Linker of Cornwall and America
- 1935 – 2026
The Old Cornwall movement mourns the passing of Moira Sheila Tangye (née Flavin), bard of Gorsedh Kernow and a steadfast champion of Cornish heritage, who has died at the age of 90. Her life’s work—spanning scholarship, community service, international outreach, and the preservation of memory—stands as a testament to her deep love for Cornwall and its people.
Born in Hythe, Kent, to Bernard and Jeanie Flavin (née Munro), Moira’s early years were shaped by a keen intellect and a gift for languages. Educated at grammar schools in Folkestone and Rochester, she went on to earn a BA Honours Degree in Modern Languages from Bedford College, London University. Her early career as a PA in the Foreign Office took her to embassies around the world, broadening her horizons and sharpening the skills she would later bring home to Cornwall.
In 1963, on the Trans-Orient Express, Moira met former wartime RAF pilot Nigel Tangye, whom she married the following year. Together they ran the Glendorgal Hotel in Newquay, where Moira’s secretarial and early computer expertise proved invaluable, all while raising their four children. After Nigel’s death, she became the careful custodian of the Tangye family archives and later authored The Book of St Ervan (2006), a much‑admired history of the parish.
Moira’s contribution to Cornish heritage was both broad and profound. A passionate family historian, she served for many years as Secretary of the Cornwall Family History Society. Her long association with Newquay Old Cornwall Society, where she was an active member and later President, reflected her commitment to the Old Cornwall motto: “Gather the fragments that nothing be lost.”
She was a founder member of Cornwall Heritage Trust, serving as Chairman from 1991 to 1994, and was appointed Honorary Life Vice President in 1995 in recognition of her exceptional service. She continued as a trustee until her retirement in 2009, helping to shape the Trust during its formative years.
Moira’s influence extended far beyond Cornwall’s shores. As Secretary of the Cornish-American Connection, she travelled frequently to North America, helping to revitalise Cornish societies in Canada and the United States. Her work in strengthening these international bonds earned her the Ambassador’s Trophy and, in 1993, she was initiated as a bard of Gorsedh Kernow at Bude Castle, taking the name Kevrenores Kernow hag Ameryky—Linker of Cornwall and America. It was a title she lived up to with grace, humour, and unwavering dedication.
She was also a valued contributor to the Cornish Global Migration Project, documenting the stories of Cornish miners and migrants across the world and ensuring that the global Cornish story remained connected to its roots.
Those who knew Moira speak of her warmth, sharp wit, and encyclopaedic knowledge of Cornish families, places, and traditions. She was a joy to converse with—always ready with a story, a laugh, or a thoughtful insight. Her legacy is woven through the many organisations she strengthened, the histories she preserved, and the countless people she encouraged along the way.
Moira’s funeral will take place on Friday 20th February 2026 at 10.30am at the Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Tower Road, Newquay. All who knew her, or who value the heritage she worked so tirelessly to protect, are warmly invited to attend. For those unable to be present in person, the service will also be available to view online at: https://youtu.be/t2bGcU0RIUU
In the story of modern Cornish cultural life, Moira Tangye’s name will endure. She linked Cornwall with its diaspora, past with present, and scholarship with community. She will be remembered with deep affection and lasting gratitude.