Helston shortlisted in most depressing place to live poll

The website ilivehere.co.uk holds an annual survey, normally looking for 'the worst place to live' but this year is focussing on what it describes as 'The towns where you just exist rather than live.'

In an old listing it previously described Helston as a "non-descript market-town" and "a place of little prospects, but many, many people living on benefit or doing menial jobs", before going on to add: "Helston is quite a sleepy town during the day, where nothing much happens, but come Friday and Saturday nights, the place is a living hell-hole."

While undoubtedly inflammatory on purpose, and should be given little credence, we felt it was a chance to take a look at some of the many, MANY things that make Helston a special place to live – and non-deserving of even being shortlisted.

The Packet's born and bred Helston reporter Kate Lockett explains why she knows Helston is certainly not 'depressing' - and is in the fact the complete opposite. 

I have lived in Helston all my life, and in those 34 years I have gained amazing memories that were made while living in this town. 

I know it’s probably biased for me to say Helston is the best town in the country – but in my opinion, it truly is.

As a mother, there is nowhere else in the country I could imagine raising my two young sons and making memories with them in; Helston is something so special to me.

Of course, over the years we have lost some incredible shops including Woolworths, New Look, Peacocks, the Factory Shop and more, but since then look what we have gained – more independent businesses that are continuing to thrive and bring more customers into the town.

As well as the shops, the town also includes some fabulous cafés including The Coffee Hut, Costa, and Ruth’s Tea Rooms among others.

More and more independent businesses are beginning to trade in the town (Image: Kate Lockett)We are also blessed with plenty of play parks for the kids, and open spaces to enjoy activities as a family or individually.

Coronation Boating Lake, in my opinion, is one of the places where you can go any time of the year to socialise or just enjoy being outside. During winter you can take a walk around the lake and feed the ducks, or enjoy a hot chocolate in the cafe, and in summer kids can play in the park and enjoy an ice cream.

A place to visit all year around; Coronation Boating Lake (Image: Kate Lockett)And let's not forget the continued dedicated work from clubs and organisations in town. Helston Town Band has for many years, provided musical entertainment for members of the public at events. The band works hard every year to bring joy to people, whether it be on Flora Day, the May Day Parade or at Christmas time, it's always a joy to hear the band play together. 

Helston Town Band (Image: Stock)Helston Town Council is continuing to ensure Helston is kept in good working order. The councillors each bring new suggestions on ways to improve the town and facilities each month at its full council meeting. 

However, for me, the main reason why I love this town as much as I do are the events that bring the community together. These are:

Flora Day:

Thousands of people gather for the last dance of Flora Day, the Evening Dance (Image: Stock)Ah, Helston’s biggest day of the calendar year – and the main event to bring everyone together. I have always loved the festivities of the day – particularly when I took part in the Children’s Dance with Parc Eglos and later danced the Midday with my brother Nick in memory of our dad, Noel Perry who was a well-known figure in Helston.

It’s only been in the past two years since becoming a reporter for the Packet that I have truly experienced the magic the day brings. Seeing people with their friends and families celebrating in the street, the stunning outfits from all the dancers, and the faces of pure happiness of the children dancing (well the ones who aren’t fed up!). It’s just a simply stunning day.

Helston Christmas Lights:

Last year's Christmas Light Switch On in Helston was attended by thousands (Image: Dan West)You know the countdown to Christmas begins in Helston when the town hosts its Christmas Light switch-on event on the last Friday of November. The town feels so festive with stall traders, Christmas carolling, and festive songs performed by Helston Town Band.

Thousands of people come into the town during the evening event to see the lights switched on.

Of course, the night wouldn’t be able to take place without the hard work of the Helston Christmas Light Committee who each year work during the early hours of the morning throughout November to make sure the lights are perfectly in place and in good working order.

Circus Funtasia Comes to Town:  

Circus Funtasia comes to Helston every year during the summer holidays (Image: Stock)It’s an exciting time for all ages when the circus comes to town – particularly my mum who is in her 60s. For nine years, the circus has come to the field behind Helston Football Club, and to this day continues to wow audience members.

Last year, due to high demand, Circus Funtasia announced another show time in Helston, proving its popularity. As well as the family-friendly show, the circus also brings the over 18 Cirque Du Vulgar which in recent years has gained more and more popularity for adults in Helston.

Remembrance Sunday Parades and Services:

Remembrance Sunday in Helston (Image: Royal Navy/POPhot A’Barrow)

Every year, the community of Helston joined members of the Armed Forces at RNAS Culdrose to remember the fallen when a parade marches through the town led by Helston Town Band.

Hundreds of people turn out to remember those who sacrificed their lives in conflicts all over the world.

And it’s not just events and places to go which make the town special in my eyes, it’s the community spirit, the people of Helston, and the memories made and continue to be made for people who have recently moved here or have launched a business in the town.

That is why the town will hold a special place in people's hearts for the rest of their lives.