Helston’s deputy mayor Mike Thomas is investigating the origins of his chain’s insignia and its links with Port Augusta in South Australia.

The regalia, which Mr Thomas has worn for the last two years as deputy mayor, has on its back an inscription dedicated to a twin town visit to Port Augusta.

His research has led him to discover that a plaque from the old Helston Borough Council hangs in the mayor’s office in Port Augusta – and they had no idea what it was about.

It transpires that a presentation was made 50 years ago this year, on May 27, and Mr Thomas is hoping that the two towns will be able to connect on that date this year via Skype.