who witnessed the crash or who has dash-cam footage and has not yet spoken to police is asked to call 101 or contact police via the website quoting log 442 of 25/2/25 Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right A Cornwall housing scheme for 245 homes faces objections from the parish council Following the approval in 2022 of outline planning permission for over 200 homes at Bodieve, Wadebridge, a reserved matters application featuring fuller details of the proposed development has now been submitted to Cornwall Council by Vistry Partnerships The housing includes ten one-bed apartments Wadebridge Town Council said: “An extension has been agreed by the Planning Officer and this application will be considered at the April Full Council meeting. Wadebridge Town Council note that there is no material to show that Conditions 6 and 7, amongst others, will be satisfied and as such the planning application is incomplete and Wadebridge Town Council will be requesting further information Neighbouring parish council, Egloshayle Parish Council added: “Not supported, pending submission of highway link road details in accordance with planning approval conditions stipulated by the Planning Inspector in August 2022.” Of the two public comments submitted thus far, one comprised an objection and the other an observation. Mrs Fiona Clark observed: “With regard to access to the proposed development, I suggest that it is of major concern that there is little reference to the "new road [that] must be delivered before any house is sold...", and no pictorial representation of the previously proposed link road from the B3314 to the Ball roundabout, any further than the northern aspect of the southern portion of the proposed development. “The link road needs to be constructed prior to commencement of construction on either site, in order to prevent overburdening the existing infrastructure with the addition of construction vehicular movement. “It needs to be in place ongoing because of the general increase in traffic movements in connection with the completed development, and, if the two proposed roundabouts are not to be completed at the outset, then the residents of Bodieve would at least require a traffic light system set up to facilitate the flow of traffic to and from the hamlet in the interim, and to protect pedestrians, if pavement improvements have not yet been carried out. “Noise: Every effort should be implemented to protect the nearest existing residents by way of noise mitigation during tree removal, road works and general construction, taking into account that there may be elderly/ frail individuals resident in adjacent properties who may be physiologically affected by noise, with resultant ill-effects on their health.” The plans are currently under decision by Cornwall Council. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Owned or licensed to Tindle Newspapers Ltd. | Independent Family-Owned Newspapers | Copyright & Trade Mark Notice & 2013 - 2025 Robert and Lee Firkins were jailed for the November 2003 murders of Carol and Graham Fisher at their home in Perch The brothers denied murder but were convicted and handed life sentences with a minimum term of 26 years in February 2006 Both men have maintained their innocence and unsuccessfully attempted to bring an appeal against their convictions in 2008 But in 2020 the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) referred both convictions to the Court of Appeal finding there was a “real possibility” that appeal judges could quash their convictions three judges at the Court of Appeal quashed the brothers’ convictions The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) applied for a retrial for both brothers meaning that the media could not report their successful appeals at a hearing at Winchester Crown Court on Monday the CPS offered no evidence against either man said there was a “recent difficulty” that may affect the attendance of a witness at the retrial She added: “In these circumstances and after consultation with police and CPS it is no longer appropriate to continue these proceedings and therefore we are instructed to offer no evidence.” The Court of Appeal in London previously heard that the prosecution case had heavily featured the evidence of the witness claiming he heard an alleged “confession” from Robert Firkins while detained told the court in June 2023 that there was new expert evidence showing Z to be a “compulsive liar” sitting with Lady Justice Thirlwall and Mr Justice Morris allowed the brothers’ appeals Speaking after the decision to discontinue the retrial lawyer Jane Hickman said that the brothers “are restored to the innocent status in relation to the murders that they had at the beginning” She added: “The suffering for them has been immense.” Robert Firkins was due to be released following the ruling while his brother is expected to remain in prison due to other offences Ms Hickman continued: “I’ve been dealing with appeals for some 40 years and I don’t think most people realise or recognise the degree of trauma that gets inflicted on people who didn’t commit a crime but who are punished in mind and body day after day after day In a joint statement Ms Elliott and James Wood KC said: “From the moment of these convictions we knew the case was a gross miscarriage of justice it illustrated the inherent dangers of this kind of evidence Without independent reliable evidence supportive of the fact of the confession 'It is possible that new information exists' - Police A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "In 2023 the Court of Appeal overturned the original conviction as a result of new medical evidence from the Criminal Case Review Commission "Since that point Devon and Cornwall Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team has worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to prepare for a retrial of Robert and Lee Firkins scheduled for early 2025 "Devon and Cornwall Police accepts the CPS has conducted a careful review of available evidence in the case and have concluded that there is no longer a realistic prospect of conviction the CPS has decided not to present any evidence before the court "Steps are already underway to manage the acquittal process including the release of Robert Firkins from prison Lee Firkins will remain in custody due to other sentences he is currently serving "Devon and Cornwall Police understand that whilst the original investigation was over 20 years ago it is possible that new information exists and so anyone who wants to contact ourselves or Crimestoppers Legal team say case should lead to 'legal reform' The legal team representing the Firkins brothers have said the case was a "gross miscarriage of justice" and should prompt "legal reform" James Wood KC and Sarah Elliott KC were both part of the original defence teams representing the two brothers accused of the Fishers’ murders They said the case had been dependent on alleged "cell confession" evidence provided by a prisoner witness James and Sarah commented: "From the moment of these convictions "The time is now ripe for legal reform They continued: "Without the endless diligence and unpaid work of our solicitors over many years.. It is closed in both directions - visit our live blog for the latest updates THE A389 between Bodmin and Wadebridge is closed in both directions after a two-vehicle collision. Traffic reporting site Inrix says: “The A389 both ways closed, slow traffic due to accident from A389 Park farmhouse BandB (Washaway) to A389 Sladesbridge (Sladesbridge)” Devon and Cornwall Police are in attendance at the scene along with ambulance and fire service. Visit our live blog below for the latest updates 👇 Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us THE community hub in Wadebridge has a double celebration with the opening of its new £60,000 state of the art kitchen and receiving another five star food hygiene rating. The Betjeman Centre is the headquarters for Concern Wadebridge and the focal point for its work supporting people over 50 in the town, located in the former ticket and waiting building in what was once Wadebridge Railway Station until its closure in 1967. The centre opened to the public in 1989 and has been operating since. Concern Wadebridge at the John Betjeman Centre closed its Platform 1 Café in January for a full refurbishment of its kitchen, at a cost of around £60,000 to the charity, including lost earnings and the cost of the refit. Upon the reopening of the Platform 1 café, it received another 5* Food Hygiene rating and the occasion was marked with an event to celebrate its official opening. The centre was full of more than 60 volunteers and fundraisers who witnessed charity patron and local funeral director David Bray cutting the ribbon to mark the reopening of the café after the kitchen work. He said: “I must admit, I do feel a little under qualified, as my cooking skills in the kitchen are almost zero. This project just shows how the Centre is constantly going from strength to strength, due to the dedication and hard work that goes on here, behind the scenes. “The refurbishment has cost in the region of £60,000, when you take into account the loss of income while the kitchen was closed, and the actual cost of the refit, but over £25,000 has been raised with donations and fundraising events, so a huge thank you must go to all of those who have helped in any way. “I can remember, right at the start of this project, Gordon Kinsman Barker having conversations with my dad, and other committee members, about starting the centre and how it would develop, and I’m sure they would be delighted if they could come back today to see what a success it is.” The kitchen renovation was made possible thanks to a lot of fundraising including quizzes, tabletop sales, bingos and generous donation from supporters. Emma Burt, the centre manager of the Betjeman Centre said: “I know I say it all the time, but I am always so overwhelmed by the love and support we receive. Our Platform 1 café is so important to the local community providing home cooked food at an affordable price and a perfect way to catch up with friends, old and new. “We pride ourselves on welcoming everyone who comes in with a smile and a friendly face to chat with and signpost people to services and support within the centre or local community. “The icing on the cake was to receive another 5* Food Hygiene Rating, thank you to everyone for your hard work.” For more information visit www.concernwadebridge.org.uk or call 01208 812382. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us The incident involved three cars and a van A VEHICLE ended up on its roof following a four-vehicle collision near Wadebridge this weekend. Devon and Cornwall Police were called to Camel Road, St Minver at 2.20pm on Saturday, October 26, following reports of a four-vehicle collision. The incident involved a van and three cars, with one vehicle even ending up on its roof. As well as police, crews from the ambulance and fire departments also attended, while the road was closed. Following the collision, six people sustained minor injuries. Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us The club has been rewarded for their community engagement, membership growth and contributions to the local bowls scene. WADEBRIDGE Bowling Club was voted Bowls England Club of the Year 2024 at a national awards evening in Leicester on Saturday, February 22. Nine club members, including the past, present and future presidents, made the long trip from North Cornwall to the awards ceremony and were amazed and delighted in equal measure to receive the winner’s certificate and trophy. The evening brought together almost 300 guests from across the bowls community to honour the terrific contributions of individuals within the sport. The awards shine a light on those who give their time and energy to bowls – from volunteers and umpires to coaches and players. The club were rewarded for their community engagement, membership growth and contributions to the local bowls scene. In 2024, the club focussed on the values of being ‘Welcoming, Supportive, Inclusive’, and through living those values, achieved success on and off the green. As Bowls England expressed it in the ceremony programme, the club: “Saw major growth, especially in female participation, through a taster weekend and ‘Bowls Blitz’ events. League success, youth engagement, and a booming social hub have cemented its reputation as a welcoming and community-focussed club.” The Wadebridge Men’s B Team also was shortlisted for an award – Team of the Year – but lost out to a Gerrard’s Cross (Buckinghamshire) Men’s Team. The team were still honoured to be shortlisted. It was a great evening for the club that they can be righty proud of. It was an achievement of every member during the year, not just the nine who made the trip. The club will open its doors for the new season on Saturday, April 12 and looks forward to welcoming even more people to the best club in England. For more information on Wadebridge Bowling Club, visit: www.wadebridgebowls.co.uk Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us Tel: 01566 778213[email protected]Follow us A NORTH CORNWALL town is set to lose its final traditional bank branch with the announcement that it will close in 2025. The Lloyds Branch on Molesworth Street in Wadebridge will close for the final time on February 17, 2025. It will become the final branch in the town centre to shut up shop, although the bank has promised that a ‘community banker’ will continue to visit the area. The announcement is the latest in a tsunami of bank closures across Cornwall, with the town losing its Barclays and HSBC branches in the last year and comes months after neighbouring town Bodmin will also lose its branch, which will close in September 2024 upon the opening of a proposed ‘banking hub’. Upon the closure, the two nearest remaining branches of Lloyds will be located in St Austell and Truro. The ATM (cash machine) outside of the bank will also close, leaving two main options for residents to withdraw their money with machines outside of the town’s Co-Op supermarket and at Tesco Wadebridge, located on the outside of the town. Post Office services will also be available after the recent re-opening of the Wadebridge Post Office after months of closure during 2023. In a document confirming the closure, the bank said that it would close the branch as ‘customers are banking in different ways’. The document claims that 722 customers used the facilities at the branch for money transactions in four months out of the six ending February 2024. It also revealed that the majority of customers affected by the closure are people over 55, with its own figures revealing that 61% of customers using the branch were aged between 55 and 74 and 75 and over. A spokesperson for Lloyds Bank said: “As many customers now choose to bank through their mobile app or online, visits to our Wadebridge branch have fallen over recent years. The local Post Office offers everyday banking, with cash also available at close by free-to-use ATMs. “Customers can also manage their money through our mobile banking apps, online, by calling us or speaking to a Community Banker.” [email protected]Further Links A woman in her 80s has died following a collision in Wadebridge last week Police were called at around 2.55pm on Tuesday after reports of a collision involving a red Vauxhall Corsa and a white Nissan van at Wadebridge Medical Centre which collided with the parked and unattended Nissan in the car park went on to collide a stone wall at the exit of the car park area on Jubilee Road sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to hospital Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or has dash-cam footage and has not yet spoken to officers to come forward. Those with information can call 101 or contact police via the official website quoting log 442 of 25/2/25 She is due to appear at Truro Magistrates’ Court today. A WOMAN has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent following a stabbing in Wadebridge. Officers attended a property in Oak View Road after being called by the ambulance service following a report of a serious assault on a man on Tuesday, September 10 at around 10.25pm. The man, aged in his 30s, had sustained a stab wound. A knife was located and seized at the scene. The man was taken to hospital for treatment. His injuries are not being treated as life-threatening or changing. Following the incident, Zena Dale-Woon, aged 31, of Woolsack View, Wadebridge, has been charged with Section 18 causing grievous bodily harm with intent. She is due to appear at Truro Magistrates’ Court today, September 12.