Members of the Cornwall Astronomy Society kicked off their 2017 program with a telescope workshop at the Degibna Chapel and is planning its next meeting in Mabe.

This annual event is growing in popularity and members were joined by some non-members curious about astronomy in general and how to use telescopes in particular.

Society chairman, Gareth Cottrell, said: “We've had another very enjoyable evening, a couple of members had some new equipment over the Christmas and we've helped them to sort out how to use it.

"We also had a visitor who was struggling with how to use a new telescope and I was delighted to get an email from him this morning saying how it all makes so much more sense to him, not only does he have a better understanding of how to find objects in the night sky but also the wealth and variety of interesting sights there are on display at this time of the year.”

Society secretary, Fred Deakin talked to members and visitors about taking photographs of planets, star clusters and nebulae and showed how impressive photographs can be taken with even very basic equipment. He was able to show the workshop what amateurs are capable of producing with more advanced equipment with a stunning photograph he took of the Horsehead nebula.

Fred said: “Last night proved so popular that we'll be holding a follow up event at the Mabe WI Hall on Thursday, January 26. Visitors as well as members will be assured of a warm welcome and the society is interested to hear from anyone that has even the slightest interest in astronomy all the way through to experienced astronomers alike.”

Gareth added that, “Anyone with even just a passing interest in astronomy is well advised to keep an eye on the Cornwall Astronomy website (cornwallas.org.uk) which our webmaster, Greg, updates regularly. The website includes a list of interesting objects to look for each month.”