Every Thursday morning, come rain or shine, a dedicated band of volunteers from Newquay Old Cornwall Society (NOCS) heads out to quietly care for some of the area’s most cherished historic sites. Under the thoughtful coordination of Sheila Harper, this group of twelve maintains a rota that adapts to the seasonal needs of each location—ensuring Cornwall’s ancient heritage remains visible, accessible, and respected.
The sites under their watchful eye include several prehistoric barrows at Barrowfields, East Pentire, and Porth Island; the evocative St Eval Longstone; the early medieval village at Mawgan Porth; and the historic Old Trevemper Bridge. They also keep a watching brief on other key locations like Towan Head, stepping in as needed.
While the heavy lifting of initial clearance was done years ago, the team now focuses on gentle maintenance—cutting back grass, trimming growth, and keeping paths clear using low-voltage strimmers. Their regular visits mean the sites rarely need more than a light touch, and the hour’s work is always followed by a well-earned lunch together.
“Sheila’s flexible approach means we can respond to each site’s needs as they change through the year,” says one volunteer. “It’s not just about the work—it’s about the camaraderie and the shared pride in looking after our local history.”
Thanks to NOCS, these small but significant sites continue to tell their stories—quietly, steadfastly, and with great care.