News in brief

Henry Bird

Potter of the week: Henry Bird is the Leach Pottery’s new potter of the week. The Leach production potter Henry Bird has been experimenting with some new glazes, surface techniques, and simple, functional forms. He has recently been using glazes over white and black slips, sprinkling copper carbonate over surfaces to create rich layers, lending the pieces the look and feel of smoke-fired pots. Yet these elegant pieces are highly functional, and each one individual.

Kiwi influence: St Ives Brewery has released Mean As, a double-dry-hopped New Zealand IPA which uses a trio of hops. The 6% ABV brew boasts a bold citrus flavour, with orange and lime notes, balanced with herbal characteristics. “Enjoy its hazy, full-bodied texture and refined bitterness,” says the brewer.

Cheap bus fares: A bus fare cap of £2 remain in place until the end of March. The initiative complements the Bus Fares Pilot Scheme, already in place in Cornwall since April last year. Until 31st March, if you’re making a single bus trip, the government initiative means you will pay no more than £2 for your journey.

Skate provision: St Erth Parish Council has been awarded £76,000 to create a mini skate ramp in a playground which current lacks provision for children and young people aged seven and over. The money has come from Cornwall Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy.

New councillor: Senara Wilson-Hodges has been co-opted into St Ives Town Council, representing the Halsetown ward. Born in Zennor, Senara comes from a fishing and farming family, and is an independent film maker. She lived and worked in London before returning to Cornwall in 2009 to bring up her family. She is a founding member of the skate park group.