Rotary Club

LOCAL Councillor David Bell was introduced by Rotarian Graham Massey, as his guest speaker, at the Callington Rotary Club meeting on Wednesday January 24 at The Bulls Head.

Mr Bell explained how, after taking early retirement from teaching, he embarked on a solo sailing voyage, ultimately hoping to get to Australia. After reaching the Canaries in 19 days, he set off from Cape Verdi to cross the Atlantic, arriving in jamaica. He then passed through the Panama Canal heading for the Galapagos islands, but only using a sextant in very difficult winds, he sailed into the west side of the islands, rather than the east, where the tourists frequent.

David Bell then lost his engine and sail, and he was shipwrecked on Isabella Island.

He managed to salvage sufficient in a dinghy to erect a tent on what seemed pure volcanic rock infested with rats. In despair, he was rescued by a fishing vessel which, only one month a year, fishes for lobster on the west side.

He was then transferred to a tourist boat which itself had lost its way and happened to be in the area at that time.

On eventually arriving safe at Santa Cruz, David Bell was able to fly back to Heathrow with only minimal personal possessions recovered.

Rotarian Ian Collins proposed the vote of thanks to the speaker for recollecting his intriguing voyage and miraculous rescue.

Plough Service

On Sunday 21 January, The Rector, the Rev Robert Oakes, welcomed members of Callington and neighbouring churches to the United Service and Plough Service at St. Mary's Church. Readings were given by Jennifer Hill and Louise James and the prayers by Christobel Grenfell; St. Mary's Music Group played for the worship songs.

The Revd. Tony Ingleby, Rural Link Officer for the Diocese of Truro, gave the address, following which he blessed the plough that was standing by the chancel steps, in response to a request for God's blessing on the work of the farmers, from the Ploughmen‚ represented by Wendy Trewin and Peter Hambly. During the final hymn a collection, which amounted to £136, was taken for Christian Aid in El Salvador, followed by refreshments.

Residents want

parking permits

CALLINGTON town councillors were told at their recent meeting that residents of Valentine Row, Back Lane and Zaggy Lane had inquired whether it was possible for them to have residents' only parking permits.

This was because parking has become very difficult for those living in the area and many found it impossible to park close to their homes.

The matter was brought before the council by Tony Nettle.

Councillor Peter Hambly said that if the permits were granted it would set a precedent and the inhabitants of every road in Callington would apply for the same thing. One section of the community could not be favoured.

Jeremy Gist said that all options should be considered and it might be the time to discuss improving on-street parking facilities in the town.

Members agreed they would support Tony Nettle and ask the county council what options were available to help parking problems.

Rev Anne was

the speaker

AT the Callington Guild meeting on Monday, held at the Methodist Church, Haye Road, Rev Anne Curnow was the speaker.

Mrs H Curnow was in the chair and Barry Higgins chose and played the hymns. Miss E Wooldridge and Mrs G Olvers served tea and biscuits at the end of the meeting.

Next week Pastor Bruce Brown will be the guest speaker.

Kevin was chairman

KEVIN Veal was the chairman for Callington Brotherhood's Fellowship meeting on Sunday.

Sharing in the service was Linda Curtis and Margaret Smith, the singing sisters from Quethiock. They were accompanied on the piano by Barbara Taylor as they sang the duets, Let There Be Peace on Earth and Brighten the Corner where you are.

Mr Ron Bennett from Liskeard was the guest speaker.

The Bible reading was given by Barry Higgins, and Douglas Fry chose the hymns for the service.

The meeting stood in silence in memory of former member William Coombe, who died on January 15. The members extended sympathy to wife Marjorie and the family.