Due to Covid 19 everyone missed the boat with the cancellation of this year’s annual cruise up the river with the Helford Marine Conservation Group, but at the group’s annual meeting via zoom the new chairman Dave Thomson assured members that the cruise will return in 2021.

There was also news that the group’s popular monthly talks will go ahead on zoom. Members will have free access to these while for everyone else over 18 there will be a charge of £4 per meeting. For more details contact Sue Scott at coordinator@helfordvmca.co.uk

The annual meeting not only saw the appointment of Dave Thomson as the new chairman, following the retirement of David Muirhead, but also a new vice-chairman, Jackie Whibley.

Coordinator Sue Scott said: “They bring many strengths to the group. Jackie is a serving Mawnan Smith parish councillor and is actively involved in local affairs as they impact the environment. She is an active volunteer with the National Trust, the Women’s Institute and Plastic Free Helford.”

“Dave Thomson, formerly the vice-chairman of the group’s advisory committee, has held a number of posts within the group. Both he and Jackie love the Helford and the surrounding area and recognise that its natural and historic value needs to be cared for and protected for future generations to enjoy.”

This theme was emphasised by guest speaker wildlife photographer David Chapman, who gave an illustrated talk on zoom on where to watch wildlife in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.