Tansys Golowan (St John’s Eve) is generally celebrated on June 23rd and also marks Midsummer. It is celebrated in many ways but in Cornwall the custom is to light a bonfire on a high beacon. St Columb Major Old Cornwall Society always choose Castle an Dinas, courtesy of Cornwall Heritage Trust.
As June 23rd was a Sunday it was decided to hold the event on Saturday 22nd June. It was a perfect setting with dry weather, panoramic views across Cornwall and even sheep looking on! There were more than 100 people, many families with small children, sharing in the celebrations and making for a very friendly atmosphere.
The evening started with the delivery of locally made hot pasties (which soon sold out) followed by the ceremony in Cornish and in English. Those taking part were our Rector Helen Baber, Nicola Le Couteur Bisson. Jan Trevithick, and Peter and Barbara Wyper. The amazing bonfire was built by our Chairperson, Phil Ellery.
Following the ceremony, Clarinda and Keith Truscott led the Community singing which seemed to be enjoyed by all. The evening ended with Trelawny.