Cornish Pirates

Pirates Help Revitalise 'Vitalise'

18th November 2008

On Tuesday (18/11/08) the Cornish Pirates had a complete change of routine, as they rolled up their sleeves to willingly offer their services to provide manual work at the Vitalise Churchtown Centre, Bodmin.

Vitalise Churchtown is an accessible residential activity Centre in Lanlivery, providing essential breaks and day services to adults and children with physical, sensory and learning disabilities. The Centre has a small working farm, climbing tower, zip wire and nature trail, as well as a heated indoor swimming pool.

Undertaking the task under the 'Cornwall Cares' programme, which is managed by Business in the Community, the Cornish Pirates players provided the labour required to undertake essential maintenance works on the grounds, which included making the Wheelchair Friendly Nature Path safe, clearing the wheelchair accessible stream of weeds.

Working to restore the sensory maze by clearing and removing hedges, and developing the Parsons Field area, including building a BBQ and clearing away trees

This work carried out will enable the centre to function to its full capacity, and ensure that the facilities provided can be used as intended by the disabled people who get very few chances to experience what is available.

The Cornish Pirates squad used equipment provided by Cornwall Farmers Limited and Duchy Blends, whilst essential sustenance came from Rowe's Bakers who provided lunch for the players.

Melanie Broomhead, who is in charge of the grounds at Vitalise Churchtown said:
"The Nature Reserve here at Vitalise Churchtown required extensive Management to fulfil its potential, but with the help of the Cornish Pirates players the Reserve has been transformed!"