Wednesday 11th February, 2026
Cornish creativity and innovation celebrated at
the RCPS Medal Awards 2026
Outstanding
Cornish achievements in
sciences, industry, and the arts werecelebrated by The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS/The Poly)
Medal Awards at a special awards
dinner delivered in partnership with The Falmouth Hotel on Thursday 5th February.
Applauded by around a hundred guests, the nine award winners received
their certificates from Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward
Bolitho KCVO OBE, Lord Robin Teverson of Tregony, and Henrietta Boex – while one in
each category was also announced as a Medallist cum laude (with
distinction), taking home a highly-prized RCPS Medal.
Relaunched
in 2023, the Medal Awards played a key role in The Poly’s early history, with
Alfred Nobel being one of the recipients in 1865. The current awards spotlight the
range of exciting, innovative work taking place across the sciences, industry
and the arts in Cornwall today. The aim is to champion excellence and encourage
dynamic new relationships across our different sectors.
The
winners were selected by expert panels, using broad criteria to make judgements
– including the originality and significance of the work, the technical
expertise or creativity shown, and the excellence of output produced in recent years.
Edward
Cartwright, Director of The Poly, says:
"The
RCPS Medal Awards continue the 200-year legacy of celebrating innovation across
Cornwall, and most importantly the bringing together of disciplines to ferment
creativity and opportunity, in the true spirit of 'Polytechnic'."
Ginny
Button, Chair of The Poly, says:
“Congratulations
to our brilliant award winners - all stars in their own right. There are many
talented artists, forward-thinking scientists and ambitious businesses in
Cornwall. Collectively they’re changing our lives in different ways, and it’s
great to recognise this through the awards.
“I’d
particularly like to thank our partner, and main sponsor, The Falmouth Hotel
for hosting such a fabulous event, and also the Tanner Phoenix Trust [through
Cornwall Community Foundation] for generously funding an associated outreach
programme. They share The Poly’s aim to promote innovation and excellence
within our community, and their support is invaluable.”
The award winners
are:
ARTS:
Sarah Ball; Ro Robertson; Lucy Stein
MEDAL
DISTINCTION: Ro Robertson
Sarah - for the significant development of her work and growing international
recognition of her painting in recent years, starting with a major show at
Frieze New York in 2021, and subsequent solo exhibitions in London and
internationally, most recently in Shanghai.
Ro (they/them)
- for recent innovations in their work and growing recognition as one of the
most interesting artists making sculpture in Britain today, with work featured
at Tate St Ives, and in numerous exhibitions across the UK and internationally.
Lucy - for the
ongoing development of an expansive body of conceptual work rooted in painting,
which embraces performance, film, writing and collaborative projects, notably following
‘Wet Room’, her first major UK institutional solo show (2021-2022), and through
international exhibitions.
SCIENCES: Prof
Chris Bass; Prof
Karen Hudson-Edwards; Dr Toby Talbot
MEDAL
DISTINCTION: Prof Chris Bass
Chris - for his
work on insecticide resistance. An applied entomologist (University of Exeter)
he was recently awarded an ERC Advanced Researcher Grant, one of only 53 to be
awarded in the UK. He works with a global network of specialists
identifying ways to target specific crop pests without harming beneficial
insects.
Karen - for her
work on sustainable mining. She is an environmental geochemist and mineralogist
(Camborne
School of Mines and Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of
Exeter). A global expert in her field, she is noted for innovations involving
employing minerals and microbes in environmental clean-ups.
Toby - for
revolutionising cancer treatment in Cornwall. As a consultant (Royal Cornwall
Hospital Trust) he is best known for his work on clinical trials of novel
cancer treatment drugs and has published his ground-breaking research in the
world’s leading medical journals.
INDUSTRY: Flann Microwave Ltd; Pendennis Group; Teagle Machinery Ltd
MEDAL
DISTINCTION: Pendennis
Group
Flann Microwave Ltd - for its international reputation as a
high-quality producer of electronic components for the global space, defence
and telecoms industries. Established in the 1950s, the company has continued to
innovate and today best represents Cornwall’s growing and highly competitive
tech sector. Ian Burnage is CEO.
Pendennis (Pendennis group
incorporating Pendennis Shipyard and Cockwells) - for its international profile
as a leading global exporter of excellence in Cornish design, sustainability
and maritime values, alongside its outstanding track record as a local
employer, providing high quality jobs and apprentice training. Mike Carr is
Chair, Group Managing Directors are Toby Allies, Ian Granville, Stephen Hills
and Charlie Ross.
Teagle Machinery Ltd – for embodying Cornwall's reputation
for precision engineering, and representing our global status in the
agricultural sector. This award-winning family-founded and run business is a
global-facing supplier that invests in skills development locally, working with
HE providers to offer routes into high-quality employment. Tom Teagle is Managing
Director.
ENDS: 10th February 2025
The Tanner Phoenix
Trust (through Cornwall Community Foundation) is a donor-directed
fund for community projects across Cornwall and the IOS.
Tuesday 16th December, 2025
Ahead of the Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS) Medal Awards in February,
The Poly team has been reaching out to community groups across Falmouth who
might struggle to physically access the arts and culture venue. The project has been themed around the recently relaunched Medal Awards which
date back to the 1830s and recognise excellence in the arts, sciences and industry in
Cornwall.
The Poly’s first stop has been the Age UK day centre, where they've been asking
participants; “If you were to win a medal what would it be for?” “What is a medal?”
and “Who else might deserve medals in Falmouth?” This has been done through
quizzes, handling medals, having a go at carving, and making clay medals from
precious and natural objects. These will be glazed with a lovely bronze glaze and
fired at The Poly Pottery and turned into a medal mobile for the day centre.
The Poly team has got to know some interesting folk at Age UK, hearing people’s
stories about people who have made Falmouth, Cornwall, and the UK what it is
today.
The Poly’s Community Engagement Coordinator Lauren Campbell says:
“We've met so many people from the community – from chip shop owners, jewellers,
security guards, ladies-in-waiting, schoolteachers and granite workers to refuge
collectors, farmers and telephonists.
“From one of the oldest participants, we've heard that the secret to ageing well is 'a
lot of hard work'. We've also learned that you can win medals for wife carrying,
cheese rolling and worm charming and air guitaring! We also discovered that
carving a mould for a medal takes a lot of skill and patience yet can be strangely
relaxing. We'll be back out in the community in the run up to the awards, so look out
for us!”
Find out more about the RCPS Medal Awards here. A limited amount of tickets are also available to attend the Medal Awards ceremony at The Falmouth
Hotel on Thursday 5th February 2026.
ENDS: 10th December 2025
Tuesday 14th October, 2025
The Royal
Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS/The Poly) has announced the winners of its
prestigious Medal Awards. Next February, all nine winners will receive Medal
Award Certificates for outstanding achievement, and are contenders for the
distinction of the RCPS Medal in their category, to be presented at an awards
ceremony delivered in partnership with The Falmouth Hotel.
Relaunched two
years ago, the Medal Awards champion excellence in sciences, industry and the
arts – celebrating the range of exciting, innovative work taking place in
Cornwall across these categories today. Playing a pivotal role in The Poly’s
early history, the Medals were first awarded in the 1830s, with Alfred Nobel
being one of the recipients in 1865. The aim of the current awards is to
encourage the new and forward-looking, and to promote the achievements of those
working in, or having a strong recent connection, with Cornwall.
The winners
have been selected by expert panels, using broad criteria to make judgements –
including the originality and significance of the work, the technical expertise
or creativity shown, and the excellence of output produced in the last five or
so years.
The award
winners are:
ARTS: Sarah
Ball; Ro Robertson; Lucy Stein
Sarah - for the
significant development of her work and growing international recognition of
her painting in recent years, starting with a major show at Frieze New York in
2021, and subsequent solo exhibitions in London and internationally, currently
in Shanghai.
Ro (they/them)
- for recent innovations in their work and growing recognition as one of the
most interesting artists making sculpture in Britain today, with work featured
at Tate St Ives, and in numerous exhibitions across the UK and internationally.
Lucy - for the
ongoing development of an expansive body of conceptual work rooted in painting,
which embraces performance, film, writing and collaborative projects, notably
following ‘Wet Room’, her first major UK institutional solo show (2021-2022),
and through international exhibitions.
SCIENCES:
Prof Chris Bass; Prof Karen Hudson-Edwards; Dr Toby Talbot
Chris - for his
work on insecticide resistance. An applied entomologist (University of Exeter)
he was recently awarded an ERC Advanced Researcher Grant, one of only 53 to be
awarded in the UK. He works with a global network of specialists identifying
ways to target specific crop pests without harming beneficial insects.
Karen - for her
work on sustainable mining. She is an environmental geochemist and mineralogist
(Camborne School of Mines and Environment and Sustainability Institute,
University of Exeter). A global expert in her field, she is noted for
innovations involving employing minerals and microbes in environmental
clean-ups.
Toby - for
revolutionising cancer treatment in Cornwall. As a consultant (Royal Cornwall
Hospital Trust) he is best known for his work on clinical trials of novel
cancer treatment drugs and has published his ground-breaking research in the
world’s leading medical journals.
INDUSTRY:
Flann Microwave Ltd; Pendennis Group; Teagle Machinery Ltd
Flann Microwave
Ltd - for its international reputation as a high-quality producer of electronic
components for the global space, defence and telecoms industries. Established
in the 1950s, the company has continued to innovate and today best represents
Cornwall’s growing and highly competitive tech sector. Ian Burnage is CEO.
Pendennis
(Pendennis group incorporating Pendennis Shipyard and Cockwells) - for its
international profile as a leading global exporter of excellence in Cornish
design, sustainability and maritime values, alongside its outstanding track
record as a local employer, providing high quality jobs and apprentice
training. The group Managing Directors are Toby Allies, Ian Granville, Stephen
Hills and Charlie Ross.Teagle
Machinery Ltd – for embodying Cornwall's reputation for precision engineering,
and representing our global status in the agricultural sector. This
award-winning family-founded and run business is a global-facing supplier that
invests in skills development locally, working with HE providers to offer
routes into high-quality employment. Tom Teagle is Managing Director.
Teagle
Machinery Ltd – for embodying Cornwall's reputation for precision engineering,
and representing our global status in the agricultural sector. This
award-winning family-founded and run business is a global-facing supplier that
invests in skills development locally, working with HE providers to offer
routes into high-quality employment. Tom Teagle is Managing Director.
The Medal
Awards presentation ceremony, and announcement of Medal recipients, will take
place on Thursday 5th February at the Falmouth Hotel.
Ginny Button,
Chair of The Poly, says:
“There are so
many incredibly talented artists, forward-thinking scientists and ambitious
businesses in Cornwall. Collectively they’re changing our lives in different
ways. The award winners for 2026 are no exception, and we’re delighted to have
this opportunity to shine a light on their remarkable achievements.
“Our winners
show that Cornwall continues to be a place where creativity and innovation
thrive. We hope that bringing together these different sectors will open new
doors and spark connections. “We’d like to thank our partner, The Falmouth
Hotel, for sponsoring the 2026 RCPS Medal Awards, making the Awards possible,
and also the Tanner Phoenix Trust [through Cornwall Community Foundation] for
generously funding an associated outreach programme. They share our aim to
promote innovation and excellence within our community, and their support is
invaluable.”
ENDS: 13th October 2025
Tuesday 9th September, 2025
The Falmouth
Hotel (Cornwall Hotel Collection) is partnering with The Poly to host the 2026
Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS) Medal Awards. The Award ceremony will
take place at Falmouth’s landmark hotel early next year.
The RCPS Medal
Awards champion excellence in science, industry and the arts in Cornwall. First
awarded in the 1830s, the medals played a pivotal role in The Poly’s early
history. Relaunched a few years ago they aim to celebrate the range of
exciting, innovative work taking place in Cornwall across these categories
today.
The Poly
is Falmouth's cherished community arts and culture venue, while The Falmouth
Hotel is known as the 'Grande Dame of Falmouth' thanks to its impressive
Victorian architecture and stunning setting. Both have been pivotal in the
town’s history since the 1800s, an era marked by extraordinary technological
developments and the transformation of communication networks with the arrival
of the Great Western Railway. Through their collaboration these longstanding
Falmouth-based institutions aim to promote current innovation and encourage its
future.
“We’re
thrilled to be partnering with The Poly to present the RCPS Medal Awards in 2026.
It’s such a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and support Cornwall’s
outstanding talent. We’re excited to be hosting the awards at The Falmouth,
with its rich history and breathtaking setting, and our team looks forward to
welcoming guests for a very special awards ceremony.” – Ben Young, Managing
Director, The Falmouth Hotel
“We’re
very grateful to Ben Young and the Falmouth Hotel for partnering with us to
deliver the Medal Awards for Cornwall. While these are very much Cornwall-wide
awards, our partnership shows that Falmouth’s collaborative spirit is alive and
well and we hope it will encourage other cross sector initiatives.” – Ginny
Button, Chair of The Poly
ENDS: 25th August 2025
Friday 29th August, 2025
Are you a member of The Poly? if not we want to hear from you!
click the below link to take our survey:
Take the survey!
Thursday 28th November, 2024
The Poly is proud to join this movement to ensure employees are paid the real Living Wage - the only UK wage rate based on the cost of living. It is voluntarily paid by over 15,000 UK businesses who believe their staff deserve a wage which meets everyday needs - like the weekly shop, or a surprise trip to the dentist.
The real Living Wage rates are higher than the National Living Wage because they are independently-calculated based on what people need to get by. That's why we encourage all employers that can afford to, to ensure their employees earn a wage that meets the costs of living, not just the government minimum.
Fore more details, view the Real Living Wage website HERE
ENDS: 28/11/2024
Wednesday 2nd October, 2024
....watch our ‘No Ticket, No Entry’ spoof HERE!
Monday 16th September, 2024
Cornwall’s leading actor, writer, and comedian, Edward Rowe (Kernow King), is urging the local community to support The Poly by joining its membership scheme.
The Poly, heading towards its 200th anniversary in 2033, is a much-loved and important part of Cornwall’s history and cultural scene. The multi-purpose arts centre presents a jam-packed programme of theatre events, cinema screenings, live music, comedy, talks, exhibitions and creative workshops throughout the year. In addition, it houses a state-of-the-art pottery studio, a café/bar, guild makers shop and the Falmouth History Archive.
Becoming a Poly member helps keep the venue open for the community and offers the opportunity to enjoy a range of savings on films, selected events and in the café.
Ed, a passionate advocate for Cornish culture and heritage, is a familiar face at The Poly – having performed on the venue’s stage and appeared on film (including in the BAFTA-winning film Bait). In a heartfelt appeal, he says:
“We’re asking you to not only buy a ticket, buy a membership as well. For just £35 a year, that’s £3 a month, your membership gets you one free ticket a year, discounts on films and discounts on the café. Fantastic!”
As well as the savings on offer, membership also offers exhibition opportunities for artists and a chance to have a genuine say in The Poly’s future direction through its AGM.
Membership fees are: Individual: £35, Joint: £60, Student / IRO Benefits: £15.
Sign up today via The Poly’s website www.thepoly.org, in person, or by calling the box office on 01326 319461.
ENDS: 16th September 2024
Monday 16th September, 2024
Falmouth arts venue, The Poly, has been awarded £2,000 to present an exciting season of films and workshops celebrating the ‘Women in Action’ movie genre.
The season
will run from October to December and is part of ART OF ACTION: a BFI FAN
initiative supported through National Lottery. It’s designed to celebrate the
artistry of real action choreography that’s kept audiences on the edge of their
seats since the early days of cinema. A
chance to gain unrivalled insight into the skills, daring and influences of a
genre which regularly tops cinema box office. As well as screenings,
audiences will be able to experience have-a-go workshops, stunt and combat
demonstrations, special events and testimony from people with first-hand
experience of making or appearing in high octane crowd pleasers built around
thrills, spills and more.
Timon Singh, BFI FAN and ART OF ACTION
Producer says: “Audiences will be able to experience the cinematic artistry,
skills and craft involved in creating iconic action sequences and films, while
engaging with the historic roots and cross-cultural influences of the genre. It
also lets filmgoers celebrate the skill and daring required of actors and stunt
performers to produce the extraordinary on-screen exploits which continue to
captivate audiences today.”
He added: “We’re sure audiences of all
ages and backgrounds will relish the chance to get behind-the-scenes insights
into the daring world of action design and that, hopefully, the whole big
screen ART OF ACTION package will inspire the next generation of screen
creatives.”
The Poly
season will help bust the
myth that action is a male domain through celebrations of women’s work on both
sides of the camera. This will include three films focusing on the career
of Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh, an international icon known for doing her own
incredible stunts including the intricate
choreography of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000). Also included will be a
long overdue BFI Distribution re-release of Kathryn Bigelow’s Point Break - rarely
seen on the big screen in recent years and returning with a 4K restoration. Workshops
on offer will include stunt work for screen, and a special effects makeup
workshop.
Find out more,
and book your tickets, by visiting The Poly website www.thepoly.org/womeninaction
ENDS: 16th September 2024
CELEBRATING THE SEASON, WATCH OUR NEW 'NO TICKET, NO ENTRY' VIDEO HERE!!
Tuesday 23rd April, 2024
This
spring, The Poly is launching ‘The Future Of …’- an exciting and
thought-provoking programme of talks and events exploring how social,
environmental, and technological developments may affect our lives and our
planet in the near future.
The
series is the brainchild of Professor Alan Cummings, The Poly’s new President.
Professor Cummings’ education and career have involved him in an unusually
broad range of disciplines, roles and activities beginning as a Chemistry
student at Imperial College London and concluding as Pro-Rector of the Royal
College of Art. Along the way, he became an eminent conservator of paintings, a
teacher and research leader at postgraduate level - as well as a songwriter and
performer. His aim for The Poly is to strengthen its reputation as a place
where curious, creative, innovative and concerned people gather to discuss the
opportunities and threats that face humanity over the next 20 or 30 years.
The
first of these events will examine ‘The Future Of Creativity’. The evening will
begin with a short presentation about creativity by Professor Cummings. He will
then be joined by a few of the many, extraordinarily creative and innovate
people he has met in Falmouth while planning ‘The Future Of .…’. Together, they
will lead an open discussion with the audience about what the future may hold.
How
do creative processes vary across disciplines, from science to fine art or
engineering to music? How have new technologies affected creative processes in
the recent past and how will emerging technologies (such as AI) affect human
creativity in the near future? How might technological change affect creative
activity, productivity, innovation, social well-being and wealth generation in
Falmouth and Cornwall as a whole? These are just some of the issues being
addressed in what promises to be a stimulating evening of discussion.
Professor Alan Cummings says: “The
only way to get us out of the catastrophic mess we are making of our planet,
and everything on it, is through our unique ability as a species to be creative
and to apply that creativity in the real world. The trouble is, that’s what got
us into this mess in the first place.
“I am old now. The future is not going
to be my playground, but hopefully my grandchildren will be there. We need to
spend more of our time, energy and intelligence preparing them for the damage
we have done to it.”
‘The Future of…Creativity’ will take place on Tuesday 7th May at 6.30pm. Tickets are £3, plus a £1 Poly Fund payment, and can be booked online at thepoly.org, or by calling the box office on
01326 319461.
ENDS: 18th April 2024
In conjunction with the 'Future of...Work' event and complementary Falmouth At Work Exhibition that took place in July 2024, we have created an online book for you to enjoy! View the book HERE
Friday 15th March, 2024
A much-loved arts centre in Falmouth is inviting the community to have their say and give input on shaping its long-term future.
The
Poly will be running face to face sessions with community groups and running an
online survey giving residents in Penryn and Falmouth an opportunity to have a
say on events that the wider community would like to see held there, and
improvements that could be made to the building.
The community engagement consultation
has been funded by The Good Growth Fund and feedback will input into long term
future planning.
The Poly is a multi-purpose arts centre
with a cinema/theatre, pottery and Guild maker’s shop - holding live events,
talks and exhibitions in a beautiful historic venue on the high street in the
centre of the town. It also houses a full licensed café/bar, meeting
spaces and the Falmouth History Archive.
General Manager
Ed Cartwright said: “The Poly is at the heart of the community, and we really
want to ensure that we're engaging all residents of Falmouth and Penryn, in
terms of the events, workshops, shows, films that we put on. We'd love to hear
from as many people as possible to give their thoughts and ideas on what they'd
like to see us put on in the future.”
Ginny Button, Chair of The Poly said: “It's
fantastic that the Good Growth Fund is funding this vital survey and the focus
groups so we're able to speak with lots of different people in the local
community to hear from them as to what sort of arts and other events they'd
like to take part in the future.”
It'll only take five minutes to complete the online survey here https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/consultationforthepoly
All
those completing the survey will be entered into a prize draw - with the chance
to win two cinema tickets* (*standard cinema tickets only, excludes Q&As
and specialised screenings).
ENDS: 15th March 2024
Friday 1st March, 2024
Celebrating its 200th
anniversary in 2033, The Poly looks forward to another two centuries of
success!
In
less than ten years’ time The Poly will be celebrating its bicentenary and to commemorate
this extraordinary milestone, the charity is launching POLY200 - a £200,000 For 200 Years'
fundraising campaign. This is to support the work of the much-loved arts venue and
to ensure it will be here as a community asset for generations to come.
The
funds raised will help enable The Poly to grow and develop its offer,
improve the building and keep delivering a diverse cultural programme for its communities
in Falmouth and wider Cornwall.
Under
the banner of POLY200, and over the next ten years, The Poly is planning a
series of fundraising initiatives to achieve its target – and it’s reaching out
to the community to get involved. So, if you know how to put the ‘fun’ in fundraising
and have some great ideas, The Poly wants to hear from you!
You can help The Poly by:
· Looking out for and participating in
POLY200 events.
· Sharing your fundraising idea to help The
Poly reach its target.
· Leading an activity or event - or
sponsoring someone who could.
· Joining The Poly as a Member, Business
Supporter or Patron.
· Making a donation: www.thepoly.org/get-involved/donate.
· Through your continued custom – by
buying tickets and shopping in The Poly Guild!
The
Poly’s Manager Ed Cartwright says:
“Despite
the challenges of the economic downturn, The Poly continues to provide local people,
and visitors, with a place to learn, experience and enjoy – while championing
innovation in the arts, science and industry.
“As
a small local charity, that receives no regular funding, it’s important we work
closely with the community to ensure The Poly’s future. POLY200 is a
wonderful opportunity for everyone to show their support, as well as their
creativity in suggesting ‘funtastic’ ideas, to help raise money!”
Please
get in touch with your ideas at events@thepoly.org and
keep an eye out for #POLY200.
ENDS: 1st March 2024
Wednesday 13th December, 2023
Estate agency Heather & Lay has shown its commitment to
the community by signing up to The Poly’s recently launched Business
Supporter initiative.
As a charity, The Poly depends on ticket sales, membership
and fundraising to keep our much-loved arts and cultural centre open for the
community. By becoming a Business Supporter, Heather & Lay will help ensure
the future of the venue and enable us to continue to grow our programme of
events, film screenings, exhibitions, and workshops.
Heather & Lay are the longest standing independent
estate agency in Falmouth. Headed up by John Lay, the team are renowned for
their friendly, warm approach and their active presence in the community. The
only agency in Falmouth to have a dedicated Sales Progressor, they are known
for their experienced, diligent, and pre-emptive approach but most importantly
for securing the sale and seeing it through to completion.
At the heart of Falmouth for over 35 years, Heather & Lay
support a variety of local projects, events and charities throughout the year
including The Poly’s new Business Supporter scheme.
In welcoming Heather & Lay, The Poly’s Manager Ed
Cartwright says:
“Heather & Lay have been quick to step in and support
The Poly, showing they have a genuine care for local people.
“By coming onboard, they will be giving The Poly the chance to
further enrich the lives of those in our community by offering more
opportunities to learn, experience and enjoy. We can’t thank John and Jo Lay enough, and hope
they will, in return, take pleasure in being more closely involved with The Poly.”
As a Poly Business Supporter, companies can make a
significant difference to the lives and wellbeing of local people and help
shape The Poly’s future, while enjoying a range of benefits. If you would like
to find out more about joining us, please see our Business Supporters page or get
in touch direct by emailing MichelleD@thepoly.org
ENDS: 13/12/23
Monday 23rd October, 2023
Alan Cummings has been unveiled as The Poly's new President
Alan Cummings was born in the North East in 1950. Now permanently resident in Falmouth, he looks back on a fascinating and varied career across science, art and design, heritage conservation, higher education and rock and folk music. His professional activities have involved many high profile institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Courtauld Institute of Art. He concluded his working life as Professor of Conservation, Pro-Rector and Director of Academic Development at the Royal College of Art, a Visiting Professor in the Faculty of Engineering at Imperial College and a Governor at the National Film and Television School. On the way, he received a Queen’s Anniversary Prize for Further and Higher Education and he has been listed in Who’s Who since 2010.
Alan’s main interest towards the end of his
career was helping to build relationships across science and engineering, art
and design, the humanities and business in the belief that interdisciplinary
collaboration is the only effective way to solve world problems. As President,
his aim is to emerge energetically from retirement to continue this kind of
work. He wants to build the Poly’s identity as a place for interdisciplinary
thinking, creativity and innovation. He is currently developing plans for an
ambitious programme events called “The Future Of ..” , where significant
social, environmental and technological issues will be explored by
interdisciplinary audiences representing the vibrant communities of Falmouth,
Penryn and beyond.
ENDS: 23/10/23
Friday 21st April, 2023
The
Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS) Medal Awards took place last night, celebrating
outstanding Cornish talent in the fields of Science, Industry, and the Arts, by
recognising the achievements of nine RCPS Medallists selected by expert panels from
each field.
Lord
Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Edward Bolitho OBE, Lord Robin Teverson of Tregony, and Professor
Emma Hunt, Vice-Chancellor of Falmouth University presented all of the
Medallists with certificates, while on the night, one of the three in each
category was also announced as a Medallist cum laude (with distinction), taking
home with them a highly prized RCPS Medal.
The
prestigious event was held at the Alverton Hotel, Truro and was attended by the
nominees, their guests, selection judges, as well as specially invited guests
representing the different sectors across Cornwall.
The Medallists cum laude follow in the
steps of other notable recipients, such as Alfred Nobel, who was awarded a
Silver Medal in 1865. This year’s relaunch of the Medal Awards takes place almost
two hundred years since the RCPS’s founding. By reintroducing the Medal Awards,
the intention is to put Cornish creativity and innovation on centre stage, both
locally and nationally.
Ginny Button, Chair of The Poly, says:
“We would like to congratulate all of our
brilliant Medallists, and Medallists cum laude, and thank them for making the
relaunch of the medal awards a really meaningful event.
“Individually they’ve demonstrated a high
level of creativity and innovation and made an outstanding contribution to
their fields. Collectively, they represent what we consider to some of the best
Cornwall has to offer in the categories of Science, Industry, and the Arts, and
we’re proud to be able to champion their work in this way.
We aim to re-establish the Medal Awards as
an ongoing showcase of the extraordinary creative talent here, particularly to
inspire young people and to encourage collaboration across these sectors.”
RCPS Medal Awards 2023: The Winners
ARTS
RCPS Medallist cum laude:
Nicola Bealing (painter and printmaker nominated for an extraordinary
body of work produced in response to the pandemic)
RCPS Medallists:
Abigail Reynolds (works across different media including sculpture,
print, event and film, nominated for her remarkable Kresen Kernow commission
‘Tre’ and related projects)
Lisa Wright (painter nominated for her ambitious sculptural
installation ‘Future Forest’, commissioned by Forestry England)
SCIENCE
RCPS Medallist cum laude:
Dr Nick Tregenza (Marine
conservationist, specialism in marine acoustics and echo-location design)
RCPS Medallists:
Prof Chris Bass (Applied
entomologist, research into insecticide resistance)
Dr Kate Moore (Geologist,
research into the impacts and benefits of small-scale mining)
INDUSTRY
RCPS Medallist cum laude:
Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd, Ian
Jones and Piran Trezise (Deep space communications networks)
RCPS Medallists:
Bennamann Ltd,
Chris Mann (Clean energy for the agricultural industry)
Eliquo Hydrok,
Peter Wroe and Lewis O’Brien (Environmentally progressive products and services
to the water industry)
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR WINNERS
ENDS: 21st
April 2023
Wednesday 15th February, 2023
Following much anticipation, The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic
Society (RCPS/The Poly) has announced the shortlist for its
prestigious Medal Awards this year.
Those selected from the categories of the Arts, Science and
Industry are all considered winners: for the selection panels they represent
the very best Cornwall has to offer and each will receive an RCPS Medal
Certificate for their exceptional achievements. In addition, a Medal Award
Ceremony will take place on 20th April at the Alverton Hotel,
Truro and the 2023 RCPS Medal will be presented to one winner within each
category.
To be awarded an RCPS Medal is to follow in the steps of other
notable recipients, such as Alfred Nobel, who was awarded a Silver Medal in
1865. The relaunch of the Medal Awards, almost two hundred years since the
RCPS’s founding, celebrates the range of exciting, innovative work taking place
in Cornwall today.
Those shortlisted are:
ARTS
Nicola Bealing (painter and printmaker
nominated for an extraordinary body of work produced in response to the
pandemic), Abigail Reynolds (works across different media
including sculpture, print, event and film, nominated for her remarkable Kresen
Kernow commission ‘Tre’ and related projects), Lisa Wright (painter
nominated for her ambitious sculptural installation ‘Future Forest’,
commissioned by Forestry England).
SCIENCE
Prof Chris Bass (Applied
entomologist, research into insecticide resistance); Dr Kate Moore (Geologist,
research into the impacts and benefits of small-scale mining); Dr Nick
Tregenza (Marine conservationist, specialism in marine acoustics and
echo-location design).
INDUSTRY
Bennamann Ltd, Chris Mann (Clean
energy for the agricultural industry); Eliquo Hydrok, Peter Wroe and
Lewis O’Brien (Environmentally progressive products and services to the water
industry); Goonhilly Earth Station Ltd, Ian Jones and Piran Trezise
(Deep space communications networks).
Drawn up by expert judging panels for each category, the shortlist
was also considered by the RCPS Medal Panel. The selection process involved the
use of broad criteria to make judgements – including the originality and
significance of the work, the technical expertise or creativity shown, and the
excellence of output. The work reviewed was current or spans the last five or
so years.
By reintroducing the RCPS Medal Awards and championing
achievements in Science, Industry and the Arts in Cornwall, The RCPS aims to
put Cornish creativity and innovation on centre stage both locally and
nationally.
Prof Mike Jenks, former
President, RCPS comments: “It has been a privilege to view such a range of
outstanding work that is truly world class. To be able to recognise this by the
award of the RCPS Medals is a real pleasure and we greatly look forward to the
presentation ceremony on the 20th of April.”
ENDS: 15th February
2023
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE SHORTLIST
The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS)
would like to thank the
group of generous individual sponsors who have made the 2023 RCPS Medal Awards
possible, as well as the Tanner
Phoenix Trust and the Cornwall Community Foundation.
Wednesday 25th January, 2023
Following
the recently announced reintroduction of the Royal Cornwall
Polytechnic Society (RCPS) Medal Awards this spring, The Poly will be giving
the community a unique opportunity to view its new, specially commissioned
medal.
In an exhibition
‘Unfurling Fern- Introducing the new RCPS Medal’, the
new design by Cornwall-based artist Lucy Willow will be on display alongside information
about the prestigious awards. There will also be the opportunity to view
original RCPS medals, as well as design drawings and other works by the artist,
offering a fascinating insight into the process of creating a new medal. The
exhibition will precede the Awards ceremony taking place on 20th
April 2023.
The Poly was delighted
that Lucy, a Falmouth University lecturer and highly regarded specialist in
medal art, agreed to take on the design of the new medal. An award-winning medallist herself, in 2018 she
also received
the British Art Medal Society’s (BAMS) Marsh Award for the
Encouragement of Medallic Art in recognition of her success supporting
Falmouth University students in the BAMS annual medal competition. Lucy’s image of an ‘Unfurling
Fern’ brings the medals stunningly up to date, with a design that beautifully
suggests new life and growth.
First awarded in the
1830s, the RCPS medals played a pivotal role in The Poly’s early history. One
of the medal recipients was Alfred Nobel in 1865. The relaunch of the Medal
Awards, almost two hundred years since the RCPS’s founding, will celebrate the
range of exciting, innovative work taking place in Cornwall today across these
categories.
In a
statement about her design for the new RCPS medal, produced in collaboration
with Bigbury Mint, the artist says:
“The
unfurling fern spreads outwards to meet the wind, the elements, and the insects
in the garden. Much of my work as an artist comes from observing small details
in my garden and using these as a metaphor to make drawings or sculptural
works.
“There
is something so joyful and celebratory about the fiddlehead, the new growth on
a fern. It became the perfect metaphor to use for the design on one side of the
medal.”
This
free exhibition will take place from Tuesday 7th to Saturday 11th
February in The Poly’s Spring Gallery.
ENDS: 25th
January 2023
The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society
(RCPS) would like to thank the Tanner Phoenix Trust and Cornwall Community Foundation for supporting the reintroduction of
the Medal Awards.
Thursday 19th January, 2023
The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS/The Poly) will be championing excellence in science, industry and the arts by reintroducing its prestigious Medal Awards this year.
First
awarded in the 1830s, the medals played a pivotal role in The Poly’s early
history. One of the medal recipients was Alfred Nobel in 1865. The relaunch of
the Medal Awards, almost two hundred years since the RCPS’s founding, will celebrate the range of exciting,
innovative work taking place in Cornwall today across these categories.
The
beautifully designed awards will be presented at the Medal Award Ceremony on 20th
April at the Alverton Hotel, Truro. This much anticipated event will bring
together some of Cornwall’s leading figures in what looks set to be a highlight
of Cornwall’s 2023 calendar.
A shortlist of three of
the very best Cornwall has to offer in each category has been drawn up by expert
judging panels. All those selected are considered Award winners and will
receive Medal Certificates recognising their outstanding achievements. In
addition, at the Award Ceremony, an RCPS medal will be presented to one winner within
each category.
The selection process
involved the use of broad criteria to make judgements. This included the originality
and significance of the work, the technical expertise or creativity shown and
the excellence of the output of those shortlisted. The work considered is current
or spans the last five or so years. The aim was to encourage the new and
forward-looking, and the next generation of talent of those working in, or having
a strong recent connection, with Cornwall. Details of those shortlisted will be
released in the coming weeks.
A new RCPS medal,
featuring an unfurling fern, has been designed by Cornwall-based artist Lucy Willow and produced
in collaboration with medal-makers Bigbury Mint. There will be an
opportunity to preview the medal at a special exhibition in The Poly’s Spring
Gallery from Tuesday 7th to Saturday 11th February,
between 10am and 5pm each day.
Ginny Button, Chair of
The Poly, says:
“There’s so much
creativity and innovation in Cornwall right now. By reintroducing and
rethinking the original RCPS Medal Awards we aim to celebrate this and draw
attention to leaders in their fields making significant contributions
nationally and internationally.
“It’s also a wonderful
opportunity to bring different sectors together at an event that we hope will
inspire collaboration and excellence in our region.
“The calibre of those
shortlisted for this relaunch year is truly outstanding, and we look forward to
publicising their work in the coming weeks.”
ENDS: 18th
January 2023
THE CORNISH MEDAL: THE ROYAL CORNWALL POLYTECHNIC SOCIETY MEDAL AWARDS (PDF)
ALSO AVAILABLE FROM THE POLY GUILD SHOP
The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (RCPS) would like to thank the Tanner Phoenix Trust Cornwall Community Foundation for supporting the reintroduction of the Medal Awards.
Monday 5th December, 2022
The
Poly is thrilled to announce its theatre will be fully reopening in time for
Christmas, after a period of closure saw important renovation work carried out.
Much
of this work was funded through Poly reserves and assets. However, the last
round of upgrades was made possible due to the generosity of members of the
community who supported the charity’s Save Our Stage (SOS) Crowdfunder project
during the summer. The fundraising campaign raised over £15,000, allowing
the arts venue to complete vital repairs to the theatre area of the Grade II*
listed building. Without this support, it would have been impossible for the
theatre to reopen for stage performances.
The
money raised has been used to repair and redecorate areas affected by asbestos
removal, replace the curtains and ropes on stage and reinstall and update
audio/visual systems for live music and theatre events.
Ed
Cartwright, The Poly’s Manager said:
“We
are incredibly grateful to all those who donated to our fundraising campaign:
it really has made a difference. As a result of this community support, our
theatre will be back open in time for our hugely popular festive show,
Christmas.Time.”
Christmas.Time,
by Near-ta Theatre, will run from the 15th – 23rd
December and is Cornwall’s longest running festive show. Written and performed
by Daniel Richards and Ciaran Clarke, and directed by Simon Harvey
(Olivier Award winner,o-region, Kneehigh) the production is a musical comedy
for all the family. Join Charlie and Toby as they spend Christmas Day at Her
Majesty’s pleasure. It’ll be a Christmas to remember as they whip up some
festive cheer by recreating their won interpretations of Dickens, pantomime,
musical, Christmas dinner and Christmas films! Buy your tickets now and enjoy
the cosy intimacy of The Poly’s reopened theatre, while enjoying this cult
favourite - one of The Poly’s annual highlights. Call the Box Office on
01326 319461 or book online at www.thepoly.org
ENDS: 5th December
2022
Monday 7th November, 2022
The Poly in Falmouth has joined a growing number of individuals and organisations involved in arts and culture, who are declaring a climate and ecological emergency.
A community arts, science and heritage centre, The Poly is doing more just than putting its name to this movement. It is actively committed to developing its social, economic and environmental sustainability credentials - aiming to minimise any negative impact of its activities and to enhance the positive impact it has in operating sustainably.
The venue is working towards a net zero carbon plan and is already carrying out improvements to the building, including switching to green energy provider Octopus Energy, moving across to LED lighting, draught proofing, and monitoring energy and water usage. In addition, The Poly is endeavouring to significantly reduce its waste – choosing recyclable materials and avoiding single use plastics where possible. Other steps being taken include implementing a procurement sustainability plan and integrating sustainability into staff and volunteer induction training and team working.
The Poly also made an adjustment to its investment policy which was agreed by the Board of Trustees in February 2021. At that time the charity sold oil and gas shares in line with its Sustainability Policy, requesting that its broker gradually increase The Poly’s ESG (Environment, Social & Governance) stock.
As an arts venue, The Poly is also planning to programme environmentally focused events and further encourage collaborations with artists creating work from recycled and sustainable materials.
The move to sign up for Culture Declares was fully supported by The Poly’s Members in its recent AGM.
The Poly Trustee Sue Radmore says:
“We aim to show leadership through our actions across every aspect of our work, for example, our programme also reflects our concerns, from exhibitions featuring junk mail art, to influencers such as George Monbiot discussing Regenesis.“
“Based in an historical building, we recognise achieving net zero is a serious challenge. But we are committing to year-on-year review of our policy and will implement steps identified along the way to close the gap until we have achieved our goal. We will publicise our achievements (and disappointments) and encourage others to support the CDE campaign.”
The Poly in Falmouth has joined a growing number of individuals and organisations involved in arts and culture, who are declaring a climate and ecological emergency.
ENDS: 7th November 2022
Tuesday 28th June, 2022
Falmouth’s much-loved arts venue, The Poly, is
launching Save Our Stage (SOS), a Crowdfunder campaign to raise the money needed
to fully reopen its theatre for the community. It’s hoped the campaign will
raise £15,000 to complete vital repairs to this area of the Grade II* listed
building.
At the heart of the
Falmouth’s vibrant arts scene, The Poly is a charity providing
art galleries, a Guild makers shop and pottery, a theatre/cinema, café/bar and
heritage archives As a creative hub, one of The Poly’s core aims is to nurture the
development of local talent through offering new opportunities and experiences to
engage in cultural activities. In addition, The Poly hosts visiting companies
and creatives from further afield, bringing some of the best small scale
touring productions to Cornwall.
Following the challenges
of lockdown, The Poly has been pleased to welcome the community back through
its doors to enjoy a growing calendar of events and exhibitions. This has included
launching a new season of film screenings earlier this year - once again
bringing to Falmouth the best in independent cinema.
Despite all the good
news, the theatre is a key facility not yet back in full use. During its Covid-enforced
closure, some much-needed renovation works took place, including removing and
safely disposing of asbestos materials recently identified in the backstage
area of the theatre.
While much of this work
was funded through Poly reserves and assets, the venue needs support to complete the restoration of the area behind the scenes, including the changing
rooms. These include replacing curtains,
ropes and fixings, repairing walls where asbestos boards have been removed,
re-installing sound and lighting equipment and upgrading necessary electrical
systems in the theatre. Unfortunately, the theatre is unable to reopen for full
stage performances until this important work is completed. To achieve these goals, the venue is hoping to raise the
required funds from its friends, supporters, associate artists and customers.
As well as film
screenings, The Poly’s 180-seat theatre, is known for hosting a wide range of
performances including plays and musicals, family shows, comedy, live music,
and talks. Intimate and full of character, the theatre allows customers to soak
up the atmosphere and get close to the action as they enjoy some of the best
and most innovative local shows and touring acts. Nothing compares to seeing an
event live and The Poly has a reputation for staging absorbing, independent
entertainment with a flair of originality.
If successful, the money
raised by the Crowdfunding campaign will enable the building works to be
completed, so the theatre can reopen later this year.
Ginny Button, The Poly’s Chair said:
“The Poly is very much
about bringing families and our community together, with an emphasis on growing
local talent. Our theatre allows us to fulfil our commitment to nurture
performance skills within our community. Many of our children and young people have possibly made their first appearance on stage at The Poly, allowing
them to build their skills and confidence, with the
support of a warm and receptive local audience cheering them on.
“We very much want to
see our theatre space back open for the community as soon as possible and all
donations, however big or small, will help us complete the much-needed work.”
Ed Cartwright, The
Poly’s Manager said:
“The Poly's theatre has a vital role
to play in reinvigorating the high street, bringing people into the town during
the evenings and encouraging important secondary spend in the cafes, bars and
restaurants nearby. It's important for the community and the town that it
re-opens as soon as possible so any donations, whatever size, would be
fantastic.”
For more details on how
you can donate, please see https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-poly-save-our-stage
ENDS: 28th
June 2022
Monday 21st February, 2022
The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society (The Poly) is celebrating winning ‘Object of the Year’ at the 2022 Cornwall Heritage Awards.
The award was for The Poly Dipping Needle
Compass, a rare working 19th century magnetic dipping needle, which
is a unique type of compass that enabled ships to traverse the seas safely. It
was designed by The Poly Chairman Robert Were Fox. As a Quaker, a ‘dissenter,’
Fox had been excluded from the scientific elites of London and the
universities. Despite this, his genius invention brought Cornwall to the fore
of scientific discovery.
The
performance of Fox’s dipping needles in locating the South Magnetic Pole
secured unprecedented fame for the instruments. It ensured they became the
standard issue for subsequent naval expeditions tasked with expanding Britain’s
magnetic survey and the Admiralty selected it for the Ross’s Antarctic
expedition in 1839 - with Fox’s needles on both Terror and Erebus.
In
recent years, the Dipping Needle caught the interest of Cambridge academic, Dr Edward Gillin, who
went through the archives of The Royal Cornwall Polytechnic Society to uncover its
story. Through extensive further research, Dr Gillin plotted its pivotal role
in Britain’s maritime history and thus the development of the British Empire.
He then corroborated his findings by taking the object on a ship round the
world and was astounded by its accuracy when cross-checking it against the
original measurements taken during the Magnetic Crusade. Dr Gillin’s research provided
evidence that The Poly was at the forefront of innovation since its 1833
founding and helped make Cornwall a global leader in discovery in the
nineteenth century. The Poly hopes it will raise public interest in a time when
Falmouth’s role in science was critical and inspire younger generations to
think about science and technology.
Thanking
all those who had voted for the Needle, Michael Carver accepted the award on
behalf of The Poly saying; “The Dipping Needle became the most important
scientific instrument in the early Victorian era.
“For
the first time, people were able to navigate really accurately because the
needle told the difference between magnetic and true north.”
The Cornwall Heritage Awards were organised by
Cornwall Museums Partnership (CMP). The award ceremony took place at the Royal
Cornwall Showground in Wadebridge on 9th February and featured nine
categories. This year CMP turned the spotlight on ‘inclusion’ by drawing public
attention to objects in museum collections that tell previously untold stories
- or stories that need retelling from a unique perspective, offering an
opportunity to give those overlooked and marginalised stories a voice.
Decided by a public vote, this recognition of
The Poly’s Dipping Needle Compass is especially poignant as it serves as a
fitting tribute to the memory of Robert Were Fox and his family, who set up The
Poly for the benefit of the community - aiming to promote artistic, historical
and scientific endeavour.
Further information on The Poly Dipping Needle
Compass can be found in a free booklet available from The Poly and Falmouth Art
Gallery. Or see an online version of the booklet on The Poly’s website: https://thepoly.org/about-us/news
ENDS: 21st
February 2022
Monday 1st November, 2021
Like many arts facilities, The Poly is full of vigour and striving to return to a full
programme after the closures caused by the pandemic.
The venue's two galleries have been open since July, with exhibitions quickly getting
back on track - including the popular Members’ Exhibition in the summer. Lockdown
may have been a difficult time for many, but there is no denying that it resulted in
some incredible artistic output from the community.
During the months of closure, the Board took the opportunity to appoint surveyors to
carry out health and safety checks on the Grade II listed building. During this
consultation period it was determined improvements were needed before The Poly
could be fully reopened. These works include upgrading technical equipment, such
as lighting and electrics to meet current standards, repairs to the Main Gallery's
ceiling and improvements to the dressing rooms, which are suffering from damp.
As with many buildings of its age, The Poly was found to have an area containing
asbestos, located backstage, which will be taken out in the ongoing works. Although
air and fabric tests in the auditorium revealed no asbestos present, its professional
removal will be a prudent safeguard going forward. Some of the planned works have already been carried out, with other essential
works to be completed after Christmas. The aim is for the theatre to be open from
early 2022, initially for an extensive programme of films. All other performances will
continue to be held in the Main Gallery until the theatre is fully open.
In the next couple of months, there is much to look forward to at The Poly with a
number of events taking place in the lead up to Christmas – including a night of
comedy with rising star Lou Sanders, a Christmas Fair and the return of hugely
popular Near-ta Theatre Christmas.Time Show.
The Poly Pottery is continuing to run its popular handbuilding and throwing courses,
as well as offering a kiln firing service to the community. The Spring Gallery is busy
each week hosting a series of exhibitions, while the Guild shop is offering an even
greater selection of handpicked designs.
The Poly is also pleased to announce that it will be teaming up with vibrant and
innovative local business Wesup, who will be running a cafe and bar on the premises
under their food and beverage brand Solskinn. There will be more news on this
exciting development very soon.
As always, The Poly wishes to thank its customers and members for their support.
With its long legacy of being at the heart of the community, The Poly looks forward to
ensuring a successful future for generations to come.
ENDS: 1st November 2021
