DESPITE ‘Storm Dennis’ many people came to Launcells Parish Hall on Saturday, February 15, for the opening of the new parish archive room, to be known as ‘Freda’s Room’.

Peter Harwood, chairman of the History Group, introduced Mrs Freda Hockin and invited her to declare Freda’s Room officially open. Freda co-founded the History Group in 2004.

This celebration was the culmination of more than five years’ work. The parish council in conjunction with the History Group decided in 2014/15, that to preserve existing information and hopefully to add to these local records, it would be beneficial to create a purpose built facility. 

Plans were drawn up and approved by planners for an extension to the parish hall. Builder’s quotes were received and grant aid applied for without success.

Discussions took part at council meetings to consider if it would be possible to utilise existing storage space to create an archive room within existing footprints of the hall, to make fundraising easier. 

This was not completely dismissed but following further suggestions, in 2017/18 it was decided to employ Mr Ian Saltern of Stratton, who had previous experience in writing grant applications.

The result was that grant funding was granted to the project from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Duke of Cornwall’s Benevolent Fund, The Blanchminster Charitable Trust, Cornwall Community foundation’s East Langford Solar Farm Fund and The Cornwall Heritage Trust.

Launcells Parish Council’s clerk Pam Brewer said: “The parish council and History Group are grateful for the co-operation of the hall management committee, Stuart Bryant the building contractor and all who have helped on this project. However, it is by no means complete! Work is progressing on filing, digitising and preserving records.”

Following the opening ceremony, Royston Symons was presented with a certificate by Pam in recognition of his service to the parish council. 

Royston retired from the council at the end of 2019 after 25 years’ service, which included two separate, three-year spells as chairman.

Royston is also a member of the History Group and acted as the parish council’s project manager, overseeing the building of Freda’s Room.