Cornwall in Focus NewsElfin Safety
Published 21 Jun 09 20:45
This time of year warm sun on the rocks brings out of hiding the venomous adder to bathe in the warmth. These normally placid creatures will only bite when startled, indeed they have been responsible for only 14 human fatalities in the whole of Europe since 1876. They can pose more of a threat to dogs though, who go investigating the movement the adder makes, retreating from its sunbathing spot as it senses humans approaching. If you are concerned, then sensible footwear should be worn when venturing out, preferably purpose made walking boots which provide support and protection around the ankles. Some cliff-top walks can be over fairly uneven terrain, proper footwear gives grip and confidence when walking these and is surely common sense.
These days of course we are far more aware of the dangers of sunburn and heat, the wise walker knows that you never leave home without hat, suncream and water. But what about a map showing footpaths and bridleways? An OS map can give you a good idea of the difficulty of the terrain you are out to walk. The weather on Bodmin Moor can change very quickly so for the serious walker and family outing alike a map, protective clothing, compass (for those who don't do technology) or a hand held GPS (SatNav - for those who do) can be indispensible. What about the little book of Tide Times? How many horrendously expensive rescue operations could be avoided by investing just over one pound in this little gem? Surely common sense is as good as the Health and Safety Executive in some cases.
Some instances have most of us shaking our heads; like the end of many happy years of 'Pick Your Own' strawberries at one Cornish Farm. The new Health and Safety rulings imposed following an unfortunate accident have forced them to shut the gate and concentrate on their jam making. How long before the 'Nanny State' bans us from shredding ourselves while blackberrying in hedgerows? For days after our legs tingling with a reminder of that stinging nettle we didn't spot. No more wondering if there may have been a creepy crawly in the few we ate... Let's hope that local entrepreneurs will long survive to provide fresh produce and preserves through local farm shops, markets and tea-shops.
And finally a warning - For your own personal safety, never ever whistle below ground. The mining heritage and technology of Cornwall is renowned throughout the world, but never ever whistle underground, not only will you face the wrath of angry miners, you also run the risk of alerting the Knockers and Spriggans to where you are in their territory. The miners believe Spriggans bring mischief and danger to where they are working, causing rock falls and stealing candles. The Knockers however, if they liked you, would lead you to rich lodes of ore. Some believe the Knockers to be the spirits of dead miners, others that they are earthbound spirits, they should be treated with respect and miners often left a portion of their pasty to appease these mystical characters. Beer drinkers amongst you may recognise 'Cornish Knocker' and 'Spriggan' as beers produced by Skinners, a well established Truro brewery wishing to commemorate these elfin folk. Indeed, Skinners claim to have offered employment to several Knockers and Spriggans following the demise of the Cornish mining industry...
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