Memorial Villlage Hall  December  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

We are experiencing a very mild Autumn with garden plants starting to bud and even flower earlier than in past years. Are we now really seeing the results of climate change? Although we seem to have had quite a few rainy days the reservoirs are still extremely low. With the hose pipe ban still in place the upstairs windows in my house  are becoming opaque as I usually clean them with a brush connected to the hose pipe. Hope the rain falls in the right place soon!

What has been happening

The race night held on the 14^{th of} October proved to be an exciting evening, the people attending betting on their chosen horse and willing it on to hopefully win.

There were quite a few rentals of the hall in November including baby shower, children’s birthday parties’ meetings and annual group celebrations.

Writing this newsletter at the early part of the month for the next months edition means that we cannot always give full details of the events held in the current month.
That being said,  in November Th RNLI held a Christmas Sale. Sheila tells me it was an immense success and well supported.

The hall also played host to The Gorran Bus crew letting their hair down with a fish and chip supper accompanied by plenty of wine. I hear a fun time had by all.

The monthly oil painting workshop gave the artists the chance to paint snow. They found out snow is not white and had a challenging but remarkably successful day.

November the 11^th there was a highly successful quiz night, fund raising for the Mount Edgecumbe Hospice. As I mentioned last month it was felt fitting to use this event to pay tribute to our committee member Angela Ball as it was near what would have been her birthday. The hospice provided for her as it does for so many a little oasis of care. Support for  the hospice is always needed. We raised £433  on the night by bar profit, raffle, and Michael Bunny’s Heads & Tails game. There is still the money in the sealed donation buckets to be counted by the hospice staff. This should increase the money raised to well over £500. Apologies if some of the quiz questions were a bit challenging, but you do like a challenge, and for the malfunctioning mic, but thanks to all for enduring the trauma.

The Winter Fair which is to be held on the 19^{th of} November so too soon for me to give you the outcome. I do know  that we have  some interesting new stalls which will enable people to purchase some early Christmas presents. There is also a simple food being served of pulled pork or vegetable bap, cake, and mince pies.

Music nights are still being held on the last Friday of each month (except December) with the next one on the 25^{th of} November. These nights are a less formal version of the open mic nights but will still provide  good music played by local musicians.

What’s Coming Up

All the regular events , Pilates, Tai Chi, Film Nights will continue but there will be a short break throughout the Christmas period.

We are receiving some very complimentary comments regarding the monthly lunches, great food, and service at a very affordable price. Thanks to the Kitchen Crew for all your arduous work.

The village Christmas Lunch on the 8^{th of} December.

The Gorran Bus will hold a coffee morning on Saturday 10^th December

This year we are so please to be able to hold the annual get together on New Year’s Eve at the hall. Doors will open at 10.30 for drinks and music if we can find some sober musicians!! Midnight fireworks on the quay.

The hall is a spacious well equipped place to hire for your events, meetings or for workshops. We are there to help and would welcome enquires. Just give me a call.

When it arrives, I wish you a happy Christmas and  let us hope for a peaceful New Year.

Davis Clough

01726 844954

www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            November  Parish Magazine

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            October  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  October  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Hall

Hello everyone.

We have had a lovely summer with plenty of sun, warmth and some genuinely nice visitors who have enjoyed our lovely village and beach. Although the hot weather has left us with a hose pipe ban. I am sure this is temporary as our usual autumn wet weather is sure to sort that out

The events held on the beach, Gala Day, Day on the Sand and Lifeboat Day were successful although rainy at times. The sand sculptures at the day on the sand were amazing, the children and families really used their imaginations. It was, as always, a shame that everyone could not be given a prize.

It was with great sadness that we heard of the death of Queen Elizabeth so very recently. Most of us, me included have only known of the Queen as our monarch, we commend her for her sense of commitment and duty to her role. For 70 years she dedicated her life to the role of Queen and was held in high esteem wherever she travelled. Indeed, at the age of ninety-six and only two days before she died, she met with the departing Prime minister to accept his resignation and then met with the new prime minister to asked her to form a new government. Doing her duty to the last. May she now rest in peace having laid down her responsibilities.

Regular Hall Events

Pilates sessions are back from the summer break. With men’s classes on Monday nights at 6pm and Ladies at the new time of 9.30am on Tuesday mornings.

A new Thai Chi beginner’s class has started on Thursday evenings at 6.30pm. This is open to all comers, a gentle loosening and breathing exercises, to help improve posture, movement, and mental relaxation. To register please contact Chris Gillie, cgillie10 @googlemail.com, 07962229916.

It has been decided sadly that for now the coffee mornings will take a break. It has been hard following Covid lockdown to entice people to regularly attend these mornings, hopefully as further vaccines are administrated the disease decrease people will feel more confident in socialising.

The Village lunch returned on the 8th of September and is to continue monthly. The next lunch being13th October.

Events in October

Comedy Night
On the 1^{st of} October we have Seamus Carey performing a comedy night. Seamus is promoting this himself so look out for posters and how to purchase tickets.

History Society
There is a meeting of the History Society on the 11th of October, all welcome to attend.

Race Night
It has been several years since we held a race night, so Friday the 14^th of October sees the return of Race Night at the hall. A fun night for all. horse races shown on the big screen, modest betting, and the opportunity to ‘own’ a horse for the race (increasing your pay out should your horse win).

Forthcoming Events

RNLI
The RNLI will hold their annual Christmas Fair on the 12^{th of} November. Christmas presents, souvenirs and refreshments will be available.

Winter Fayre
19^th November – Winter Fayre. A selection of craft, gift and food stalls selling homemade produce giving you an opportunity to buy early Christmas presents. There will be tea/coffee, cakes, pulled pork baps and veggie alternatives to enjoy plus the raffle.

Finally, I say on behalf of many people we offer King Charles our best wishes as he undertakes the role of our new monarch.

God Save The King

David Clough

844954   www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            August/September  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  August/September  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Hall

During the summer, the hall is quieter, and it gives everyone who work hard putting on the events all year a chance to take a little break, enjoy their families and hopefully if we have lovely weather get to the beach, swim, or just relax.

We will soon have lots of summer visitors, whom we welcome, it makes for a busy village, so be patient as they enjoy our village in their own ways. We all hope that our local businesses can benefit from the income they bring. We can take pleasure from the sound of all the children’s voices drifting across on the breeze as they enjoy their time on the beach.

Here is a great piece of news, finally the Coast Path Café is rising from the ashes like a phoenix and opening once again. As I understand it, they will open with a limited menu and for shorter hours to get going, but hopefully later will try to extend hours and menu. Welcome back.

Regular hall events

I mentioned last month that the Yoga class has been cancelled.

We are looking for someone to carry out Keep Fit classes, initially for the more energetic people in the village but to add chair Keep Fit classes for the less energetic to keep their limbs loose and supple. If anyone knows of a suitable keep fit instructor, please ask them to contact me on the phone number below.

Pilates are taking a summer break in August with classes resuming on the 12^{th of} September.

The coffee mornings are also taking a break in August and will return in September. They are going to make some changes to the coffee morning which are still in the planning stage, so watch this space.

The monthly Village lunch is taking its annual summer break and will return on the 8th of September.

Events in August

The history society will be displaying their history photos in the hall on the 7^th and 8^th of August. Come along and see how the village once looked. The events and happenings. So many things to remember over the years. I am sure for some of us it will bring back memories of time gone by.

 Now here is something new. On Thursday the 11^{th of} August there is a ‘Bake Off’ day planned in the hall. This is still in the planning stage as I write so, please look out for more details on the notice boards. In the meantime, get practicing so you can enter your baking in this fun competition. Not being sexist but I understand that some of the blokes in the village will be judging. They will not accept bribes!

Day on the Sand is on Tuesday the 16^{th of} August. We shall have the usual delicious cake stall, a tombola (adults and children), the treasure map, a BBQ and of course the sand sculpture competition. A fun day for everyone.

The month ends with an art exhibition running from the 24^th to the 28^{th of} August.

Forthcoming events

16^th September – Quiz night. Get your teams together (1 to a maximum of eight people per team) for a fun night.

!4^th October – Race night. A fun night for all. Horse races shown on the big screen, modest betting, and the opportunity to ‘own’ a horse for the race (increasing your pay out should your horse win).

19^th November – Winter Fayre. A selection of craft, gift and food stalls selling homemade produce giving you an opportunity to buy early Christmas presents. There will be tea/coffee, cakes, pulled pork baps and veggie alternatives to enjoy plus a luxury hamper to be won on the raffle. Put the date in your diary.

The hall committee are always looking to provide different interesting events for the community. Please let us know of any ideas for events that you would like to see held in the hall.

Hope this message finds you fit and healthy. There has been a recent increase in covid infections in the village but from what I hear the symptoms have in most cases been mild and lasting only a few days in most cases.

Enjoy your summer

David Clough

844954   www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            July  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  July  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Hall

Thank you to everyone who helped in making the Gorran Parish Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations such a successful event. The parish enjoyed a weeklong programme of events. And a special thank you to the weather for providing such a wonderful sunny day on the Friday, for the events on the playing field.

As it has been quiet in the hall, we took the chance to start having the chairs reupholstered. The chairs were looking tired, with the upholstery on some of the chairs starting to fray on the corners. The newly reupholstered chairs look fantastic in their bright colours.

Regular hall events

Sadly, the Yoga class has been cancelled. The numbers attending had reduced over the last couple of years and its now not viable to continue with the class. Thank you to Anne Dixon for running the yoga class.

The men’s palates class is every Monday at 6pm and the ladies Pilates on Tuesday mornings at 9am. The coffee mornings continues through the summer on Tuesday mornings from 10.30am. The monthly lunch is taking its annual summer break and will return in September.

Events in July and August

For those of you who are fit and have a sense of adventure the annual Rat Run takes place on the evening of the 15^th  of July and carries on through the night and into Saturday. Competitors can either run/walk the coastal path during the night or start on the Saturday morning. The hall is one of the staging points and refreshments and medical attention are available.

There are still some places available for the street fair on the 31^st  of July, please contact me to reserve a place.

The history society will be displaying their old photos in the hall on the 7^th and 8^th of August. Come along and see how the village used to look and for some bring back memories of time gone by.

On Thursday the 11^{th of} August there is a ‘Bake Off’ day planned in the hall. This is still in the planning stage as I write this so, please look out for more details on the notice boards.

Day on the Sand is on Tuesday the 16^{th of} August. There will be the usual cake stall, tombola (adults and children) treasure map and of course the sandcastle competition.

The month ends with an art exhibition running from the 24^th to the 29^th  of August.

The hall committee are always looking to provide different interesting events for the community. Please let us know of any ideas of events that you would like to see held in the hall.

David Clough

844954

www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            June  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  June  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Hall

The nation is celebrating the Queens Platinum Jubilee in early June, an extraordinary achievement for a woman taking on the role of Queen of her country in her early twenties. Her dedication and commitment have been second to none, through a realm that has seen many changes in technology, values, personal tragedies. Whether we are in favour of the monarchy or not her achievement in bringing together the people of the commonwealth and promoting Great Britain must be acknowledged as being remarkably successful.

Way back in January there was a meeting to start planning how we could celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. After much thought and work we are finally ready. The community of Gorran Parish are celebrating with a weeklong programme of events. You will have received a leaflet giving details.

The events include a special afternoon tea taking place in the hall instead of the usual coffee morning, we have a Jubilee lunch. I wonder if the kitchen crew cooking wizards will make the Platinum Pudding because no-one is telling at the moment. We are joining in the national beacon lighting with a get-together around 7pm at Cakebreads, the actual lighting of the beacon taking places at 9.45 to link in with the same thing taking place nationally, our beacon is placed so that we can all watch from the beach area in the village. There is family entertainment on the playing fields, a parish tea treat party. Church services of thanksgiving. One feature of our celebrations is the amazing display of colourful flags and bunting adorn the roads, harbour and open spaces enjoyed by residents and visitors all made by the flag and bunting gang. We hope there will be something for everyone. A big thank to all who have been involved in making these celebrations happen.

Looking back to events in May taking place in the hall. A successful art exhibition was held in the first week, this was followed by a meeting to discuss the progress of the Neighbourhood Development Plan. Highly informative showing what a huge amount of work has been done and is still ongoing. A plant sale with donated plant grown by locals was held. There was a demonstration by Neil’s Yard Remedies featuring one of their many products this time it was the Bee Lovely range

May also saw the second wedding of the year, our local National Trust representative got married with a very enjoyable evening party at the hall.

So far June is a quiet time at the hall. Yoga, Pilates, coffee mornings, and monthly lunch will take place as normal. So, if you want to hire the hall now is a good time.

We are starting to book spaces for people to hold stalls at the Street Fair on the 31^{st of} July, if you would like to reserve a space, please contact me on the phone number below. Please also spread the word to any friends who may be interested in joining the Street Fair.

The hall committee are always looking to provide different interesting events for the community. Please let us know of any ideas of events that you would like to see held in the hall.

David Clough

844954

www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            May  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  May  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

We are looking forward to May and more Spring sunshine also to welcome visitors to our incredible village. Easter has just passed which is always a dress rehearsal to get us prepared for the summer visitors, there will be some extra parking congestion, reduced dog walking on the beach and queuing to enter our shops. That said we want everyone to be patient and tolerant to each other and our visitors who come to appreciate this wonderful village. It is also a time for us to welcome family and friends who bring a different type of joy to our lives.

When you read this newsletter, it will already be May and the year is starting to fly by. Looking back to April.

The Playing fields opened a wonderful new adventure play area. Here at the hall, we had the joy of hosting the first wedding of the season a joyous event for the wedding party. We have had the annual Easter Egg Competition which has had to be put off for the last two year. A Pie and Pint Night and a craft fair which I hope you all enjoyed. It feels good to have the hall open and getting back into the swing of things.

Forthcoming Events

Pilates will be every Monday evening from 6.00pm for men and 9.00am on Tuesday mornings for ladies. Coffee mornings each Tuesday from 10.30 -12.30. Yoga every Wednesday morning from 10.00 -11.00

Just on the border of May events start off with an art exhibition on the bank holiday weekend starting on Saturday 30^th April.

The monthly Village Lunch takes place on the 12^th  of May, places are limited so please contact Sue Biggs on 844342. We also suggest that if you fancy attending the Village Lunch celebration of the Platinum Jubilee on Thursday 2^nd June that you mention it to Sue.

The Neighbourhood Development Plan consultation between 6.00-9.00pm on Thursday 12^th May All welcome to come and discuss the latest updates of the NDP, I believe there will be a free drink for all who attends.

Garden Plant Sale at the Coffee morning on the 17^th  of May will be extended until 2.00pm. Plants will be on sale at very reasonable prices. Come along and enjoy a drink, cake, and purchase a plant to increase the vibrancy of your garden for the summer. There will be vegetable plants and flowers some in the red, white, and blue to decorate tubs and pots

An exciting evening planned on Thursday the 19^{th of} May at 7pm when a demonstration of products by Neil’s Yard Remedies will take place. Emma Skelton an expert on the use of the products will give an interesting demonstration and answer your questions relating to the products benefits. You will be available to purchase anything that takes your fancy and get your skin in tip top condition ready for summer. Bring a partner who may want to help pay and carry your purchases. There is no entry fee, and the bar will be open for prosecco or whatever you fancy drinking.

Saturday the 21^st May we have our second wedding of this year. Our local National Trust representative, Harriet Davis is tying the knot. Weather permitted it promises to be a wonderful day.

Looking forward to the Queens Platinum Jubilee in June, plans are well on the way to hold celebrations throughout the week. A programme of events will be delivered to each household during this month. The main celebrations will take place on the Bell Hill playing field on the 3^rd  of June starting at 2pm with a fun dog show. Children are being encouraged to make a crown; a parade will take place around the playing field with the best crown being given a prize.

Gorran Haven is joining the Nationwide Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations on the evening of the 2^{nd of} June in lighting a Beacon at 9.45pm. The beacon will be on the National Trust land behind the village hall at the top of the new zig zag path. Cakebreads bar will be open for people to enjoy a drink whilst saluting the beacon.

 

Street Fair

On Sunday the 31^st of July we will hold our Street Fair day. The road will be closed and a variety of craft type stalls will be offering items for sale. We are hoping that the Pirates of St Pirans will join us again this year, signing shanties and Cornish songs. If you would like to book a stall please give me a call on the number below.

David Clough

Tel 844954

Website www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            April  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  April  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

Wow! As I write this the sun is shining, blue skies and the temperature in my greenhouse well into the twenties. Feel good time. We have had a huge variation in weather conditions over the last month. Back to back storms, flooded roads, high winds, and sunny periods. Hope you all are still smiling. The Hall continues to offer regular events, coffee mornings every Tuesday morning.  One of the coffee mornings this month was on Shrove Tuesday, pancakes were on offer and soon disappeared. Open Mic always the last Friday of the month, Pilates for male and female, Monday evening or Tuesday morning. Yoga Wednesday morning, and of course the monthly lunch, which is very well attended, great food at a very affordable price.

But there is more happening here at the Hall

Future events

 Saturday 16^th April Art and Craft exhibition.

Easter Monday Egg Rolling is back.
Bring your decorated hardboiled egg for judging and the chance to roll your egg down Foxhole Lane and be the winner of your class. All welcome.

Saturday 23^{rd of} April,
 We shall have a Pie & Pint night from 7.30pm. Various pies will be on offer including a vegetable option to enjoy with a drink of your choice, all for £10 per person. Tickets available from Cakebreads and Chop Shop.

Tuesday 26^th April at 7pm.
The hall AGM everyone welcome.

Saturday 30^th April through to Monday 2^nd May.
Sheila Pearce Art Exhibition 

Tuesday 17^th May
The coffee morning will feature a plant sale and will be extended until 2pm. Of course, there will be coffee and cake, but also a light /snack lunch will be available. We are hoping this event will enable the less green finger villagers to be able to buy some of the plants raised in the village and bring some colour to their gardens for the Queens Platinum Jubilee.

We are asking for donations of plants for this event. If you are a plant grower and have a few plants spare, please consider donating them.

Thursday 19^th May (save the date)
Please make a note in your diary of this date because there will be a demonstration of beauty products from Neals Yard here in the hall with the fabulous Emma a skilled therapist.  There will be a chance to purchase some of their quality products.
Start time 7pm,
No charge.
The bar will be open for you to enjoy a drink whilst watching the demonstration. So, we will stock up on prosecco so you can make it a good night.

Take care everyone. Enjoy the good weather (while it lasts)

David Clough
844954
Website www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            March  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  March  2022

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

Welcome to spring, a cool wind as I am typing but the Great Gardens of Cornwall have declared that spring is here. Their measure is that each garden has at least 50 Magnolia flowers in bloom. Looking forward to some warm spring weather.

The Burns themed coffee morning was an enormous success with Dundee cake, Shortbread, Cranachan cake and Haggis (sausage) rolls, even a few drams of whiskey. The next themed coffee morning will be on 1^st March, Shrove Tuesday there will be pancakes on offer. The coffee mornings are held each Tuesday from 10.30 to 12.30, come along for a hot drink, a nibble to chat in an informal pleasant environment.

A warm welcome is ensured at the monthly lunch at the Hall. Tasty food at a very reasonable cost is provided by the Halls Kitchen Crew. All are welcome but pre-booking is essential, phone Sue Biggs on 01726 844324.

We try to make the hall a place where interesting and community themed events can have a home. Lots of groups in the village use the hall already, we also have bookings for wedding events plus regular bookings for Art workshops and Open Mic music nights. Get in touch if you are interested in using the hall or finding out more about any of the events which take place.

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations

Early this year people asked if the village will be celebrating the Queens Platinum Jubilee in June. A meeting was held on the 31^st January to get together people who responded to a Facebook request for people interested in organising an event. The meeting resulted in a list of various ideas being produced and a few people volunteered to be part of a working group to move the ideas forward.

The first meeting of the working group took place on the 7^{th of} February, a tentative basic programme of events was agreed for the week of the celebrations. Although not firmed up yet the celebrations include events in the Old School Rooms Gorran, Village Hall Gorran Haven, The Harbour Quay, and the Playing Fields. More details will be announced as they are firmed up but note the date of Friday the 3^{rd of} June for celebrations at the Playing Fields. The Barley sheaf has kindly offered to run a bar on the day, a huge thank you to Tim and Terri.

One of the ideas of the working group was that we could have some large flags and bunting displayed around the Parish. Lynne Gouldsmith is part of the working group and together with her friend Sarah Hunkin, were involved with producing the flags displayed in Mevaggissy, they volunteered to lead a sewing group to make flags and bunting for the parish. A volunteer sewing gang came down to the hall with sewing machines and enthusiasm and got started making flags, a long way to go but it is exciting to think we can supplement our usual amazing village bunting displays with these large colourful flags.

Many of the events will be free but obviously there will be costs. The Parish council have been approached to provide funds and some village groups have promised to contribute, these include the Rowing Club, the Playing Fields, and the village Hall. If you feel you could contribute, please contact me. The celebrations are not for profit, any surplus funds will be used to benefit the community.

David Clough       844954               
Village Hall website   www.gorranhavenvillagehall.org

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            February  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  February  2022

Memorial Village Hall

Happy New Year from all at the hall wishing you a healthy and free from too many restrictions year to come.

What has been happening

We held the Village Christmas lunch on the 9^{th of} December, which was well attended, everyone left very full after having an incredibly good three course Christmas meal with coffee and cheese to finish. This also gave us the opportunity to chat with friends. The Kitchen Crew worked hard to plan prepare and serve us in a festively decorated hall. Thank you for your hard work.

We took the hard decision not to open the hall on New Years Eve due to the current covid increase in infections. The fireworks display however did go ahead to celebrate the New Year. The display was loud and colourful, lighting up the sky to everyone’s enjoyment.

Coast Path Cafe

You will remember that last July there was a fire in the Coast Path Café. This on top of being forced to close due to Covid restrictions. A difficult situation for all concerned made worse by the fire. It has taken time for the insurance claims to be paid but I am pleased to say repairs started to take place late last year and are ongoing as planned.
In addition to the repair work the hall trustees have taken the decision to replace the earth floor in the main café area with an insulated concrete floor. The earth floor has served the building well for over a hundred years but is now wearing in places. It seemed the appropriate time to carry out this work whilst the café was empty having had all the fire damaged units removed. So that is one more hurdle to get sorted before the café can decide how they can reopen.

Future Events

As we look forward into 2022, we will have the usual weekly events, yoga, Pilates, coffee morning.

The Village Lunch will be held each month. Book your place for a meal treat.

The coffee mornings are a good opportunity to come and catch up with friends and indeed to make new friends in a safe environment. This year some of the coffee mornings will be themed, for instance during Burns Night week shortbread and a Mavis special. Pancakes on Shrove Tuesday and hot cross buns at Easter.

The film club nights are on the first and third Tuesday of each month. There will be a variety of films and of course the bar is open for you to enjoy a drink whilst watching the film. Membership costs £15.00 a year for new members and £12.00 for existing members, which I am sure you will agree is excellent value having the opportunity to watch twenty-four films for little cost.

The Open Mic nights are continuing the last Friday of the month. This is a very enjoyable evening; we are incredibly lucky to have so many talented musicians in our local area willing to share their enjoyment of performing with others.

It would be good to have an Open Mic night for comedy performers. If anyone fancies having a go or knows someone locally, please contact me.

We shall be holding a Spring Fair in the hall in May, look out for further details

It is the Queens Platinum Jubilee in June. We are consulting with other village groups on how best to celebrate this remarkable achievement. It could be that we all join together to provide a grand event possibly to include a parade through the village. Nothing has been decided so if you or your organisation have ideas, please let us know. Further details will be made available in the coming months. Keep an eye on the notice boards and future issues of this magazine.

Take care everyone and enjoy life. Do not let covid win.

David Clough
844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            December  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall  December  2021

Memorial Village Hall

Christmas is upon us. The Winter Fair held in the hall on the 20^th of November where there were stalls offering exciting gift options, I hope you took advantage and started your Christmas shopping with a bang. The raffle, a super picnic hamper filled to the brim with Christmas treats. The winner will certainly be happy working their way through all the goodies.

The week before the Winter Fair there was a fun filled quiz night five teams competing to be the winner. There was a great atmosphere in the hall as people puzzled about the answers. Who was Lani Wallace by the way? A big thank you to Cherry Tubb for her work planning and hosting the quiz.

The hall is beautifully decorated with Christmas decorations ready for the Christmas Lunch on the 9^th of December. If you have not booked your lunch yet give Jo Thompson a ring on 01726 843465 to check on availability.

On the 10^th of December we have Tregony Teachers performing in the hall. This promises to be a fantastic start to your Christmas celebrations. Entry is by donations, no tickets needed, so make sure you come early to ensure you have a seat because when the hall is full no-one else will be allowed in. Doors will open at 7pm.

Film club runs on the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of each month, if you are not already a member come along and join the club. We show two films a month and the annual subscription is only £15 for new members, this has, in previous years reduced to £12 for existing members, excellent value for money.

Following last year’s disappointment, the New Year’s Eve fireworks display is back. The hall will be open from 10.30 for pre fire works drinks and celebrations. The fireworks display will take place on the harbour quay at midnight ensuring Gorran Haven brings in the New Year with a bang. The hall will stay open after the display for people to celebrate, and drink, and hopefully there will be live music for those still capable to dance.

The hall committee wishes you all a happy Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year.

David Clough:  Tel 844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            November Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall November 2021

Gorran Haven Village Hall

As we are all trying to think about how life is moving back towards more normality, reflecting a little on how this last 12/18 months as affected each one of us in so many different ways. Sometimes not obvious to the outsider but affecting us, nevertheless. There is no-one who can say they have come through unscathed.  Not just the illness and the terrible loss of life but the effects are so far reaching for us all that we are faced with making some changes still to the way we conduct our lives and individually finding a way to trust in going out and about again in this still concerning environment.  That said we must live our lives in a fulfilling way.

We are blessed here in Gorran Haven, the village showed what a caring and supportive place it is by the wonderful initiatives set up by many different organisations and businesses in response to the limitations we had to endure caused by the virus.   With that in mind I hope that our village hall can play a part going forwards by offering a host of different activities, hopefully something for everyone.

As I write it is still October and the sun this last few days has given us cause to get out and enjoy the village in its autumn glory.

So, looking back on the events in October at the hall as we have slowly started to open is interesting in how much has been on offer.

 Pilates is up and running for Men and Women, Yoga is back, the film club is offering some great films each month since it restarted in September. We have the monthly Sunday art workshop; a book group is now meeting in the hall.  Sadly we had to cancel the Press Gang scheduled for the 9^th October, unfortunately not many tickets were sold and we were faced with deciding if it would break even cost wise and the answer was no. Sorry to all who were disappointed, get back to us if you need a refund.  Lunch at the Hall is now happening each month with a good number enjoying the delicious home cook lunch provided by the Kitchen Crew. The first Open Mike night was an amazingly successful event.  Great music, happy atmosphere and a chance to meet up again after so long.  The Tuesday Coffee Morning is happening and although a mixed attendance it will continue to be open each week to let people get out and have coffee and cake.

Just being brave and getting out of the house I know for some people must be a hard decision, but I urge you to get out into company its so important to our mental wellbeing to socialise.

Onwards, what have we got planned for November.  Of course some of the events I have mentioned for October will be happening in November.  What else is on? 

A Quiz and Curry night on the November please see notice boards for the date, always popular so get your team of amazing brains together and book a table.

On the Saturday 13^th the RNLI will hold sale. 

We are holding a Winter Fair on Saturday 20^th November 10.00 to 3.00 there will be wonderful variety of stands selling unique Christmas gifts, Neil’s Yard are coming to show and sell Organic Beauty Products, a preserves, cakes and puddings stall. A light lunch of pulled pork bap and or mince pies and coffee.  So please save the date and come and do some Christmas shopping

Of course, Open Mike night will return on Friday night 26^th November

All together the hall is moving on and I hope bringing you a variety of different events and activities. 

David Clough

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            October Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall October 2021

Memorial Village Hall

Summer is coming to an end and with autumn approaching the village is calming down into a slower pace of village life, we are so lucky to be able to enjoy the peaceful environment which we love. The summer has been great, lots of visitors enjoying a taste of our life by the sea for a short break to go home refreshed and rested.

Enormous thanks to the Mermaid, Cakebreads and the Haven Fish Shop for staying open during difficult times and keeping us all fed and watered. Congratulations to Becky and Nathan on the newly arrived member of the Haven team. 

Sadly, as many people know there was a setback for the Coast Path Café reopening when a fire caused considerable damage, this also affected the snooker room.  The Hall is working with the insurance companies and all involved to get things back to normal as soon as possible, but we need to be patient these things take time.

The hall is slowly attracting more people to events. The reducing numbers of visitors I hope means locals are feeling more confident in socialising and coming together to enjoy events and catching up with each other.   I urge everyone who has been staying indoors to start the process of getting out again by coming to the regular Tuesday coffee morning.  The doors and windows are kept open, we are being very vigilant about sanitising and the tables are very well spaced so we can chat but keep a safe distance, plus to tempt you there is homemade cake and a drink all for £2.00.  Come and have a chat and a coffee. Better than staying indoors talking to the wall.

There has been a couple of exhibitions held in the hall during the summer, an art exhibition and antiques, collectables, and curios exhibition.

Regular events

Pilates Monday evenings at 6pm for men, Tuesday mornings at 9am for women.

Coffee Morning every Tuesday at 10.30am

Yoga on Wednesday mornings at 10am

Film Club first and third Tuesday of each month starting 7pm for 7.30pm

Open Mic Nights on the last Friday of each month starting at 7.30 till 10pm ish

Lunch At the Hall (previously chat club) will be held on Thursday 14^th October, Thursday 11^th November, and Thursday 9^th December (Christmas lunch). Start times are 12.15 for 12.45.

Art Workshops Last Sunday of the Month 10 to 3

Future events

Saturday 9^th October will see the Press Gang entertaining us with their sea shanties. Tickets on sale at Cakebreads and Chopshop. The price includes a pasty supper.

Saturday 6^th November a Quiz and Curry night. Martin Pascoe will be the quiz master so get your research done. Tickets will be on sale at Cakebreads and Chop shop approx. two weeks prior to the event.

Saturday 13^th November is the RLNI fair. A chance to make an early start buying those Christmas presents.

Saturday 20^th November the Winter Fair takes place. Craft and seasonal gifts on offer. Another chance to get your Christmas presents from the variety of stalls.

Friday 10^th December, we have Tregony Teachers to start off our Christmas festivities.

Saturday 11^th December the Friends of the Gorran Bus are holding their annual coffee morning.

Take care all enjoy the hall

 IT WILL SOON BE CHRISTMAS!!

David Clough

01726 844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            August Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall August 2021

Memorial Village Hall

Hello, at last here we are daring to believe that we can have some normality in our lives. Covid is still around us and it is in everyone’s best interest to be cautious, but most of the restrictions on our lives have been lifted. A sense of normality has returned. Although with the high number of expected visitors this year it is understandable that some residents are still a bit fearful of mixing with other people. To offer reassurance at the hall we shall continue providing hand sanitizer at each entrance, we shall not be enforcing the wearing of face coverings, but it is up to every individual person to decide if they wish to wear a face covering.

A Special AGM

Upon reading this we shall have held our AGM on the 20^th of July we wished Mavis Taylor all the best for a well-earned retirement from Hall Committee duties. We thank her for all her hard work and vision as chair and prior to being chair being a dedicated and hardworking member of the committee. She was always fully involved with every event held in the hall and the external events such as Street Fair and Day on the Sand. She is still keen to be involved in the Tuesday coffee morning on the new rota system we are setting up for this popular event every week.

July

We re-started the Tuesday Coffee Morning on the 20^th of July. This is a weekly event which takes place between 10.30 and 12.30. Everyone is welcome to come have a drink a piece of cake and chat in a friendly weekly get together.

Dates for your Diary

August

On the 10^{th of} August we have the Day on the Sand which will include favourites such as sandcastle building competition and tombola stalls. Towards the end of the month, we have an art exhibition by a local artist.

September

Saturday 11^th September, we have an Antiques and Curiosities fair The 999 climate change exhibition, which was postponed earlier in the year is to take place on Saturday 25^thSeptember.   We are also hoping that Pilates will restart this month, Monday evenings for men and Tuesday mornings (9-10, before the coffee morning begins). Also Chat Club lunches are planned to restart this month. Look out for more information on the notice boards around the village. Also see our Website at http://gorranhavenvillagehall.org/diary-bookings/

 

Should you wish to book the hall for an event please contact me on the number below.

Enjoy the summer everyone. Stay safe and let us all enjoy normality again.

David Clough   844954

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            Juiy Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall July 2021

Memorial Village Hall

At time of writing this we are having a period of hot weather; people feel content and happy when there are blue skies, and the sun is out. Unfortunately, the government have just announced that progress to level 4stage of the road map to opening the restrictions has been postponed for up to a further 4 weeks, which is a bit of a dampener to us all feeling good.

This means that planed events at the hall such as Pilates and the coffee mornings will have to be postponed. The AGM scheduled for the 6^{th of} July will have to be delayed until later in the month or even August. The 999 climate change exhibition has also been postponed to September. Yoga is still going ahead on Wednesday mornings with restricted number of people attending.

My hope is that stage 4 of the road map will happen on the 19^{th of} July with groups being able to legally meet which will give focus on the hall committee to organise and hold events in the hall. The vaccines seem to be controlling the covid 19 virus and the role out is being accelerated to give as many people as possible the jabs before the 19^{th of} July.

On a more positive note, we are looking forward to the Street Fair on the 25^{th of} July. As I have mentioned previously this has been moved to a Sunday to help deliveries to local shops and change over of holiday lets to take place on the Saturday without being hindered by the road being closed. We currently have 17 stalls booked with a good range of food and arts and craft stalls. If you would like a stall or know of someone who may be interested, please contact me on the number below.

The last phase of the hall restoration is taking place as I write this column, the car park is being tarmac. This will be a great boost to users of the hall and reduce the stones and grit being washed down Foxhole Lane during storms. I appreciate that the halls neighbours have had to put up with a bit of noise over this restoration period and I would like to thank them for their cooperation and understanding.

During the last couple of years, the planting areas around the hall have suffered a bit of neglect. We are in the process of weeding the areas and would welcome suggestions of type of plants that would be suitable for a coastal location which need little maintenance. Rosa Ragosta (rosehip) has been suggested, we are hoping for a variety of plants that would enhance the area. And if you have surplus suitable plants that you wish to donate then of course these would be most welcome.,

Keep positive and take care everyone.

David Clough

844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            June Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall June 2021

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

Hurray we have a bit of normality at last. We shall be able to meet up with a few friends, have a meal or drink inside an actual building, wow, feels good. Fingers crossed, after the 21^{st of} June most restrictions will have been lifted, breathing life back into our spirit and persuading us that it will be safe to GO OUT, mix with people and enjoy our lovely garden of Eden to the full.

Hurray again as the building work at the hall is finally complete. The extension on the outside looks small but inside, it has created a wonderful space to be used either with a stage or for additional seating. The floor has been varnished giving a luscious dark oak finish.

Hurray again, again, we have been fortunate to have successfully applied for an uplift grant from the National Lottery to enable the car park to be tarmacked. This work has been programmed to take place in early June and will complete the whole of the works that the committee started to plan several years ago, the first part of that plan being the kitchen extension. Now a new roof and a larger communal space. Although we have been successful in obtaining grants to partly fund the works, we are also incredibly grateful for the support of our local community and visitors who have helped raise the funds required to match fund the grants.

Thank You.

Upcoming Events

The first event to open the hall will be Yoga classes on a Wednesday morning starting on 19^th May, although for the first few weeks with limited numbers to comply with covid rules. The second weekly event will be the Tuesday coffee mornings starting on the 22^{nd of} June at 10.30am.

The Fishermen will be holding their AGM on Friday 25^th June and on Saturday 26^th June there will be a 999 Environment exhibition – see posters and social media for more details.

Pilates for men will start again on Monday nights and Pilates for women on Tuesday mornings 9.00 to 10.00 before the coffee morning starts. Exact dates for these to commence has not yet been verified but they will likely start sometime in June.

The Street Fair is programmed to take place on Sunday 25^th July, please pray for good weather. Several pitches have already been taken but there are still more available, please contact me if you are interested in taking part. The Day on the Sand will take place on the 10^{th of} August.

Annual General Meeting

The Village Hall AGM will be held on Tuesday 6^th July at 7pm. As I mentioned in the last newsletter, Mavis our chairman for many years resigned but was unable to chair her last AGM due to the Coronavirus shut down.  We are please she will be chairing this AGM to finally be able to round off her time in charge of the hall.  We sincerely hope people will come along to the meeting and join us in acknowledging Mavis for her work over the years.

Finally, I would like to congratulate all the successful candidates in the recent Cornwall Council and Parish Council elections and of course commiserations to those who had served on the councils but failed to be successful in being re-elected.

 

David Clough

Tel 844954

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                            May Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall May 2021

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

Here we are at step 2 of the Governments road map to ease lockdown, gradually reopening businesses. Step 3 comes in on 17^th May when even more restrictions will be relaxed.

The hall committee has not yet set a date to reopen the hall, but it is likely that small events may take place after the 17^{th of} May. Consideration must be given to Covid Secure cleaning and procedures set in place. 

Hirers have a responsibility to clean to a stated standard. Hall to provide a risk assessment with procedure for all hall users. 

Provisional Forthcoming Events        

The Hall AGM will be held on Tuesday 6^th July at 7pm. Due to the COVID outbreak there was no AGM held in 2020. Although I have taken on the chairperson’s role Mavis Taylor is still, on paper the chair of the committee. This will give Mavis a chance to formally resign and for all of us to say thank you for her hard work over the previous 10 or so years of being a committee member. All are invited to share this mementos occasion.

The Street Fair will take place on Sunday 25^th July. Traditionally the street fair was held on a Saturday which caused problems due to the road closure with deliveries to local shops and the changeover/cleaning of holiday rentals. Hopefully, this change will enable all to enjoy the day. Please contact me should you wish to book a space to hold a stall. Please note COVID-19 precautions may still have to be adhered to.

The Day on the Sands will take place on Tuesday 10^th August with the usual sandcastle competition and tombola stall. Other attractions are still to be finalised.

Tuesday coffee mornings in the hall will recommence after the 21^st June, i.e., step 4 of the roadmap.

Chat Club lunches will recommence in late summer. This is usually a two-course lunch at a reasonable cost and as the name describes a chance to have a chat with other village members. Open to everyone but must be prebooked. 

The open mike evenings are likely to recommence in the autumn. Theses have proved an extremely popular night out where local musicians share their music enthusiastically and their enjoyment.

Film club will probably start again in September with films being shown in the hall on two nights per month.

Building Progress

When you read this all the building works should have been completed. The extension has made a great difference to the accommodation the hall can offer with an area for the stage, storage and if required a changing area. We are currently seeking a further grant to enable the car park to be surfaced with tarmac which will complete the building process.

And yes, we have reclaimed the Lost Hall Path Wall. All the weeds have been removed and the Cornish hedge wall revealed.

David Clough

Tel 844954

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          April  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall April 2021

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

At Last a Chance to Make Plans

The hall committee is looking forwards to making plans for the reopening of the Village Hall. We are thinking about where we are now in that process. Recently we had a Roadmap out of lockdown outlined by the government. The message on that roadmap was that the dates are always prefaced with the words “not before” that may change of course if the infection numbers continue to come down and the vaccination rollout picks up an even faster pace as the new vaccines come online. We must wait and see.

According to the roadmap Step 1 after the 29^{th of} March 6 people may meet outdoors which means the committee will be able to find a fine day and meet up for a face-to-face planning meeting. Any plans will of course be subject to changes, but it feels like a positive step forwards which we hope will bring us out of lockdown enabling the hall committee to make the plans to open and hold the regular functions such as coffee morning, chat club, yoga, and Pilates.

Step 2 not before 12^th April will enable weddings with 15 people and Funerals can have 30 people so the hall may be needed. Step 3 no earlier than 17^th May will allow larger gatherings outdoors and some changes to indoor meeting up in groups of up to 30 for weddings. By step 4 which will take place no earlier than 21^st June the government hopes to be able to remove all legal limits on social contact. The hall committee will have lots to discuss to plan a programme for the year and we will be able to outline our tentative plans next month.

Building Progress

Work on the hall is ongoing, painting is complete. A thorough clean has been undertaken to give the hall a bright shiny look. We are now in the process of reinstating all the fittings such as the video screen and speakers. The new section of flooring will be going down in the first week in April curtesy of a kind offer of help from Paul Grose.

The building of the extension has resulted in losing one exit door. Therefore, to comply with Means of Escape Regulations in case of Fire we had to install a new front door to open outwards. This will result in a change to the front steps to make a bigger top landing outside the front door.

Looking forwards we shall review the external areas and get those areas looking attractive and tidy. So, there is still plenty to do but bit by bit we are getting there.

Staying Positive

Spring is here, flowers are adorning our gardens, but we still have strong winds and wintery showers, hail showers today. By the time you read this we shall have moved our clocks forward into British summer time hopefully bringing better weather for us to enjoy.

Covid infection levels are reducing and the number of people having a vaccination is increasing which is something to rejoice about and be proud of the national effort.

One of the hall great supporters has been honoured with an Unsung Hero award presented by the High Sheriff of Cornwall. Congratulations Michael Bunny well deserved and thank you for all you unselfishly do for your community.

David Clough 844954

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          March  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall March 2021

Gorran Haven Memorial Village Hall

We are in March with spring almost here and the hope of blue skies and sunshine. As I write this typically for Cornwall, we have flowers blooming in the hedgerows and gardens and of course along comes freezing cold winds and rain.  I have just come back from a very bracing and cold walk on the Gruda which proves we are still in the throes of winter. The wind was so fierce that it was a struggle to keep going and I am sure my face has been exfoliated!!

Are we still making progress down at the hall? 

The answer is yes, the builder is on site and plaster work is being done to the extension area. We await the electrical work to be completed.  We can then get down to the matching up of the flooring.  Hopefully, fingers crossed by the time you are reading this committee members will have started to redecorate the internal areas.  Watch this space. 

Plaster boards going up ready for plastering.

What we are we hoping to achieve next? 

The car park was levelled earlier and will provide much better facilities to all who use the Hall, it now needs to have the tarmac work done to finish the job.

We have a big stretch ahead trying to find all the money needed to tarmac the car park area. 

We believe (hopefully) that the Hall has part of the money needed but we will need to find more.  Our fundraising activities are restricted or should I say non-existent at present.  Which is a pity, however that is how it is unless there are some generous donners out there in the village.   We are going to try asking for match funding by means of some of the grants available to village hall projects.  We are aware that funders rightly so, are concentrating on providing financial aid to covid-19 sufferers. So, we will have to wait and see how far we get down that road.

Lockdown is ongoing as I write this keeping us all safe and keeping the virus at bay. Infection numbers are reducing as is the ‘R’ rating and more people have had the vaccine, giving us all hope for the future. We have all suffered this past year with social distancing, being unable to see family and friends and for most of the time being isolated in our homes.  We all long for the fun and joy of the activities we enjoy at the Village hall.  They will return I know patience has been and continues to be the key word. 

I want to say a big THANK YOU to all key workers, not only NHS staff but refuse collectors, delivery drivers, people working in shops and supermarkets, teachers, and all other key workers too numerous to mention. A big THANK YOU also to our own community who have recently again shown their commitment to our local area – an impromptu food bank being set up at Gorran School, the food being donated by local people for local people in need.  Also, a special parish wide initiative providing meals being cooked by the very generous Tim Kendal at the Barley Sheaf, funded by donations given by the community, and delivered to people by local volunteers.

David Clough

01726 844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          February  Parish Magazine

Memorial Villlage Hall February 2021

Here we are starting a new year 2021. We hope you had a safe and good Christmas and New Year different but hopefully a happy time.  2020 was a difficult year for everyone in so many ways.  Life seemed to slow down with much time spent indoors protecting ourselves as well as others. For the village hall all our usual social activities were cancelled due to the Covid-19 virus. 

As we start 2021, we are in a further lockdown but this time there is light at the end of the tunnel with the vaccines starting to be available. We are looking forward to summer and hopefully if all goes well there should be a resemblance of normality and social life will slowly begin again.

Where are we with the building work at the village hall?  

If you look up towards the hall you will see that we have a new roof ‘yah’ and the scaffold has come down. I want to say thank you once again to everyone who generously sponsored a roof tile. This money helped us to be able to afford replacement of the roof covering. The process of collecting the names of the people sponsoring a tile also helped with our grant application to the National Lottery.  It provided proof that we have a cohesive community who appreciate and use the village hall in Gorran Haven.

The building work on the extension is finished externally. The exterior of the building has been given given a fresh look with white paint to blend in with surrounding properties.  Thank you to the willing band of volunteers from the committee who braved the dry cold days to get the painting completed before the scaffolding came down.   There are still jobs to be completed internally namely electrical work and plastering, plus matching up and laying the parquet flooring.  

Most importantly we can get our willing band together again to roll up their sleeves and make sure the hall is given a good clean and probably re-decorate internally.  We will have to wait and see when the lockdown and restrictions are lifted.  Then we will be ready to organise events, take bookings and have our hall back in use for everyone to enjoy.  What a wonderful day that will be.

In the meantime, a belated Happy New Year stay safe be patient we are getting there, and we look forward to seeing you all soon.

David Clough

844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          December  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall December 2020 / January 2021

As we get nearer to Christmas, I could not help thinking of how the village over many years has had its own way of getting people together to celebrate this special time of year.  Services in our local churches, singing carols around the village, Christ mingle at the Coast Path Café, a get together at Cake breads.  Santa visiting on his horse drawn cart and Christmas party events at local pubs and hotels.  Just now that feels a long way off, but I feel sure that we will find ways to have some get together Christmas cheer.  As they say where there is a will there is a way, so let’s put our thinking caps on to find ways to make this Christmas special.

Whilst writing this we are in the middle of a lockdown again. Not all shops are closed this time, so some people are able to work and for some life does not seem as difficult as it did earlier this year when the first lockdown was in place. We see cars travelling the roads taking people to work and bac.  This gives some sense of normality. It is sad that pubs and restaurants are closed so soon after being allowed to re-open, lets support their efforts in providing takeaway meals.  We must believe being restricted in this way is for the greater good and will help control the virus.

Our village community is rallying around us all to provide support and help where needed. We are truly fortunate to have so many village people who are willing to take the initiative in bringing new ideas to fruition. Just today one villager had the idea that a short walk and a chat may help someone who is feeling isolated, maybe a bit lonely or bored. A good old natter in the fresh air could just be the answer.

Work on the hall is still at a standstill awaiting a spell of fine weather to remove the asbestos sheets from the roof and add the new roof covering. We have had a few fine days, but the wind has been too strong to work safely on this exposed site. We are hoping for good weather before Christmas so that the roof can be replaced and then in the new year we can decorate the interior and put in place the necessary covid 19 procedures which will allow the hall to be open safely when rules allow.

On behalf of the hall committee may I wish you a happy Christmas.

David Clough

Tel 844954

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          November Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall November 2020

Reflecting on the year up to date it would be easy to strike a negative note because much of what we would previously have taken for granted in our village life has had to change.  We have felt that sense of frustration too because the hall has been closed.  This is not wholly because of the Virus, The building work planned for 3 months this summer would have meant a short closure anyway but we have missed organising events and getting the hall up and running once our building work was complete.  

The building work itself has been delayed because of the difficulties in the building trade.  I know it has frustrated the committee and everyone who enjoys the variety of events we usually have happening at the hall. That we have been unable to plan and organise out schedule. 

That said we all have to try and be  positive in our current situation  and I know  this is difficult but for all our sakes, particularly as we go towards winter it is important to find ways to look forwards and remember that we will get through the restriction placed on us by this awful virus. This village has shown remarkable spirit in many ways and I am sure will continue to do so as we move forwards.

Although the Village hall remains closed work on the building is progressing and the future of our hall is looking good.  We will have more space for our events when the extension is complete. Better storage for furniture and the building will be revamped to get our decorations up to date.  I mentioned in the last edition of the magazine that we were waiting for scaffold to be erected to continue with the works. We now have scaffold but also inclement weather, which means re-roofing is on hold until there is a predicted week of fine weather.  We hope this will be soon.  In the meantime, a few of us have been busy painting the outside walls on the sunny days we have had taking advantage of using the scaffold to access high areas.

One extremely difficult decision which the hall committee had had to make is whether to go ahead with the firework display on New Years Eve.  The answer is that with great reluctance we have had to cancel the fireworks.  We looked at ways to try and make it happen but considering the restrictions necessary to combat the spread of the virus it was impossible to find any way that we could put on a display which by its very nature is a crowd event.  We are so sorry to disappoint everyone, but there really was not an alternative.

Ending on a positive note.  Our village is a special place with lots of things to make us feel grateful.  The Snooker Club is enjoyed by its members, the Coast Path Café have brought joy and cheer to many people with their Cake in a Box, our local shops Cakebreads and Gorran Stores  are  amazing, the Mermaid has been there for coffee,  we enjoy wonderful Fish and Chips (best in the country) from Becky and Nathan.  The Barley Sheaf Pub battling the odds to stay open and be there to serve amazing food and drink.  We have wonderful places to walk along our coast path.  Not forgetting that anyone brave enough can get their day off to a great start with an early morning swim.  Reasons to be cheerful.

David Clough

Tel 844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          October Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall October 2020

As I write this, I am just back from a lovely coastal path walk with special other and  the happy little puppy  who is never happier than when we are out on the coast path and he can run free as the wind.  We walked under blue skies and hot sun. It was one of those perfect days which we are so lucky have in abundance.  Looking out from the Dodman, with calm sea and yacht’s sailing lazily out on the water it felt an incredibly special place to be. We have experienced a lovely summer with only the occasional wet weather. So, in the midst of all the worries we must count ourselves really lucky.

The beaches and village are still busy, families have returned home but now we have different visitors who are experiencing our lovely village, finding peace and relaxation.  We hope they find a place to be happy and carefree.  Hopefully, our local shops will be recouping some of the monies lost during lockdown to enable them to survive the winter months.

A word about the wonderful village support network, headed up by Michael Bunney.  It is still ongoing so If you feel you would be able to offer help get in touch with Michael.

The Coast Path Café has had to close this summer, much to their frustration, but they have come up  with the idea of Cake in a Box to give a gift as a surprise to many people in the village.  They cannot supply everyone, but the boxes are going out each week. Who knows who might be receiving one?  If you know of someone who you would like to nominate get in touch with anyone from the Café Management team.

The Village Hall held a committee meeting last week there was much discussion about what the village hall could or could not do in the present circumstances.  There are a lot of health and safety requirements to ensure the safety of anyone using the hall.  Given that the cases of COVID-19 infections are increasing the committee have reluctantly decided that there will be no events held in the hall anytime soon, however, the New Years’  Eve fireworks spectacular will go ahead (weather permitting).

Building work on the hall extension has slowed a bit. With all the building work ongoing in the area there is a shortage of scaffolding, so the hall is suffering as scaffold is now required to progress work. I hope by the time you read this work will have started on re-roofing the hall.

Thank you all for supporting the fund raising for this work with over £11k raised locally through events and Buy a Tile. We are looking forward to being able to decorate the hall, have new stage lighting and welcome you all to events in the future.

Stay safe everyone

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          Autumn  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall Autumn 2020

Autumn is now here, colder, wetter weather and COVID 19 restrictions still apply. Although in the South West the number of affected people is lower than the rest of the country, we still need to be proactive in keeping the virus at bay. Please follow the guidelines of wearing a mask in shops, keeping 2m apart and be aware of other people around you and respect their space.

In keeping with the COVID 19 restrictions the Hall remains closed.

I mentioned in the last edition of the magazine that we were waiting for scaffold to be erected to continue with the works. We now have scaffold but also inclement weather, which means re-roofing is on hold until there is a weeks window of fine weather. Hopefully this will be in the near future. However a few of us have been busy painting the outside walls in the odd days we have had sunshine taking advantage of using the scaffold to access high areas.

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          June  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall June 2

Hello everyone, my name is David Clough and I have been nominated by the Memorial Hall committee to the unenviable task of taking over from Mavis as the Chair of the committee. Not easy as Mavis has been a phenomenal driving force over the last 15 years and will be greatly missed. I think you will agree that she is due a rest, although knowing Mavis she will still offer her thoughts and guidance as well as her physical presence on some future events. We will value her input. Phew!  what a time to take on a new role when we are all still in lockdown with social distancing is in full force.

So, an update as to what’s happening/not happening at the hall in the near future.

Sadly, we have had to cancel our usual spring events – Green Fingers, Egg Rolling and Quiz Night to name but a few. Our weekly activities have also had to be cancelled – Pilates, Yoga and Coffee Mornings.

The Street Fair this year is also cancelled as we have to apply for road closure well before the event and it was not clear at that time when lockdown restrictions would be lifted. The Produce show also is not able to take place. This would have been its third year and I feel the village was just starting to look forward to an annual fun event where people could show off their produce, baking and creative skills. All in a light hearted way.

As soon as we are allowed, we shall be organising some fun events and some to celebrate end of the lockdown process, not least to say a very big thankyou to the volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help our vulnerable and elderly residents cope.

Work on the hall extension began in mid-May only a week later than planned. It had been previously agreed not to use the hall for events during May and June to enable work on the extension, therefore, in a way lockdown has not disturbed the use of the hall except for a wedding that was planned for the first weekend in May.

The car park has been levelled to make parking easier. Around 70 tons of clay and shale has been excavated from the car park area and taken away. This has levelled the ground along the length of the area taking away the hump that made reversing into the car park difficult. The new level is now some 60cm below the ground level of the neighbouring properties which will be retained by a small block wall. A drain sump has been incorporated into the ground which will take surface water from the car park area and from the new extension roof.

By the time you read this I am hoping the extension will have been built and work started on re-roofing the hall, removing the damaged asbestos roof sheets and replacing with slate effect steel sheeting.

I hope that measures will be developed to control the Covid 19 virus in the near future and that Government guidelines will enable some of our planned events to take place.

Please watch the notice boards around the village for updates.

Please keep safe everyone, protect yourselves and others.

David

Tel 844954

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          April Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall April 2020

What can I say about the start of spring. February was the wettest on record and March when I pen this its not much better, we hope that the old saying that if March comes in like a lion it goes out like a lamb. I am sure we are all relishing a few sunny days. With the problems around us all at the moment we are all going to be either self isolating or helping others with shopping, running errands etc. for friends and neighbours. By the time you read this the situation may or probably will be very different but we must all take care and look out to one another. 

As we went to press for last months magazine  we heard that after much paperwork, answering what seemed like hundreds of questions the lottery people have decided that they are giving us a grant for our building project.  With the hard work of the committee and supporters we now have the full amount to extend the building and reroof the whole of it . We thought you would like a break down of monies raised. £15,000 locally from events and some generous donations and £21,713 from the lottery. A big thank you to everyone who supports us. We are also planing to upgrade the carpark and make it easier to use. This whole project will start after the first weekend in May. There will be no parking because of the builders, loads of building supplies diggers etc. This is a health and safety requirement. The only access to the hall will be via the coast path for the duration of the work. Because of the virus lots of regular activities will be suspended till the risks have been reduced or are no more. We had already decided to suspend coffee mornings and lunches for the summer months because of the access problems but now also because of the risks of the virus. We will inform you all when things re start. By the time you read this the whole country may well be in lock down. . The first lunch back in the autumn will hopefully  be on September 3rd. We look forward to you joining us again on that day. No booking will be necessary so come and enjoy a home cooked meal with friends old and new. 

Easter Monday is normally egg rolling day. We have once again had to cancel that. April 25th is Greenfingers plant sale and coffee morning from 10am. Plants for your summer garden. If you have any spare they would always be welcome.  As yet no decision has been made. it may be that we can just have a stall out in the open air. Please watch the notice boards around the village for updates. 

April 28th at 7pm will be the halls AGM evening. This will be my last responsibility for the hall as I retire at this meeting. Please come and support us and all the hall family. The plans for the extension will be on display so join us and have a drink from the bar. David Clough will be taking my place a chairman for the hall. His telephone number is 01726 844954 he will be there to take your enquiries . I will still be around and helping where needed. 

STREET FAIR. Please note and tell everyone that this year we are changing the day to the last SUNDAY in July. 26th. We feel that this will enable more people to come,partake and enjoy it. No problems with holiday change over for our cleaners or the visitors leaving or arriving or deliveries to shops etc. Please stay safe and look after each other through this difficult time. A very big thank you to you all for your support of the hall and me over the last few years.  I am still available at the end of the phone for help and information on 843407  Mavis Taylor. 

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          March  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall 

March is with us and so we are looking forward to spring.

As chair of the hall for about 12years ( I must check my dates! ) it is getting close to the time that I retire and pass over to a fresh pair of hands. I have decided to finish after the AGM at the end of April. I will not be staying on the committee but will still be around to help at activities in the Hall if needed.

We have been very busy this last month making preparations for the building project. The car park will be closed from the first weekend in May but most activities will continue. The car park will be a Health and Safety Hazard for the public because of diggers and building supplies so there will be no car parking or access from that end of the premises.

Sadly we have decided to stop lunch club on Thursdays after Easter because of access problems but rest assured we will start again in September.

 Men’s Pilates on Monday evenings, Coffee Mornings on Tuesdays and Yoga on Wednesdays will continue. Film club will also continue through the summer. There may be a short time later when the Hall will be closed completely this will be when the end wall comes down to join in the extension.

Our booked activities through the next few months will start with Gardeners Question Time at 2.30 on March 21st. The afternoon will start with a short talk then the speaker will be ready to answer your gardening queries.  

Next we will have our much loved Egg Decorating and Rolling  them down Foxhole Lane, that will be on Easter Monday 13th April. Start time 10am.

Then on April 25th it will be Green Fingers Coffee Morning and Plant Sale for all your flowers and veg to grow through the summer ready for show later in the year.

The last of my Hall responsibility will be the AGM at 7pm on April 28th. Do come and look at the Plans for the build and have a drink with us from the bar

 Next month I will be able to tell you who to contact in my place for all queries for the hall. 

Thank you one and all for your continuing support of our village hall, it is there for us all to use and enjoy.

Mavis Taylor 843407 

 

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          February  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall 

Welcome to 2020 and news from your village hall. 

New Year went off with a sparkle and bang!! The fireworks were again a spectacular event in good weather. Thank you to everyone on the beach and in the hall who put money into the buckets, again the collection this year covered the cost of them. The village hall was buzzing with chatter and music from Tally Oliver and Richard Bennett from mid evening on into the early hours of the morning. At one time the queue for the bar went  out and down the steps.

What a great start to we hope another exciting and productive year. We are hoping that we will be able to start the extension and car park works by mid spring. This will curtail the safe use of the car park because of builders equipment etc. The hall will remain open for most of our regular users  but the  only safe access will be via the steps from the coast path. We hope to keep the works to a minimum of time.

 Before all this starts we have our usual activities booked. Our men’s Pilates on Monday evenings, coffee on Tuesday mornings and Yoga on Wednesday mornings.

Film club continues on first and second Tuesday evenings each month. Chat club lunches will be on Thursday February 6th and 20th. this month and fortnightly thereafter up to Easter.  

Open Mic night  will be on the 14th . Bring your fish supper or just come and have a pint from the bar and be entertained by our local talent.

At this time these are the only booked dates for this month. Keep an eye on the Hall Notice Board on the Lime Kiln to see any other bookings that come in after going to press.

We will still be holding our regular activities during the year starting with Egg rolling on Easter Monday. Greenfingers plant sale and coffee morning will be held earlier this year on April 25th. We will have plants ready for your greenhouse and garden to grow on for summer veg and flower displays. April 28th also brings our AGM.  Put this date into your diary. We will have the plans on display for you to look at . These are also available to view on our Website Come and chat to us about what you would like to see in your village hall . More about that next month.

February is a quiet month but nice at this time of year to be able to sit at home in the evenings in front of the fire. We hope that this year is kind to you all. If you need any information please feel free to contact me on 843407 or any other  committee members. Mavis Taylor    

Hot News since I penned this. I am delighted to confirm that we have been awarded a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund to replace our leaking roof and build our extension.  This grant combined with the generous donations from people in or connected to our village means we can now have a larger weatherproof space for more activities for all ages.

We hope the work will start after the worst of the weather has passed in early May this year. We are so looking forward to involving more people in what we do so look out for regular bulletins on progress and we will be inviting everyone to come and have a look at our newly renovated hall in due course. Mavis and the hall committee. 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for                          December / January   Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall 

I did not think that I would be Wishing you all a very Peaceful and Healthy Christmas and New Year as I write this in the middle of November. However these greetings come to you all from everyone at the Village Hall.

Looking back over the year it has been a very good one. We have had one or two sad moments but mostly it was great with lots achieved.

Last Saturday November 9th we held a very successful Winter Fair adding nicely to the growing Building and Roofing funds.

We welcomed several new stalls as well as the changed menu having sold out of pulled pork rolls and most of the mince pies and mulled wine.

The next couple of months will be busy for all of us making our own preparations for Christmas. We have kept things to a minimum because everyone will be busy.

Coffee mornings are open to all every Tuesday from 10 till 12. Our last one for this year will be Christmas Cheer on December 17th with mince pies and warming mulled wine or sherry as well as coffee, cake and cheese scones.

Chat club lunches also continue with the last one of the year on December 12^th. If you haven’t yet booked please get in touch with me. We generally have the hall full for this traditional lunch.

Last month we had hoped that we would have “A Christmas Carol” one man show but unfortunately this has been cancelled.

As far as the diary is concerned that closes this year’s bookings organised by us, except the party in the hall to welcome in 2020 with fireworks on the beach at midnight. The Hall will be open from about 10pm so come and join us after your dinners to have a drink and party the Old Year out.

2020 starts with our lunches on alternate Thursdays from January 9^th through until just before Easter. Everyone is welcome to come up to the hall and enjoy a freshly cooked lunch.

Next booking is Burns Night supper on Friday 24th Haggis that have run all the way from Scotland! They won‘t be too thin by the time they get here!! Posters and tickets will be on sale after New Year.

We don’t have any other bookings for next year yet but watch the noticeboards for more information.

We are applying to the lottery for a grant to help with the finances for our build that we hope will start in the spring. If you haven‘t put your name to a roof square that is on the board in the hall do come and sign it and put some pennies in the bucket. We are unable to put names onto the roof itself but the “Roof Square” Funds Board will eventually be hung in the hall as a thank you to everyone who has donated to it.

Our Village Hall is for the use of everyone in our community, dinners, parties, other village fundraising events, new clubs that you would like as well as the established ones like Film Club and the fitness sessions on Monday evenings and Wednesday mornings.

From me and the committee a very big thank you to everyone who has in any way supported us during this last year.

Seasons greeting to you all.                                                                                Mavis Taylor 843407.

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for  November    Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall 

  Autumn is well with us so at the hall we have done a deep clean after the summer use. Everything taken out of cupboards and off shelves. How does the sand get into the dark back corners ?. We have given the floor a good clean and new coat of protective polish for the winter. All our weekly activities continue, Pilates for the men on Monday evenings followed next morning on Tuesdays at 10am with Coffee Morning. Wednesday mornings at 10am it’s the Yoga group. Alternate Thursdays Chat club, this month they will be on 14th and  28th. December 12th lunch will be the last this year. Christmas lunch. The list will be available soon for those who don’t come on a regular basis but wish to join us for this meal. If you know of anyone in the village who would like a home cooked meal with company on a regular basis please bring them along or contact me and we will arrange transport for them. It is always very daunting to arrive alone at any new activity so nice to be taken for first visit. Film club continues on the first and second Tuesdays of every month in the evenings. 

If you have received this parish magazine in time on November 1st to start the month Sheila Beesley has organised a Fish and Chip Supper in the hall to raise funds for RNLI. Tickets are available from shop or Chop Shop. Please come and support this evening. Living by the sea we never know when we may need to call the RNLI out and tend to forget the great work that they do and that it is all on a voluntary basis. 

November 9th this year we are holding a “Winter fair” this is replacing Holly fair. We have all new stalls this year as well as cakes and a big table of jams, relishes and pickles. Try before you buy, little tasters on the day. This will be open at 10am and run through till mid afternoon.  Next will be Press Gang on 16th an evening of sea shanties and pasties starting at 8pm. Tickets again from shop and hairdressers.  Sheila will be in the hall again on November 23rd with the RNLI Shop Sale for you to buy your Christmas cards calendars and presents. 

December 22nd we are hoping to have Dave Mynne with ” A Christmas carol” a one man show of Charles Dickens story, an evening of entertainment. It’s then almost new year and a party followed by fireworks on the beach. 

We have the hall web site  gorranhavenvillagehall.org with all information on it or contact me Mavis Taylor 843407 for all information. 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for October          Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall. October 2019

Hello everybody, summer has left us for another year so we now look forward to woolly jumpers and warm evenings by the fire. There is always something nice in every season of the year.  Here in the Hall we have had a very busy summer of bookings from Birthday Parties, Weddings, Art Exhibitions, Produce Show, Art and Craft shows as well as the regular things like Wednesday morning Yoga and Monday nights Pilates. Coffee mornings on Tuesdays 10am to 12  followed in the evenings on first and second weeks of the month with Film nights. By the time you read this we will have done our twice yearly deep clean of the Hall with the floor having a new coat of polish after it summer of sandy feet

Pub nights recommenced  on Friday 13th September and will run on alternate Fridays throughout winter months. Come up and bring your fish supper or other meal that you choose and enjoy it with friends chatting over a pint or a glass of wine from the bar.  On the 5th October we are having a Caribbean night of food and fun, fancy dress if you like. The tickets will be available from the shop, hairdressers and coast path cafe. Chat club lunches have restarted and will be on 17th and 31st of this month and fortnightly up until the Christmas dinner on December 12th .  We serve lunch at about 12.30. everyone is welcome . 

A BIG DAY on 24th of October from 10am. For those of you who knew the late Glen Dutton his sister Ann is raising funds for Cancer Research. She is having all her hair shaved off. A VERY brave thing to do . Everyone is invited to come up to the hall and support her and raise money for a great charity. There will be a raffle, competitions, cakes for sale as well as tea and coffee. Ann will be putting posters up all around the villages. If anyone would like to help by donating prizes or cakes she would appreciate it. The BIG C affects us all at some time.  

Our month ends with a race night on Saturday 26th. This will be run by us the hall committee this time as we now own all the films etc. We are needing to swell the funds for our Build and New Roof. When you come into the hall have a look at the board with the roof tiles on it. Each square shows that someone has made a donation. We are not able to put your name onto the finished roof but the paper roof that sits in the hall now will be framed and hung on the wall at a later date. 

If you need to contact us for any reason any of committee members can help or contact me on 843407 or Richard 842482 or go onto our website gorranhavenvillagehall.org 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for August / September  Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall. 

The beautiful weather that we are enjoying whilst I write this we hope will continue through the school holidays for all the visitors to our village.

August starts with Produce Show Day on the 3rd. We hope you have lots of things to enter in all the classes. This will be our second and we hope to have a big successful day. With the dry weather this year during the growing season it will be interesting to see how well our gardens have survived and produced fruit and vegetables. The cooking and craft classes do not depend on the weather. There are also classes for the children. Setting up will be on Friday evening and early on Saturday morning. The hall will then be evacuated for the judging of all the entries then once the doors open again the prize giving will follow at 12 midday . See our notice boards for schedule and timings.

 On the evening of Saturday 10th August we have a return of Dino Baptiste. This evening of jazz music played on keyboard is not to be  missed entry by tickets only. Posters will be up with all information.

Later in the month we will be holding our annual Day on the Sand. As usual we will have Adult and Children’s Tombolas. Food and games on the beach as well as the sand sculpture building competition. 

The cafe staff will be holding another food evening soon please keep an eye out on the notice board for information.

Into September and we are thinking about the autumn, this is when Pub Nights start again on 13th. Bar will be open from 6pm. Bring your fish and chips up to eat with friends and a pint or you are welcome to bring your own supper from home and eat with us. We will run these evenings every two weeks through the winter months.

On 27th there will be an Open Mic night. We would love to have a sing song or listen to you play. It is just a bit of fun between friends not necessarily a polished performance. It’s Friday night so bring that school child of whatever age to entertain us and have a go 8 to 80 plus. See the noticeboards for information or contact Pete on 843997. 

Lastly later on September 21st at 2.30pm we will be holding our second Gardening Club Forum. Talk with question and answer session , see what you have to do in your garden before the winter.

We have the prices in from the builders so we can now start going to charities for grant funding to build our Extension. All our fundraising goes into the funds to enlarge the hall to produce a stage area.

For bookings and information please contact . Mavis 843407, Looby 844506 leaving a message she will return your call. Richard 842482 or any committee member.  Mavis Taylor.

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for July Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall. 

Hello to you all .

Last years summer has not been repeated yet but we are all expecting it to arrive any day.

The village is beginning to get busy with visitors enjoying the beach most days.

 We have two lunches in July before we have our summer break. They will be on 11th and 25th July at 12 midday for chat before sitting down to lunch at about 12.30pm.

The hall has several private bookings during the month for birthdays and weddings.

Then we will be seeing all our friends at street fair on July 27th . We must all remember that the road is closed on that day from early morning till mid afternoon. To try and avoid traffic congestion we will try to work our one way system for early deliveries and those setting up stalls. The closure through the day will be from the top of Church Street and Foxhole Lane and from just below the Car Park down to the beach. If you have a stall and need to bring your things to set up the route  is from the triangle along Chute Lane down Church Street and up Canton to unload then park in the  Car Park for the day. If you are just a visitor come and enjoy the stalls lining the road. Lots of fundraising stalls , food, and fun open from 10am.

August starts with our newly restored produce, plants , flowers, cooking and handicrafts show. It was such a success last year so we are hoping for bigger and better this year. The show schedule is pinned up on the notice board on the lime kiln and on the hall website. Paper copies are in the Coastpath Cafe and the Hall or ask one of the committee. Come and join us and have a go.

On the 4th and 5th the old village photos will be on display. If you have any of the Village from 1970 onward we would love to see them and perhaps have copies for our collection. Contact Michael Bunney or anyone on the hall committee. Do come and have another look at them.

August brings the wonderful Dino Baptiste back to us with his wonderful keyboard and musical skills. If you have not been before it is worth every penny of the ticket price. They will be on sale in shop and hairdressers and from the Coastpath Cafe or phone me for them.

Then later in the month we will all be on the beach for our annual Day on the Sand building sculptures and castles as well as food to eat and tombolas one for the children one for the adults.

Then to round off the month of August we are planing an American evening with food and fancy dress if you like.

Watch this space because after the summer is over we are planing an Open Mic Evening for all those budding musicians in the area. No pressure just for fun. Have a great summer when it arrives. For any information connected to the hall give me a ring on 843407. 

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for June Parish Magazine

Memorial Village Hall 

Another month has flown past and we are now really thinking summer.  

We held our AGM  in April but too late to report in May issue. Several members of the public joined us and enjoyed a drink after the business part of the meeting.  We had the plans of extension on display so we were able to answer questions about them and the day to day running of the hall.  Once we have the builders prices we will be adding some fundraising activities to pay for the extension and a complete new roof for the whole building.

When you read this we will have held our plant sale and coffee morning so we are hoping that you will now be growing all your plants ready for show time on August 3rd. Let’s make this show bigger. We had lots of entries last year so it will be good to see even more people entering and having fun this year. Grow veg and flowers, make jam and chutney, bake a cake or do some crafts. There are children’s classes as well.

 Our web site is now up and working so do log on to see the show schedule. goranhavenvillagehall.org. If you would like a paper schedule they can be found in the hall and coast path cafe or ring 843407 and I will deliver one to you. You will also find the diary and contact numbers. 

Chat clubs in June will be on 13th and 27th if you feel like lunch and haven’t booked do come along there is always enough to go round. It is always helpful if you know you are coming to ring and choose from the menu .

We have several private parties booked during the month as well as a wedding.

Thinking ahead into July we will be making plans for Street Fair at the end of the month. If you wish to book a place for a stall ring either Richard 842482 or Mavis 843407.

All the regular clubs continue, men’s Pilates on Monday evenings, coffee cake and chat on Tuesday mornings 10 till 12 then , film club on the evening of the first Tuesday of each month then yoga on Wednesday mornings.

We all hope that June will bring us some nice warm summer weather to enjoy.

 If you have any queries about the hall activities, to book it for your celebration or to help us in any way give me a ring. Enjoy the summer and stay safe and well.

Mavis Taylor 843407

 

 

 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for May Parish Magazine 

Memorial Village Hall May 2019

Easter is behind us and summer is on the way. Lots of things happening at the hall.

By the time you read this we should have prices from our three builders to do the work on the stage space extension. All we have to do now is raise the funds to pay for the building. We already have the removable staging stored in a purpose built shed behind the hall. This can be brought in for use at events so that those sitting at the back can see the activity on the front stage area now raised up. 

Chat club lunches are on 2nd 16th and. 30th during May. Everyone is welcome to come , bring a friend and have a home cooked meal, meet other village friends and have a chat. All ages welcome ,this is not just for the older retired members of the village. 

All the weekly regulars continue, Monday evenings 6pm Pilates for the men . Tuesday coffee and chat 10 to 12. Wednesday mornings 10am Yoga. 

May 18th is Greenfingers plant sale with coffee and cake. Come and get your plants to grow on for Village Show on Saturday 3rd August. Or, may be just for your garden or allotment. Vegetables and flowering plants on our stalls.  

On the 21st the hall hosts auctioneer Michael Vaughan from 1.30 till 4pm. He will value your treasures and if you wish to sell them as an auctioneer will take and sell them for you. He has done this for the last few years.

We look forward to seeing you at our activities each month and hope you have a great summer.

If you have any questions or wish to book our hall give me a ring on 843407 or go and look at our new hall website gorranhavenvillagehall.org for more contacts and information.

 Mavis Taylor . 

 Chairman’s Monthly Report for April Parish Magazine 

Memorial Village Hall 

April is the month when we start to feel the warmth of spring and look towards Easter visitors and the summer activities. We have a number of private bookings in the hall this month.

The first public one is on Friday April 12th when Ondine will be with us again. This time she will feed us Mexican food. The last two evenings we have had with her have been great. The posters will be up with the menus on it . She needs us to book in advance. If you are on face book  the menus will be circulated. Otherwise posters about the village.

The 18th brings us Anna Marie Murphy from Kneehigh with another evening of storytelling. “ The Winding World“. Tells the true story of a baby found in the snow in a Cornish cove,  starting at 7.30pm. Posters in shop and around the village notice boards. Tickets available nearer the date.

Easter Saturday from 6pm Tally Oliver will be in the hall with an assortment of invited singers and musicians. She will be fundraising for Syrian refugees.  Posters will again be about the village as for all our hall activities.

Easter Monday is the day to bring your decorated eggs to the hall at 10am and have them judged then roll them down Foxhole Lane. Prizes for all first places and some consolation ones. Tea coffee and cake on sale from the kitchen. It’s a busy few days because on the next day Tuesday 23rd we have the hall AGM at 7pm. Come and join us to hear about the things that we have done this last year and we will have the extension plans on display.

May will bring us our annual Greenfingers Coffee morning. This will be on 18th this year. Plants and all sorts of drinks and food goodies. Come and get the plants you need to grow for show on August 3rd. If you have spare plants we will be grateful to have them and sell to raise funds for the extension and roof.

We have the show schedules in the hall and cafe and it will be found on our new village hall website. gorranhavenvillagehall.org. There is a link from the village web site.

Don’t forget Pilates on a Monday evening first session at 5.30 , there are lots of men enjoying these sessions.

Wednesday mornings are for yoga, start time 10am .

Don’t forget Tuesday mornings from 10 am in the hall there is always coffee and chat in good company.

For information about our village hall and it’s activities or to hire the folk to contact are me Mavis Taylor 843407 Richard 842482. 

Now that we have our web site you can also contact us on there if telephone numbers are unavailable. 

Chairman’s Monthly Report for March Parish Magazine 

Memorial Village Hall 

March is here and the old saying March winds and April showers bring forth May flowers. Well I think as I write this in February March has come early because it is blowing a gale outside. We are though looking forward to some nicer weather.

Our planning permission was granted by CC to build a small extension to the hall into the car park to enable us to have a stage area. Those of you who have come to shows in the hall will know that when you sit at the back it is hard to see what is happening up front. With a stage we will all be able to see. We now start the round of applying for grants to supplement our own savings.

All our regular activities continue with parties and weddings booked in through the next few months.

We have a new web site that you can find at gorranhavenvillagehall.org.  It is still under development but gives you lots of information about the hall’s history and day to day diary of events and bookings. One or two things that are extra to regular bookings.

An afternoon of gardening interest on Saturday March 2nd at 2.30 a talk and question time. No need to book just come and see, listen and ask questions about those pesky grubs or plant problems. We will have a few plants for sale as well.

The next big booking is at Easter, on Saturday April 20th there will be a fundraising evening for an organisation helping Syrian refugees. Tally Oliver, Jamie Crowe, Matthew Fox and Richard Bennett will be joined by other musical friends to offer a varied programme. There will be food available as well as the usual bar. Look out for posters around the village and on social media for more details.

Next will be Egg Rolling on Easter Monday 22nd starting at 10.00am. Get thinking about your eggy designs.

On the next day Tuesday 23rd April we will hold our AGM. At 7pm. It’s open to all do come and meet us and hear all about the progress we have made this year. We will have our plans on display for you to see after the meeting with drinks, nibbles and chat. It is your opportunity to talk to us and give us your thoughts and ideas for your village hall.

Into May on 18th it’s Greenfingers coffee morning. If you have excess plants for your needs or you are looking for plants for veg growing or flower borders come and buy or sell some . Those veg will come in useful in the kitchen but also at our show on August 3rd. Remember you can contact us at any time. Here are some numbers of  folk who can help you. Mavis Taylor 843407. Richard Bennett 842482 Jo Stuart Thompson 843465 If no reply try the next number.

Mavis Taylor 

 

Chairman’s Parish Magazine Message  —  February

Memorial Village Hall February 2019

Welcome to the new year.                                                                                       Lots of things happening in the next few months.                                   February starts on the 1st with pub night then alternate Fridays until Easter. The hall will be open at 6pm, plates in the oven to warm ready for you to bring your supper from the chippy or home to eat with us and enjoy with a pint from the bar and good company.                                                                                                                Chat club lunches will be on 7th and 21st. come at 12 and have a chat ready to eat at 12.30pm.                                                                              Into March we have a new fixture which we hope will be either twice a year or three monthly depending on support and demand . It is a gardening talk and question time. Starting on the 2nd at 2.30. Spring and autumn seem to be a sensible spread but summer and winter meetings if requested.                                                  Coffee mornings continue every Tuesday from 10am  and film club on the first Tuesday evening of the month.                                         As I type this we are awaiting the reply from Cornwall planning department to see if we get our permission to extend the hall enough to give us a stage area. When we get it we will be going to companies and trusts asking for grants. We will use all local tradesmen to do the work for us if possible. It is so important to do this and work as a community.                                                                      Our dates for later in the year are Egg rolling starting at 10am on Easter Monday morning . Then on the next day it will be our hall AGM  at 7pm. We would be pleased to see you. I know that AGMs are very dry and boring but you will be able to see that we are an active and vibrant group working to give you a bright and pleasant hall to hold any activity you would like. We will be able to show you the plans for our extra developments.                      Greenfingers plant and coffee morning will be on May 18th this year. You can come and buy your plants to grow on for our show on August 3rd. The schedule will soon be available to see what plants you need and which crafts and cooking classes you would like to enter.                                                                                                                     Day on the sand will be on August 19 because the tide will be good for us on that day.                                                                                             Don’t forget that if your New Year resolution was to be fitter this year we have Pilates for the men on Monday evenings and Yoga for the ladies on Wednesday mornings at 10am.                           Any queries do give me a ring on 843407.   Spring is on the way. Mavis Taylor.

Update  —  Great News                                                                                            Since this was written Cornwall Council have approved our Planning Application!

Chairman’s December message for Parish Magazine

 Memorial Village Hall
December/January 18/19
Greetings for Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.

 

I have to write this in middle of November and it seems strange sending good wishes from us all at the hall at this time but by the time you read this we will all be thinking about the festive period. We have had a very good year with lots of changes and improvements to look back on.
Next year is also going to be exciting with more developments. I hope to bring you news in the next magazine.
At the end of Nov we will be decorating the hall for all the seasonal festivities. As well as the booked private parties Holly Fair will be on December 1st.
New stalls this year for your presents and from the kitchen, mince pies with a glass of sherry or just a cake and coffee. Open at 10am.
Christmas lunch is on the 6th this year if you haven’t booked yet and would like to come give me a ring to book. We start serving at 12.30 so come early and have a drink before you eat.
There will be Carols at the triangle on the evening of 7th with mulled wine and mince pies, if it is wet we will retire to the hall and sing around the Christmas tree there.
11th Dec we have Craig bringing us his Christmassy puppet show, fun for all the family however young or old starting at 6pm.  Tickets will be available from Cakebreads and Chop shop.
We will open the hall for you to come and watch the Strictly final on the big screen with your friends and a pint from the bar. It will be the same time as on the television.
The last activity for 2018 will be a party from 10pm to welcome in the New Year with our usual fireworks on the quay. Music and the bar will be open.

Welcome to 2019.
Our first booking on going to press is January 16th. A night of food with Ondine.
Please watch the posters as menus not yet decided 7pm.
Chat club starts again on 10th and then fortnightly 12.30 for a great home cooked lunch. It would be lovely to start the new  year with some new faces. If you would like to come but not happy to come into the hall on your own please give me a ring and we will collect you until you have made some friends. 25th January sees our Burns Night supper 7pm to eat at about 7.30pm. If you have any questions about the hall or our activities please give me a ring and I will help if I can. Remember we have good parking for a few cars, easily accessible for the disabled.
We wish you all a happy, healthy and safe Christmas and New Year from everyone at the hall and me , Mavis Taylor. tel. 843407