Thursday, February 26th
Last Thursday, we were delighted to welcome two special visitors to the Edward Hain Centre and St Ives Foodbank: Geraint Richards, High Sheriff of Cornwall, and Johnnie Wells, Mayor of St Ives. Their visit shone a spotlight on the vital, everyday work happening across our community.
Centre Director Sharron Goldingay, EHC Trustee Elizabeth Veal, Foodbank Coordinator Rev Chris Wallis, and several of our fantastic volunteers, greeted them on arrival. We then took them on a tour of the Centre, highlighting our wellbeing activities, community programmes, and essential foodbank support.
Welcome committee at the ready; The High Sherriff and trustee Elizabeth Veal; Elizabeth w/Mayor Wells
Who Is the High Sheriff?
The High Sheriff is the King’s representative for law and order in Cornwall. An ancient, one‑year, non‑political role, it supports the judiciary, police, emergency services, and local voluntary initiatives.
Geraint Richards, this year’s High Sheriff, brings decades of experience with the Duchy of Cornwall and a strong commitment to community engagement, public safety, and local charities.
Celebrating Community Spirit
Both the High Sheriff and the Mayor offered warm encouragement, recognising the dedication of our staff, trustees, and volunteers. Their visit underscored the historic importance of the role while honouring the people who help keep St Ives supported, connected, and cared for.
Martine’s knitted dolls of EHC and Foodbank staff were a good source of amusement. In the final photo you can see the High Sheriff looking at the picture of Capt. Edward Hain in our reception office. This picture has been at the Centre for many years and is an official part of our heritage.
Thank You
A heartfelt thank you to everyone – volunteers, staff, trustees, and supporters – who helped make this visit special. Your commitment makes the work we do possible.
An extra Thank You as well to Mayor Johnnie Wells, who facilitated and arranged the visit. We are very grateful for his support of the Centre.
Together, we continue to make a real difference in St Ives.
