Paul Armstrong

Mullion School’s Flight 45 cohort achieved a record 45 GCSE Grade 9s. Charlie led with eight Grade 9s, followed by Arthur with seven, while the school praised the wider cohort’s academic success, character, extracurricular involvement and support for one another. Headteacher Mrs Dunleavy credited students, staff and families for the results, as pupils prepare to move into sixth form, college, apprenticeships or employment.

Police are appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage after a serious collision between a car and a motorcycle near the A30 junction with the B3306 at Sennen. The motorcyclist, a man in his 50s, suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital, while the car’s occupants were uninjured. The road was closed temporarily, and information can be provided to Devon and Cornwall Police using log number 616 of August 18.

A 44-year-old man from Truro was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, administering a noxious substance and theft after a 41-year-old man was found dead in Moorfield Car Park. Police are treating the death as unexplained, with forensic examinations, searches and CCTV reviews underway. The ground-floor section remains cordoned off, and investigators have appealed for witnesses and information.

Jason Paget was sentenced to 10 years in prison for participating in a planned 2020 aggravated burglary at a Newquay family home. The masked gang attacked the homeowner with a baseball bat and cosh, seriously injuring him, while Paget also assaulted a neighbour who intervened. Two other attackers remain unidentified. Paget later committed further burglaries in Dublin and is expected to be deported after serving two-thirds of his sentence.

A 41-year-old man from the Truro area was found dead at Moorfield Car Park on August 17. Police are treating the death as unexplained and are conducting forensic examinations, searches and CCTV reviews while the ground floor remains cordoned off. Detective Inspector Jon Bray appealed for information about the man's movements and any suspicious activity between August 14 and the time the body was found.

Plans have been submitted to convert Santander’s former branch at 6 Trelowarren Street in Camborne into a banking hub offering face-to-face banking, cash and deposit services. Proposed works include an external cash machine, shopfront and entrance alterations, improved wheelchair access, new signage and ventilation equipment. Cash Access UK Limited says the hub would help maintain in-person banking support for residents and small businesses following local branch closures. The site is within Camborne Conservation Area and the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site, and Cornwall Council will decide the application.

Falmouth School’s Sixth Form is celebrating strong A Level and Level 3 results, with students progressing to universities, degree apprenticeships, employment, travel and gap years. The school highlighted individual successes and the resilience of students studying traditional A Levels and specialist Level 3 Diplomas, while headteacher Joanne Guest praised students, staff and families for their contributions and support.

Helston Community College reported that 90% of its university applicants secured places on their first-choice degree courses. More than 60% of students are progressing to STEM subjects, including medicine, engineering, geology, biology and chemistry, while over 20% received offers from the University of Exeter. High-achieving students are heading to universities including Exeter, Bath and Manchester to study subjects ranging from medicine and engineering to law, history, English and philosophy.

Voters in Falmouth’s Arwenack and Penwerris wards are voting in separate by-elections to fill vacancies on Falmouth Town Council created by the resignations of councillors Jon Stowell and Kerry Holbrook. Arwenack has three candidates, while Penwerris has six, including former councillors seeking to regain their seats. Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm, with Cornwall Council administering the elections; winners will serve the remainder of the current council term.

Camborne Rugby Football Club has applied to Cornwall Council for permission to build a single-storey pitch-side hospitality suite at Crane Park using two repurposed shipping containers. The facility would accommodate about 30 people during matches, training, events and community activities, supporting the club's ambitions after promotion to National League One. Plans include timber cladding, accessible facilities and step-free entry, while visitors would use existing parking and be encouraged to travel sustainably. The application is open for public comment under reference PA26/04500.

The planned handover of Truro’s High Cross car park from NCP to Q-Park has been delayed, leaving city-centre workers uncertain about discounted parking arrangements. Q-Park says it is not yet operating the car park and has provided no new transition date. In the interim, eligible workers are understood to be able to continue using the NCP Colleague Saver ID Code through the NCP ParkPass app for parking costing £4.95 for up to 24 hours from Monday to Saturday. Truro BID is advising workers to monitor its website and social media for updates and to contact Q-Park about any problems.

Powell's Plaice, a new family-run fish and chip shop in Falmouth, is opening in the former Acacia Fish Shop premises. The business is operated by Mel and Tom Powell and their children, with local councillor David Saunby scheduled to open it. Mel brings more than 20 years of experience from The Gem Fish Bar, and the shop will serve traditional British chippy favourites alongside modern variations while aiming to become a community hub for residents and visitors from Falmouth and Penryn.

Falmouth is being promoted as a leading UK location to view the August 12 partial solar eclipse, when about 95% of the Sun is expected to be obscured in Cornwall. The event will coincide with a free aerial display over Falmouth Bay by three teams during Falmouth Week, with Pendennis Castle, Gyllyngvase Beach and The Falmouth Hotel suggested as viewing spots. Visitors are advised to use proper eye protection.

Penzance Town Council will stop watering the town’s hanging baskets and other ornamental displays because South West Water’s hosepipe ban prohibits using hoses and sprinklers in public spaces. The restrictions, introduced after prolonged below-average rainfall and drought conditions across the South West, also limit household uses such as watering gardens, washing cars and filling pools. The loss of the floral displays is expected to be one of the most visible local effects of the ban.

Tommy Aaron Chislett, 23, was given a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order after targeting elderly homeowners in Porthleven while posing as a roofer. He dishonestly inflated the cost of repairs, failed to explain cancellation rights, removed tiles before agreeing a price and used abusive or aggressive conduct. He had already received a 46-week prison sentence for fraud and related offences, with a further 12 weeks activated from an earlier suspended assault sentence. The order bans him from unsolicited doorstep trading, distributing promotional material without permission, accompanying cold callers and undertaking customer-contact garden or building work without written Trading Standards approval.

Wild Futures will close its Monkey Sanctuary near Looe, Cornwall, ending more than 60 years of primate rescue, rehabilitation, education and conservation work. The charity cited the collapse of a proposed site sale and a land assessment that found structural problems making the property unsuitable for long-term use. All remaining monkeys will be rehomed with carefully selected sanctuaries and organisations, while Wild Futures plans an emergency appeal to fund relocation and ongoing care. The charity said it will continue its wider campaigning, education and conservation activities.

Around £100,000 worth of gold chains were stolen from Diamonds and Gems in the St Cleer area near Liskeard after two men reportedly attended to buy jewellery. One suspect distracted the seller while the other took the chains, and the victim was assaulted when attempting to stop them. One suspect fled on foot and the other left in a silver car, which was later found. Devon and Cornwall Police are investigating and have appealed for information using crime reference 431-06082026.

Cornwall Wildlife Trust has warned that planned dredging for the £150 million Falmouth Docks redevelopment could release contaminated sediment into the Fal Estuary and Falmouth Bay. The charity says only 21 core samples cover more than 232,000 square metres and that many samples contain potentially unsafe pollutants, including heavy metals and tributyl tin. It is also concerned about impacts on marine habitats, fisheries, protected species and underwater noise from up to 50 weeks of pile driving. The Trust supports redevelopment in principle but has submitted a holding objection and is calling for more detailed environmental scrutiny before Cornwall Council considers the planning application. The Marine Management Organisation is the lead environmental regulator.

Former science teacher Hugo Horlick and co-founders Freddie Sawkins and Sophie Castle have launched Mor & Meadow, a Falmouth-based skincare brand inspired by Cornish coastal ecosystems. The founders combine expertise in science, fragrance and art, developing products focused on skin-barrier support, hydration and long-term resilience rather than short-term trends. Cornwall and its landscapes are central to the brand’s identity and future ambitions.

A person suffered a medical episode while in the sea at Porthcothan beach in north Cornwall. Surf school instructors and RNLI lifeguards brought the casualty ashore, while coastguard, ambulance, police and air ambulance crews coordinated the response. The casualty was flown to Royal Cornwall Hospital for further treatment, but their condition was not disclosed. Coastguard officials praised the multi-agency response and reminded the public to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard when someone is in trouble near the coast.

Devon and Cornwall Police released an image of a man they wanted to identify in connection with a reported indecent exposure incident near the Fisherman’s Cove car park at North Cliffs, Camborne, on May 28. Following a public appeal, officers announced on August 7 that they had identified the man and thanked members of the public who provided information. The police investigation involved an allegation that the man exposed himself to members of the public.

Grove Place Car Park in Falmouth recorded 749 Penalty Charge Notices, making it Cornwall’s second-biggest parking fines hotspot after Priory Car Park in St Austell, which recorded 950. The figures, obtained from Cornwall Council through a Freedom of Information request by Fast Loan UK, show that the county’s ten biggest enforcement hotspots were all council-operated off-street car parks. Falmouth, St Austell and Truro feature prominently among the locations with the highest numbers of notices.

A man in his 20s from Cornwall was arrested near Camborne during a joint operation by the Environment Agency, Cornwall Council and Devon and Cornwall Police over alleged illegal waste activities. The investigation concerns a site containing about 50,000 tonnes of predominantly inert construction waste, while Cornwall Council is examining alleged offences at another site. The man has not been charged. The Environment Agency said it had previously issued Illegal Waste Stop Letters to parties involved and would pursue enforcement to protect local communities and the environment.

Two separate motorcycle collisions in Cornwall left both riders in life-threatening conditions. A 16-year-old boy was seriously injured when his red Honda collided with a Volkswagen Polo near South Petherwin, while a man in his 60s suffered critical injuries in a later crash involving an orange Royal Enfield motorcycle with a sidecar at Castle an Dinas. Both roads were closed for several hours, and Devon and Cornwall Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage.

A free beach toy library has opened at Castle Beach in Falmouth through a Plastic Free Falmouth project supported by Falmouth Town Council. Visitors can borrow and return buckets, spades and other toys, while donations of clean, usable items are encouraged. The scheme aims to reduce single-use plastic, prevent toys being abandoned on beaches and protect the local marine environment. Castle Beach Café will store the toys overnight, and the initiative complements the council’s Sand Safe campaign.

Police arrested a woman in her 30s on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm after a reported early-morning incident in Lower Market Street, Penryn, on August 3. Police said one woman allegedly pulled another to the ground and punched her, and that the victim and suspect are believed to know each other. The suspect remained in custody.

The Minack Theatre in Porthcurno will host The Songs of Joni Mitchell on September 29, featuring Jesca Hoop, Lail Arad, Naima Bock and pianist Richard Sears. Curated by Arad to mark Mitchell’s 80th birthday, the touring tribute presents new interpretations of Mitchell’s songs and has received strong reviews and sold-out performances. Hoop also presented a BBC Radio documentary and podcast about Mitchell’s life and music.

A motorcyclist in his 70s suffered life-threatening injuries after a collision involving a motorcycle and two cars on the B3304 Porthleven Road between Helston and Porthleven. Cornwall Air Ambulance flew him to hospital, and Devon and Cornwall Police appealed for witnesses and relevant dash-cam footage.

The Gurnard’s Head, near Zennor between St Ives and Land’s End, has been ranked fourth in Locals Insider’s UK Bucket List Beer Gardens for 2026. Its clifftop garden, panoramic Atlantic views and sunset scenery were cited as reasons for its high position, making it the highest-ranked Cornish venue and one of only two South West pubs in the top ten. Devon’s Anchor Inn took first place.

Police attended Harvey’s Towans beach in Hayle after reports of a large group of youths drinking, fighting and surrounding vehicles in the car park. A teenager reported minor injuries after being assaulted, while officers dispersed the group and confiscated alcohol. The incident followed a separate assault at nearby Gwthian involving a 14-year-old boy and an 81-year-old woman, and enquiries remain ongoing.

Truro Magistrates’ Court extended a partial closure order on a property in Park an Tansys, Camborne, until October after continued reports of anti-social behaviour, excessive visitors and suspected drug-related activity. The order prohibits anyone other than the tenant from entering the address. Police said visitors had continued to breach the restrictions, while Devon and Cornwall Police and Cornwall Council welcomed the extension and pledged continued monitoring and enforcement.

Thirteen-year-old Charlie Sawle from St Agnes, Cornwall, has launched Sid’s Dairy at his family’s Beacon Cottage Farm. After saving for three years, he bought a Jersey cow named Clare and now milks her after school, pasteurises the milk on-site and sells whole and semi-skimmed milk, double cream and Cornish clotted cream through the farm shop. Sawle has completed the required food-safety certifications, and the venture is attracting community support as an example of youth entrepreneurship and local food production.

TG Jones has begun a closing-down sale at its Helston store after the branch was rebranded from WH Smith only months ago. The sale offers discounts across the shop, with final trading expected on September 16, 2026. The company cited efforts to secure TG Jones’s long-term future and said it would support affected employees, while the closure has renewed concerns about the future of town-centre retail. The store had operated in Helston for nearly 30 years under the WH Smith name and was previously part of John Menzies.

Falmouth Week 2026 will run from August 7 to 16, combining sailing, live music, family activities and community events. A major highlight on August 12 is expected to be a 95% partial solar eclipse visible over Cornwall, coinciding with an air display over Falmouth Bay, subject to weather and regulatory approval. The programme also includes performances by Peter Andre and Scouting For Girls, tribute acts, a new beach day, a carnival and charity fundraising events.

Pendennis Group has taken over a former oil terminal at Falmouth Docks after the previous operator, Falmouth Petroleum Services, stopped trading. The terminal had been inactive for about 18 months, and staff outcomes varied: some remained employed, some transferred within Pendennis, and others lost their jobs. A former employee disputed the company’s account, saying nine workers were unexpectedly told they had lost their jobs. Pendennis has not announced detailed plans but intends to keep the brownfield site in local ownership and use it for marine-related activity, supporting Falmouth’s port and wider marine economy.

American guitarist and songwriter Steve Gunn will perform at the Cornish Bank in Falmouth on July 29. Known for blending folk, rock and experimental guitar music, Gunn has released acclaimed recordings through labels including Matador Records, Three Lobed Recordings, Paradise of Bachelors and RVNG. His forthcoming seventh studio album, Daylight Daylight, is scheduled for release on November 7 via No Quarter, while his solo instrumental album Music for Writers was released the previous August.

Police, Cornwall Council and Cornwall Housing are continuing efforts to address anti-social behaviour linked to an individual in Truro’s Malabar estate. A previous property closure order has expired, leaving no current legal barrier to the individual returning to their rented home, while Cornwall Housing awaits a mandatory grounds for possession hearing. The individual, previously jailed for criminal damage to vehicles, is subject to a three-year criminal behaviour order restricting access to parts of Truro, contact with vehicles and the use of concealing face coverings. Police are asking residents to report suspected breaches when they occur.

Paul Hughes, 55, was sentenced to 18 months in prison after sending more than 300 increasingly abusive emails to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall and threatening to burn Commissioner Alison Hernandez alive. He also breached a restraining order by contacting a school despite being banned from doing so. Hughes admitted sending a communication threatening death or serious injury under the Online Safety Act. Judge Simon Carr said the sentence concerned the threatening manner of Hughes’s communications, not his personal views, and imposed a five-year restraining order banning contact with Hernandez and the commissioner’s office.

A finance controller, Gynevra Hall, faces multiple fraud charges linked to her roles at maritime firms in Falmouth and Newquay, including allegations of abusing her position and falsely claiming qualifications to obtain wages. The charges span incidents from 2022 to 2025 and involve alleged financial gains exceeding £80,000. Hall entered no pleas and was granted unconditional bail pending her appearance at Truro Crown Court on August 21.

Police are investigating a series of linked card machine refund frauds in Redruth, Exmouth and Lyme Regis, with £5,000 taken from a pharmacy and smaller amounts from cafés. Officers released images of two men they want to identify and urged businesses to remain vigilant when handing over payment devices. Information is being sought via the police non‑emergency line or Crimestoppers.

A trailer containing £13,000 worth of Kamado Joe ceramic barbecues was stolen shortly before they were due to be used at the UK Surf & Skate Expo in Newquay. Organisers say the festival will continue as planned and have appealed to the public for information, noting that a Ford flatbed lorry was seen near the scene. Kamado Joe’s marketing director urged residents to watch for the distinctive grills, and police are asking anyone with information to contact them with the relevant crime reference number.

CMAT delivers a standout performance at the 2026 Eden Sessions, blending humor, strong vocals and pop‑country songwriting while addressing misogyny and body‑shaming she faced after a BBC festival clip. Her connection with fans, including an emotional moment with a young audience member, adds depth to an energetic set backed by her band. Multiple hits and an engaging stage presence make the show a highlight of the Eden Sessions series.

Campaigners and councillors in Cornwall are pushing for South West Water to be returned to public ownership, citing years of underinvestment, sewage spills, and rising bills. Around 60 town and parish councils support a no-confidence motion to be presented to Cornwall Council, accompanied by a letter to national officials and regulators. Supporters argue the utility has lost its social licence after repeated failures and criminal convictions, urging the new government to take action immediately after Andy Burnham enters office.

A long-closed Falmouth pub formerly known as the Quayside Inn is reopening under new owner Peter Bennett, who is restoring its historic name, The Globe. Significant refurbishment work has uncovered original features, and the venue plans to offer live music, quizzes, a relaxed atmosphere and a food menu focused on speciality sausages. Katie, formerly of the Unicorn in Porthtowan, will manage the pub, which aims to appeal to a broad audience. Bennett hopes the reopening will revive local affection for the site as it welcomes visitors next Wednesday.

Cornwall Council has ruled that long-standing maintenance practices at Maenporth Beach car park must stop due to coastal erosion and rising sea levels, prompting concerns about future access. The site has been designated for managed retreat, preventing further reinforcement using sand from the beach. Maenporth Estate Company Ltd submitted phased proposals to maintain access for the 2026 season, but issues remain unresolved, including boundary definitions and the status of large boulders. The estate has requested an urgent meeting with the council and remains hopeful for a solution while acknowledging community support as discussions continue.

Skybus suspended all flights between Newquay and St Mary’s for the rest of the summer due to aircraft and pilot shortages, rerouting passengers through Land’s End. Isles of Scilly Travel cited operational challenges and pledged support measures, including free parking, fare refunds, and café vouchers. The company said focusing resources on Land’s End will improve reliability, while Exeter flights continue as scheduled. Teams are working to strengthen operations and restore expected service levels.

Organisers of Truro Pride will hold a new solidarity march in response to rising visible hate, emphasising unity and opposition to discrimination. The march will begin at Hendra Park and end at Lemon Quay, leading into the day’s Pride festivities. Cornwall Pride chief executive Matthew Kenworthy Gomes highlighted the event as a peaceful stand for equality, with participants carrying Cornish, English and British flags to underscore inclusivity. The event will include speakers, live performances and community stalls, aiming to demonstrate broad community support for equality.

The Truro Classic Car Show will return on August 2, featuring vintage and modern classic vehicles displayed across multiple city centre streets. The event is organised by Truro BID and will include automobilia stalls, live music and displays from local dealerships. A special Park and Ride shuttle from Tregurra will assist visitors, while road closures will ensure pedestrian access. Sponsored by Coodes Solicitors and supported by Macmillan Cancer Support, the show aims to attract families, car enthusiasts and boost local business footfall.

Penlee RNLI crews carried out consecutive rescue responses at Church Cove near Mullion, first assisting a stranded kayaker and later responding to reports of a paddleboarder blown offshore. Additional call-outs included assistance for a group cut off by the tide at Marazion, though another vessel had already helped them. Clear weather and strong easterly winds contributed to the incidents, underscoring the challenges of changing coastal conditions along the Cornish coastline.

KRS-One will perform at Falmouth’s Princess Pavilion on September 15 as part of his My Philosophy European Tour, offering a rare opportunity for local audiences to see the influential hip-hop artist. The venue describes the event as a significant moment for the town, with a set expected to include classic tracks and newer material. Tickets are available through SeeTickets and the venue box office, with the event open to ages 14 and over under specific supervision rules.

Summer Camp festival returns to the Trefusis Estate for its fifth year with its most internationally diverse lineup, featuring artists from Africa, Central America, Europe and the UK. Headliner Noura Mint Seymali leads a program that includes Benin International Musical, the Garifuna Collective and Uganda’s Nakibembe Embaire Group. The event combines performances with workshops, local food and community folk sessions, continuing The Cornish Bank’s mission to promote grassroots music in Cornwall.

The MP for West Cornwall, Andrew George, has raised concerns about proposed changes to the Coinagehall Street housing development in Penzance, citing strong public opposition and fears that commitments to affordable housing may be weakened. He has requested clearer explanations from Cornwall Council and Treveth Development LLP regarding the reasons for submitting a revised planning application and questioned whether alternative legal mechanisms could have addressed funding issues. George called for an independent review and argued that the council should not use delegated powers to determine the application due to significant public interest. A decision on the planning variation remains pending.

An early‑morning explosion and fire destroyed a homeless accommodation pod in Penryn, leaving one man seriously injured and a woman hospitalized. Emergency crews extinguished the blaze and secured the site, while residents described a loud blast and voiced renewed concerns about the safety and suitability of the temporary modular units. Cornwall Council stated the pods comply with all safety standards and confirmed investigations are underway, defending the decision to install modular housing as part of its pandemic‑era response to rising homelessness pressures. Residents continued to question why vacant council‑owned buildings were not refurbished instead.

Cornwall Council will remove cash payment options from most of its car parks starting 1 August, citing that nearly 90 percent of drivers already pay by card or digital methods. The change is expected to save about £80,000 annually by reducing cash-handling costs. Cash will remain available in 43 selected locations across Cornwall, with decisions based on usage and accessibility. Transport cabinet member Dan Rogerson said the policy allows funds to be redirected toward maintaining car parks and the wider road network. Regular parkers are encouraged to use the JustPark wallet for lower daily costs.

A district judge ruled that Bishop David Grant Williams would avoid a six‑month driving ban for speeding after accepting his argument that losing his licence would cause exceptional hardship. The court found that his responsibilities across a large rural diocese and his regular care for his mother‑in‑law made public transport impractical. Although his previous endorsements were an aggravating factor, his early guilty plea and credible evidence led the judge to impose a £250 fine, costs, a surcharge, and three penalty points instead of disqualification, warning that any further offences would trigger an automatic ban.

A fire severely damaged Porthtowan Beach Café, prompting its owners to thank the community for strong support. Fire crews responded quickly, and no injuries occurred. The owners expressed heartbreak over the loss but praised staff, neighbours and supporters for their help and pledged to rebuild the business as investigations into the cause continue.

Police issued a 48‑hour dispersal order covering Polzeath Beach and nearby areas following repeated incidents of noise, litter, broken glass and underage drinking by large groups of teenagers. Officers can require individuals causing or likely to cause distress to leave the area and may arrest those who refuse. The order may be extended, and police will continue visible patrols, seize alcohol from minors and enforce an existing Public Spaces Protection Order. Authorities urged parents to speak with their children about responsible behaviour and encouraged the public to report antisocial activity.

McDonald’s in Falmouth has reopened after a major refurbishment that modernised both dining and kitchen areas. The redesign adds dedicated spaces for dine‑in customers and delivery couriers, expands digital ordering through kiosks and the app, and removes the front counter to improve space and efficiency. Franchisee David Wynne says the investment aims to enhance customer and staff experience as the restaurant adapts to changing consumer habits.

A 51-year-old Falmouth woman, Kerry Reeve, pleaded guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm at a Truro address on June 30, 2026. Magistrates remanded her in custody and ordered a pre-sentence report, citing the seriousness of the offence and previous similar incidents involving the same victim. Sentencing is scheduled for July 21 via live link.

A 26-year-old Swanpool man, Harry Clark, received a 14‑month driving ban after pleading guilty to drink‑driving on Falmouth High Street. Magistrates found he exceeded the legal breath alcohol limit, and the disqualification may be reduced if he completes a rehabilitation course. He was also fined and ordered to pay additional costs, with payments scheduled in monthly instalments.

A Cornwall mother undergoing 24 weeks of chemotherapy has launched a “brave the shave” fundraiser, shaving her head ahead of treatment to create something positive from a difficult milestone. Donations will be split between her personal treatment needs and The Cove Macmillan Support Centre in Truro. She plans to share the event on social media and has expressed gratitude for the community support helping her face the months ahead.

Police arrested a man following a reported serious sexual assault late on July 6 in the Mount Wise area of Newquay. Specialist officers are supporting the victim, and a police scene guard remains in place as forensic examinations continue. Investigators urged witnesses or anyone with information to contact Devon and Cornwall Police referencing the provided case number.

Cornwall recorded one of the sharpest increases in animal cruelty reports in England during the summer of 2025, rising 65 percent to 61 cases according to RSPCA data. The charity reported a national rise in cruelty calls and warned that summer is its busiest rescue period. It highlighted severe cases in Cornwall, including the fatal abuse of a dog and a kitten whose injuries helped expose domestic violence. The RSPCA urged the public to report concerns and emphasized the connection between domestic abuse and animal cruelty as it launched its annual awareness campaign.

An amber heat-health alert has been issued for Cornwall and the South West as temperatures rise, prompting warnings of increased health risks, especially for older people and those with medical conditions. Authorities anticipate pressure on NHS and care services, possible indoor overheating in hospitals and homes, and operational disruptions. Residents are advised to stay cool, hydrated, and check on vulnerable individuals, while beachgoers are reminded that sea and inland water temperatures remain cold and pose safety risks. The alert forms part of a wider system operated by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office.

Aldi has opened a public consultation on plans to move its Newquay store from Cliff Road to a larger, modern site on the A392. The proposed store includes expanded space, upgraded facilities, over 100 parking spaces and sustainability features such as solar panels and EV charging. All current jobs would be retained with up to ten new roles added. Local residents are invited to review the proposals and provide feedback through an online exhibition running until August 2, 2026.

Cornwall Air Ambulance reduced its average helicopter take‑off time by 30 percent following a collaboration with representatives from Formula 1 teams, featured in a Sky Sports F1 segment during the British Grand Prix. The partnership applied F1 efficiency principles to pre‑flight procedures, introduced a quick‑start protocol, and reorganized equipment placement for faster deployment. The initiative, supported by senior figures including CEO Tim Bunting and Motorsport UK chairman David Richards, is expected to enhance critical‑care response across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, with further improvements planned.

A Falmouth-based psych band, The Heavenly Bodes, release their debut album Green Hills, recorded on reel-to-reel tape during a 2025 heatwave and shaped by Cornwall’s coastal psych scene. The lo-fi garage-psych record evokes strong regional atmosphere and has already earned national praise, including high ratings from Louder Than War and Shindig! Magazine. Produced by band member Fin Wilson and supported by local collaborators, the album is available on streaming platforms and limited vinyl editions, adding a new Cornish presence to the UK psych landscape.

Cornwall’s Stithians Show returns on July 13 with reduced ticket prices introduced to support families facing cost-of-living pressures. Organizers emphasize the event’s longstanding community role while expanding its attractions, including livestock competitions, craft entries, entertainment acts, and enhanced features such as a National Cavy Club 4 Star Show. The program highlights local businesses and young farmers, aiming to balance tradition with increased accessibility. Advance tickets and memberships are available online.

A student-led first aid society in Penryn helped resuscitate a cardiac arrest patient after being dispatched as Community First Responders. The successful outcome highlights the society’s rapid growth since its founding and its increasing involvement in local emergency response, training, and community support. The group collaborates with regional emergency services, conducts regular medical training, and plans to launch certified first aid courses on campus to expand access to lifesaving skills.

Vernon Kay praised Lusty Glaze Beach in Newquay after performing a sold-out Dance Sounds of the 90s set, describing the location as extraordinary and unlike anywhere else in the UK. He thanked attendees on his BBC Radio 2 show and said he wished he could have played longer. Lusty Glaze owner Tracey Griffiths welcomed his spontaneous praise, noting it reflects the reaction many first-time visitors have to the beach. The venue continues to host major live music events throughout the summer.

Jayne Kirkham argued that Falmouth needs improved rail freight connections and upgraded energy infrastructure to fully benefit from opportunities in floating offshore wind and critical minerals. She highlighted the port’s strategic potential and its existing role in defense, ship repair and marine engineering, warning that limited grid capacity and missing rail links could restrict future growth. She urged government action and welcomed Cornwall Council’s support for a feasibility study to reinstate the Falmouth Docks rail connection, emphasizing that investment in port infrastructure is essential for Cornwall’s long-term economic development.

A Falmouth University lecturer publicly declares membership in Palestine Action despite its proscription under UK terrorism laws, urging others to join in a video released by Defend Our Juries. The UK Government’s designation makes membership and encouragement potentially prosecutable, drawing attention to the tension between national‑security policy and political activism. Supporters argue the group’s actions are anti‑genocide efforts challenging UK complicity in harm to Palestinians, while critics highlight the legal consequences of proscription. The case raises questions about academic freedom and the boundaries of protected political expression as terrorism legislation is increasingly applied to pro‑Palestine activism.

A former Cornwall Council worker, Mike Hosking, secured a settlement after developing mesothelioma linked to asbestos exposure during his council employment in the 1980s. The council admitted liability shortly before trial. Medical investigations confirmed the incurable cancer in 2024, leading to ongoing immunotherapy. Legal findings indicated he was exposed to asbestos without proper protection or training. The case coincided with new national statistics showing over 2,100 mesothelioma deaths in 2024. Hosking continues personal hobbies and contributes to local asbestos support efforts while criticizing the council’s lack of precaution.

Cornwall Greens, local leaders and unions are opposing the University of Exeter’s proposal to cut around 150 jobs, including 59 roles at the Penryn campus. Critics argue the plan threatens vital environmental research and could harm the local economy and student experience. Green councillor Dean Evans and film critic Mark Kermode have publicly condemned the cuts, while a petition has gathered more than 21,000 signatures. The University of Exeter states the changes aim to secure long‑term sustainability, but the University and College Union disputes the financial justification and plans to ballot for industrial action.

A Falmouth sailor, Alex Carter, has released a book recounting his global voyage marked by a medical emergency, a dramatic rescue, the loss of his yacht Acid Rain, and its later recovery on the Louisiana coast. After surviving a severe brain haemorrhage near Guatemala and recovering for over a year, Carter resumed sailing, later assisting in the rescue of a New Zealand man who subsequently died. His yacht was disabled off Cuba and abandoned before washing ashore in the United States, where it was found damaged and looted. With help from local residents, Carter is repairing the vessel in Texas and aims to complete his return journey to Cornwall. The book details the challenges, rescues and resilience required throughout his ordeal.

A 16-foot bronze sculpture titled Surfer of the South has been unveiled at the Killacourt in Newquay, donated by the Keogh Foundation in tribute to the late Mr Keogh and the family’s long connection to the town’s surfing heritage. The artwork was formally presented by Mrs Cherrilyn Keogh and received by Mayor Drew Creek, with the Town Council expressing gratitude for the addition. To celebrate the installation, the council launched a children’s drawing competition, with entries to be displayed at Newquay Library and a family pass to Lappa Valley offered as a prize.

Balaena rejected claims from a Falmouth Docks worker alleging low morale, uncertainty, and concerns over redundancies following the company’s takeover. The employee cited fears about staffing cuts, lack of investment, and apprentice departures, along with rumors of the managing director’s departure. Balaena refuted the allegations, highlighting recent discussions between CEO Simon Gillett and stakeholders and stating that investment and growth plans are underway, including strengthening operations and developing the apprenticeship program. The company did not address specific claims about staffing levels or redundancies.

Police are seeking information after a teenage boy was assaulted by a group of three boys on Carlyon Bay Beach in St Austell on April 8, 2026. The suspects, aged 12 to 14, fled the scene after the attack. Officers released detailed descriptions of each suspect and urged witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact them, quoting the associated reference number.

Holly Collinson, a 29-year-old woman reported missing three months ago, remains unlocated after last being seen leaving Royal Cornwall Hospital on March 31. Her family issued an emotional appeal urging her to make contact, expressing growing worry. Police continue to investigate her movements, believing she may have headed toward Newquay after using local bus services, and request further information from the public as they piece together sightings including her appearance in Idless on March 30.

Police in Cornwall used drones and foot patrols to target antisocial off‑road motorcycle use in Poldice Valley amid community concerns. Officers issued three Section 59 warnings and provided guidance on legal land use while addressing environmental damage and safety issues. Enforcement is expected to continue, and the public is urged to report dangerous or nuisance riding.

A pizza delivery rider was seriously injured in a late-night collision with an Amazon delivery van on an access lane in Pool near Redruth. Emergency services transported the motorcyclist to hospital and informed their next of kin. Police closed the road for investigation and are appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage, asking anyone with information to contact them quoting log 954 of June 28.