St Piran’s Day marked the opening of Phase 2 of the ‘Regeneration Project’ at the Old Cattle Market Skatepark (OCM) which was attended by around 250 people throughout the day, not only enjoying the activities and new recreational areas but also the sunshine.

Phase 2, which includes the construction of North Cornwall’s first and only pump track and parkour area, outside gym bars, table tennis table and extension to the existing skatepark was opened by Mark Richardson from the National Lottery Community Fund and Mayor, Cllr Rob Rotchell.  Rowan Miller, head of funding for South West at the National Lottery Community Fund said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to make a significant investment into this worthwhile project to regenerate the Old Cattle Market for the local community.  It should make a fantastic hub where people can meet, build connections and take part in activities that will serve to strengthen the community and support people to prosper and thrive.  We wish Camelford Town Council and the local community every success with this project and look forward to seeing the impact this improved community space will have on people’s lives.”

The project was made possible by £125,000 funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, which includes £10,000 for a youth worker, £50,000 funding from Sport England, £25,000 funding from Saputo Dairy UK (formerly Dairy Crest) and £16,000 seed/match funding from Camelford Town Council.

The grand opening was also supported by the European Development Funds ‘Welcome Back Fund’, in association with Cornwall Council and Hall for Cornwall. 

This meant a fun packed timetable of events including the amazing ‘Zoo Humans’ shown by the Urban Playground Team who also provided a parkour workshop, live music with Gary McCausland and a 40ft inflatable assault course for all to enjoy. 

Cornish Crepes and New Hanger Management provided food and drink. The raffle, supported by Mermadium, Skate Warehouse, Air Culture, Mount Hawke Skatepark, New Hanger Management and the Masons Arms Public House raised £145 for the OCM Skatepark Club. A grand total of £275 was raised through donations, membership and donations from New Hanger Management and Cornish Crepes.

Other activities in the town saw a pasty making workshop in the Old Bank. The winner of the best adult pasty was Victoria Callcut. Junior pasty winner was Henry Kestell and saffron bun winner was Jill Smeeth.

This workshop was run by Kirsty Ferguson and Shirley Goodman. To help celebrate World Book Day, Reg and Laura of ARTiculate worked with the whole of Year 4 at Camelford Community Primary School, creating miniature tall ships, and co-writing and re-telling a new tall tale of ocean adventure. The new tale was then shared at the Ships & Shadows storytelling event in the library.

Chris Hytch from Folk band ‘Annown’ entertained at the Bandstand at lunchtime.  In the evening there was a fastest eating pasty competition supported by the Masons Arms Pub. The winner was Alex, with runners up Jamie, Jason and Rob.   

On March 19, the Urban Playground Team will once again visit Camelford’s OCM Skatepark to do another workshop. This starts at 2pm. For more information about this and other upcoming events in Camelford, visit www.visitcamelford.co.uk and go to the ‘What’s On’ page, or email Amanda at [email protected] for more information.