High Sheriff of Cornwall Celebrates the Spirit of Bude
The High Sheriff of Cornwall visited Bude on Thursday, 6 March, to celebrate the town’s remarkable community spirit and recognise the contributions of local volunteers and organisations. The visit was a heartfelt acknowledgment of the resilience, innovation, and dedication that define the Bude community.
A Warm Welcome at Stratton Primary School
Joined by Fiona Hargreaves, Deputy Lieutenant of Cornwall, and Ms Shannon Lenton from the Cornwall Community Foundation, the High Sheriff began the day at Stratton Primary School. They were welcomed by Head Teacher Mrs Frances Glasby and Jess Creasey, Farm Manager for Cornwall Grows. The visit included meeting school representatives and learning about the school’s innovative farming initiatives.
Engaging with Local Groups at Berries Community Café
The High Sheriff then visited Berries Community Café, where they engaged with members of around a dozen local groups, including Bude Area Toy Library, Recycling for Charity Bude Collection and Bude Community Larder. The visit highlighted the strength of Bude’s community network and the vital support these groups provide.
Connecting with the Community at Age Concern
This was followed by a walk with members of Bude Walk and Talk to Age Concern, where the High Sheriff met with Trustees to discuss the charity’s impact on the local elderly community and the support it provides.
Celebrating Young Talent at the Parkhouse Centre
At the Parkhouse Centre, the High Sheriff presented prizes for a science-based Lego competition organised by Cognition in collaboration with GCHQ. The competition aimed to spark young people’s interest in STEM subjects and encourage creative problem-solving.
A Bracing Dip at Bude Sea Pool
A highlight of the visit was a dip in the Bude Sea Pool, where the High Sheriff braved the 9-degree waters alongside members of the Friends of Bude Sea Pool. The visit recognised the volunteers’ hard work in maintaining this cherished local asset.
Meeting the Lifesavers of Bude
The visit continued at Bude Surf Life Saving Club, the oldest life-saving club in England. The High Sheriff met with members to learn more about their work and the essential role they play in keeping Bude’s beaches safe.
Honouring Local Heroes at the Spirit of Bude Awards
The day concluded with the Spirit of Bude Awards at The Castle, celebrating individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the local community:
Bude RNLI – Mr and Mrs Bale
Robin and Michaela Bale have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for the RNLI over nearly 20 years, including organising the popular Bude Lifeboat Weekend over the August Bank Holiday, which attracts thousands of visitors.
Talan's Trust – Mrs Sarah Penny
Following the loss of her son Talan to rhabdomyosarcoma, Sarah Penny established Talan’s Trust, which has since raised over £140,000 for cancer research, raising awareness of childhood cancers and supporting vital research.
Bude & Stratton, RBL – Mr Dave Worth
Under the leadership of Chairman Dave Worth, the branch raised a record £20,221 during the 2024 Poppy Appeal, supporting veterans and their families.
Bude Methodist Church – Deacon Debbie
Deacon Debbie leads numerous community initiatives, including a warm space, parent and toddler group, friendship group, and the Bude Beach Pastors. She also hosts a free Christmas dinner at the church and established the ‘Bread Shed’ to provide surplus bakery goods to those in need.
A Celebration of Community Spirit
Reflecting on the day, the High Sheriff said:
“It’s been truly inspiring to see firsthand the incredible work happening in Bude. The dedication and generosity of the people I’ve met today are a reminder of how strong and united this community is. Bude’s spirit of collaboration and care for one another is something very special.”
The visit, supported by the Cornwall Lieutenancy, Bude-Stratton Town Council, and Cornwall Community Foundation, was a fitting tribute to the strength and generosity of the Bude community.
