THE East Cornwall’s Court Goodwill 5077 of the Foresters Friendly Society has celebrated an uplifting and memorable annual general meeting, highlighting a year defined by friendship, mutual support and outstanding charitable achievement.

The meeting was held in Liskeard and chaired by outgoing Chief Ranger Sis Joan Thomas, alongside Court secretary Bro Gary Webber, who also serves as Devon and Cornwall area secretary.

Proceedings began on a reflective note, with a minute’s silence in memory of members who had passed away, before moving into the formal business of the afternoon.

Key agenda items included the review of finances, accounts and member grants, all of which were carefully discussed and unanimously approved. The Court also reflected on its charitable efforts over the past year, an area in which Sis Joan’s leadership truly stood out.

In her closing remarks, Sis Joan expressed heartfelt thanks to her fellow Foresters, as well as friends and family, whose collective support helped raise an impressive £1,313.58 for Cornwall Hospice Care. The total stands as a testament to the generosity and community spirit at the heart of the organisation.

A significant moment in the afternoon came with the change of officers, during which Sis Joan formally handed over her role to Bro Kevin Wadland of Launceston. The transition was marked by warm applause and sincere expressions of appreciation for Sis Joan’s dedication and service.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed refreshments and took part in a raffle in support of the incoming Chief Ranger Kevin’s chosen charity, the Launceston Voluntary First Aid Service so continuing the Court’s proud tradition of giving back to the community.

Speaking after the meeting, Bro Kevin shared his enthusiasm for the year ahead.

He said: “It’s an honour to take on this role and build on the fantastic work Joan and the members have achieved. The strength of Court Goodwill lies in its people and I look forward to continuing our tradition of friendship, support and making a positive difference in our community.”

People based in Devon or Cornwall who are looking to connect with a friendly, community-focused society with a proud heritage can discover more about the Foresters Friendly Society in Devon and Cornwall by getting in touch with the team. The Foresters Friendly Society offers a welcoming network where members support one another, build lasting friendships, and take part in local events and activities.

If anyone would like to find out more about getting involved, area secretary Bro Gary would be delighted to hear from them.

A spokesperson said: “Whether you’re curious about membership, community events, or how the Society works, Gary can help point you in the right direction.”

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] or call 01326 315055.

To explore more about the Foresters Friendly Society, its long history and the benefits of membership across the UK, visit the national website: www.forestersfriendlysociety.co.uk

The spokesperson added: “Join a community built on friendship, support and tradition.”

ANOTHER good turnout for the March Lezant Lunch Club.

Twenty-eight members were greeted by Ken Scoble with some amusing stories.

Members were treated to a lovely venison casserole served with roast potatoes and fresh vegetables, followed by pineapple dessert and cream. The chefs were Ruth Burden and Emma and John Morley. Service was provided by Judith Smith, Diana Anderson, Irene Nash, Mary Bridger and Helen Judge. During coffee Ruth entertained members with a game based on "Town and Country" with categories such as breeds of dog and computer jargon.

The Lunch Club will next meet at Trebullett Hall on Wednesday, April 29. The cost to members is just £5 for two courses plus tea or coffee. Phone Ruth on 01566 782286 to book a place.

Cleerway Community Church meets on Sunday to celebrate Easter in the Memorial Hall, Well Lane, St Cleer PL14 5EA. This will be a family friendly time that may include chocolate.

All will be sharing an Easter breakfast together from 9.45am before the service starts at 10.30am.

Note that there won't be the usual monthly shared lunch or clothes-swap this time.

Please feel free to invite your family and friends to join us as everyone is welcome.

On Good Friday, 3rd April, there will be a 'Walk of Witness' This will start at the Parish Church, 10am and the walk will take the route through part of the village, towards the village hall.

Where there will be a united service of hymns, prayers and reflections. Starting at 10.30am. All are welcome.

Easter Day, the morning united service will be held at St Ive Parish, April 5, starting at 11.15am. Fellowship continues over a cup of tea/coffee. All are welcome.

Advance notice — an 'All in the April evening' concert will be given by Valley Voices. On Saturday, April 18, starting at 7pm. Held at St Ive Parish Church.

THE fifth Sunday in Lent was 'Passion Sunday'.

Tony Davis as captain of the Tower led the ringing of the church bells as Myra Thomas and Tracey Hockin welcomed everyone and handed out the hymn books.

The Lenten Cross was decorated in purple, the colour of Lent to symbolise the forty days and forty nights when Jesus fasted in the wilderness.

The colour will change to red for Palm Sunday and the Passion of Christ, then to black for Good Friday and gold for Easter Sunday.

The choir sang the Benidicite - a Canticle. From the Cathedral Psalter - to a tune from 1904, Bless Ye the Lord, the Benidicite is sung during Lent in place of the Tei Deium - 'We Praise Thee O God'.

Led by the choir and Luke Francis playing the organ, the hymns sung were: ‘How sweet the name of Jesus sounds’, ‘When I survey the wonderous cross’, ‘Christian doest Thou see them’, and ‘The Royal banners forward go’ (hymn for the fifth Sunday in Lent).

Ian Mason led the service with a feeling of passion and joy, but also with submission.

Coffee and biscuits were shared after the service at the rear of the church.

THE Mothering Sunday service at Chilsworthy Methodist Chapel was a testimony service led by Mark Shepherd with testimonies given by Mark Banks, Sandra Shepherd, Joan Sussex and Maxine Whenmouth. Prayers were led by Mike Reeves and music was led on the keyboards by Christine Tratt and Sandra Shepherd. All ladies in the congregation received a potted plant. Coffee and biscuits were served after the service.

Embrace — More than forty ladies met in the Stable on Saturday evening for the first Embrace event of the year. They were served a delicious meal of scampi or sausages with chips, followed by ice cream and homemade cake. After the meal Sandra Shepherd gave a talk entitled ‘My Story, My Faith’ where she shared about the Christian hope she still has despite her battle with cancer. The next event will be a walk in June.

CVM 10-pin bowling — The latest CVM (Christian Vision for Men) event was a visit to Trethorne Leisure Farm near Launceston to demonstrate their prowess or otherwise at 10-pin bowling. Twenty men enjoyed a rowdy gathering with delicious burgers and chips at half time. The next event will be a bike ride in May.

IN the past five years, a £3.2-million programme has transformed the Tamar Valley, delivering an 87-mile coast-to-coast walking route, a trial return of the historic Calstock Ferry, and extensive habitat restoration.

Led by Tamar Valley National Landscape and funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme invested in ten projects supporting nature recovery, sustainable tourism, farming, heritage conservation, and community wellbeing.

Will Darwall, manager of the Tamara Landscape Partnership Scheme, said: “It’s been an incredible five years. The Tamara Scheme has brought together farmers, communities, organisations and volunteers to create a brighter future for the Tamar Valley.

“Thanks to National Lottery players and the collaboration of local partners and communities, the work will continue to benefit people, nature and the landscape for years to come.”

The scheme partnered with farmers, community groups, charities, and local businesses to deliver tangible improvements. Among its key achievements is the Tamara Coast to Coast Way: an 87-mile walking route connecting Cornwall’s south and north coasts following the River Tamar from its estuary near Plymouth to its source and onward to the north coast.

The scheme also trialed the reinstatement of the historic Calstock Ferry. Once a centuries-old route, it historically linked Devon and Cornwall, and its revival restores one of the valley’s oldest transport links. It provides a sustainable crossing for walkers, cyclists, and visitors.

It has also revitalised the Tamar Valley’s historic market gardening industry, delivered heritage research and conservation, and organised hundreds of community events focused on wellbeing, skills, and connecting people with nature.

The scheme was funded by Cornwall Council, Devon County Council, and more than 20 partners.