Plus: Northern lights, Parish Council vacancy, St Piran’s day, Spring forward, Fun Week fundraiser and much more. Front cover: Sarah Wilson as Queen Bee in the panto.
Submission deadlines for articles, adverts, alterations and other items for the magazine is the 10th of every month.
Publication dates
April Friday 27th March
May Friday 1st May
June Friday 29th May
July Friday 26th June
August Friday 31st July
September Friday 28th August
online: www.issuu.com/ probusnews/
Probus News is a non-profit making, independent voluntary organisation. Your donations are always welcome.
Public notice
The inclusion of any article or advertisement in this magazine does not constitute any form of accreditation by the Editor or management committee. They are unable to vouch for the professional qualifications, etc, of any advertiser. It is the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure conformity with the Trades Descriptions Act 1975, Business Advertisements Disclosure Order 1977 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. Readers must satisfy themselves that an advertiser meets all their necessary requirements. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of their authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Editor or management committee. Our privacy and safeguarding policies are available on request to the Secretary.
By email: editorprobusnews@gmail.com
By hand: Articles for Probus News can be left at Trudgian Farm Shop in Probus Square. Management Team
PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jon Hibberd 07931 502921 jonyhibs58@gmail.com
Daisy Bassett
SOCIAL MEDIA: Vanessa McGill
PROOFREADERS: Marilyn Joyce, Tania Williams and Teresa Hayhoe.
Wasson Probus?
Community news
PROBUS & THE SURROUNDING AREA
Our local community larder is held four times a week in Probus Church; it’s FREE and open to EVERYBODY in Probus and the surrounding area.
Help us, help yourself and reduce food waste!
We open for tea and coffee half an hour before each session. Why not join us?
Monday 4–4:30 pm
TR2 Community Hub
COMMUNITY
hubs offer safe, supportive environments where people can access help, advice and activities. They rely on collaboration between organisations to provide the best local resources and support.
At this time, TR2 Community Hub activities are currently only in Probus Church.
In Probus Church
Refreshments available:
Monday 10 am–noon
Tuesday 10:30 am–noon
Wednesday 10 am–noon
Friday 8:45 am–noon
Pain Café: 1st Monday of each month 10 am–noon.
Carers Corner: Support and advice for all carers. 2nd Monday of each month, 10 am–noon.
Digital Support Hub: Drop in for advice or assistance with using computers or completing online tasks. 3rd Monday of each month, 10 am–noon.
Move More: Falls prevention course for the over 65s. Wednesday mornings, 10:30–11:30 am.
Community Support and Information Hub: Drop-in support sessions with a range of professionals – adult social care, housing, DWP, Job Centre, Community Energy Plus, social prescribers and vicar. 3rd Wednesday of each month, 2–4 pm. The next hub is on Wednesday 18th March.
Spring forward!
DON’T
forget: the clocks go forward one hour at 1 am on Sunday 29th March 2026 for British Summer Time. We’ll lose an hour in bed, but gain lighter evenings –perfect for spring walks, longer, brighter, and hopefully drier days ahead.
Truro bus station –temporary closure
TRURO
bus station will close for four weeks from 23rd February until 23rd March to allow essential surface works to take place.
The work will involve replacing and repairing large areas of the bus station surface, which has become damaged and uneven after years of heavy use.
During the closure, all local bus services will operate from Fairmantle Coach Park.
Cornwall Council will provide covered customer waiting areas, temporary lighting and real time information displays at the temporary location.
Go Cornwall Bus will supply staff in line with the usual times that the bus station would normally be staffed.
Anyone with queries can contact Cornwall Council by emailing Transport@cornwall.gov.uk
Probus Parish Council clerk –vacancy
PROBUS
Parish Council is seeking to appoint a Parish Clerk/Proper Officer/Responsible Financial Officer, working from home and a community office for 20 hours per week, pay rate negotiable on local govt pay scale LC2 points 18–30 (£16.35–£21.14)
The clerk’s role is pivotal to the council and an interest in and/or affinity with Probus as a neighbourhood and community is an important part of the role.
A full list of the services provided by the council can be found on:
We invite applications from suitably qualified and experienced individuals. Applicants with a good standard of further education and a willingness to study for and achieve a CiLCA qualification are also encouraged to apply.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the administration of the council’s business and finances, including payroll for two members of staff.
For questions or further information, please contact the Chair of the Council –Nicholas Gillard on 07763 519044, email nicholasgillard@probusparishcouncil. gov.uk
The council aims to review applications on 4th March 2026 and therefore encourages candidates to apply as soon as possible. Shortlisting will be from 9th March with interviews during the week 16th–20th March.
Fairmantle Coach Park
Truro Bus Station
Probus Parish Council THERE
are currently four vacancies on the council.
As we get closer to the new financial year, we are looking for enthusiastic and engaged members of this community who want to join in the lead up to April and make a long-lasting change. The council needs people from all backgrounds and experiences who reflect their community to put themselves forward for co-option to the Parish Council.
If you have an interest in our local community, environment, transport, amenities, planning, housing issues, community groups and events, combating antisocial behaviour, policing and future plan for the parish, then this is an opportunity for you.
You need to be aged 18 years or over, eligible to vote and have lived in or within three miles of the parish or
Do
you have a problem?
Why not contact one of your local parish councillors for advice?
worked in the parish for 12 months or more.
You can be co-opted at one of the council’s monthly meetings. Simply fill out the co-option form and send it in.
For more information and a form, please phone 07749 626021 or email clerk@ probusparishcouncil.gov.uk. For an informal enquiry call the chair, Nicholas Gillard on 07763 519044.
Kernow
Reuse shops hit milestone
CORNWALL’S
Kernow Reuse shops have diverted around 500 tonnes of reusable items from waste, with over 100,000 goods, from furniture and toys to home-ware and electricals, sold on at affordable prices.
December 2024
Run by SUEZ for Cornwall Council, the shops operate at Truro recycling centre and across the county, highlighting how everyday reuse can benefit both the environment and local communities.
Jack Burr Treviglas Lane jackburr@probusparishcouncil.co.uk
Chris Dutton Carne View Road 07969 451207 chrisdutton@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
James Faull Tresowgar Cottage 07494 756249 jamesfaull@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Nick Gillard (chair) Fore Street 01726 883926 nicholasgillard@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Ivan Myles Kew Wav 07815 944752 ivanmyles@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Ian Peters Carne View Road 07825 889067 ianpeters@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Jo Vincent joannavincent@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk wwwprobusparishcouncil.gov.uk
If you are not able to contact a particular councillor, then contact the Parish Council Clerk Adrian Webster (locum clerk) clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk - Cornwall Councillor Karen Glasson can also be contacted on 07980 975527 or cllr.karen.glasson@cornwall.gov.uk.
Probus Village Hall – March 2026 update
THEVillage Hall Committee and our brilliant volunteers have had a busy few months. Alongside the day-to-day work of managing bookings, carrying out repairs and making improvements, we’ve also been progressing a major piece of work: drafting a new constitution that would change our legal status (more on that at the AGM!).
This spring also marks the end of an era for two long serving trustees. Karen and Neil Glasson have both decided to step down, and we want to express our heartfelt thanks for everything they have contributed. Neil, in particular, has served as treasurer for the past five years which is remarkable given he took on the role with no prior accounting experience. During that time, he has modernised our financial systems, strengthened our processes, and helped secure significant grant funding that has transformed the hall for the whole community. Much of this work happened quietly behind the scenes, but its impact will be felt for many years. We are enormously grateful for Neil’s dedication and wish him and his family all the very best.
With Neil stepping down, our search for a new treasurer continues. We are also keen to welcome more volunteers onto the committee. You don’t need specialist skills as enthusiasm and a willingness to help are what matter most, but any experience in bookkeeping, basic legal matters, IT and computers, or property and facilities management would be especially valuable. Without a treasurer, the running of the hall becomes
increasingly difficult, so if you can spare some time, please consider getting involved.
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on Wednesday 18th March at 7.30 pm in the Committee Room. As well as the formal appointment of trustees for the year ahead, we’ll be discussing two important proposals with hall users:
• A new constitution, which would change our status from a Charitable Trust to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). This would give the hall the ability to own property and assets directly and would remove personal liability from trustees.
• Updated room hire rates and revised Terms and Conditions, which have not been reviewed for over five years.
Your views matter, and we warmly encourage you to come along and take part in shaping the future of the hall.
Nik Budden
Chair, Probus Village Hall Management Committee
Acoustics Night (Comrades Club)
Badmington Club
Bees (swarms/issues/questions)
Bookworms Book Club
Bowling Club
Breakfast Club
Church Bell Ringers
Chuchwarden
Comrades Club
Cornwall Councillor
Cycling (Probus Pedlars)
Football (Saturday Club)
Probus Youth FC (Juniors)
Probus FC (Seniors)
Friends of Probus Church
Grampround Road Cricket Club
Hawkins Arms
Tim Joyce 07412 126774 timstravels01@hotmail.com
Harry Pritchard 07434 582238
Tony Paddock 07486 295414
Gaynor O’Kane okanegaynor@gmail.com
David Meggs 07850 945626
John Denyer 07824 555519
Liza Deards 07888 684425
Andy McCartney/Matthew Hodge churchwarden@probus.church
Graham Kemp 07961 716620 drummerboy-13@hotmail.com
Graham Smith 07968 478 970
Adrian Webster (Locum clerk) clerk@probusparishcouncil.gov.uk
Stephanie Moore 01726 882647 hello@probusschool.org.uk
Chris Dutton 07969 451207 probuspta@gmail.com
Probus Club of Probus Nick Hibbett
Probus Church Ground Maintenance/ PEAT Nick Lauder 07403 659869 n.lauder29@btinternet.com
Probus Nursery
Stephanie Moore 01726 883093 hello@probusschool.org.uk
Sticker Memory Cafe 07901 147353 or 07717 333712
U3A Roseland & District
Terry Neil u3aroselandanddistrict.weebly.com
Village Hall Lettings 07749 368162 lettings@probusvillagehall.co.uk
Walking Group (Wednesday)
Walking Group (Fridays)
Young Farmers Club
Kay Hyatt 07948 993635
Teresa Hayhoe (07720 393754) or Kaye Ludlow (07968 722430)
Tori Dymond - Secretary (07393 984713) toridymond@icloud.com
Lewis Marsh - Chairman (07522 874 798)
Other village pages: Probus Cornwall, Probus Super Mums!, Probus News Magazine, Probus Fun Week
Editorial WEL
L, well, well – what a perfect time to take two months away from the village! Did we miss anything? It would seem so.
Firstly thanks to the editorial team who published the December and February editions of this magazine. As a volunteerrun organisation, with a strict deadline and mandate to produce and publish eleven editions every 12 months, it’s actually tough to schedule time off, so I’m grateful to the team for stepping up.
I hope you find something in this edition to enjoy as we catch up on some news and dramatic events, while updating on the present, and as always, try to have one eye on the future.
Good news... Spring is on its way!
John
Kewsyn Kernewek!
LET’S
speak Cornish! On 5th March we celebrate the feast day of St Piran, the patron saint of Cornwall. Not surprisingly, he is also the patron saint of tinners. You can find out more about St Piran and the legends surrounding him on the next page, but in the meantime here are a few Cornish phrases connected to St Piran and his feast day for you to try out.
Want to learn more?
There are free
Cornish language sessions at Wheal Martyn (the first Monday of every month at 10:30 am) and Kresen Kernow in Redruth (the first Thursday of every month at 2 pm). There’s no need to book in advance – just turn up on the day. You can also find details of more formal Cornish language classes at www. gocornish.org.
Approx. pronunciation
St Piran... Sen Peran... Senn PERR-an... ... is our patron saint ... yw agan tas-sans. ... ew AG-an TAZ-sans. He’s the patron saint of tinners. Tas-sans stenoryon yw ev. TAZ-sans sten-OR-ee-on ew ev.
St Piran’s flag...
Baner Sen Peran... BAN-er senn PERR-an.. ...is black and white. ... yw du ha gwynn. ...ew doo ha gwyn.
Happy St Piran’s Day! Gool Peran lowen! Gool PERR-an LOW-en.
NOTE: There are two main spelling systems in use in Cornish – Standard Written Form (SWF) and Kernewek Kemmyn (Common Cornish), although there isn’t a huge difference between them. This text is written in Kemmyn. In the pronunciation guide, stressed syllables are shown in capital letters (in Cornish the stress usually falls on the penultimate syllable).
St Piran’s Day celebrations
IFyou’d like to take part in St Piran’s Day celebrations this year, here are a few ideas.
Truro’s annual St Piran’s Day parade will take place on Thursday 5th March. Muster on Lemon Quay from 12:30 pm, prior to the procession setting off at 1 pm. This year’s parade will follow a longer route through the city centre than in previous years, finishing outside Truro Cathedral.
Redruth’s annual St Piran’s Festival on Saturday 7th March will be a packed day of music, parades, theatre and community events, with a parade featuring Tolgus, the town’s giant lamb mascot, passing through the town from 11 am.
Newquay’s St Piran’s Trail runs from 28th February to 7th March and is a chance for families to learn about Cornish culture and heritage. Follow your trail map (available free from Newquay Library) to locations with posters containing letters and collect the letters to solve the mystery ‘Cornish’ word. Once you’ve figured it out, bring your completed clue sheet back to the Tourist Information Centre to claim your prize!
Saint Piran: Cornwall’s patron saint
By Clare McNeilly Datson
SAINT
Piran is one of the most cherished figures in Cornish tradition. His black-and-white flag flies proudly across the county, and each year on 5th March communities gather to celebrate St Piran’s Day. But who exactly was this much-loved saint, and why does he still mean so much to Cornwall and its close-knit communities?
Tradition tells us that St Piran began life as an Irish bishop in the 5th century. He became known for his remarkable miracles — feeding armies and even raising fallen warriors — which didn’t sit well with the local kings. Eventually they condemned him to death, tying him to a millstone and casting him from a cliff into the Atlantic. Yet instead of sinking, the millstone floated gently on the waves, surrounded by a holy light. Those who witnessed this extraordinary moment are said to have converted to Christianity straight away, deeply moved by the sight.
Carried south by the sea, St Piran washed ashore at Penhale Sands in Perranzabuloe. There he settled, built a small oratory, and began sharing his faith with the local people, who soon grew fond of the gentle holy man in their midst. Another much-loved story tells how he discovered tin: after lighting a fire in a hearth made from local stones, he watched bright molten metal trickle from one of the rocks. In that moment, he uncovered the secret of smelting tin — a discovery that would shape Cornwall’s mining heritage for centuries and earn him the title of patron saint of tin miners.
St Piran’s Flag — the simple but striking white cross on a black background — has become the national flag of Cornwall. Some say it represents molten tin shining against dark ore. Whatever its origin, it remains a powerful symbol of Cornish identity, pride and belonging, often seen fluttering from houses, shops and community halls throughout the year.
St Piran’s legacy lives on not only in the stories passed down through generations, but in the celebrations held each March and the affection the Cornish still hold for their patron saint. In recent years, a new tradition has joined the festivities. Each St Piran’s Day at 9 pm, voices rise together across Cornwall — and beyond — for the Trelawny Shout. Since it began in 2015, this joyful sing-along of The Song of the Western Men has become a highlight of Perrantide. Whether in pubs or cosy front rooms, people join in for the pleasure of singing together, often raising money for local charities. Its charm lies in its simplicity: everyone is welcome, and for a few minutes the whole county feels united in one warmhearted moment of shared celebration.
A message from Rev Caroline
DEAR friends and neighbours, I begin writing this message as we are fast approaching Saint Valentine’s Day. Valentine is said to have been a member of the clergy –either a priest or a bishop – who lived approximately two hundred years after the New Testament was written. He was martyred because he defied Roman rule and secretly performed Christian weddings. We all know his feast day14th of February – which, of course, has become synonymous with romantic love.
One of the special privileges of a priest is the permission to officiate at weddings and I often meet with couples who are looking forward to being married. I help them prepare for their marriage vows – which of course extend way beyond their wedding day!
Shrove Tuesday (A.K.A. Pancake Day) and Ash Wednesday followed Saint Valentine’s Day (17th and 18th February respectively) and marked the beginning of Lent.
Ash Wednesday is so called because of the ancient practice of ashing (marking
the sign of the cross on the forehead). The period of Lent lasts for 40 days and 40 nights and is a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving before the arrival of Easter.
Some may fast, others may give up something they enjoy or something they believe they have become too accustomed to – it could be chocolate, taking the car rather than walking to the local shop – or even giving up using their mobile device as frequently!
Today we are so busy with the pressures of modern life we can often forget how to be present in our daily lives. Lent offers us a period of reflection.
When you read these words Good Friday, Easter Sunday and the glorious resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ will be almost upon us.
Jesus’ actions – those that led to his death on the cross – demonstrated profound love. He asked others to join him in loving the world, in seeking justice and extending forgiveness. To paraphrase his words, “there is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends; you are my friends.” He laid down his own life for love.
Jesus taught us that good relationships are more important than wealth, power, and popularity. You could say that following Christ is countercultural. His message does not align with some of the beliefs in our culture which seem to suggest that power, money and ‘likes’ on social media are important goals.
Whether or not you celebrated Valentine’s Day, tossed a pancake on Shrove Tuesday, or observed the practice of giving up something for Lent, springtime is on the way! It is a wonderful time to take a walk, notice the signs of new life emerging in nature
and, maybe, to strive for new beginnings in one’s own life. Personally, I cannot help but be thankful and look forward with hope as winter passes and a new season begins.
Gras ha Kres (Grace and Peace),
Rev. Caroline Husband
01726 337730 www.probuschurch.com
Church Services in March
Sun 1st, 9:30 am Connect
Thu 5th, noon Holy Communion
Sun 8th, 9:30 am Holy Communion
Sun 15th, 9:30 am Mothering Sunday
Thu 19th, noon Holy Communion
Sun 22nd, 9:30 am Holy Communion
4 pm Cafe Church
Sun 29th, 9:30 am Palm Sunday
Regular Events
Coffee Mornings
Tuesdays 10:30 am - noon
Fridays 8:45–10 am
Little Lights
Thursdays 9:30–11:30am
Special Events...
Lent Lunches (held throughout Lent)
Each Wednesday 12:30–1:30 pm
Comedy Night
Friday 20th 7:30 pm Paul Karensa
Bus network and timetable changes
GOCornwall Bus took over running Cornwall’s bus services from First Bus on 16th February. Go Cornwall Bus is part of Transport for Cornwall and also took over the contract for the Truro Park and Ride service from the same date.
Handy cut out and keep guide:
Buses from Probus Square to Truro (all bus routes) – Monday to Saturday.
Note: This is a new timetable and subject to adjustment. Always check the TFC app for the latest bus times.
Bus route 22 or 22A St Austell - Truro via St Stephen
Probus Square to Truro
Monday to Saturday except for bank holidays
Sunday 1028 1228 1428 1628 1828
Probus Square to St Austell
Monday to Saturday except for bank holidays
1119 1319 1519 1719 1919
Bus route 27 Truro - St Austell - via Probus and Sticker
Probus Square to Truro
Monday to Saturday except for bank holidays
(Route 27 - Last bus to Probus departs St Austell Bus Station at 2150)
Sunday
Probus Square towards St Austell Monday to Saturday except for bank holidays
(Route 27 - Last bus to Probus departs Truro Bus Station at 2240) Sunday
Bus Route 50 Truro - St Mawes via Probus, Tregony and Portscatho
Probus Square to Truro
Probus Square to St Mawes Monday to Saturday except for bank holidays
Sunday 0850 1050 1250 1450 1650
Colour key: School days only Saturday’s and school holidays only
Operates on Truro College days
Operates during Truro College holidays and Saturdays
Note: This is a new timetable and subject to adjustment. Always check the TFC app for the latest bus times.
I
•
WILDLIFE wandering
Emily Forster, local wildlife photographer, known as wildforsterphoto on Instagram, discusses the potential impact of the recent storms on wildlife. She also suggests ways you can lend a helping hand in time for spring...
Greater Scaup | SIMON WILLSON
After several winters of headlinegrabbing sightings, the absence of humpback whales off Cornwall’s coast this year has felt noticeable. But their recent appearances were never guaranteed; humpbacks are highly mobile, following shoals of fish rather than fixed routes. If prey species such as herring or mackerel have shifted — whether due to changing sea temperatures or currents — the whales will simply have followed them elsewhere.
As for Storm Goretti, I believe it’s unlikely to be the sole reason for their absence.
Humpbacks are well adapted to rough Atlantic conditions, but severe storms can disrupt feeding opportunities and alter timing. The storm coincided with their usual migration window, meaning whales passing through the southwest may have stayed further offshore or moved through more quickly than usual. In that sense, the empty horizon this winter is probably down to a mix of shifting food supplies, ocean conditions and timing rather than one single weather event.
Birders have been flocking to Long Rock Pool and St Gothians to see two unusual duck species that have appeared. Their presence in Cornwall (rather than much further north) is likely down to winter migration and weather. Both species move south to find ice-free water, and strong Atlantic winds or cold conditions elsewhere can nudge individuals off course, with Cornwall’s mild, sheltered estuaries providing an easy place to pause and feed before moving on.
As spring approaches, we are all hoping the weather will improve with it. There are certain things you can do to give your local wildlife a helping hand. Leaving areas of grass
Get involved...
To be in with a chance of featuring in our next issue, send in your Probus wildlife photos or artwork to:
wildforsterphoto@outlook.com
In the upcoming issues look out for my articles about what you can see each month and how you can photograph, document or look after them yourself.
or hedgerow slightly untidy provides shelter for insects and early-nesting birds, while shallow dishes of fresh water help everything from hedgehogs to pollinators during dry spells. Planting native, nectar-rich flowers gives bees and butterflies an early food source, and avoiding pesticides allows insects (the foundation of much of the food chain) to recover naturally. Even simple actions, like checking for nesting birds before cutting back shrubs or keeping cats indoors at dawn and dusk during peak fledging season, can help wildlife through one of the most demanding times of the year.
I would love to see any photos you get of nesting or fledgling birds so please send them in over the coming weeks.
Probus Parish Players’ panto 2026
THISyear’s panto was Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Lost and hungry little Goldilocks tucks into the bears’ porridge and has a snooze in their beds, as she does in all the conventional versions of the story – but then things take an unusual turn, with a (literal) sting in the tail... Infuriated by the villagers’ habit of guzzling all their honey, the Queen Bee and her minions (aided and abetted by Kevin the Wasp) decide to hypnotise the bears and use them to scare away the villagers! The result is a rip-roaring tale full of slapstick comedy, musical surprises, energetic dance routines, and the local references and truly cringeworthy puns that are the hallmarks of any good village panto.
Congratulations to everyone at Probus Parish Players for working so hard since September and putting on such a professional and thoroughly enjoyable production – and that includes all the unsung heroes backstage, as well as the performers. The team are taking a well-earned break now, but it won’t be long until they start planning next year’s extravaganza, so if you’d like to get involved, in whatever capacity, watch this space.
Below: Goldilocks (played by Lowena), contemplates tucking into the bears’ porridge. Opposite top: The three bears (Anthony White, Megan Russell and Grace) discover their breakfast has been disturbed. Opposite bottom: Some of the junior chorus singing ‘Life’s a happy song’.
Overleaf, clockwise from top left: Marge (played by Annie) and Auntie Septic (Pete Keam); Comedy duo Choppit (Sophie Baker) and Splinter (Becs Wilton); Bears’ chorus; Full cast.
Opposite, clockwise from top left: Goldilocks (Lowena); Tomtom (Isobel); Queen Bee (Sarah Wilson); Kevin the Wasp (Beth Pritchard). (Photos by Daisy Bassett)
This page, clockwise from above: The bees Penelobee (Lisa Phillips); Barnabee (Sam Vimes); Buzzbee (Lilia); Kevin (Beth Pritchard); Bear chorus (Iris, and Isaac).
Below: Stage manager (Naomi Buckland); Stage crew (Nicky Hughes, Dave Meggs, John Denyer, Brad
Brocklehurst, Harry Pritchard); Lighting crew (Katie and James from Dymond Audio); Follow spots (Ed and Harry), Prompt (Janice Denyer); Caller (Michelle Way); Director (Andrew Kennedy), Choreographer (Shannon Wignall). (Photos by Jon Hibberd)
Obituary - Malcolm John Lobb
By Joanne Cregan – Malcolm’s Daughter
MMALCOLM John Lobb grew up in School House in Probus, the son of Isabel and Leonard Lobb, the long-standing Headmaster of Probus School. He attended St Austell Grammar School from 1959, where he made many lasting friendships.
In 1971 Malcolm moved to London, where he married Rose before settling in Basingstoke, Hampshire. There he built a successful career in computer d electronics sales and marketing, retiring in 2014. He and Rose raised their family in Basingstoke, but Cornwall always remained close to his heart. Malcolm was always at his most-happiest when he was in Cornwall. All of his three children were frequent visitors to Probus to see Isabel, and this family connection with Cornwall has very much continued. His Two granddaughters, also spend time in Probus, with the youngest who is now studying at the Penryn Campus as part of her Exeter University degree.
His daughter Joanne has followed in Leonard’s footsteps and has had a successful career in education.
As a young man Malcolm was keenly sporty, with a particular love of football and cricket. He was a tremendously accurate bowler by all accounts!
He was a devoted follower of the Ashes and enjoyed watching Plymouth Argyle play, often sharing this interest with his brother David. Malcolm showed great strength and resilience throughout his life. After being diagnosed with myeloid leukaemia in the early 2000s, his brother David proved to be a stem cell match and Malcolm underwent a successful bone marrow transplant in
2001. His family remain deeply grateful for the treatment that gave them another 25 years with him and allowed him to see his grandchildren grow up. He later underwent a triple heart bypass and continued to face health challenges with characteristic full determination and excellent humour.
In December 2025 Malcolm suffered a stroke and passed away in January 2026 after complications resulting from this.
Malcolm was extremely proud of his Cornish heritage and his Probus roots, and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends. One of his lifelong friends, Mr John Bishop, who also attended St Austell Grammar School and grew up with him in the local area, spoke eloquently at his funeral service about their life-long friendship, and the importance of family heritage and relatives in all our lives.
Malcolm is truly missed by all his family and friends.
Malcolm John Lobb 7th June 1948 – 7th January 2026 (aged 77). Rest in Peace.
Restoration of the Sexton’s Hut
By Nick Lauder (PEAT)
NESTLED
in the tranquil grounds of British churchyards, the sexton’s hut is a modest yet vital structure. Traditionally, the sexton was responsible for maintaining the churchyard –digging graves, caring for pathways and tending the grounds. The hut served as both a sanctuary and a storeroom, housing essential tools and providing shelter during inclement weather. Architecturally, these huts reflect local materials and craftsmanship, often blending seamlessly into their surroundings. Today, many stand as quiet reminders of the practical and spiritual labour that sustains parish life, with some restored as heritage displays and others still serving their original purpose.
Restoration journey
For over 30 years, dedicated residents of Probus have worked tirelessly to restore the roof of our Sexton’s Hut. Their commitment has been crucial to the project’s success, and it is important to acknowledge and thank them for their invaluable contributions, especially given the increased costs associated with the building’s listed status and the constraints on materials. Special thanks are due to Richard Eslick and his craftsmen for completing the restoration under challenging winter conditions.
The late Steve Dalton played a pivotal role in securing a National Community Lottery grant, which, alongside support from the Benefact Trust, a legacy and some generous community donations, provided the necessary funding.
The restoration process included removing old cement mortar, repointing with lime (a traditional material that allows the building to breathe), installing a new A-frame, and fitting a new slate roof using some original graded slates. Heritage-style aluminium guttering, new leadwork and repurposed ridge tiles complete the transformation, returning the hut to its former glory.
The Probus Sexton’s Hut, marked with the date 1877 above its door, has now been preserved as an important piece of village heritage.
The church has generously designated the hut as the headquarters for PEAT (Probus Environmental Action Team), a community group focused on green projects and environmental stewardship. This role aims to foster greater community involvement and support for local initiatives.
How you can help
Restoration efforts for the Sexton’s Hut continue, and your support can make a real difference. Whether large or small, every contribution helps preserve this historic landmark and supports community initiatives.
Ways to donate
Please use this QR code to donate via Give a Little:
Or bank transfer: Probus Church
Sort Code: 30-98-76
Account: 59407468
• Card Donations: Available in the church.
• Gift Aid: Increase your donation by 25%! To obtain a Gift Aid form, email the Treasurer at treasurer@probus.church
Please specify that your donation is for the Sexton’s Hut restoration project.
Your generosity will help us to complete the hut’s window, install a stained-glass panel in memory of Steve Dalton, and ensure that this cherished building remains a part of our village heritage.
Photo credits: Jon Hibberd: the Sexton’s Hut before restoration (opposite) and after (below). Tim Joyce: roofing work in progress (above).
Storm Goretti
THEevening of Thursday 8th January will likely live long in the memory of many Probus residents. That was the evening Storm Goretti, an extremely powerful and destructive ‘extratropical cyclone’ impacted our little village, many other areas of Cornwall, the wider South West and other parts of western Europe. It was not the biggest storm to hit the area since the great storm of October 1987, but certainly in the top 10.
The Met Office had issued a red wind warning for parts of western Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, with peak gusts of 80–100 mph or more expected in exposed areas. An emergency alert was sent to hundreds of thousands across the South West.
As Storm Goretti hit, a wind gust of 99 mph was recorded at St Mary’s Airport on the Scilly Isles. The Coastwatch Station at Stepper Point, Padstow recorded an incredible wind speed of 123 mph just before 7:30 pm. In Probus, Ian Tofts recorded wind speeds in Church View Road/St Austell Road, that were generally in the mid-50s with occasional increased gusts, one of which peaked at 78.9 mph.
As the evening went on, the strong winds brought down multiple trees across the village. On Tregony Road, a large pine fell between Rock Cottage and Swallow Cottage, taking out power lines, blocking the road and causing power outages in parts of the village –some of which lasted several days.
Trees also came down in Ladock Road, and on Truck Hill and the B3275 was blocked between Truck and Ladock. Severe damage was being inflicted all over the area, and parts of Trewithen Estate was devastated where dozens of mature trees being brought down by the exceptionally strong winds.
The winds eased in the early hours and by morning the B3275 was opened and across the village a big clean-up was well under way. As you would hope and expect, in Probus, the community came together with offers of help being posted on social media straight away.
Probus News asked locals about their experiences; thanks to everyone who responded:
Susie Calvert – Lamellyn Farm:
‘It got a bit blowy! The chickens’ polytunnel destroyed, trees down left, right and centre, the tent we sell Christmas trees in folded in on itself
and a few sheets of galvanised ripped off a shed. On the plus side – the house was unscathed and we had a romantic candlelit game of Monopoly (until someone lost...). We are incredibly thankful to the friends who helped us get the polytunnel serviceable again. The tree clear-up is going to take some time’
Nik Budden – Chair, Probus Village Hall:
‘At 9:30pm the hall’s lettings manager had a call from the police – there was a major incident in Grampound and could we open Probus Village Hall for evacuees? Volunteers had no idea what to expect but swung into action, unlocking the hall, putting on the heating and finding supplies for lots of hot cuppas.
Within half an hour a steady stream of windswept and slightly shocked Grampound residents started to arrive, grateful for somewhere to shelter, a cup of tea and working WiFi to call loved ones.
A tree had fallen near the bridge in Grampound and the roots had ruptured the mains gas line. It took about two hours to isolate and repair, after which police allowed everyone home.
It could have been much longer and much worse, but thankfully it was a short and successful evacuation, without major incident. A positive community outcome amid the chaos and destruction!’
Sarah Hodge:
‘As someone who had no power for four days due to the fallen tree in Tregony Road, I am just incredibly grateful for the generosity of family, friends and neighbours. Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings we were with family or friends. Friends offered their house for us to
chill out in one afternoon, several loads of washing were done in different houses, freezer food hosted in freezers around the village. This generosity gives me hope. Even though we seem to be living in a divided country, when disaster strikes people do pull together. I also want to acknowledge the National Grid employees from ‘up country’ who came down to help with the reconnections, leaving their own families to help ours.’
Julie le Masurier:
‘We lost power until very late on the Sunday, which for us meant no water too. The romantic candlelight by the fireside was wearing a bit thin by the fourth night. But we did become experts at heating water on top of our log burner. A solar panel was smashed and it was sad to lose some trees, but different creatures already seem to the checking out the new prone habitats. The thing to make other folk wince... as of 14th February, we’re still without internet. We’re just grateful that everyone we know is safe.’
Val Forster:
‘The red warning rang out on our mobile phones around teatime on the day
of the storm. Then you realised it was serious! As the wind and rain picked up, you could hear the howling around the house. At the peak of the storm our hedge was blown horizontal and the glass-top patio table lifted and smashed to the ground as it was overturned. The whole sky filled with blue light, which we later learned was a tree hitting the power lines. We were lucky: no house damage and the power cuts were brief. Most of all, we were safe indoors, feeling grateful for the warning and those who were responding to emergencies. We were really impressed how quickly roads were cleared and the effort put into getting things back to normal.’
Marci Hughes:
‘Our dairy farm ground to a halt at midnight with no electricity, so no parlour lights or power to chill the milk and 200 cows in the elderly barns for safety. The roof stayed on –it could have been worse. But there was no milking at 4 am and, with no refrigeration, the milk in the dairy had to be thrown away. A generator arrived from a kind nearby farmer, but the milking got missed again while waiting for everything to chill down again. The main farmhouse and adjoining cottage
had no electricity for four days. My stepsons and four grandchildren went into survival mode and came to our cottage for showers and phone charging. We lost some faithful trees; the only upside is we will have free logs for the forseeable.’
Louise Miller:
‘From everyone I spoke to, the general feeling for Storm Goretti was “scary“. Several days later, we walked through the short cut to Trewithen and made the devastating discovery. I counted over 32 mature trees down with roots uplifted. These beautiful trees, mostly over 200 years old, gone, in a few hours. It’s a favourite walk for my family, and to see so much loss was heartbreaking.’
Sharon Axby:
‘As always, the people of Probus came together to support each other. The village is a real community where people offer to help and look after each other at all times – who would want to live anywhere else!’
Image credits: Jonathan Keam, Oliver Keam, Gary Molden, Jon Hibberd and Louise Miller.
Luncheon club
aurora borealis
by Emily Forster
ON19th January, some of you may have been lucky enough to see the Northern Lights over our village. The aurora is something we usually associate with Iceland or Northern Scotland, not here in the Southwest.
What we were seeing was the result of a powerful solar storm. A burst of energy had reached the earth’s atmosphere and disturbed our planet’s magnetic field strongly enough to push the aurora further south than usual.
The display didn’t arrive all at once. Early in the evening the first signs appeared as pale, misty-looking bands low in the sky. Between roughly 9 pm and midnight, the aurora became increasingly more impressive and these incredible photos display just how vibrant the colours can come through on camera.
The lights were visible well past 1 am in some areas. What made it memorable wasn’t just the rarity of the event, but the pace of it. There was plenty of time for the community to share the news and we were overwhelmed with all of the incredible photos you sent in.
Modern phones and cameras are far better at gathering in light than our eyes, and that is why this aurora was so much clearer on our screens than in person. When a camera takes a longexposure photo, its sensor collects light over several seconds rather than the fraction of a second our eyes use to form an image. That extra time is what allows faint colours, particularly greens and reds, to build up and become far more vivid in the final image.
As the sun is in its most active phase of its eleven-year cycle (solar maximum), solar flares are more likely to occur. As we are in the peak of this cycle, now is as good a time as any to be looking out for the Northern Lights.
Taken in Probus by 14yo SONNY
Taken in Tresillian, overlooking
Probus by JOSH SARA
Taken at the school by KAREN GLASSEN
Taken in Probus by VAL FORSTER
Taken on Ladock Road by NIK BUDDEN
Taken in Probus by 14yo SONNY
Secretaries: To publicise your meetings or events, let us know well in advance and we will include details here. The contact details for all groups/clubs/ societies can be found on page 8.
Acoustic Night Upstairs Last Monday of the month at PCC, starting at 7:30 pm.
Badminton Club: 8 pm every Monday at PVH.
Bookworms Book Club: 7 pm on the third Tuesday of every month. Get in touch for details of the venue and book to be discussed.
Breakfast Club: Monday 9th March, 9 am at Grigg’s Restaurant, Sticker. Everyone welcome – book your place via John Denyer – see page 8.
Coffee ‘n’ Chat: Every Tuesday morning from 10 am to noon at Probus Church. Open to everyone, young and old, church-goer or not.
Cornwall Music Festival at Truro Methodist Church. Monday 16th March to Saturday 21st March.
Friendship Group: MHA Communities Cornwall is open to folk 55+ on the 1st Thursday monthly from 10 am to noon at PVH.
Luncheon Club: MHA Communities Cornwall is open to folk 55+ on alternate Wednesdays from noon to 2 pm at PVH. The next lunch is on Wednesday 4th and 18th March, followed by 7th and 21st 29th April.
Mid Cornwall Wood Turners Club: Meet the first Tuesday of every month 7–9:30 pm with demonstrations and competitions. Training nights on the third Tuesday of the month at PVH.
Mobile library: Next visits are on Friday 20th March, 17th April, 15th May at PVH car park between 11:30 am and 12:15 pm.
Probus Club of Probus: Coffee meeting on Thursday 19th March, at 10 am. New members welcome.
Probus Historic Cornwall Society: Next meeting is on Monday 9th March Speaker Samantha Banes from Historic England on ‘Listing Historic Buildings’. We have many in Probus. Monday 13th April Speaker Barry West on ‘George Fox, Father of the Quakers Gaolbird and Traveller’
Probus Knit and Natter Group: Every Wednesday 10 am at PCC.
Probus Litter Pickers: First Saturday of each month at 10 am. Meet at PVH.
Probus Parish Council: Meet on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Next meeting is on 19th March, 7 pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend and are given 15 minutes public participation. www.probusparishcouncil.gov.uk.
Probus Pedallers: Leave from the surgery every Sunday at 9 am. The more leisurely group leaves at 10 am.
Probus Walking Group: Every Wednesday 9 am or 9:30 am start. Every Friday for shorter walks 10 am. New members always welcome.
W e h a v e l o t s p l a n n e d ! A f t e r n o o n t e a o n t h e 1 4 M a r c h b e t w e e n 1 2 p m a n d 4 p m ! I n c l u d i n g
T r a d i t i o n a l ( £ 2 5 f o r t w o ) , C h a m p a g n e ( £ 3 5 f o r t w o ) a n d C h i l d r e n ’ s ( £ 1 5 f o r t w o )
t h “ T h e M u m , T h e M y t h , T h e L e g e n d . ” - D r a g B i n g o C a b a r e t o n t h e 1 4 t h f r o m 7 : 3 0 p m
t h
1 5 M a r c h : M o t h e r ’ s D a y S u n d a y L u n c h , £ 2 5 p p i n c l u d e s a s p e c i a l g i f t f o r M u m ! C h i l d r e n :
£ 8 9 5 a n d i n c l u d e s f r e e i c e c r e a m ! B o o k n o w !
O f f T h e H o o k w i l l b e j o i n i n g u s o n t h e
2 8 o f M a r c h ! S t a r t t i m e 8 : 3 0 p m . t h
B o o k t o d i n e w i t h u s b e f o r e h a n d f o r
w h a t p r o m i s e s t o b e a f a n t a s t i c n i g h t !
M a r c h 1 7 t h
B U Y O N E G E T O N E
H A L F P R I C E
O N G U I N N E S S !
S t a r t e r a n d a M a i n o r a M a i n a n d a
D e s s e r t f o r j u s t £ 2 0
f r o m o u r S u n d a y M e n u !
B O O K Y O U R T A B L E T O D A Y
Continuing with the Rugby Six Nations
Join us for the remaining games and enjoy the delicious food served by Ondine at all England games!
St Pirans Day 5th March enjoy a pasty and a pint wearing your finest Cornish attire!
St Patricks Day March 17th
UPCOMING EVENTS
We’re still buzzing from the phenomenal response to our upcoming KERNOASIS night on May 2nd! The demand has been incredible and its set to be a massive evening celebrating the iconic sound of Oasis.
Supported by TALEN JACKS
If you haven’t secured yours yet – there are still some tickets available, but they won’t be around for long!
THE RETURN OF OUR ALE FESTIVAL - BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND
We’re thrilled to announce the return of our Ale Festival 22nd to 24th May. Bigger, better, and packed with entertainment, it’s the perfect way to kick off Summer!
Contact us if you would like to sponsor a barrel!
Plus ……..lots more too come!
Roseland area u3a
March activities
French Conversation: Monday 2nd and 16th March 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc, Tregony.
Local History: Wednesday 4th, 10:15–noon in the Church Hall, Tregony, ‘The Beginnings of Cornish Tourism’.
Scrabble: Monday 9th 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Book Club: Wednesday 18th 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Strum for Fun: Monday 23rd, 2–4 pm at the Pavilion, Roseland Parc.
Craft Group: Friday 13th and 27th 9:30 am at Probus Village Hall.
There will be no Classic Film this month. u3aroselandanddistrict.weebly.com
Probus Bowling Club THE
Bowling Club is delighted to announce that its annual Presentation Dinner will take place at their Clubhouse on Friday 27th March at 6:30 pm. A chance to bring members together for an evening of celebration and recognition to honour the achievements of players across all competitions.
Probus FC
PROBUS
FC First team sit 12th in the Kernow Stone St Piran League – Division 1 West. Played 13, won 5, drawn 1, lost 7 with 16 points. By the time you read this, Probus First team will hopefully have played two away fixtures: a ‘six-pointer’ against 13thplaced Wendron United 3rds, followed by a tough fixture against league leaders Dropship 1st, who are currently 17 games unbeaten this season. Still all records are there to be broken!
Two divisions below, Probus Reserves (pictured opposite top) sit 12th in the Kernow Stone St Piran League – Division 3 West. Played 15, won 5, drawn 1, lost 9 with 16 points. At the time of writing, the Reserves have fixtures home to 2nd place Mullion 2nd and away to 10th place Mawgan 1st.
(Correct as of 17th February).
https://fulltime.thefa.com/fixtures.html? then search for Kernow Stone St Piran League
A botanical legacy. A living history.
Discover the rich legacy of plant hunters and horticulturalists at Cornwall’s beloved ‘house of the trees’.
Trudgian Farm Shop
Central Heating Systems, Bathroom Design and Tiling, Leadwork, Boiler Servicing and Commissioning, Solar Hot Water Systems, Unvented Pressure Systems, Repairs and Maintenance
OFTEC Registered Unvented Registered Water Authority Approved Chris
