OLD CORNWALL SOCIETY: The January meeting was a talk by Cornish Bard, Rod Lyon, on Cornish place names.

He began by explaining what a complicated subject it was and proceeded to prove it in his talk as he discussed the problems facing the student of Cornish language and names.

Many place names had their origins in the old Celtic language, when spellings were not standardised and pronunciation was localised. Translations into the English by scribes, who spoke no Cornish, were often suspect and names were not always spelt as sounded.

Many towns had two names, an English name and the name of a Cornish Saint. Farms were often named after the Christian name of their owner.

Mr Lyon traced the links between Cornish, Breton, French and Welsh, as well as the English influence. He mentioned several local names and explained their meaning. Members had many questions concerning their own houses and streets.

Mr Lyon was thanked by chairman, Rex Bray. Tea was served and much discussion took place.

The next meeting is on Monday, February 9 at 7.30pm in the WI Hall. The speaker will be Tom Cullen on Tin Mining in Cornwall and around the world. Entry is £1 and all are welcome.