Once again Trelawny Day was celebrated in Pelynt on Thursday, June 30, having been cancelled last year because of the pandemic.

Due to COVID restrictions, this year’s event was slightly different in that, instead of the usual illustrated talk and tea in the village hall, people were required to bring their own picnic and gather in the churchyard.

After tea there was a short open air service led by the new vicar, the Rev Richard Allen. Everyone was then entertained by members of Pelynt Male Choir and the launch of the new revised edition of the booklet written by Carole Vivian on the life of Bishop Trelawny and the return of his coffin plate in 2018. Bishop Trelawny – who is referenced in the Cornish anthem Song of the Western Men, often merely called ‘Trelawny’ – was born in Pelynt and was one of seven bishops imprisoned in the Tower of London by King James II in 1688 but then acquitted to great jubilation after a trial in Westminster Hall. The book is available for £4.50 from the church or Carole on 01503 272309, with proceeds to the church.

The event was well supported by locals and members of the Trelawny family. The lesson was read by William Trelawny who (along with his wife Annalise) had travelled down from Somerset. William is the uncle of the present, 14th, baronet who unfortunately couldn’t attend this year.

One unexpected Trelawny to join the celebration was the radio and Cardiff Young Singer of The Year contest TV presenter Petroc Trelawny. He had been in Cornwall collecting research for a book he is writing, and decided to have a look at Pelynt Church purely by chance.

When he heard of the celebration that was about to commence, he joined the audience for the concert and was introduced to the rest of the Trelawny clan.