The huge rise in the popularity of Cornish Pilot Gig racing has come at the same time as the wood, Elm and Oak, which gigs are made of, is in short supply.
The CPGA are starting a campaign to raise awareness of the situation. At a stand in the forestry section at the Royal Cornwall Show they will discuss and demonstrate ideas to help future gig building.
Amongst their ideas, already in discussion, are to ask Cornwall Council (Cormac) to donate any suitable fallen elms. They want landowners to donate trees which are due for felling or even make a “tree will” so that when Elms or Oaks need felling or fall down they are donated.
There is also a very long term plan to start Elm plantations so future generations don’t have the same problem, this project has been discussed with the Duke of Cornwall who has given his support.
There has also been some discussion about using a different species of timber but this would make competition difficult – the joy of gig racing is that all the boats are built to an exacting similar standard using similar materials,
Elm and Oak.
CPGA Reps and Gig builders will be available on the stand throughout the show, and examples of gig building will be on show.
Contacts:
Shane Sullivan Chair of Trustee’s 07880 785437 shanesullivancpga@gmail.com
Claire Tripp 07790 778158 clairecpga@gmail.com