This year saw another spectacular range of midsummer bonfires, across the length of our Duchy. Stretching from Bulls View and Carnstabba Hill in the West, Parc an Crouse on the Lizard, Pencoose and Castle an Dinas in mid-Cornwall, Kit Hill in the far east.
From the outset, the continuance and promotion of our ancient customs have been of huge significance to the Old Cornwall movement, and there are none more spectacular than the mid-summer bonfires. All Old Cornwall members are “bonfire people,” it runs deep in our DNA.
Callington OCS held their usual midsummer fire at Kit Hill. This year refreshments and free entertainment were a feature.
Madron OCS’s fire was at Bull’s View, a spectacular location with a magnificent panoramic view over Mount’s Bay. Over 60 people attended the large fire.
Mullion OCS put on a lovely event at Parc an Crouse, which was slightly unusual since it was in a valley rather than on a hilltop, which provided a more intimate setting for the 70+ who attended. The event included a short walk, music, communal singing, saffron buns and Cornish fairings.
Redruth OCS had their customary huge fire at Pencoose, near Stithians. Entertainment and refreshments are always done well by Redruth.
St Column OCS did a great job at Castle an Dinas where over 100 people attended. The event included Cornish wrestling, pasties, music and communal singing.
St Ives OCS’s fire was at Canstabba Hill where the fire was lit by the Mayor Johnnie Wells.
The midsummer bonfires really highlight the great work done by Old Cornwall in keeping our culture alive – well done to all involved.