In with the new, but our fine library is sacred
Cornish Guardian; Truro (UK), Mar 24, 2010 by ALISON HURST
I ARRIVED at the library the other day just before it opened. There was a queue of five people waiting to go inside and one had an appointment for computer instruction.
The subject of library closures came up, and one woman said she would chain herself to the door of the premises if our library came under threat.
This service is a cornerstone of life in our community. It must continue.
A new shop in town always generates enthusiasm.
ArtyZannes, on Queen Street, is our latest addition with its original array of merchandise within.
The owners describe it as a ‘Cornish-inspired gallery and interior’; it also provides a bespoke upholstery and soft furnishings service.
In common with many other businesses in town, detailed information can be found on the excellent website, Lostwithiel.org.uk.
There was general dismay when locals found out that Maggie’s flower shop was up for sale.
The flowers and plants outside, as well as Maggie herself, had become a much appreciated part of the scenery. Luckily, Natalie is back in town with Country Flowers, to continue to provide a florist in this shop on the corner. It was sad to learn of the death of John Truman of Dower House antiques last year; he was a familiar and friendly face in town.
Fortunately, another wellknown local antique dealer, Mike Edwards, has established a business in Dower House and an interesting variety of eclectic, often quirky, items is now to be found within. Recently, I saw Paul Martin, of BBC TV’s Flog It! going into Dower House. Of course – this programme was due to be filmed in Jeffery’s auctioneers.
Walking up Bodmin Hill later, I fell in step with my friend Margaret, who had also encountered Paul Martin. She passed him in Fore Street and greeted him enthusiastically, forgetting, as people do so often with familiar faces from our television screens, that she did not actually know him.
Margaret said he was quite charming and spoke to her as a good friend, telling her how much he loved Lostwithiel. Join the club.
I heard later that the film crew had been spotted lunching at Muffins.
We knew it was going to be good, but the seventh Lostwithiel Charity Beer Festival exceeded all expectations.
With more than 500 people through the door and every single cask of ale selling out, the day was a triumph.
Thanks must go to Skinny and his team of hardworking Rotarians, without whom, as they say, this would simply not be possible.
The selection of beers was impressive, with a really well chosen variety.
My own favourite was the gorgeously named Newman’s Spring Cottage Biscuit, refreshing, with a lingering dry note on the palate.
The entertainment was superb.
Two Six Nations rugby matches were shown, live, on a massive screen and, later on, music took over.
The professionally executed sound, staging and lighting were highly impressive and crucial to the great success of the evening.
Centre stage was the Jackie Lynton Band, which soon got a big crowd out on the dance floor
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