On
the 6th May we invited our members to ‘turn on and tune in’ for an
afternoon of radio nostalgia!
We
began with time to chat or have a go at a ‘Tuning into Newquay’ wordsearch,
before David introduced Chris Blount, a well-known ‘local boy’ who worked for
the BBC for many years and was a familiar voice on Radio Cornwall. He now
broadcasts on Radio Newquay as well as writing a weekly article in the ‘Newquay
Voice’. We also discovered that Chris is a train-driver at Lappa Valley Railway
and a bard of the Cornish Gorsedd – a very busy chap!
Chris
gave an interesting talk about his early life in Newquay and how his career in
radio developed as a result of his grandad's love of the ‘wireless’. His
acquisition of an early tape recorder gave him the opportunity to record the
voices of interesting characters and events from Newquay's past, which brought
back memories for those of us who grew up in or around the town, whilst giving
an insight of earlier times to those who have come from other parts of the
country. Chris also recalled visiting
Crantock as a boy, and of local families who manned the Gannel ferries and
revived the interest in Cornish gig racing.
Everyone
was fascinated by Chris’s talk, and we were reminded of the importance of
recording our own memories for future generations to enjoy.
Revived
by the usual delicious selection of home-made cakes and biscuits there was a
chance to view a display relating to the early days of radios and radio
broadcasting and to reminisce about our favourite radio programmes and stars of
the past. There were also some early holiday souvenirs, guide books and
illustrations of ‘Old Newquay’ to talk about. We were delighted that Chris
joined us for tea and several guests took the opportunity to chat with him
about their memories.
A
quiz about ‘vintage’ radio programmes and their musical signature themes
followed, and when the answers had been shared there was just time for a quick
‘singalong’ before we all set off for home once again.
We
look forward to meeting up again from 2pm – 4pm on Monday 20th May
and Monday 3rd June at Crantock Village Hall. New members, who have
a degree of memory loss, are always welcome to come along with their carers,
and should you require more information please contact Di on 01637 830544, Joan
on 01637 831347 or see our website (www.crantockmemorycafe.org.uk).
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