Newquay

The first signs of settlement in Newquay consist of a late Iron Age hill fort/industrial centre which exploited the nearby abundant resources (including deposits of iron) and the superior natural defences provided by Trevelgue Head. It is claimed that occupation of the site was continuous from the 3rd century BC to the 5th or 6th century AD, although a Dark Ages house was later built on the head.

Up to the early 20th century, the small fishing port was famous for pilchards and there is a "Huer's Hut" above the harbour from which a lookout would cry "Heva!" to call out the fishing fleet when pilchard shoals were spotted. The town's present insignia is two pilchards. The real pilchards have long gone, but a small number of boats still catch the local edible crabs and lobsters.

Newquay has been a major tourist destination for more than a century now, principally on account of its beautiful coastline and ten long and accessible sandy beaches. These include the famous Fistral, which could claim to the best-known surfing beach in the British Isles. Perhaps 22,000 people live in Newquay, but the population can increase to 100,000 or more in the summer because Newquay has a large stock of holiday accommodation. The town is rather larger, therefore, than the size of its resident population might suggest.

BRIAN START AWARD

The Brian Start Award is given annually to persons who The Rotary Club of Newquay consider do excellent work for the community. Picture shows the latest recipient Peter Keast (centre) being presented with the award by President Keith Dynan (right) with David Causton on the left. The award was made at Newquay Golf Club on 8th June 2010

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