Wednesday, 10 December 2014

A Christmassy Weekend Ahead In St Ives


A Christmassy Weekend In St Ives


A very Christmassy weekend ahead in St Ives - with some great seasonal events to enjoy.

Tomorrow (Thursday 11th December 2014) - 4.30 pm to 9.00 pm.
Christmas Festival - Tate St Ives.
Free admission to the galleries, food, bar, films, carols.

Friday (12th December) - 6.30 pm.
Christmas Lights Switch On - Penameyne Court.
The mayor will switch on one of the best Christmas lights displays in town. Food, drink, music and meet Santa.

Friday (12th December) - 7.00 pm.
A Christmas Cracker - St Ives Parish Church.
A celebration of Christmas music with local choirs.

Saturday (13th December) - 7.30 pm.
A Country Christmas - St Ives Arts Club.
A celebration of rural winter life past and present.
St Ives singer-songwriters Dee & Dave Brotherton and film maker Alban Roinard.

Sunday (14th December) - 3.00 pm.
A Christmas Concert - St Ives Guildhall.
The town's traditional community celebration - with local bands and choirs.

While you are in town you can enjoy the wonderful Christmas lights around the harbour - thanks to the St Ives fishermen.

To see how lovely Christmas in St Ives was last year - watch my film:
St Ives In December

More Christmas events to follow - full listings on:
St Ives Cornwall - What's On

Monday, 8 December 2014

Christmas Gifts - Made In St Ives

Christmas Gifts - Made In St Ives
Christmas Gifts - Made In St Ives
If you are looking for some lovely genuine hand-made in St Ives Christmas gifts - here are some ideas.

The little troop of elephants above is hand-made by Jo -
Knit One Weave One. These will appeal to children of all ages - and each is personalised with a message to the new little elephant keeper - such as:
"My name is Daisy. I like climbing trees, eating chocolate and splashing in mud."
Jo also has gift vouchers available to buy online - these can be used for any of her hand-made gifts or for her textile art workshops:
St Ives - Christmas Gift Vouchers

St Ives Bunting - a lovely range of bunting for all occasions - including festive bunting - all lovingly hand-made. They have a range available to buy off the shelf and also undertake commissions if you want something special and individually made for you.

Cornwall Naturally - hampers and gift bags full of natural Cornish goodies - with three ranges - Cornish Kitchen, Cornish Garden and Cornish Pampering.

Sharon McSwiney - beautiful and individual hand-made in St Ives jewellery and metalwork. Commissions undertaken. Available from her shop in The Drill Hall on Royal Square and from:
Sharon McSwiney - Etsy Shop





Saturday, 6 December 2014

St Ives In December - Christmas 2014

St Ives Cornwall - Christmas Lights


Christmas is almost upon us and there is lots going on in town.

The Christmas lights and Christmas trees are up and looking wonderful.

Lots of Christmas events are planned through December - including markets, Christmas panto, puppet shows, exhibitions, carol services and concerts.

I'll be posting details of more events soon - you can see full listings on:
St Ives Cornwall - What's On

Its not too late to book a Christmas or New Years Eve break in St Ives:
St Ives Cornwall - Last Minute Holidays

To see how magical Christmas here can be take a look at:
St Ives Cornwall - Photo Gallery - Christmas

More Christmas news and photos coming soon.

Friday, 31 October 2014

St Ives - What's On This Weekend

Scully Racing - St Ives Cornwall
Scully Racing - St Ives Harbour


This weekend and the week ahead in St Ives.

Tonight (Friday 31st October 2014) - Rollers Roller Disco at St Ives Guildhall. Four sessions today - all with a Halloween theme:
  • Family Skate - 3.00 pm.
  • Under 11s and Families - 5.00 pm.
  • Teen Skate - 6.30 pm.
  • Over 18s Skate Party - 8.30 pm.
Info and tickets on:

On Saturday (1st Nov 2014) - Scully Racing returns to St Ives Harbour. St Ives Jumbo association have re-introduced this old tradition to St Ives as a competitive sport. Teams from around Cornwall will be competing against the locals.

Racing starts at 12.30 pm - from the slipway opposite The Sloop Inn. Beginners are welcome to take part - free training sessions will be available from 11.00 am.

If you'd like to know more about Scully Racing take a look at:
Film - Scully Racing - St Ives Harbour

Lots more to look forward to during the coming week - including various exhibitions, St Ives Jazz Club and Bonfire Night fireworks on Porthminster Beach. Full listings on:

Looking further ahead - the legendary Dr Feelgood are coming to St Ives Guildhall on Wednesday 12th November - info and tickets here:
Dr Feelgood - St Ives Guildhall

Thursday, 23 October 2014

St Ives Guildhall - Big Weekend

St Ives Guildhall - What's On
St Ives Guildhall - What's On


A big weekend coming up at St Ives Guildhall - with something to enjoy every day.

Tomorrow night (Friday 24th October 2014) - Rollers Roller Disco will be rolling as they do every Friday. Three sessions for all ages from 5.00 pm. They are also planning two special events. Next Friday (31st Oct) - Halloween Fancy Dress - four sessions from 3.00 pm. Friday 14th November - Children In Need Fundraiser - four sessions from 4.00 pm. More info and tickets on:
Rollers Roller Disco Website

On Saturday night (25th Oct) -  Oye Santana return to St Ives. They received a tremendous reception and rave reviews last time they performed here - so well worth going down to see. Tickets available on the door or you can book online here:
CRBO  - Tickets - Oye Santana

On Sunday afternoon (26th Oct) - to kick off the half term holidays for kids and families - Squashbox Theatre - Stones and Bones. The show starts at 2.30 pm - tickets on the door or online here:
CRBO - Tickets - Squashbox Theatre

Squashbox return to The Guildhall on Tuesday 23rd December with The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! A perfect family day out as the day starts with St Ives Farmers Christmas Market. Free entry to the market - tickets for the show already on sale here:
CRBO - Tickets - Squashbox Theatre Christmas Show

Looking ahead to November - more live music at The Guildhall - Dr Feelgood - Dire Streets. Details and tickets here:
St Ives Guildhall - What's On - November

Looking further ahead to December - lots on at The Guildhall and all around town - including Show Of Hands - various Christmas Markets including Fair Mo - Christmas Panto - lots more - listings on:
St Ives In December - What;s On

Tuesday, 7 October 2014

St Ives Jazz Club - Autumn Programme

St Ives Jazz Club
St Ives Jazz Club


St Ives Jazz Club kick off their Autumn season tonight with Trish Clowes’ Quartet.

They will then be staging top class modern jazz every Tuesday night through to 16th December - when they hold their Christmas Party Dance Extravaganza with Pedalmania.

Other performers include:
  • Moonlight Saving Time
  • Peter King
  • The Meier Group
  • Stekpanna
Full listings are on:
St Ives Jazz Club - Website

For more details of events around town visit:
St Ives Cornwall - What's On

Monday, 6 October 2014

Please Support SurfHouse St Ives

Tassy Swallow - SurfHouse St Ives
Tassy Swallow - SurfHouse St Ives


Tassy Swallow - a 20 year old pro surfer from St Ives - is aiming to raise £10,000 in just 4 weeks - to transform a disused iconic building on The Island into a home - SurfHouse - for her surf education project - Tassy's Surf Ratz.

This is much more than a conservation project.

Tassy's Surf Ratz is 'a surf education project I set up for local girls aged 6-16 in 2012. Surf Ratz aims to help young girls develop their self-confidence, a positive body image, and a strong sense of their individual identity during this important stage of their lives through surfing.'

This is a theme close to my heart - as a parent of two St Ives girls (now both in London) myself.

SurfHouse will also be available for use by other youth and community groups

So - please support Tassy and her wonderful project!

You can get involved via her Crowd-funding site. You can contribute anything from £1 to £10,000 - and every contribution comes with a reward. These include signed books by St Ives author Liz Kessler, surfing lessons and coaching, Cornish art, meals out, holidays and much more.

For much more information about the project - and to add your contribution - please visit:
SurfHouse St Ives - Crowd-Funding Page

You can also join the project on
SurfHouse St Ives - Facebook

Wednesday, 1 October 2014

St Ives September Festival 2015

St Ives September Festival
St Ives September Festival


Dates for St Ives September Festival 2015 have been confirmed as:
Saturday 12th to Saturday 26th,

Planning for next year has already started and events will be announced in due course.

I'll be posting the latest news - plus photos and films of the 2014 festival - on the festival social media channels:


If you have any nice photos or films of the festival please do post them on the festival Facebook page so that we can share them.

Alban and Morag - St Ives Community TV - have been out around the festival this year and have produced some wonderful films. You can view them on:
St Ives TV - St Ives September Festival

Monday, 29 September 2014

St Ives Guildhall - October 2014

St Ives Guildhall - October 2014


I've just updated the St Ives Guildhall website - with the programme for Autumn 2014.

October features live music and theatre:
  • Curved Air - Saturday 18th October.
  • Oye Santana - Saturday 25th October.
  • Squashbox Theatre - Sunday 26th October.
There is also another Free For All on Saturday 11th October. Bring along your unwanted household items (excluding electrical goods) - take away any items that you need.

Rollers Roller Disco continues to roll every Friday.

Also the regular markets - Fair Wednesday and St Ives Farmers Market.

Looking ahead - there is more scheduled for November and December - including - Dr Feelgood - Dire Streets - Show Of Hands - The Rat Pack.

Tickets are available from St Ives Visitor Information Centre and online from CRBO.

Details and links to tickets are on:

Thursday, 4 September 2014

Boats In The Bay - St Ives Harbour

Boats In The Bay - St Ives Cornwall
Boats In The Bay - St Ives Cornwall


This Saturday (6th September 2014) - Boats In The Bay - a host of events in and around St Ives Harbour.

Organised by St Ives Jumbo Association - to celebrate the maritime heritage of our town.

The day will see the launch of a new Sailing Punt designed and built by local boat-builder Jonny Nance.  In keeping with all the boats launched by the Jumbo Association, pastor Matthew Care will bless the new arrival during a brief ceremony due to begin on the Old Slipway at around 12.30pm.

From 2.00 pm classic old sailing boats will assemble in St Ives Harbour and St Ives Bay. Locally-based boats will be joined by original and much larger luggers such as Barnabas SS634, built in St.Ives in 1881 by Henry Trevorrow and the Happy Return which was built by Kittos of Porthleven in 1905.

The annual St Ives Swimming Gala gets underway from the Old Slipway at 3.00 pm.

This will be followed by Scully Racing in the harbour - featuring replica St Ives Punts. Prizes will be presented by St Ives Mayor Linda Taylor at 7.00 pm on the plat outside the Shore Shelter.

The evening continues at the Castle Inn on Fore St. - where you can meet the crews and join in with The Cadgwith Singers.

Tuesday, 2 September 2014

St Ives September Festival - Latest News

St Ives September Festival 2014
St Ives September Festival 2014


Only a few days to go to the start of St Ives September Festival (sponsored by Cornish Gems).

The festival  opens on Saturday 13th and runs to to Saturday 27th September - with a host of events all around town.

Tickets are now on sale - available over the counter at St Ives Visitor Information Centre and at tourist information centres across Cornwall. You can also book online here -
St Ives September Festival - Tickets

Two gigs - Steve Knightley and Fisherman's Friends - have already sold out - so it might be a good idea to secure tickets for your favourite events now.

Festival programmes are available from St Ives VIC and
The Coffee Lounge on Tregenna Hill. You can also download a copy  from the festival website:
St Ives September Festival 2014 - Programme

The programme this year is bigger than ever - with 300+ events at venues all around town. Full listings - by date and by venue - are on:
St Ives September Festival - Website

For the latest festival news visit:
St Ives September Festival - Facebook
St Ives September Festival - Twitter

Friday, 22 August 2014

Live Music - St Ives Guildhall

Live Music - St Ives Guildhall
Live Music - St Ives Guildhall


A big week of live music coming up at St Ives Guildhall - with four gigs to enjoy.
  • Saturday 23rd August - Atomic Blondie
  • Sunday 24th August - The Music Of John Denver
  • Thursday 28th August - Almost The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band
  • Saturday 30th August - The Martin Barre Band
More details and tickets can be found on:

Full listings of events in St Ives over the coming week can be found on:

Thursday, 7 August 2014

St Ives Lifeboat Day

St Ives Cornwall - Lifeboat Day
St Ives Cornwall - Lifeboat Day


Today in St Ives - events and activities all around the harbour for Lifeboat Day.

Fun things to enjoy for all - and a fundraiser for our lifeboat station.

Stalls - food, home-made cakes, arts, crafts.

Lifeboat launch at 2.30 pm - rescue helicopter flies in at 2.45 pm.
(times may change according to conditions).

Its looking like another hot sunny day in St Ives - so well worth getting down to the harbour.

Latest news and info on:
St Ives RNLI - Lifeboat Day - Facebook

Monday, 4 August 2014

St Ives - Creative Activities - Families - Children

Kids Creative Workshop - Collage Coasters
Kids Creative Workshop - Collage Coasters


With the holiday season in full swing - there are quite a few things on in St Ives this week for families and kids.

Fore Street Methodist Church are running a Holiday Club for primary school age children. At the Old Sunday School just off Fore Street - 10.00 am to 12.00 pm daily until Friday.

Barnoon Workshop are running drop-in Family Arts and Crafts Workshops - just turn up at any time from 10.30 am and allow 1 to 2 hours.

Tate St Ives are running a number of family activities - including Beach Art Explorers on Porthmeor Beach on Tuesday 5th August.

Jo McIntosh is running a creative workshop for kids - at St Ives Library. Collage Coasters - Friday 8th August - 10.30 to 12.30. Call in at the library to book.

Full listings of things to do can be found on:
St Ives Cornwall - What's On

Saturday, 2 August 2014

Live Music - St Ives Guildhall

Live Music at St Ives Guildhall
Live Music at St Ives Guildhall


Its rumoured that Mick has been spotted occasionally at The Sloop - sometimes sharing a pint of Doom Bar and the latest goss with fellow St Ives habitués David Bowie and Johnny Depp.

But is not often that he brings the rest of his mates down to Cornwall - so tonight - don't miss out!

St Ives Guildhall - doors open at 7.30 pm. Tickets available from St Ives Visitor Information Centre - also on the door.

More info ...... here.

Thursday, 31 July 2014

Five Great Days Trips From St Ives

Geevor Tin Mine - Pendeen Cornwall
Geevor Tin Mine - Pendeen Cornwall


St Ives is a fantastic place to enjoy a break in the UK and you can certainly relax in the town and have a wonderful time without leaving. However, St Ives is within easy reach of many of Cornwall’s premier attractions that are ideal for a great day trip. If you are looking for some inspiration then have a look at the five ideas below…

1. Geevor Tin Mine
This preserved tin mining site, is full of original workings and though it has been closed since 1990 it eerily looks as if its workers have just left it for the weekend. At just a thirty minute drive from St Ives on the scenic coast road, it is a great trip for family members of all ages with a fantastic museum with well presented displays that tell the story of the history of the mine.

The underground tours offered are excellent and really give the visitor a great opportunity to learn about what the miners went through working this somewhat unforgiving lifestyle to deliver everyday commodities that are often taken for granted.

2. Paradise Park
Children will love the award winning Paradise Park where they can marvel at the hundreds of species of birds. There are many free shows and feeding displays; the free flying bird show with its low flying birds is a must see. Other wildlife at the park includes red squirrels, penguins, donkeys and rabbits.

The journey from St Ives is only twenty minutes and you can easily spend the whole day at Paradise Park enjoying the wildlife, having a picnic on one of the many picnic tables and letting the kids enjoy the Jungle Barn Play Area.

3. Eden Project
Slightly further away from St Ives, but well worth a visit, the Eden Project is the world’s largest indoor rainforest and will never fail to impress its visitors. More than just a visitor attraction, The Eden Project is also a hub for scientific research and builds awareness on issues such as energy saving and recycling.

The attraction is made up of several domes, which have been built to imitate two types of artificial biomes; a Tropical Biome and a Mediterranean Biome. There are thousands of species of plants living in the domes and walking along the sky wire and travelling along the zip wire are unique and enjoyable experiences.

If you’re visiting St Ives with a large group of family and friends then this makes a fantastic day out. (You can also find some large accommodation options here.)

4. Isles of Scilly
St Ives is in a prime location for a day trip to the Scilly Isles, a collection of beautiful islands with stunning scenery and a relaxing laid back atmosphere. The islands are almost within touching distance from the coast of Cornwall but you really will feel like you are in another country! On the boat on the way to the island you will sail past many fantastic sites including Newlyn, Mousehole and the Wolf Rock Lighthouse. Take your walking shoes so that you can have a proper walk around when you get there to really absorb as much of this idyllic setting as possible.

Trips to the Scilly Isles can be booked with Oates Travel St Ives who offer a coach directly from St Ives to Penzance Quay where you will board the boat.

5. Lands End
Just a forty-five minute drive away from St Ives is the most westerly point of England, Lands End. Perfect for a sunny day, all you need to do is simply park up your car and then walk around taking in the stunning coastal scenery. You can either pack up a picnic for the day, or stop and enjoy some food from one of the eating establishments.  Don’t forget to have your photograph taken next to the famous Lands End sign!

There is obviously plenty to see and do in Cornwall and close to St Ives, but these are some of our favourites which should be high on your list if you only have a short time in the area.

Tuesday, 3 June 2014

Peninsul'Art - Exhibition and Events

Peninsul'Art - St Ives Cornwall
Peninsul'Art - St Ives Cornwall


A day of arts events in St Ives this weekend - on Sunday 8th June - Peninsul'Art.

A unique twinning collaboration of exhibitions featuring t-shirts customised by artists in St Ives Cornwall and Camaret-sur-Mer Brittany, with music and dance throughout the town.

Events start at 11.00 am with an exhibition of the t-shirts at St Ives Arts Club, Penwith Gallery, St Ives Society Of Artists, St Ives School Of Painting and around town.

At 2.00 there will be a reception at St Ives Guildhall with a greeting by The Mayor and music from Bagas Porthia.

Throughout the afternoon there will be music and dancing around town - at locations including Tate St Ives Loggia, Mariners Gallery and Penwith Gallery.

Events conclude in the evening with Nos Lowen – Cornish Happy Night - with music and dancing at St Ives Arts Club from 8.00 pm. Admission is £2.00 on the door (BYO wine).

Saturday, 24 May 2014

St Ives Guildhall - This Weekend

St Ives Guildhall - What's On This Weekend
St Ives Guildhall - What's On This Weekend


Two great events at St Ives Guildhall this weekend.

Today (Saturday 24th May 2014) - Rollers Roller Disco. Two afternoon sessions of fun skating, music and games:
  • Families and under 12's - 1.00 to 2.30.
  • Families and over 12's - 2.30 to 4.00
This is a fundraiser for St Uny School - so well worth supporting. Tickets are £5.00 - on the door or online from:
Rollers Roller Disco

If you don't have your own skates you can hire them.

Roller Discos then continue - every Friday at The Guildhall - 3 sessions from 5.00 pm to 11.00 pm.

Tomorrow night (Sunday 25th) - live music - Speaking In Tongues - Talking Heads Tribute. The band was formed by two rabid Talking Heads fans and they have enlisted the finest funk players to refresh The Heads classics with their tasty licks. 

'This show is a passionate and energetic tribute to the acclaimed New Yorkers. The band are top class!' The Observer.

You can find out more about the band on:
Speaking In Tongues - Facebook

Tickets are £9.00 (adv) / £10.00 (door) - available on the door, over the counter at St Ives Visitor Information Centre or online from:
Cornish Riviera Box Office

Also worth noting - The Mex Restaurant St Ives - just a short step from The Guildhall and is open from 5.30 pm. - so perfect for a post-Roller Disco or pre-Talking Heads meal - plus a few Mexican beers if you want them. Family friendly - kids are absolutely welcome. Menu includes a good range of vegetarian and vegan options. To book call - 01736 797 658 - more info is on:
The Mex St Ives - Website
The Mex St Ives - Facebook

More about events and entertainment in St Ives Cornwall during half-term week can be found on:
St Ives Cornwall - What's On

Thursday, 15 May 2014

St Ives Guildhall - What's On

What's On - St Ives Guildhall
What's On - May 2014 - St Ives Guildhall


Three events coming up at St Ives Guildhall.
  • Martin Turner - The Music Of Wishbone Ash - Sat 17 May.
  • Rollers Roller Disco - St Uny School Fundraiser - Sat 24 May.
  • Speaking In Tongues - Talking Heads Tribute - Sun 25 May
Tickets for Martin Turner and Speaking In Tongues available now from:
Cornish Riviera Box Office

Tickets for Rollers available now from:
Rollers Roller Disco Website

Tuesday, 6 May 2014

St Ives Lights - Meeting Tonight

St Ives Cornwall - Decorative Lights
St Ives Cornwall - Decorative Lights


You may have read in the local press that the decorative lights - strung around the streets of St Ives and loved by many - are under threat.

Cornwall Council were proposing to remove them - permanently - to save money.

Fortunately St Ives Town Council have now stepped in - taking responsibility for the lights - at least on an interim basis.

What is needed now is a fund raising effort - current estimates are that it will take around £35k to repair and modernise the lights. This includes sorting out the electrics and replacing the bulbs with modern low energy LEDs.

Town councillor Ron Tulley has organised a meeting the get this rolling.

Tonight - 6.00 pm - Cafe Art - Royal Square. All welcome.


Sunday, 4 May 2014

St Ives Blues Festival

St Ives Blues Festival
St Ives Blues Festival


Café Art St Ives are staging a five day Blues Festival - starting on Saturday 10th May.

The line-up so far includes these legends from the St Ives Delta:
  • Saturday 10th May - 5.00 pm - Hokum Boys
  • Monday 12th May - 4.00 pm - Bernie Davis
  • Tuesday 13th May - 4.00 pm - Buffalo Bill Smith
  • Wednesday 14th May - 4.00 pm - Adrian Vranch
Plus of course - the best coffee in town and wonderful home made cakes.

More info can be found on:
Café Art - Facebook

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

St Ives Guildhall - What's On - April

St Ives Guildhall - Events - April - May 2014
St Ives Guildhall - Events - April 2014


Lots of events coming up at St Ives Guildhall over through April and the Easter holidays.

The month kicks of with two great - and contrasting gigs.

Stackridge - "the missing jewel in the crown that is British pop music" - Sunday 6th April.

The Thee Belles - Sing Sing Sing - a nostalgic trip back to the 1940s Home Front - Saturday 12th April.

After that a varied programme of comedy, theatre and sport:
  • Johnny Cowling - Wednesday 23rd April.
  • Open Road Theatre - Thursday 24th April.
  • St Ives Amateur Boxing - Saturday 26th April.
As every month - Rollers Roller Disco will be open every Friday - three sessions:
  • Under 11s and Families - 5.00 pm.
  • Over 11s Teen Skate - 6.30 pm.
  • Over 18s Disco Party - 8.30 pm.
Finally - four markets:
  • Collectables Market - every Monday.
  • Craft Market - Tuesday 15th April.
  • Craft and General Market - every Wednesday (from 9th April).
  • St Ives Farmers Market - every Thursday.
Full details - and links to buy tickets - are on:
St Ives Guildhall Website - What's On

Tuesday, 18 February 2014

St Piran's Day Parade - St Ives

St Piran's Day Parade - St Ives
St Piran's Day Parade - St Ives


The St Ives Procession to mark St Piran’s Day - the feast of the patron saint of Cornwall - will be held on Saturday 1st March 2014.

Starting at 2.00 pm and leaving from St Ives Guildhall - processing on a route along the harbour and through the town.

St Piran’s Day itself falls on Wednesday 5th March - but it has been noted by the town council that a parade on that day would clash with other events. It would also limit the number of people that could take part - being on a school / work day.

Anyone taking part is invited to wear black and white if they wish to do so. Also to bring along a black and white St Piran’s Flag.

One and all are welcome.

'The Mayor and fellow town councillors welcome this opportunity for everyone to demonstrate how proud they are to live in Cornwall, and especially pride in living / working in St Ives, and so they look forward to welcoming you.'

If you are representing a group or organisation - please contact St Ives Town Council in advance if possible. This will help with planning and give some idea of numbers. But otherwise do feel free to turn up on the day and take part.

Also - volunteer marshalls would be very welcome.

Contact Jeremy Ward - Assistant Town Clerk:
admin.stivestowncouncil@googlemail.com
01736 797 840

Should be a wonderful afternoon - look forward to seeing you there.

Friday, 14 February 2014

What's On - St Ives Cornwall - February 2014



Lots to enjoy in St Ives over half term week and through February.

Some highlights in the film above including:
  • Kids and teenagers activities,
  • Exhibitions.
  • Arts workshops.
  • Live music.
  • Theatre.
Comprehensive listings can be found on:


Tuesday, 4 February 2014

Valentines Gifts From St Ives

Valentines Gifts - St Ives Cornwall
Valentines Gifts - St Ives Cornwall


If you are looking for some original hand made Valentines Day gifts from St Ives - here are couple of ideas.

Sharon McSwiney - who has a shop in The Drill Hall St Ives - makes beautiful jewellery and other metal decorative items. She made the Lovebirds pictured above.

Jo McIntosh makes lovely textiles including bags, hats and scarves. She made the fabric heart pictured above.

Textile Art Workshops - St Ives Cornwall
Textile Art Workshops - St Ives Cornwall

If you're not sure what to buy - another great idea is a
Textile Art Gift Voucher.

Jo offers these in a range of values - they can be used for a textile art workshop - Jo has a programme of these running through the year in St Ives. So your loved one can choose a date to suit them - great fun and a chance to get creative !

The next workshop in St Ives is on Sunday 9th February - Crazy Patchwork Hearts - contact Jo for info or to book a place: -
01736 797 122
jo.mcintosh@knitweave.co.uk

Friday, 31 January 2014

St Ives BID - Final Proposal Published

St Ives BID - Final Proposal
St Ives BID - Final Proposal


St Ives BID is a proposal to raise money from a 2% compulsory business rates levy - to be paid by all businesses and organisations with a rateable value of £5000 or more.

They have now published their full proposal online.

The money raised will be spent on a programme of projects - scheduled over 5 years - that aim to improve the business environment in town. This is estimated at £150,000 per year.

All businesses affected will be able to vote on the proposal in April 2014. If a majority approve - everybody will have to pay the levy - even if they voted against.

Also - an important note for charities and voluntary groups in St Ives - quoting from the BID Proposal -

"12) Premises occupied by charities or non-profit making organisations, will be liable for the full BID levy. The exception to this is voluntary groups and charities with no commercial activities, schools, surgeries and hospitals; these organisations will not be liable for the levy."

If you are involved in a local non-profit organisation don't assume that you won't be affected. The definition of "no commercial activities" is open to interpretation. It would be in your interests to get involved and find out. You may also need to consult your members about which way to vote.

You can read the proposal in full here:
St Ives BID - Final Proposal

The BID Steering Group are hosting an "Information Event" on 27th February 2014 at St Ives Theatre 6.00 pm for 6.30 pm (prompt). A chance to learn more and have your say. Details and RSVP here:
St Ives BID - News

Some local businesses have set up a Facebook page to encourage debate and present all sides of the argument - you can get involved and join the debate here::
The BID Debate - St Ives

Thursday, 30 January 2014

Minack Theatre - 2014 Programme

The Minack Theatre - Porthcurno
The Minack Theatre - Porthcurno


One of my favourite trips out of St Ives is to The Minack Theatre at Porthcurno.

A completely unique venue - a theatre cut into the rock and overlooking the sea.

They have just published their programme for Spring and Summer 2014.

The season opens on 14th April with a production of the musical Grease by St Ives company Kidz R Us Youth Theatre.

It then continues through to September with a range of entertainment including theatre and live music.

Full details can be found on:
Minack Theatre - Programme

One of the best ways to get to the Minack from is by coach - with reserved seats included in the price - departures from St Ives every week through the season with:
Oates Travel - St Ives Cornwall - Coach and Tour Operator

Wednesday, 29 January 2014

Textile Art Workshops In St Ives

Textile Art Workshop - Crazy Patchwork Hearts
Textile Art Workshop - Crazy Patchwork Hearts


Jo McIntosh - Knit One Weave One - has a new programme of Textile Art Workshops - running in St Ives over the coming months.

The next has a Valentines Day theme - Crazy Patchwork Hearts - Sunday 9th February.

Then on Tuesday 18th February - Silk Papermaking.

Great fun - a chance to get creative and learn something new. Cost is just £15.00 per person - including all materials.

The full programme is on:
Knit One Weave One - Craft Workshops and Classes

If you would like to buy a gift voucher for a friend or loved one who would enjoy a workshop - you can get one online here. A perfect Valentines Day gift:
Knit One Weave One - Gift Vouchers

Creative Textiles Course - St Ives Cornwall
Creative Textiles Course - St Ives Cornwall

Jo is also running a ten week Creative Textiles Course in St Ives - starting on Wednesday 5th March. Get in touch for more information:
01736 797 122
jo.mcintosh@knitweave.co.uk

Tuesday, 28 January 2014

St Ives Jazz Club - Winter Programme

St Ives Jazz Club
St Ives Jazz Club


St Ives Jazz Club re-opens tonight after a short Winter break.

Tonight at The Western Hotel - Christine Tobin Trio.

Doors open at 8.00 pm - music from 9.00 pm till late.

Entry is £12.00 / £8.00 (members).

The club will be staging top class modern jazz every Tuesday through the year.

Full details of the 2014 programme are on:
St Ives Jazz Club - Website

Saturday, 25 January 2014

St Ives Business Improvement District (BID)

St Ives Business Improvement District
St Ives Business Improvement District


An interesting article was published this week on the front page of
The St Ives Times and; Echo.

It highlights the concerns of a number of local businesses about the St Ives Business Improvement District (BID) initiative. These include the burden of additional - and compulsory - business rates - at a time when trading conditions are still difficult for most.

BID is a proposal to raise money from a 2% business rates levy - to be paid by all businesses with a rateable value of £5000 or more.

The money raised will then be spent on a series of projects - scheduled over 5 years - that aim to improve the business environment in town. This is estimated at £150,000 per year.

Note the word 'compulsory'. All businesses affected will be able to vote on the proposal in April 2014 . If a majority approve - everybody will have to pay the levy - even if they voted against.

Also - quoting the official BID website:
'It is likely that businesses with rateable values below this figure will be excluded from the BID.'
Implying that smaller businesses could also be required to pay up.

Melanie Uys - who runs Uys Gallery on Tregenna Hill - is quoted:
'It is unfair for us t be expected to pay an additional levy each month even if we vote against it'.

The official St Ives BID Website - is almost entirely one-sided - presenting the case in favour with little or nothing about any possible downside. To be fair - it also gives a good account of the facts about BID - so is worth visiting if you want to form your own opinion.

As a counterbalance - some local businesses have set up a Facebook page to encourage debate and present all sides of the argument - depending on who chooses to post there:
The BID Debate - St Ives

My opinion - for what its worth - is that this could be a wonderful opportunity for St Ives - if the money is spent wisely - and if it does not present Cornwall Council with an excuse for yet more cutbacks in local services (more news on that coming here soon).

But - those are two very big IFs.

My experience of similar projects is that there is huge scope for waste and mismanagement. Also lots of scope for individuals or groups to pursue their own personal "hobbyhorses" without regard for the opinions of others. Equally - well managed projects with a solid business case can deliver results.

One interesting thing that I found in the Draft St Ives BID Proposal is that 20% of the budget is allocated for "BID Delivery". This amounts to around £30,000 per year - £150,000 over five years - a fair chunk of money. As a professionally qualified project manager I can say that the consensus on best practice is that project management overheads should amount to 10% to 20% of project costs. So the proposal here is in the ballpark but right at the top end.

What this will be spent on is not yet entirely clear. Presumably some will be needed to cover necessary legal and accountancy fees - plus other overheads. But that surely won't add up to £30k per year - where will the rest go ?

My guess is that it will be used to pay a fairly generous salary to a BID Manager.

The BID Steering Group are holding an "Information Event" - on Wednesday 27th February 2014 - 6.00 pm for 6,30 pm at St Ives Theatre. A chance to learn more and have your say. All welcome - details and RSVPs here:
St Ives BID - Information Event

Feel free to post your own thoughts and opinions  in the comments on this blog.

Thursday, 23 January 2014

St Ives Punt - Nominated For International Award

Launch Of The St Ives Punt
Launch Of The St Ives Punt


March 2013 saw the launch of a new St Ives Punt onto St Ives Harbour by St Ives Jumbo Association.

Their aim is to revive the sport of Scully Racing in St Ives.

The vessel has now been nominated for an international award in Classic Boat Magazine.

To quote Jonny Nance - boat builder:

'To our great surprise the international magazine which celebrates 'the world's most beautiful boats'  has shortlisted our new punt for the Classic Boat 2014 Awards in the 'traditional newbuild' category and so has thrust the St.Ives punt onto the international stage!

Needless to say we're up against some pretty stiff competition. Now, I'd be the first to admit she not the sexiest newbuild of 2013 which makes our punt a particularly interesting choice. Clearly Classic Boat have been attracted by our activities. This is less about the boat itself and more in recognition of the new use that the Jumbo Association has found for her!'

You can add your support by voting - the punt is competing in Category 3 - Traditional New Build. To cast your vote go to:
Classic Boat Awards 2014

You can also show your support by "Liking" the St Ives Punt on:
Classic Boat Awards - Facebook Page

Details of the next Scully Day in St Ives will be posted here when announced.

Tuesday, 7 January 2014

Arts Workshops - Barnoon St Ives

Barnoon Workshop - St Ives Cornwall
Barnoon Workshop - St Ives Cornwall


Barnoon Workshop is a new creative space in St Ives - for arts workshops, performance and other events.

Located at Barnoon overlooking Porthmeor Beach and Tate St Ives.

They  have a programme of arts workshops - starting this month:
  • Rag Rug - Jo McIntosh - Sunday 19th January.
  • Introduction To Sculpture - Tree Stewart - Sunday 26th January.
  • Starter Guitar - Pete Giles - Sunday 2nd February.
If you would like to book a place on a workshop - get in touch:

Call - 07900 095 203
Email - barnoonworkshop@outlook.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/barnoonworkshop

More workshops will be added - watch this space.