Previous News
More Recent news can be found on the News page
12th May 2011
The winds and tides have churned up so much debris on to the beach that after informing the Ranger Paul Mason about it, he visited the beach and it has now been declared a pollution incident. Tomorrow the beach will be scraped clear of debris and it will all be taken offsite for safe disposal.
Please do NOT touch the netting, barrels or anything else that has washed up, we have had a report of a burning sensation on skin from touching the netting.
Please also look out for any jellyfish, we think once more that these are compass jellyfish, these have a powerful sting even when washed up:
- Never touch jellyfish with bare hands
- Always use a stick or wear arm length rubber gloves if you need to turn them over for identification
- Beware of the stinging tentacles and keep your face and any exposed skin well clear
- Seek medical attention in the case of a severe sting
- On a cheerier note the next newsletter is almost finished and the events page is due for an update too.
8th May 2011
A big thank you to those who braved the blustery winds to construct the seaweed compost bins at the west end (further west than the western car park). It will be interesting to see how the composting project works out in the coming months. I wasn't early enough to catch photos of all the volunteers but can't help posting this one of Brian, posing with his power tools!
5th May 2011
The Plymouth University litter project is still ongoing with monthly checks and counts by Nick and volunteers. We now have a Hungarian student working on litter washed up on beaches in contact with us too. She is studying Marine Geography and was 'sent' to us by the MCS Beachwatch people.
She came down recently and met with Adrian W and showed him just what to look for and where - specifically she was able to go straight to a place which had lots of plastic pellets amongst the sand. They are very difficult to see and hard to pick up (unless you've little fingers). The majority of them are on the banks of Par River and could have been washed down from upstream or even brought in on the tide. 
The pellets are plastic in its raw form and companies buy the pellets to turn them in to plastic products. They are easily washed away in to rivers and other water courses and if eaten by the bird population (and even fish and wild animals), it kills them when the pellets stick in their gizzards. The pellets are nicknamed "Mermaid Tears" and can be found on all beaches now (there's even a lot at Polkerris near the scout hut). As you can imagine, they do NOT biodegrade and are difficult to extract. Surfers Against Sewage did a campaign to get plastics companies to try and reduce the output of the pellets - after all it is their raw material and represents a waste to the companies as well. You can read more on the mermaid tears on the SAS website.
In other news, did you notice it has been a wee bit windy?! Thanks to Adrian for the photo of the shifting sands.
4th May 2011
The temporary (1yr lease) cafe van is open. It's just to the side of the old cafe building (face the old cafe, it's immediately to the left of it tucked back from the access road) and serves a range of refreshments including pasties, sausage rolls, sandwiches, cream teas, hot and cold drinks, fresh fruit and sweets.
28th April 2011 (Part 2)
We now need your help with one of the projects we have running with the University of Plymouth (possible because we won the community grants for them).
The seaweed project is investigating possibilities of what best to do with it (not all, just some) and we hope to start a composting experiment on Sunday 8th May. We need two things. Firstly we need willing and able folk to come help put together 5 one metre square compost bins from pallets, fence posts and chicken wire (this will be at the west end), and then help put some seaweed in the first one. Secondly we need people to take a turn in turning the seaweed to help the compost along. If you think you may be able to help with either/both or have some questions please do get in touch by email or by calling Jan P (01726) 810026.
28th April 2011 (Part 1)
Park Leisure (the caravan park) have the 12 month lease for the temporary refreshments at the beach this year (since the cafe is out of action). They have put a burger van there and although it wasn't open for Easter as hoped, it will be open this weekend!
19th April 2011
Want to know more about the Great Easter Newt Hunt? Pop over to ARG UK website or see a bit more info on our Events page.
17th April 2011
If anyone thought that Friends of Par Beach running a beach clean (in aid of Clean Cornwall week) was a waste of time just a fortnight after the council scraped the beach using a bulldozer then they're in for a surprise...
Not a bad haul considering! Very little glass this time but lots of plastics and dog mess is still a huge problem in the dunes. A huge thank you to everyone who gave up the precious time today, and in such beautiful weather too. We were joined by a group doing their Community Payback and it was good to have them working amongst us and thanks also to Caroline Wildish who always sorts the necessaries out.
In other news, though not quite Par Beach related, Tywardreath Village Hall reopens on Wednesday (20th) after it's refurb, from 11am to 4pm so do pop along to see it. A few TVH diary dates are on our links page.
13th April 2011 (Part 3)
You may have seen the Police helicopter, dogs and officers at and around Par Beach yesterday afternoon. Sadly they're looking for a local man who has been reported missing.
Toby Cullen aged 45 years who resides in St Blazey Gate, Par has not been seen since the evening of Sunday 10th April after visiting the Ship Inn pub and then (possibly) the Welcome Home Inn.
Police are becoming increasingly concerned for his welfare. He is described as a white man, approximately 5’ 8” in height, average build, with dark brown hair, thinning on top and was last seen wearing a grey jumper, jeans and possibly has a black Nike backpack with him.
Police ask that if anyone sees Toby or anyone matching his description to please call them on 08452 777444 quoting police reference 155 120411.
EDITED 8th May 2011 to say that sadly Toby was found this morning. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.
13th April 2011 (Part 2)
The camera session with Tim and Janie Bullen on Sunday was fantastic. The sun shone and everyone was given ideas of how best to get down to nature. There was advice about clothing (not loud in colour or noise!), taking your cameras down to ground level and lots of help with which settings to try and what various buttons actually do. A big thank you to Tim and Janie. If we're lucky, they may run another session later in the year. Some photos from the session will be on the website soon.
Don't forget 11am this coming Sunday for the Beach Clean.
Behind the scenes there's lots of work going in to organizing more events and also plans are afoot wrt the seaweed project. More news later on.
13th April 2011 (Part 1)
We have been asked to assist with the plastics survey which is being undertaken by Plymouth University for the benefit of Par Beach.
The work does not need any skills except to read figures off a GPS. Ideally the helper would drive the student around beaches involved, which are Par, Booley (a short walk from Polkerris), Porthpean, Pentewan and Caerhays. There is a mileage allowance for using your car.
If you would like to help, but not use your car, or can only manage a half day, then offers will still be appreciated. If you know of someone who has an interest in Par Beach, but is not a member, this is not a condition of being able to help.
The survey can take place over 2 consecutive days out of the following. Offers of help on any day(s) will be gratefully received. I would like to sort out dates before Easter. Please let Mike know at mikeatpolmear@yahoo.co.uk
The two neap tide cycles in MAY will be 10th, 11th, 12th and 14th, and 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th.
6th April 2011
A beautiful warm and sunny day today with lots of people parked up by the duck pond for their lunch. It's good to see people out and about but PLEASE park in the designated areas and not on the grass!
We're not sure quite what has been going on yet, but it seems that the beach has been scraped of all the seaweed, insects and even rubbish.....
and the resulting mix dumped in large heaps..... Hmmm.
2nd April 2011
There is a gas cylinder on the beach between London Rock and the Polmear stream. Do please give it a wide berth as it is unclear whether it contains anything. The authorities have been notified but we don't expect it to be removed until Monday morning. A couple of cones and some (unrelated!) warning tape has been put around the cylinder as an unsubtle hint.
Edited to add that the Police and Coastguard attended the site and safely removed the cylinder.
30th March 2011 (part 2)
The environment agency has published water quality readings for Par Beach. Links to their website are below and they will open a new window;
Par Beach 2010
Par Beach 2009
In fact you can read the data for 1988 right through to last year 2010.
30th March 2011 (part 1)
We have an update from Par Sands Holiday Park (document opens in a new window) about the work and improvements they're doing on site.
You may be interested to know that the council has awarded Par Sands a 12 month lease to run a temporary catering unit by the old cafe. This means we'll be able to get a cup of tea at the beach this year, even though the cafe itself is still very much up in the air.
25th March 2011 (Part 4)
Contrary to current rumours, the Par Beach Cafe has NOT been sold!
Cornwall Council are currently advertising for expressions of interest in running a temporary mobile facility this summer. Cllr David Hughes said that although this is not a permanent solution it will allow people to get cups of tea and other refreshments there this summer. Cornwall Council said it will be calling for expressions of interest in running a permanent café later this year. In the meantime Miles Dewhurst from Park Leisure 2000 Ltd (Par Sands Holiday Park) offered to paint the existing café to tidy it up for the summer, this has been done and the cafe building is no longer such an eyesore but a nice, clean white.
We can also report that two sets of large potholes have been filled and the car park toll hut also has been cleaned up.
25th March 2011 (Part 3)
You can read the press release about the Par Beach Community Day. It talks about the main issues that people felt were important and what steps are being taken to address them. Topics cover the cafe, all ability access to the beach and dog fouling to name but a few. It's early days but this is an important start.
25th March 2011 (Part 2)
The Environment Agency has made available information on many UK beaches. On their website you can find Par Beach's bathing profile. The information will be updated in May 2012 and makes for a quick but interesting read. Essentially water quality is mainly adversely effected during/after heavy rainfall due to the runoff of water from the land within the catchment basin, work is being carried out to identify exactly where from so changes can be made if possible to reduce the problem.
25th March 2011 (Part 1)
Lots of updates to make today.
The Spring Dance with Caracana was really good fun and the music from Caracana amazing. Everyone enjoyed the food offered which included Pearn's pasties and homemade falafel, not to mention the snacks, salads and cakes. Everyone worked hard to set up the event, especially John, Jan and Jules from the committee.
Thanks especially to our generous raffle prize donators:
Marsh Villa Gardens, Par
Richards Fruit & Veg, Par
Charles Harris Butcher, Tywardreath
Duchy Smoked Fish Company, Par
Patnicks Preserves, Par
Eillis Wharton Wines, Par
Squawk, Polmear
4th March 2011
A Hawaian Goose (Nene) suffering from Angels Wing (which can caused by being fed with inappropriate food such as lots of bread), was captured by the RSPCA today and taken away. There are some good photographs of the goose on St Austell Baywatch blog.
It will remain with the RSPCA for a week in case someone comes forward to claim it, then it will then wing(!) its way to Wingz at Treesmill for a life of tlc. Wingz will open for the season on 1st April from 10am to 5pm.
1st March 2011
There's been a fair bit of Armed Forces air activity recently, Caroline Wildish sent in a photograph take from the beach, of a Merlin EH101 that's stationed at Culdrose. It is painted in Afghanistan Terrain Camouflage.
Just to offset all that metal, we have another from Caroline, of a Pied Wagtail:
28th February 2011 (Part 3) (It's all go, today!)
Cornwall Council have put out to tender a temporary mobile cafe for Par Beach, just until the original cafe is being sorted out.
Chairman of Friends of Par Beach, Mike Freemantle says:
"As it is too late for a new building to be completed for this season it is good that Cornwall Council is responding to pleas from local people for a refreshment facility on Par Beach. Friends of Par Beach is in collaboration with the School of Architecture, Design & Environment at Plymouth University to design a cafe, which it is hoped may include community space, information and wildlife interpretation, toilets, showers, a viewing area and storage. This is an exciting project that we hope will be developed to the planning application stage towards the end of this year."
28th February 2011 (Part 2)
Work Party Activity on Sunday (yesterday).
Fifteen stalwarts cleared lots of brambles and dead undergrowth from what are known as the orchid meadows on Sunday. These are the meadows on each side of the track to the slip at the western end of the beach. They have been in need of management for some time to open up the area for the Southern Marsh Orchids that are known to be there, but have mostly remained unseen for several years.
The occasional heavy shower did not detract from the work, until that is the tea and coffee arrived. The tea break in the gazebo was perfectly timed to coincide with another shower!
Inspection after working for a couple of hours or so with spade, loppers and long-handled slashers proved that a lot had been achieved. Come and see the display of flowers from May to July.
The last Practical Habitat Conservation (work party) morning for the winter will be on Sunday 27th March.
28th February 2011 (Part 1)
Wassailers won, Girls Allowed Out came second and Intelligencia were third. What was it? The first Friends of Par Beach Quiz Night, held at Gott Hall last Thursday (24th February). Photos of the event are in the event gallery.
Over 30 people filled 8 tables at the quiz and spent a couple of hours or so scratching heads answering a multitude of questions from Quizmaster David Stevens. There were 8 rounds which included geography, history, entertainment & some local questions for those with long memories of Par.
A short interval enjoying Pearns of Par Pasties was soon over, and the “Heads & Tails” game was great fun, especially for the winner of the bottle of whisky.
We also had a raffle, which was kindly sponsored by Tesco & by other donors of extra prizes.
As well as being great fun and a good social occasion, Friends of Par Beach raised around £100 to help its work for the benefit of Par Beach, not to mention recruiting a few new members.
26th February 2011
The remnants of a dead seal at the east end of Par Beach has been found, just below the High Tide mark, which suggests that by Monday it will be above the high tide mark. It is not very nice and is well rotted. We have contacted the strandings network. Please stay well away!
22nd February 2011
There was a lot of broken glass in the centre of the west end car park this morning - evidence of a party last night. We've reported it and that should have been cleared by now. We've also reported the large pot holes that have appeared in the access road; near the main road, by the car park hut and at nr the west end car park.
DON'T FORGET IT'S THE GRAND QUIZ THIS THURSDAY. You don't have to reserve a table, but it would help us to know table numbers so that we can order enough pasties! Sunday is the next work party activity, more bramble bashing at the west end field.
18th February 2011
Another moorhen has lost its life crossing the road by the pool today.
It may seem trivial but PLEASE would you NOT feed the ducks/swans/other feathered visitors, from your cars in the car parks opposite the pool. This encourages them all to cross the road to look for treats and the roadkill count increases every year because of it. We're not saying don't feed them(!) just please cross the road so they don't have to.
It would be helpful to understand why people do feed them out of/by the cars, then maybe we could try and get some changes made to help resolve any issues. Is it about mobility perhaps? Lack of benches? Lack of time? Large numbers of geese/swans are scary? Please, tell us.
We're hoping to put together some food advice; some suggestions for alternative food that could be offered to the wildfowl to eat if you're willing and able to do so (perhaps a bit more nutritious for them instead of just bread!).
15th February 2011 (Part 2)
Just a quick note about the barrels that washed up on the beach. We can confirm that if you do find barrels and you think they may have something in them (please do not touch), then the correct course of action is to telephone the Coastguard on 999. Don't forget, we have a whole page dedicated to "What You Should Do If...", which can be found both under About The Beach and under Contact Us.
15th February 2011 (Part 1)
Three new bird photos are on the wildlife blog.
Also a date for your diary - Park Leisure (the caravan park) are holding a consultation exercise at the clubhouse by the swimming pool about their planned changes to the site (children's activity playground, putting green etc). This will be on Thursday 17th February from 3pm to 7pm so do go along and have a look and a chat.
14th February 2011 (Part 2)
In the spirit of romance (well alright, it has nothing to do with romance or Valentines Day!), here's an update on the Plymouth University architecture students Par Beach Cafe projects:
Mike Freemantle and Jane Richards, joined by Councillor David Hughes, were privileged to hear 13 presentations at The School of Architecture, Design and Environment at Plymouth University on 10th February. The amount of work that had been achieved in just 5 weeks by year one students was amazing. All concentrated on using environmentally sustainable materials and there was a wide variety on offer. A panel, including the above, judged each entry in order of merit and the tutors will take the project forward.
It will be necessary to obtain funding of £6000 to £8000 to pay a post graduate student to undertake the next stage which is to prepare plans and a scale model of the winning designs and to lodge a planning application with Cornwall Council.
It was an amazing day and gives us much encouragement to progress the project. At the Par Beach Community Day on 5th February, by far the most important topic for feedback was the cafe, with most people's opinion being that it needs to be demolished now and for a new cafe and community information centre to replace it soon.
14th February 2011 (Part 1)
Just to mention that Par Sands Coastal Holiday Park (or the 'caravan park' as it tends to be referred to locally) were notified on Feb 4th that they have received planning permission from Cornwall Council to extend their season to run from March 7th to January 7th each year (i.e. closed between January and March instead of Halloween and Easter). This brings it in line with the Eden Way part of the site at the west end.
13th February 2011
With regards to the barrel on the beach, the Fire Service came and took it away, however Adrian tell us that today another barrel washed up (see photo below). Someone has thoughtfully moved it next to a bin, away from the beach. While this seems like a good idea, as we do not know whether the contents are hazardous or not, the best thing to do is to leave well alone. We have contacted the authorities and we will endeavour to keep you updated.
11th February 2011
Adrian W has reported that a black unmarked barrel has washed up at the east end of the beach. The authorities have been informed. In the meantime please keep yourself away from it as it potentially hazardous. We'll keep you posted.
Remember it's a photo session on Sunday, 14:15 by the pool (near the caravan park office). Bring your point and shoot compact or a dSLR, it matters not.
Have you decided on your Quiz Teams yet? It's the Friends of Par Beach Quiz Night on Thursday 24th February at Gott Hall, hosted by David Stevens. Do come along, it stands to be good fun.
6th February 2011
Mike, Jane, Jules and John from the Friends of Par Beach Committee all spent time manning a table at the Par Beach Community Day at Gott Hall yesterday. There was a steady flow of visitors and lots of input which is really good news.
Jan has happened upon an a photography competition (good practise for entering ours!), details below:
‘Whatever the Weather’ – win a National Trust annual family pass in Climate SouthWest’s photo competition!
Climate SouthWest are running a photo competition on the theme of ‘extreme weather’, with a fantastic first prize of an annual family pass for one year’s free admission to National Trust places! They are looking for your photos that illustrate the effect that extreme weather has on the South West, under 4 categories: ‘Hot; ‘Cold’; ‘Wet’; and ‘Dry’. As well as the prize for the overall winner, there will be also be prizes for the best photo in each category, and for the best photo taken by an Under-16.
The deadline for entries is Sunday 13th March and the winners will be announced during Climate Week 2011 (21st – 27th March). Full competition details and the entry form can be downloaded from their events page, here.
31st January 2011
The work party at the 'orchid fields' at the west end of the beach yesterday went really well and it was good to be joined by the ranger Paul. The two meadows concerned, are close to the slipway into the Par River and have a wonderful display of Southern March Orchids from late May to July. In the past few years the scrub has taken over some areas and it is necessary to clear these, of brambles in particular, in order to allow the orchids to bloom and be seen by those walking past. Most of the group was involved in this activity, but another group trimmed back trees that had grown over another orchid area. It was such a beautiful day with the 2 or 3 hours work passing very quickly and it was good to see the pile of brambles at the end. We will continue to bramble bash there for the next two work party sessions (Sunday 27th Feb and Sunday 27th March).
THIS THURSDAY (3rd) is the St Blazey Feast Parade, we understand that the Parade will start at Polgrean and finish at the Football Club at 18.30 (ish). There will be free food and fireworks at around 18.45. Do come along to support this event and Friends of Par Beach hope to see you there.
Don't forget that THIS SATURDAY (5th) is the Par Beach Community Day at Gott Hall. We will be there along with other groups at this Cornwall Council organized event to find out what everyone wants to see or not to see happen at the beach/local nature reserve. It is important that everyone who can, comes down to share their thoughts and ideas.
Jill Trewhella has sent in more photos including this of a water rail and another below showing the icy pool, both were taken yesterday lunchtime.
22nd January 2011
A great photo of a heron and a bittern at the pool. Taken by Simon Tagney on Thursday (22/01/11). Thanks for letting us share it Simon.
20th January 2011 Part 2
There was a Par Beach stakeholders meeting in December to which we were invited along to. This was hosted by Cornwall Council and representatives from many local and national groups were there. Mike Freemantle has this to say:
"Jane (Richards) and I attended this meeting, which was an exploratory meeting of interested parties which included:-
Friends of Par Beach
Parish Council
Park Leisure
Groundwork
County Councillor
Cornwall Council (reps from Property Services, Environmental Planning, Car Parks, North Cornwall Beaches, Planning Dept. etc)
Sensory Trust
Eco-Bos
CLAG
Par Community Association
Par Beach Ranger (Paul Mason)
Three groups were formed and each had the same task, which was to identify Immediate, Medium Term and Long Term strategies/projects and condense into 4 key words. Despite the make-up of groups not being balanced in terms of interest, each group came up with quite similar results.
The meeting moved things forward towards a management strategy and the next stage will be a presentation of the meeting’s findings at a Par Beach Community Day at Gott Hall on Saturday 5th February."
A list of things put in to the melting pot at the meeting is in a Stakeholders Meeting document, this can be found on our website Documents page as well from that direct link. Please bear in mind that they are just thoughts from the people that were at the meeting and nothing more should be read in to it!
There is a meeting tomorrow at the Eden Project to sort out how the Par Beach Community Day will be set out. It will be hosted by Cornwall Council at Gott Hall with representatives of the stakeholders there wherever possible and this will be YOUR opportunity to tell the council what you do and don't want to see at Par Beach and the Local Nature Reserve. We'll add more details here when we have them but please make a note of the date in your diary as it's very important that everyone comes along to support the beach.
20th January 2011 Part 1
Time for a couple of photos I think. First up is from a selection sent in by Jill Trewhella recently (thanks Jill), of a coot with more than its fair share of i.d. rings.
Next is a yesterday's sunset, taken by Adrian Wildish;
Mike has set a new Chairman's Challenge involving you taking a photograph so do have a go, and don't forget our 2010-2011 Annual Photography Competition.
19th January 2011
CALL OUT FOR St BLAZEY HELPERS
St Blazey residents are wanted to help make a GIANT RAM WILLOW LANTERN in the Burrows centre this week.
The ram is part of the Feast week lantern parade on 3rd February and also of a communuity event that will take place partly on the beach later in the year which the Friends of Par Beach are supporting.
Times are Friday 21st from 2.30pm to 6.30pm for adults only to make the willow frame and then from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 22nd for all ages to cover it in paper and mount carry it down for storage elsewhere.
No previous expertise needed and all children are to be accompanied.
18th January 2011
Plymouth University Architecture students vs Par Beach Cafe
Last week you may have noticed over 100 people suddenly descend on Par Beach and loiter by the cafe building (and later the Scout Hall). You may remember that we applied for some help to come up with possible designs for a new cafe/centre under a Plymouth University Grant scheme (our proposal for investigations in to the seaweed and litter washed up on the beach won one of the grant awards), well the architecture faculty's interest was piqued and they have set the students a five week project to come up with designs they think are suitable to replace the current cafe building with.
Back to last week.....Mike, Jules and Jane met with the students and answered lots of questions about the old cafe, the beach and area in general. We've no idea how whacky the designs will be but are hopeful that they will all include a sustainable building with a cafe, toilets and a meeting area!
This means, we'll be seeing approx. 24 different designs, complete with small models, in a few weeks time at the University. Friends of Par Beach will be attending a prize giving for the best ideas. We'll keep you posted.
17th January 2011
Terrier Tales
Jules (Friends of Par Beach Secretary) thought you might be interested in something that happened on Saturday 15th Jan in the afternoon.
"I was walking my dogs through the dunes at Par Beach on our way back to my car when I met a woman (I only know her first name - Rosemary ) who told me she was waiting for her dog who had stuck her nose down a rabbit hole. I asked her what dog it was, and she said a Jack Russell. This set off alarm bells as I know they go down these rabbit holes at the drop of a hat. I told the woman of my concerns and she said that the hole wasn't big enough for the dog (Daisy) to get down, and did not seem at all perturbed by the situation.
I continued on my way and then noticed my two dogs (Rhubarb, a Sprocker and Rocket, a Springer) sniffing at a particular hole. They never bother about rabbits usually so I knew something was up. I looked down the hole but couldn't see anything, then heard a dog yapping - the sound coming from down the hole. I called to Rosemary and told her I could hear a dog barking under ground and I thought it must be hers. I put my dogs back in the car and told Rosemary to either call the RSPCA or the Fire Brigade, but she didn't have a mobile and neither did I. She eventually found someone who let her use a mobile.
When I got back to the spot where the dog could still be heard yapping, a Park Leisure employee, Mackie, had arrived on the scene with a small shovel and started to dig for her. We could all still hear the dog yapping underground, but the sound seemed to move around. Mackie dug away at the entrance to the hole where she had obviously gone down, and Rosemary rang the Coastguard who gave her a number for the RSPCA, who were rung. We were all a bit worried as it would soon be getting dark. Eventually Daisy appeared - she must have found her way out through another entrance - and came near to me where she proceeded straight away to dive down another hole! I managed to grab hold of one of her back legs before she disappeared altogether, then got hold of the other one and dragged her out backwards from the hole. I had to hold on to her tightly as she was determined to go back down the hole, despite her previous ordeal! Rosemary's grandson then came and put her lead on and she was safely reunited with a very relieved Rosemary.
I would just like to warn people who own small dogs, but terriers and Jack Russells particularly, to keep their dogs on a lead while they are walking though the dunes, or even along the beach at the edge of the dunes, to prevent something like this happening again, with perhaps tragic results, and not the happy outcome that we experienced this time."
11th January 2011 Part 2
Adrian has just been down to the beach and spotted a dead dolphin on the tide line down at the east end, there seems to be some sort of a yellow tag close to where its tail should have been. Please keep yourselves and your family and/or dogs away from it - we have reported it.
11th January 2011 Part 1
Photo by Mark Whittaker
"There have been more sightings of the bittern since before xmas and there now appears to be a pair!
My expert informers tell me that there has been a bittern on the lake in winter for about 4 years, but it has never been seen so often. If you have binoculars and are going to Par Beach do take them with you. I have had 3 sightings since Boxing Day and don't spend a great deal of time there.
Well done to Mark Whittaker who took this photo and kindly agreed that we can use it.
If you see a bird that seems to be flying like a heron, but it's brown, then you have seen one of the bitterns. You'll need to be hawk-eyed (or just lucky!) and using powerful binoculars to spot one in the reeds and are more likely to experience that if you have seen it land.
Lastly, apologies to member Gill Bolton, who told me of a sighting in summer and I was sceptical."
Mike Freemantle
27th December 2010
Hi All,
If you haven't picked it up through the grapevine, 2 bitterns were seen and photographed on the pool on 26th. I can't say just how rare an event this is, how rare the bittern is and the importance of the pool and the reedbeds in a harsh winter like this one. If you wondered what all the birdwatchers have been doing there the last couple of days, this is it.
Cameras at the ready folks or see StAustellBaywatch web site for quality pics.
Jan P13th December 2010
We’re excited to be inviting entries to our first annual photography competition, which is open to amateur photographers of all ages. Entries are welcome from now until Monday 15th August 2011. We will hold a display and prize giving at the next Friends of Par Beach AGM in September 2011 and winning entries will be published in the Cornish Guardian.
Two Categories: ‘Colours’ and ‘Texture’. So perhaps you could photograph the colourful kites on the beach, a flower in bloom or the ripples in the sand, whatever catches your eye, as long as it is taken OF or ON Par Beach and/or Par Beach local nature reserve.
Two Age Groups: ‘Under 14s’ and ‘14 and Over’
An independent judge will choose the winning images; there will be a prize for the best entry in each of the two age groups. In addition there will be a Chairman’s Choice prize, wholly decided on the whim of Mike Freemantle! We are hoping to use the best entries for a set of postcards to sell in aid of Friends of Par Beach.
Entry Fee: 50p per photo for Friends of Par Beach members, £1 per photo for non-members.
How? Send your prints on A5 or A4 paper to Mike Freemantle at 14 Polmear Village, Nr. Par, Cornwall PL24 2AT with your entry form and fee. Please mark the back of each photo with your name, age category and theme choice. Sorry but we are unable to return the prints to you.
Full T&Cs are on the entry form.
12th December 2010
The photography session went well today, in spite of the bitter cold and skating geese! Hopefully we'll get some photos sent in by participants and we'll add them to the gallery as they come in. Next session will be in Sunday 13th February, time to be decided but problem around the 2:30pm time that we started at today.
The pool is still partially froze over and with the weather set to stay cold, feel free to pop down there with some food for the birds to help them keep warm.
Meanwhile it seems someone has taken the liberty of pushing one of the bins in to the edge of the pool, not very clever it has to be said. We've notified the ranger and hopefully it will get fished out and put back where it belongs.
11th December 2010
Some photos for you, taken by Adrian at sunrise:
Polmear Stream and the sand bar that has formed blocking the flow
Ice over the Polmear Stream
The Duck Pool - iced up
8th December 2010
The Polmear stream has silted up AGAIN, with the added bonus of some it freezing over. Please keep yourself and your pets out of it until the water is flowing freely again (risk of Weil's disease) and off the ice for obvious reasons. We hope it till be cleared soon.2nd December 2010 Part 2
Cornwall Council have put a poster up about planned changes to the seasonal parking charges, if you have any comments about them, the cut off date for responses to the council (for them to take them in to consideration) is TOMORROW 3rd December. Email them at parking@cornwall.gov.uk, or telephone, the parking consultation is based at Cambourne. Council phone number is 0300 1234 222
We are very pleased to see a short stay at 50p which excellent for the dog walkers amongst us, but note that by bringing the charges in line with other Cornwall car parks, the charges rise quite steeply.
2nd December 2010 Part I
It's so cold out there, especially when you factor in the windchill. We have a photograph of icicles in the cave (in the cliffs on the eastern end of the beach) from Adrian for us, click on it for a bigger version:
28th November 2010 - Part 2
As reported in the Cornish Guardian we are proud and pleased to announce that FoPB have been awarded a Community Research Grant by the University of Plymouth. The grant will enable the University to explore why Par Beach seems to end up with more than its fair share of plastic and natural debris. Jane Richards (of the FoPB committee) worked very hard to put together the research grant application and was at Plymouth University recently to collect the award with Mike Freemantle on our behalf. Over sixty charities and community groups applied for the funding this year and we're very lucky!
Work has started already on the project. Nick Biber is a PhD student at the School of Marine Science and Engineering who is heading up the study to establish whether there is a significant difference between the debris load on Par Beach in comparison to other beaches within and outside St Austell Bay.
Nick, assisted by Mike Freemantle, completed the first phase over a weekend of wind and rain collecting data from within St Austell Bay at Par Beach, Booley Beach (Nr Polkerris) and Porthpean Beach. Outside of the bay Pentewan Beach and Porthlune Cove (Caerhays) were chosen.
Data will be collected every two months, to coincide with neap tides, leading to a preliminary report in April and a final report in December 2011.
What will the local community gain from this project? It will attempt to identify physical factors that favour plastic deposits on certain beaches in the area, to enable more targeted beach cleaning and to help to protect both marine and terrestrial wildlife. FoPB plan to publish results and also arrange a public talk for those interested in what affects beaches in the area and Par Beach in particular.
Photos of Nick working on the project:
28th November 2010 - Part 1
Black labrador missing.
There's a lost dog poster on the car park toll hut about a missing black labrador with a red collar - please contact the owners on 01726 76014 if you've seen the dog.
24th November 2010
Thankfully we got off lightly in Polmear/Par Beach wrt the flooding. Here's a photo (thanks Mike) of the reed bed path we've been working on, it's a bit submerged;
The days before The Flood we had the Navy in the bay on manoeuvers with helicopters. The ship below is the "HMS Iron Duke", a Type 23 Duke Class named after the Duke of Wellington.
12th November 2010
The diggers have been out to clear the polmear stream again.
On the Wildlife Blog, Mark Whittaker brings us the first of his monthly updates on the movers and shakers of the birds on our patch. He has also collated a running species list for this year (up to 96 at the time of typing), you can also find that linked to from our Wildlife page and the Documents page.
8th November 2010
Adrian has reported to the Ranger that the Polmear stream has again silted up after the extremely high tide (5.5m) yesterday. Diggers will have to be called back out so in the meantime please keep yourselves and your dogs out of the standing water to avoid the possibility of contracting anything nasty (such as Weil's).
7th November 2010
We ran the action photography workshop on Par Beach at lunchtime on Sunday. This was to coincide with the Student Kitesurfing Association (SKA) National Tour - Slider Jam, that ran this weekend.
With the co-operation of SKA, we invited professional photographer Tim Bullen (with the help of Janie Bullen) to hold an Action Photography Workshop for us. This proved to be a huge success with twenty people attending, almost half new to Friends of Par Beach and included a couple from St Agnes. Tim shared some of his extensive knowledge on the subject of action photography at the top of the beach before going down to the water’s edge for the group to try out their new found skills. Tim, with the assistance of Janie Bullen, remained on hand to give further tuition and advice as required for an hour or so before retiring up the beach for a welcome hot drink and biscuits.
The fact that there was little wind resulting in no serious kite action, did not deter spirits and everyone taking part enjoyed themselves in the sunshine. Feedback from the participants was excellent and we have been asked to run more of photography sessions. Watch this space, until then see us in action (photos linked from photo below).
5th November 2010
I know we seem a bit quiet at the moment but we're very busy in the background; talking with the councils about the beach, helping the kitesurfers for this weekend's event, arranging a program of events for the first part of next year....to go out in the newsletter we're also preparing, updating the membership leaflet, then there's the daily beach checks that happen with any concerns reported back to the ranger (have you spotted the dog warden about the last few days?). As you can imagine, the whole committee is involved.
We also have a rather good bit of news to share but aren't allowed to say more until next week!
19th October 2010
Paul Mason (Ranger) has had a digger at Polmear stream to clear that out, they have also cleared the mud that was piled up (from the silt trap) out of the reed bed path entrance.
13th October 2010
Lots and lots of bees on the dunes have been seen lately. They have been identified as Ivy Bees which are harmless to people/dogs. More information is on our new Wildlife Blog and we're also looking for someone to help monitor them over the next few weeks for a bee recording project.
9th October 2010 Pt 2
Cornwall Council is asking the general public about which cuts the council should and shouldn't make.
This may be an opportunity to try to encourage them not to cut the funds that look after our beaches and local nature reserves (not just ours). There is an online survey on their website and a meeting in St Austell on Wednesday 13th October between 6 and 7pm.
Cornwall Council Hard Choices web page
9th October 2010 Pt 1
The Polmear stream has silted up with this morning's high tide. Please be advised to keep yourself and your dogs out of it until it is free flowing again as stagnant/standing water contains a risk of Weil's disease. If the stream is still silted tomorrow we will contact the Ranger, Paul, to see if it needs to be dug out.
Edited to say - The ranger (Paul) has had to pass this to the County Engineers, we will update when we have any more information.
Edited 19th Oct - digger has been out :-)
5th October 2010
Adrian reports that there has been a small rockfall/landslip by the Polmear River where the metal bridge goes across to get to the small sandy area under the cliff. The ranger has been notified and he will be visiting today to see what the damage/risk is.
UPDATE 6/10/10 Photographs from AdrianW:
Before (in July)
After (yesterday)
4th October 2010
We're getting our heads together to come up with the programme of events for next year. Do take a few minutes to complete the activities survey (it will open in a new window) if you haven't done so already, or you could just drop us a line.
2nd October 2010
For your interest, AGM vote counts. On the night the votes were counted by two non-members.
Chairman - Two nominations:
Mike Freemantle 48
Ken Barnes 13
Abstentions 6
Resolutions:
i) That Friends of Par Beach supports the principle that Par Beach and Par Beach Local Nature Reserve remain in public ownership in perpetuity.
The original resolution as worded above was carried by 28 to 2 against, with 4 abstentions.
A suggested amendment to this failed by 12 votes for to 19 against.
ii) That Friends of Par Beach supports the proposal that the paths to and around Par Beach become Public Rights of Way.
This resolution was carried unanimously.
1st October 2010
Our FoPB Chairman has issued two statements on behalf of the committee:
The first is a "New Year" statement to say hello to all members as 1st October is the start of the FoPB year.
The second is a rebuttal of accusations made in a recent email to all members from the ex-Chair.
We would be grateful if you would take the time to read them both, preferably the Statement first.
From Mike Freemantle (Chairman) and the FoPB Committee
1st October 2010
Cornwall Council have written an "Eco-town Vision Statement". Essentially this is just what the council would like or expect EcoBos to include in their development of the eco-communities.
CC are asking everyone to have a read of it between 13th September - 25th October 2010, then take part in a survey, send comments in and/or send in photos. A final draft will then be completed using the feedback they have received. Please visit the consultation page on Cornwall Council's website. The link to the statement is at the top, the link to the survey is right down the bottom.
30th September 2010
Adrian Wildish has kindly shared some research in to the Shipwreck off Little Hell with us, well worth a read. Thanks Adrian.
25th September 2010
Good news - we've had confirmation that FoPB has had three projects shortlisted for Community Research Awards from the University of Plymouth. Each could be worth up to £10,000 of work done for us. The projects that are being considered are:
1. Marine litter accumulating on Par Beach
2. Beach Cafe
3. Viable solutions for the seaweed that is scraped off the beach
We will now work with the academics interested in these topics to produce full proposals. Successful proposals will be chosen on 18th October and awarded on 8th November 2010.
24th September 2010
The AGM was a highly charged meeting.
Very briefly: Kenny, and Jim stood down from the committee (although Kenny was nominated for chair again) and Colin lost out in the re-election when we had more volunteers to be on the committee than we did places. We'd like to thank each for their contributions over the past year.
The new committee that was voted in can be found here.
We're pleased to report that the two resolutions were passed, I'll add the exact wording when I have it but essentially one says that we support the beach area (beach, local nature reserve, caravan park) remaining in public ownership (i.e. should the situation arise, we would NOT support the sale of part or all of it, to any private person or business). The other resolution is about supporting the paths becoming public rights of way.17th September 2010
Don't forget the AGM on Tuesday! Not only will we be voting folk on to the committee but we'll be asking members to be vote on a couple of resolutions; one about supporting the beach/local nature reserve/caravan site remaining in public ownership and one about supporting getting the paths made Public Rights of Way. Please come and show your support - we want you to hear all about the hard work we have been up to and about the bits we're currently working on. Everyone is welcome but you can only vote if you're a paid up member. You can download the FoPB constitution from the downloads page if you're interested in that and read about the start of FoPB on here, which may help you to understand what we're about.
Before that, this Saturday there's the beach clean in aid of MCS Beachwatch (if it helps you come along, courtesy of the Cornwall Council Community Grant money from Cllr David Hughes we now have flasks and mugs for tea/coffee making!) then we have Starry Nights 2 coming up in October, plus the start of the monthly winter conservation activities kicking off then as well. We're also hoping to run a Quiz Night early next year and then there's the FoPB Ceilidh.....so it won't all be about birds and plants!5th September 2010
This isn't new news but just a quick reminder that if you've a little time to monitor car park usage for us, it would be very helpful. We are aiming to get as much information as we can on car park usage at the beach (any of the car parks) so that we can try and influence charging policies in the future.
We have a form for you to complete and you can do this for us as often as you want. Please return your form(s) to any committee member, or to Mike The Treasurer at 14 Polmear Village.
I'll leave you with some August Bank Holiday photos from Jim...
23rd August 2010
Calling all FoPB members who have photographs that were taken on or of Par Beach and the local nature reserve.
At the AGM on 21st September we want to display a selection of the best photographs that you have taken. Please send your prints (A5 or A4) to Mike the treasurer with your name, adult or junior category and your contact details. If you would like us to return the print, please include a stamped, addressed envelope. The winners will be chosen by the public at the AGM and the photos printed in the next newsletter and put on the website. Let's be seeing those photos!
We will be launching a photography competition open to all at the AGM which will run through to next summer.
22nd August 2010
Big excitement on the beach on Saturday when local Adrian Wildish found a washed up old French parachute flare in the middle of the beach. A report to Keith at the car park toll hut gave rise to chain of events leading to the Bomb Disposal unit from Devonport Dockyard coming over. They took it away to dispose of it because it would have left a 10ft crater on the beach had they blown it up there.
The bomb disposal unit advise that all flares/pyrotechnics should be left in situ. Please call 999 and request the coastguard, who will act on the information given. The area needs to be marked in some way and if possible for someone responsible to stay nearby to keep people away from it and to hand control of it over.
Photo by Adrian Wildish
16th August 2010
Caroline Wildish has kindly sent in two updates.
Firstly some jellyfish have washed up on to the beach. Please DO NOT TOUCH. The ranger has been notified.
They look like Compass jellyfish which DO STING. Identification is not yet confirmed.
- Never touch jellyfish with bare hands
- Always use a stick or wear arm length rubber gloves if you need to turn them over for identification
- Beware of the stinging tentacles and keep your face and any exposed skin well clear
- Seek medical attention in the case of a severe sting
Secondly, this is a (another) photo taken by Caroline, from Par Beach of the Russian Udaloy Class Anti Submarine Destroyer 'Severomorsk' which was operating in our waters after a weekend visit to Plymouth Naval Base in the middle of July.
5th August 2010
FoPB joined the opening of the new Co-operative supermarket in St. Blazey (Middleway), to celebrate the £2,000 grant we received to help with start up costs. Another thank you to the Co-operative Membership Community Fund. We were joined by press photographers so hopefully we'll get some more press coverage.
Don't forget the Wildflower walk this Sunday.
27th July 2010
Bits from our committee meeting;
The AGM will be on Tuesday 21st Sept at Gott Hall.
The county ecologists have highlighted the white poplar and brambles at the west end as immediate priorities to be dealt with. We have no news on the management strategy (long term planning).
Ragwort has been cleared from the east side of the beach to prevent seeding on to farmland at Trill. The ranger is going to check on how prolific it has become at the west end with the view of a bit of clearing possibly being done but eradication is not wanted at that end of the beach as ragwort is the main food the Cinnibar moth caterpillar eats.
FoPB committee representatives are meeting a sub group of the Parish Council to discuss the cafe, on Thursday (29th).
Cars being driven onto the beach are in increasing problem. When brought to her attention Councillor Wildish quickly arranged for a boulder to placed at the west end to help prevent this, but cars have since been spotted so we are following this up. PLEASE do NOT drive on to the beach, it will have devastating consequences for the wildlife and could easily cause an accident. If you see anyone doing so, please report them to the police, or pass their details to us.
25th July 2010
Beach cricket today was a battle between The Ship Inn and The Welcome. The Welcome won 28 to 20.
Meanwhile, Par Beach and FoPB have been mentioned in a blog by Hurley Books, Mevagissey, it's always good to hear about people rediscovering their local patch, we hope to see you again soon!
18th July 2010
BIG NEWS...Friends of Par Beach have been awarded £2,000 from the Co-operative Community Fund to help with start up funding. It means that we can buy some tools and educational equipment, afford next years insurance and support events and membership services. The funding is specific to the requests that we made so no, we can't lend you any!
We applied last year so we have been hoping for so long, and to finally receive a letter stating that we had been awarded the full £2,000 was just brilliant.
A massive thank you to the Co-op.
16th July 2010 (part 2)
Sadly I must report another swan death this afternoon.
This time the swan (a female) was one of a pair and mother to two cygnets, in fact it was one Jim Johnston photographed earlier this year. FoPB have been informed that a van was witnessed hitting the swan, but the van didn't stop!
The police were informed immediately and have been to the scene, as have the RSPCA who confirmed that the cygnets were with the cob (the male).
PLEASE TAKE CARE TO DRIVE SLOWLY ALONG THE ACCESS ROAD.
16th July 2010 (part 1)
Please take some time to visit Carlyon Bay Watch which was set up to preserve Carlyon Bay from the development that shut off the beach from the public and saw the building of illegal "temporary sea defences". If you were thinking that the battle has been won with the opening of the footpath and a small area of Ampersands sea defences being removed, be aware that a new planning application is expected to be made by the end of the year and that Ampersand is using this to stall clearing the site.
5th July 2010
Further to our meeting with EcoBos and conversations with the Parish Council, the Parish Council are writing to us to confirm that a joint beach cafe 'thinktank' is being formed between themselves and us (FoPB) to discuss what we would like to see there. The results of which will then be submitted to EcoBos and County Council. The Parish Council are looking at temporary measures for the summer.
Also, the Parish Council are looking to recruit volunteer flood wardens, please contact JohnShaw34@hotmail.com
Remember that FoPB/EcoBos met on 5th June? A summary in the form of questions and answers is now online.
Finally, there are rumours of beach cricket, see the events page.
26th June 2010
We are delighted to announce that Councillor David Hughes has awarded FoPB some money from the "Community Chest" for purchasing some large flasks, mugs and clearing tools to help with our outdoor conversation activities. A big thank you to David for his help and to FoPB's Jane Richards for getting the application together in the first place.
26th June 2010
The western footpath has had a facelift. Jim has sent us photos and says this access is now the best one for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
We also have news of orchids which are flowering now, look closely when you're out walking;
15th June 2010
The website has had a couple of sections added. Under the new Beach Management section we have a wildlife identification page with links to relevant information.
Also we now have a management resources page which will slowly fill with links to give everyone (who wants it) a fuller idea of the issues surrounding the beach and nature reserve management. The views of these articles are those of the authors/organisations and not of the FoPB committee unless we have stated so.
And just because....here's a photograph sent to us by Hazel Freemantle taken by her yesterday evening after hearing a commotion on the island.
7th June 2010
Three of the FoPB committee met with John Hodkin and Chris from Eco-Bos on Friday 4th June. We went with a long list of questions from both FoPB members and the committee and we went through every one of them! Thanks to John and Chris who stayed late on a Friday to accommodate us.
A summary is now up but in the meantime you may wish to know that they are very receptive to ideas from the community (previous public consultations have already influenced ideas) and are adamant that they're committed to building a working community by listening to what locals want, think and need. Orascom are keen to show their commitment to the community by helping out now and we hope to have a project to talk about soon.
Quick summary:
Full public access to sea, Spit Beach, sea wall etc., marina/dock for fishermen and leisure craft (not just full of million pound yachts), lots more green space than the plans at the last public exhibition, sewerage provision a definite priority, drainage also a priority, public consultation every step of the way so as the engineers and designers come up with ideas, we'll all get an input.
Please contact us with concerns, questions and suggestions and we'll take them to Eco-Bos when we next meet.
We are hoping for the Par Docks tour for members soon. We'll keep you posted.
28th May 2010
FoPB Committee statement.
"There has been concern expresssed about the control of Rosa Rugosa on the dunes, and FoPB would like to make it clear that it is not our decision - the conservation bodies concerned will liaise with Cornwall Council and decide what should be done with the Rosa. The Council, if and when a decision is made, will submit their intentions to the Parish Council to keep it in the loop"
28th April 2010
Last nights bird talk by Mark Whittaker was a resounding success (thanks Mark). Listening to his bird calls and watching him imitate their behaviour had us in fits of laughter. Now if only I could remember which gulls have yellow legs and which have pink.....and the name of the bird that whistles "i've a hole in my bucket"...
Oooh, Mark replied to the above so we've no excuses now;
Hole in my bucket = Chiffchaff
Grey back Pink Legs = Herring Gull
Grey Back Yellow Legs = Common Gull
Black Back Yellow Legs = Lesser Black Backed
Black Back Pink Legs = Greater Black Backed
26th May 2010
The western car park has had a patch of land around it tidied and gorse pruned by the Duchy College students in accordance to the rangers requirements.
In this instance it was done to enable people a view of the beach and sea while sitting in their cars. This is especially valuable for those of limited mobility and something that was raised as important to members at the Meet and Mingle.
It may look a bit harsh at the moment but it will soon fill out again. Plant management is necessary - to help encourage plant health and diversity which in turn will support a greater range of wildlife....and views and access for us beach users!
25th May 2010
Vandalism of the board ramp from the dunes to the beach has been repaired. Photos (thanks Jim) are below.
18th May 2010
The bay was busy with Naval vessels at the weekend. Caroline Wildish sent this photo of HMS Ocean which I gather accounted for all the helicopter activity.
14th May 2010
Sadly we were today informed (thanks Jane W) that a dead swan is trapped in a thorny bush on our patch. Due to its awkward position it is currently impossible to see if it is ringed or not. The council should be removing it 1st thing in the morning, hopefully 7am and they'll check to see if it is ringed and make the report to BTO/DEFRA.
1st May 2010
Jim has taken these photos to show the resurfaced main car park.
28th April 2010
We have heard from LibDems and UKIP. All election pledges from our local candidates can be read on Election Pledges page.
27th April 2010
A Serco litter picker spotted on the beach and dunes by Jim. A previously rare breed we hope for more sightings this year!
25th April 2010
Kenny (Chairman) has asked each of the local election candidates to tell us their stance on beach issues. Lib Dems have said they would, but no other responses yet.
Mark Whittaker, a keen local birder (and a falconer by trade) has agreed to give a talk about the birds we see at and around the beach throughout the year. It will hopefully be in the last week of May and light refreshments will be available.
Finally, we (the committee) are meeting with Eco-Bos (Eco-town) in June and we would like you to let us know your concerns, questions and ideas for us to put forward. While we can't promise to cover everything, we will try. Please use the contact form which will send FoPB an email.
21st April 2010
Just back from Starry Nights, Brian Sheen and his team did us proud (thank you to all of you).
A very last minute change meant that we met at Gott Hall rather than the beach picnic spot. Thanks to Par Post Office, BBC Radio Corwall, St Austell Bay Radio and Pirate FM for helping us notify everyone. Everyone still got a chance to go outside as gradually the cloud cover started to clear - the telescopes and binoculars were put to good use.
Thanks also to Carolyn and Bob Rosser for organising refreshments and to Melanie Thomas whose kind offer to help clear up was gratefully received.
13th April 2010
Jan has scanned in the 1997 Par Beach management plan so that you can all download it to read at your leisure. We are working with the Ranger to help being this plan up to date. We also have the botany group meeting minutes to download now.
Serco are highlighting dog fouling in the local area this month, so hopefully there'll be more patrols and more clearing up. So many people do clear up after their dogs that it is a shame that the minority ruin it for us all.
12th April 2010
Cornwall Council has issued a new South West Coast Path safety code to help visitors to enjoy it without taking unnecessary risks. You can download it from the CC website or read the safety code on FoPB website.
11th April 2010
The litter pick had a great response, we had over twenty volunteers and the sun shone for us. What a shame that the ice cream van only showed up just as we were packing up!
Photos to follow and John Wood from the Cornish Guardian came by to take shots of our volunteers in action as well. Thanks to Caroline and Adrian Wildish for organising everything for us. The heap of litter collected will be collected by Serco.
We envisage our next litter pick to be in September.
The main car park is still a work in progress, half of it seems to have been leveled already and it has made a huge difference.
7th April 2010
There be machines at the car park!.....It would seem that the main car park is having pot holes filled. While traditionally this doesn't seem to last too long, at least it is a start. Thanks once more to Jim for the photos.
29th March 2010
Serco have started their pre-Easter cleanup of the beach. Jim took some photos...
27th March 2010
Orascom, Imerys and Eden are holding an exhibition of the (more detailed) Phase I eco-town plans, that's West Carclaze/Baal. Preliminary ideas for Par Docks will also be displayed.
This will now go round the villages and will be held in Alexander Hall (by Somerfield, St Blazey) on Thursday 1st April. Up to date plans are available on the Eco-Bos website. Do go along and have a look.
26th March 2010
FoPB's Jan Phillips has taken the time to write out an explanation of footpaths, public rights of way, definitive maps and statements. All of this is relevant to us all wrt access to the beach and formalising those routes. See Footpaths and Public Rights of Way, What are they?
21st March 2010
Rights of way map with the 'Meet & Mingle' initial debrief now available.
20th March 2010 pt 1
The Activities and Events survey is still open but I thought I'd tell you how we're doing. I've counted the Meet & Mingle entries along with those from the website, facebook and email links. Here are the top ten out of the thirty ideas we gave you (excluding volunteering)....
1. Talk - Par Beach wildlife
2. Visit - Par docks, industrial archeology & eco-town
3. Talk - Marine life in St Austell Bay
4. Talk - Local history
5. Practical conservation
6. Night with the stars - Outdoor event with astronomer
7. Beginners bird walk
Joint 8. Litter Picks, Talk - local mining
Joint 10. Ceilidh fundraiser, Fungi Foray
20th March 2010 pt 2
Orascom, Imerys and Eden are holding an exhibition of the (more detailed) Phase I eco-town plans, that's West Carclaze/Baal. Preliminary ideas for Par Docks will also be displayed.
This will be held in a vacant shop space in Aylmer Sq, White River Place and opens 6pm on Thursday 25th March running through Friday and Saturday. Feedback will be used to produce a strategy document and initial planning applications so it's worth making the time to visit if you're able and have your say.
19th March 2010
FoPB committee members attended the Parish Council Environmental Committee meeting last night as footpaths were on the agenda.
I'm pleased to report that we were all much in agreement over the footpaths - I'll put a diagram on the website when I can. A big thank you to everyone who managed to come to the Meet and Mingle and tell us which paths they considered the most important. Letters to Cornwall Council should be going out next week.
16th March 2010
St Andrews Pond has had pike removed from it by the Environment Agency.
More details from the BBC news website.
15th March 2010
The Cornwall Mammal Group and Friends of Luxulyan Valley are running an Otter Spotting Training day in April. You will need to book your place in advance.
14th March 2010
Chairman Kenny has started to set Chairman's Challenges. At the moment this is a name the image competition with the current grand prize being an FoPB car sticker! He already has the second challenge sorted so have a go and see how you fair.
10th March 2010 part 1
We have been given a copy of the Indenture between Arthur Basset and Tywardreath Parish Council of Arthur's sale of Par Beach to the Parish in 1914. It was scanned on to the computer tonight and we hope to have a copy on the website soon.
Update to say you can see it online here and download all eight parts of it from here.
10th March 2010 part 2
If you're wondering how the Meet and Mingle went on the 24th, it went really well so thank you to all who came and made it so.
We also need to thank Caroline Wildish for the loan of her display boards which was very kind of her and much appreciated, as has been her help and advice.
We had a meeting tonight at which the committee members each gave summaries of their 'bit' of the mingle evening which we will hopefully write up properly and put up here soon. We have a map drawn up of the pathways voted as Most Wanted as Designated Footpaths by yourselves, we have a long list of events to organise (two new ones to be announced really soon!) and lots of other bits and bobs.
10th March 2010 part 3
The Events, Activities and Volunteers survey has brought in over 40 responses so far, the more the merrier so I'll leave it running for the moment. Off the back of that we will be contacting those who have given their email addresses and offered to help, which in turn means we'll get more done and organised, brilliant.
4th March 2010
Unfortunately Gordon and Sue Jago have resigned from the FoPB Committee. It was good to see Gordon at the Meet & Mingle on the 24th Feb however and we wish them both well. Sue says;
"Unfortunately our circumstances mean that we are unable to participate and contribute as we had first hoped.
We realise that we are holding 2 valuable committee places that could be given to others who could be more involved, and we would therefore sadly like to withdraw from the committee.
Our committment to the wellbeing of Par Beach remains and we look forward to joining in events and assisting with activities as general members in the future.
With our very best wishes for the future of the comittee and FoPB.
Regards,
Gordon and Sue Jago"
20th February 2010
In the immediate future (in the next week or two) the Environment Agency plan to clear the channel from the sluice gate (opposite the car park toll hut) seaward. It is likely to look brutal for a while but is a necessary evil.
13th February 2010
So we have the meeting at Gott Hall on the 24th coming up, when you can listen to Paul the Ranger talking about Par Beach and have your say in the future of FoPB and what we will be working towards.
Jan is also running the second of this year's conservation activities on Sunday 28th February. Do come along to join in or watch as we continue to clear the path towards the reed bed.
Rumour has it that our membership cards should arrive soon for us to fill out and pass on to our members.
Rumours also abound of folk hearing the Cetti's Warbler, if you spot one, please let us know!
23rd January 2010
We have been kindly notified via Facebook by Ann of a small rockfall at the east side - from the cliffs. We'll let the necessary people know so it can at the very least be monitored, but do be careful near the cliffs in case there are more unstable bits after all the extremes of weather.
Also, I've yet another blog for you with news of wildlife out and about including the Par Beach area, by Angie. Look it up at http://angie-alecto.blogspot.com/
Keep your eyes out for a Mistle Thrush that has been seen regularly lurking near The Ship Inn lately, on the verge opposite the pub.
7th January 2010
Another interesting blog at http://fatwagtailphotography.blogspot.com/ by Mark Whittaker who is a Falconer & Owl Welfare Officer at Screech.
5th January 2010
We have a couple of photographs from the Big Seaweed Search in December now online and a date for the 1st conservation activity of 2010 is set for Sun 31st January.
10th December 2009
We have a tentative date for our first Friends of Par Beach indoor event!
Please keep the evening of Wednesday 27th January 2010 free as we plan to have a Meet and Mingle and a speaker. More details will be posted here when we have them but in the meantime if any of you are interested, willing and able to help organise this (and other) events, then please get in touch with us as soon as you can - even if you can't help until the New Year.
10th December 2009
We received an email (via Facebook to a committee member) from a recent visitor to Par Beach commenting on various issues including the level of seaweed and rubbish that was on the beach on 5th December. The very shape and position of the bay and the nature of the wind and tides means that we do seem to get everything piling up especially after rough and windy weather.
Our local ranger Paul has now put in place "Post Storm Inspections", so hopefully in the future any problems will be cleared away much faster. Jim Johnstown has confirmed that Serco have been down there litter picking as requested, but we're still waiting to see if the council will clear any of the seaweed away and/or whether any farmers could use the seaweed instead. We do need to remember though that seaweed is an important habitat for many creatures so it is not a bad thing but the litter problem definitely needs to be kept on top of.
We will organise further litter picks occasionally next year but the good news is that Serco have recently had their contract altered to include the clearing of the litter on the beach (and not just the dunes and access road). Let's hope that there will be a noticeable improvement. We would encourage all of you to report litter problems to Cornwall Council and/or Serco, other pollution to the Environmental Agency and all marine life strandings to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust Strandings Network. All the contact information for these groups can be found on our Links Page. Please also let us know what the problem is/was and how you've got on.
Finally, a comment was made about the sand/mud near the Par River when the tide was out during this Summer. We're unable to do much retrospectively but we have forwarded the information given to the Environmental Agency in the hope that the concerns are logged (even if the E.A. are unable to investigate this time). Once again we'd like to encourage everyone to contact the Council/Serco/EA when you notice a problem and keep us informed too. The more people who show that they care by reporting these things, the more chance we have of there being improvements. So a genuine thank you to T.L. for taking the time to tell us about your concerns and we hope that you will visit Par Beach again.
4th December 2009
I happened upon a blog (a diary on the web), all about wildlife spotted around St. Austell Bay. I have of course put a link on the Links Page but thought it deserved an independent mention too. I would like to thank "The Watcher" for being happy to share his blog with us and for being interested in Friends of Par Beach. Brilliant stuff, do visit his site St Austell Baywatch often as it is regularly updated.
27th November 2009
Jan is looking at finding a way to communicate with all the bird watchers out there and collate the bird data you collect. She is also trying to get a little group of you together for the purpose (bird watching/data collecting). Is anyone interested? If so, what sort of activities would you like to be part of?
Please email us if you would like to be involved.
17th November 2009
A huge thank you to Mr and Mrs Gilbert and Rhona Masters, whose generous donation this week has meant that we have been able to order the printing of 2,500 FoPB membership leaflets for distribution.
We are also indebted to Headland Printers Ltd of Penzance, who gave us a generous discount on printing costs to help FoPB along the way.
13th November 2009
The developers of the new eco-town have announced plans for Baal Pit and Carclaze, also stating that the Par Harbour site is expected to be developed as part of the first wave of work. Planning permission is expected to be filed by the end of 2010.
There is a meeting at John Keay house on Wednesday 18th November from 18:30hrs to discuss the plans.
10th November 2009
The gorse cutting was a resounding success. A hard working group of volunteers cut back and cleared well over half the area that needed to be done. The rest will be finished by students from Duchy College either today or tomorrow, with the huge heap of gorse being taken away tomorrow (11th Nov) along some digging away of some sand either side of the ramp (to prevent the damp sand rotting the boardwalk ramp). Photos are in the Events Gallery.
Thank you to everyone who helped out and well done!
2nd November 2009
Sincere apologies for the downtime of the website, a large but planned change about went horribly wrong even though a small scale experiment beforehand worked! It will take a few days for this to get properly sorted out so in the meantime, forgive me!
Michelle
28th October 2009
We’ve had a response to our plea for information about the ‘bunker’ at the western end of the beach, it seems it was used as an area to collect household refuse.
Also, the council has been doing some work to improve the ramp access to the beach, making good the wood and widening the concrete area around the shelter. I’ll add a photo to show you once I’ve taken one. Continuing the work, there has been a request for help with a work party, see Events for details.
13th October 2009
If anyone would like to contribute items for the newsletter or website about specific birds, plants, marine life, history etc., please get in touch.
Jan Phillips
13th October 2009
The Planning Group (off shoot of the FoPB committee) is hoping to meet the local ranger Paul Mason soon and has written an update:
The group will be focusing on wildlife and conservation, recreation and access issues and we hope to promote some practical conservation days in the winter for you to help with habitat management, though we have to get more members so that we can pay for the insurance we need first. We think to start with, our main behind the scenes job is going to be information gathering. There is a surprising amount of data already coming to light from a variety of different sources.
I can report that the first positive action has been to bring together a small group of FoPB members who have a particular interest in plants. They met on the 8th October for the first time to talk about the kinds of things they might do. If you’re interested in joining the Plants Group, email us through the contact form.
Next we would like to do the same with local bird watchers and ask that you get in touch if this is something that you would like to be a part of - please rope in your friends and neighbours even if they’re not FoPB members yet. We do need an up to date picture of beach related bird life so please spread the word. There is a lot more to it than just Canada Geese, Mallards, Mute Swans and Gulls! Jan Phillips
20th September 2009
Yesterday’s Beach Litter Pick organised by Caroline Wildish in conjunction with the Marine Conservation Society Beachwatch Litterpick, was a great success. Over 25 people turned up to do their bit. Much less glass was found than expected but fishing wires, rope and plastics were still found to be major problems.
A big thank you to Caroline for organising it all and to all of you who managed to spend some time collecting and sorting the litter. Some more photos taken on the day can be found on our Events Gallery page.
14th September 2009
Announcing a Make Birds Count - a bird survey training day.
A special event for surveyors and those considering becoming surveyors - find out how important surveys are for monitoring birds and how the data is used.
Get to grips with different techniques.
Expert training from RSPB and BTO
Presentations and practical field work.
An opportunity for beginners to find out what bird surveys involve.
Location - Duchy College, Stoke Climsland (nr. Callington).
When? Saturday 21st November 2009, 09:30 to 16:00
Cost? Free - but booking is essential
How? Book by email the RSPB or telephone 01392 453 763
Jan Phillips
10th September 2009
Richard Croome has confirmed that he is ready to start a local botany group with Phil Hunt. We’re hoping to use and abuse their skills in helping us to map the plants across the main dunes and foredunes. More information on how to contact Richard and Phil, and how to volunteer your services will be posted here as soon as we have it.
Richard has already pointed out two Polygonum species on the foredunes that are flagged in the the Red Data Books as rare in this country.
Jan Phillips
7th September 2009
The meeting on 13th August was a great success in that a Committee was formed and we signed up around 50 members. Committee members have been getting to know each other and progress has been made identifying responsibilities and making plans.
A beach litter pick is happening on Saturday 19th September. It has been organised by Caroline Wildish in conjunction with the Marine Conservation Society Beachwatch Litterpick . We are all invited to join in and it is an opportunity to show our commitment. We shall have an information point and hope to enrol more members.
Bring gloves and your friends, and let's clean up our beach at the end of another busy season (despite the weather).
When? 10.00 Saturday 19th September
Where? Meet in main car park - that's the one with all the potholes
See you there
Mike Freemantle
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