In this week’s Cornish Times, residents and businesses have braced themselves for what could be seven weeks or longer of a third national lockdown – we came out just as MPs were debating the coronavirus restrictions in the Houses of Parliament. Many South East Cornwall businesses and organisations are ready for click and collect, delivery and online working – and trying to stay as positive as possible.
Residents here are urged to stick to the stay at home guidance as Covid-19 cases in the county soar – Cornwall can no longer be seen as a place where transmission is low, say public health leaders, the health and care system is under stress, and everyone must play their part to help curb the spread.
As we all accustom ourselves to another period of strict restrictions, we take a look at how one local choir changed its approach during 2020 to keep its members connected and singing. The Loveny Male Voice Choir and its director have some inspiring words for groups and clubs who’d like to keep the momentum going this time round!
There’s good news in Saltash, as following several months of uncertainty, the post office has confirmed there’s been a change of mind and the main branch will stay open in Fore Street.
And we bring you news of the local people who’ve received titles in the New Year’s Honours list, including an interview with a Stoke Climsland based social worker who is raising the profile of collaborative work amongst professionals when it comes to helping people with brain injury.
Planning news in this week’s edition includes a new flood defence scheme at Cotehele, and a Liskeard town centre developer who’s been told his plan would probably not be accepted as it would turn commercial space into housing. Find out too about how a multi-million plan to refurbish and build new Cornwall Council buildings in order to save money has had to go back for some changes after Councillors decided not to approve it.
We’ve got a story about the little-known iron age hillfort in South East Cornwall that is now protected as a scheduled monument – and how the Open Spaces Society is in a last-ditch fight to save some of Cornwall’s important commons land for public access.
Did you know that the Liskeard to Looe Railway marked its 160th anniversary recently? We have a lovely page with historic photos, and let you know about a new series of short films which tell the story of the line.
Our Farming diary this week is packed with news and useful articles, including on how the Red Tractor scheme is working with farmers and producers to shape future standards.
And while live Sport has had to be curtailed, our editor Nigel Walrond is still bringing fans a great read this week, with news of New Year’s Honours for Exeter Chiefs director of Rugby and one of the team’s star players.
Three’s several pages of specialized news and information this week on Health and Wellbeing, Gardening, Antiques, and Motoring.
And don’t forget Ray Roberts’ beautiful Nature Watch page, puzzles, court reports, reader letters and your local announcements – it’s all there in the latest edition of your Cornish Times, out in the shops now!