On a
damp and dreary Monday afternoon visitors were delighted to be welcomed to the
warm and friendly atmosphere of the Memory Cafe. As usual there were some new
faces as well as some ‘old friends’, and soon everyone was chatting or having a
go at some puzzles which were based around farming and the dairy industry.
When
we welcomed our special visitor for the afternoon, everything fell into place!
Philip Rodda, former managing director and family member of the famous Cornish clotted cream producer, arrived to give us an illustrated talk about the
history of the company and of his family.
A
fascinating archive film introduced the Rodda Family dynasty and led into
Philip’s interesting and entertaining talk, which might have been subtitled
‘It’s not all about cream!’ He spoke of
the family farm at Scorrier and how the business evolved through the local
influence of mining and mineral tramways, to turkeys and tourists, as well as
new developments, expanding markets and Royal connections.
The
time flew by and by the time everyone had chosen a selection from the tempting
array of samples to take home and try, we had almost forgotten that tea and
cakes were waiting for us – and that’s a first!!
Philip
joined us for refreshments and by the time Richard had revealed the answers to
the quiz, it was well past time to wend our way home.
Many
thanks to Philip for a most informative and enjoyable afternoon and we look
forward to opening again from 2pm – 4pm on Monday 3rd October and Monday 17th
October. Crantock Memory Cafe is open to anyone concerned about memory loss and new members are always
welcome. For more information ring Di on 01637 830544 or Joan on 01637 831347.
