GUNNISLAKE Festival — a celebration of the community's regeneration — started on August 4, opened by Col George Williams, a descendant of 'Scorrier' John Williams who once owned Calstock Parish.
The Local History Exhibition sponsored by Hansons Quarry, was outstanding, one of the Festival highlights being the footage of Gunnislake's old carnivals loaned by Mrs Jope, one of Gunnislake's oldest residents. Everyone was enthralled by the photographs and memorabilia brought together by Mandy Rolfe, whose hard work and dedication made this exhibition such a triumph.
The Art Exhibition was a revelation, Gunnislake was amazed to discover it had so many local artists, who are not only talented, but also of international renown. There were paintings by Peter Archer, Rita Smith, Ian Pethers and a new emerging talent, Colin Pethick, who had some innovative work on show.
The festival music opened at the Rising Sun with West Devon band 'Well Oiled' giving a sure fire start to the event.
The collection in the church, following Thursday's performance by Callington Singers and other local musicians, was split between the Lupus Society and next year's Festival fund, each receiving about £70.
The Tavistock Arms Hotel had a barbecue with Jarca supplying the music in a marquee; over 150 people enjoyed hot dogs and burgers well into the night.
The Troyll at the Cornish with the Wreckers Morrismen and Calstock Singers spilt over into two pubs, it was so well attended and the Buccaneer had a full house for the lively Karaoke night.
Despite a few showers on Saturday, the Street Fair was a soaring success. Starting at midday, finishing over six hours later, six groups played including Wishful Thinking, ECT and Bark closed the show with their unique blend of drumming, didgeridoo and pulsating bass grooves. Following this the family disco was packed with all ages having fun, which of course is one of the most important ingredients in an event of this kind.