Gorsedd for St Austell
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THE MOST important cultural event in the Cornish calendar could be coming to St Austell.St Austell Town Council has agreed in principle for the town to stage the Cornish Gorsedd in 2015.
The annual event, which is held to promote Cornish culture, usually attracts up to 5,000 people. The Gorsedd offers an opportunity to celebrate the host town’s Cornish identity as well as promote the town to the rest of Cornwall and to visitors.
It is accompanied by a range of cultural events leading up to the main ceremonies.
The ceremony sees Bards dressed in blue and the officers wearing copper regalia. The Gorseth possesses a buffalo horn, which is used to call the nation to pay heed to the Gorsedd.
The Lady of Cornwall brings a sheaf to the Men Omborth to represent Cornwall’s harvest. She is accompanied by young girls who dance the flower dance.
Awards are presented for services to Cornwall and the Cornish people or for cultural achievements. There are also competitions held in literature, painting, photography and other classes.
St Austell Town Council voted to support the event subject to finding out more about the cost implications at its monthly meeting, which was staged in the council chamber in Penwinnick Road on Monday night. Councillors believe the Cornish Gorsedd will be a good opportunity for St Austell.
Sarah Gwilliams, deputy town clerk, said: “Members approved it subject to finding out what the cost implications are for the town council.
“They felt the event will provide lots of opportunities for St Austell.
“I am not sure how it works. It could be paid for by sponsorship or they fund it themselves. I suspect we will be asked to make a contribution. Members do not want to be faced with the town council having to stump up a huge amount of money.
“I will write to the Gorsedd and to other town and parish council who have staged the event in the past to find out the costs involved.”
Mayor Jill Trewhella said: “We are delighted to be offered the opportunity to stage the Cornish Gorsedd.
“It will not be until 2015 but anything we can do to promote footfall and activities in St Austell is to be supported.”
