LAST year marked the 40th anniversary of the inauguration of the Friends of Morwellham. It was formed in support of the then fledgling Morwellham Recreation Centre, as it was known, now Morwellham Quay.

After a tentative beginning under the chairmanship of Frank Booker — author of the 'Industrial Archaeology of the Tamar Valley' — it was realised that the friends' role needed to be wider than Morwellham and they sought to foster interest in the Tamar Valley, its history, its people and environment.

In 1978 the 'Friends' produced their first 'Tamar ' journal. The maritime significance of the Tamar, the relationship between the farmer and the seafarer, its mineral resources, its market garden tradition and the appeal of its scenery have all exerted an influence far beyond its geographical range. All of these factors and many more have been captured in the various editions of the 'Tamar' which reached its 33rd edition in 2011.

Over the years, the 'Friends' have evolved and changed as people's life patterns and interests have changed. Over the last few years, it has become affiliated with the Tamar Valley AONB and as the 'Friends of the Tamar Valley', enjoys the warmth and comfort of the Tamar Valley Centre at Drakewalls as a meeting place to hold interesting and varied monthly talks throughout the winter.

Avoiding the temptation to regard the Tamar Valley just as a living museum and an area of nostalgic decay with its old mining areas, stacks, ruined walls and disappearing shipping quays, members regard the Tamar and its valley as a living entity, enjoying a richly characteristic way of life.

The talks and walks try to reflect all that is good about the Tamar Valley, whether it is its heritage, its history, its environment, its geography or its people.

If you are not already a member, why not give us a try? Our programme is posted on notice boards at the Tamar Valley Centre, Calstock and Bere Alston, information is carried by the Valley magazine and electronically in the AONB ebulletin (search on 'Friends). We welcome non-members for a small contribution but for members you will also enjoy our newsletter and a free copy of our annual 'Tamar' journal.

John Chilvers, Chairman

01752 339637