OWLS, dogs, a chicken and a goat — all had a leading role in Poundstock’s traditional revel, which was held on Saturday, May 4, in glorious sunshine in the beautiful setting of the churchyard and Gildhouse.

As always, there were plenty of bargains and goodies to be enjoyed, and lots of games for young and old, like the corn toss, coconut shy and splat the rat. The tombola offered some really splendid prizes, including many vouchers generously provided by local firms.

The children’s races saw keen competition this year. Despite the usual few false starts, there was lots of fast running, really energetic jumping in the sack races and intense concentration in the egg and spoon, which was a particular revelation: imagine a large crowd of small children, each with one hand clenched firmly behind their back, walking unnaturally slowly and with enormous care towards the finish.

One dad remarked that he’d never realised his three-year-old could move so slowly.

Revel spokesperson Liz Jones, said: “The revel raised over £750 and the organisers are so grateful for all the support received in donations, help and attendance. Even more important than the proceeds is that it was a very happy afternoon: everyone had a great time, especially Snow the goat, who ate everything within reach, including the churchwarden’s lunch.

“The weather was kind again on Sunday for the walk across the fields to St Neot’s Well. Revd David Barnes, our new rector, and a group of about 20 people of all ages strolled through a beautiful Cornish afternoon to the ancient well, laying posies of flowers during a very short informal Celtic service. As tradition demands, everyone went back to the Gildhouse afterwards for a slap-up tea to round off a great community weekend.”