The future of one of Helston's most historic assets, the town's kennels, is in doubt unless funding can be secured.

For years, water flowing through the kennels has been a welcome sight for locals and visitors alike, particularly young children who enjoy playing alongside them.

However, the kennels have been dry since autumn due to a major leak in the leat near a farm in Wendron.

In light of this, Helston and Cornwall Councillor Mike Thomas addressed the town's latest full council meeting, proposing solutions to get the water flowing again.

He reported that a recent meeting attended by the mayor and a variety of experts noted that there was a need for the leats to be repaired and maintained. 

Those present acknowledged there was a lack of funding.

Cllr Thomas estimates the cost for a ‘light-touch’ survey by a local expert Dale Brickhill could be up to £1,000.  

He proposed that Dale be invited to produce a report for the three Councils - namely Cornwall Council, Wendron Parish Council and Helston Town Council. 

He also mentioned that a report would help Cornwall Council's countryside officer and Helston’s new project officer Richard James, to apply for external funding to help preserve this historical asset and possibly create a wildlife corridor alongside it.

Cllr Thomas suggested a meeting to find a way forward for repairing and maintaining the leat, acknowledging the lack of current funds.

"We need to find a way to manage them, but there's currently no money available," said Cllr Thomas.

"We need to research the problem to determine the necessary repairs and then apply for funding."

In 2021, the Packet reported on Cllr Thomas and former project officer Martin Searle's plan, in conjunction with the town's Museum of Cornish Life, to host an exhibition about the history of the kennels and leats.

Cllr Thomas stated at the time: "The purpose of the exhibition is to raise awareness about the Wendron leat and Helston's kennels, including the creation of a 'Friends of the Leats and Kennels' group.

"Several people have already volunteered to contribute photos and videos. We also welcome recordings about a particular feature of the leats or kennels that holds special meaning, with a one-minute maximum duration.

“We're interested in collecting historical images of the kennels from residents and hearing their childhood memories of this waterway. For many Helstonians, the kennels bring back fond memories of their childhood days.”