Helston

Helston (Cornish: Henlys + ton(Saxon)) is situated along the banks of the river Cober in Cornwall. It was previously an inland port, granted its charter on 15th April, 1201. The port declined however when access to the sea was blocked by a sand bar (the Loe Bar) creating the biggest natural freshwater lake in Cornwall, known as the Loe Pool. This was damaging to Helston but not fatally so, and the town continued to prosper through industries such as tin mining and coining, and its cattle market. Even with the closure of the port the various enterprises persuaded Customs and Excise to maintain a Customs House, which today houses "The Angel Hotel".

Helston is not far from the main road links in Cornwall, and the nearest airport is in Newquay. Helston railway station used to be the terminus of the Helston branch line, the other end being Gwinear Road near Hayle, until the closure of the line in 1964 at the height of the Beeching cuts. Railway services are now provided by bus service from Redruth railway station to Helston and RNAS Culdrose.

In recent times, with no tin mines operating in the country and no need for coining in the town, Helston has become more tourist-oriented with many bed-and-breakfasts, cafes and restaurants, public houses and specialist shops. Visitors are attracted to the area because of the wonderful local scenery, such as the Penrose walks, and the relaxing holidays available in the area. The fishing village of Porthleven located next to Loe Bar is the nearest stretch of coast, only about 2 miles away.

Many people come to the town as a result of a posting at the nearby Royal Navy air station RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk). This naval helicopter base provides employment for a large proportion of Helston's population, both directly and indirectly.

Annually, on 8th May (except when the date falls on a Sunday or Monday - Monday being Market Day - when it is the preceding Saturday) Helston hosts the Furry Dance. On this day children from the local schools dance through the streets of Helston. Adults born in the parish, who have been invited, dance as well in one of three dances held over the day. The dwellings and shops of the town are festooned with bluebells, campion and whatever green foliage is available. Specific dances (not including the children's dance) go into and out of various private buildings and grounds. On the same day the "Hal an Tow", an enactment of St. George slaying of the dragon and celebration of the coming of spring, is performed upon the streets of the town. Both events indicate a pre Christian celebration of the passing of winter.