Cornish Pirates

The above opening line of John Lennon's famous song, an adaptation put together and performed by 'School Council' pupils, provided an appropriate start to an enjoyable and interesting 'Healthy Food and Fitness Evening'

which took place at Mounts Bay School last week. It was an event organised in partnership with the Cornish Pirates, this being another example of how Cornwall's top rugby club is becoming more and more involved in supporting the community.

After headteacher Mrs. Sara Davey had welcomed a large gathering, Council members Bryony Stephenson and Tom Richardson, both year 10 pupils, explained the background to the occasion, it forming part of healthy food month in the school. The aim was to develop an awareness of healthy alternatives, with all foods labelled with a traffic light system to encourage healthy choices, there also being a wish to continue with such healthy eating strategies.

After introducing representatives of the Cornish Pirates, taking the opportunity to also thank Adrian Edwards, Sally Emery, Stevie McCrindle and others for their tremendous input in helping to promote the message about the importance of healthy eating and foods, Mrs. Davey highlighted the school's aim to raise funds for the provision of two new mini-buses. The appeal had been launched during the morning, with pupils contributing £1 each for attending school dressed in sportswear for a non-uniform' day.

A highlight of the evening was a 'Ready, Steady, Cook' competition between a Cornish Pirates and a Mounts Bay School team.

Representing the Pirates were hooker Nick Makin and pupil Jack Mander, them having to tackle making 'Cornish Pirate Cheesy Fish Burgers', whilst teacher Andy Harvey and pupil Nicole Richards had to conjure up a 'Cornish Pirates Scrum-my Fish Salad'. Even from the back of the hall the food smelt delicious, with popular Pirates' prop-forward Alan Paver hosting the 'show'

superbly - Ainsley Harriott watch out!

Adrian Edwards, Team Manager of the Cornish Pirates, then called a number of their players up on stage, each reading out interesting facts to make people aware of various ingredients in food, with there then being a break to allow everyone to wander about the school and witness a series of practical workshops and also taste samples from food stands offering tastes of exotic fruits and healthy smoothies.

On returning to the school hall, Cornish Pirates utility back Rhodri McAtee then performed the duty of drawing the raffle tickets for prizes kindly donated by a number of local businesses and organisations. This was just in advance of a keenly contested Finale - a rowing contest between local rugby heroes representing the Cornish Pirates, Mounts Bay Pilot Gig Club, St. Ives RFC, Mounts Bay RFC, and a Mounts Bay School staff side who saw no reason why they should not be favourites! In the event, and to no surprise, the Cornish Pirates 'A' side just pipped Mounts Bay RFC to win the 'Final' competition, all teams having impressed with their commitment and fitness.

As the evening drew to a close, there was praise for youngsters behind the scenes such as Nick Long and Nick James who had used their filming skills for the benefit of the audience throughout.

The musical talents of Chris Blewett, William Field, Luke Brockman and Joe Howard were also admired, their closing song, the former 'Who' classic 'My Generation', reminding everyone that Healthy Food and Fitness is a subject for all to take seriously, and enjoy, whatever your age.