JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – David and May Boaden from Helston, Cornwall, England are staying with relatives in Brackenhurst and David chatted to the members about their home town and Cornwall in general.
“We were very amazed to see a part of Alberton which has roads named after towns and villages in Cornwall. I imagine a Cornish man came out to live here and he was responsible for naming the streets. To name a few, Bodmin, Trewlawny, St Michael, St Aubyn, Launceston and Camelford. Quite fascinating to us!
“Cornwall is famous for its Cornish Pasty, delicious pastry filled with diced potatoes, swede (turnip), onion, diced beef and a pinch of salt and pepper. These ingredients must be uncooked when put onto the pastry, which can be either shortcrust or puff pastry. Roll the pastry, a plate or saucer size, and add the filling in the middle. The pasty is formed into a D shape and crimped along the top or side to keep together. Glaze with milk or milk and egg. Once you’ve tried one you’ll want to eat them every week,” laughed Dave. “It’s also interesting to know all pasties made to sell need to be made in Cornwall if they are to be sold using the protected name.”
“Cornwall has a population of 650 000 and about 350 miles of coastline. It is a beautiful part of England and famous for its holiday destinations. Also many retirees choose Cornwall as their home. In Helston we have the Blue Anchor Inn, thatched and originally a monks’ rest house which became a tavern in the 15th century.
“Floral Day is a colourful celebration enjoyed by all the Helston community and surrounding areas as well as tourists. There are four dances throughout the day, with those taking part dancing through the streets and park. Local school children also take part,” said Dave.
The meeting ended off with members enjoying home baked Cornish pasties, cooked to perfection by May.
