Author: Kevin Bishop

“A DREAM FOR OVER 50 YEARS” – WORK STARTS ON NEW ROAD

Work has officially begun on a long-awaited new access road for Mousehole AFC — an ambitious community infrastructure project championed by HRH The Prince of Wales. The scheme will finally resolve decades of access issues for the Cornish club, helping ease congestion through the village of Paul and transforming Interiora Trungle Parc into a true community hub.

Project contractors and Mousehole AFC staff celebrate the groundbreaking for the new road

For years, the only route to the club has been via a narrow, pothole-ridden lane, causing traffic jams and headaches for players, visiting teams and local residents alike. After hearing about the challenges faced by the community, Prince William and the Duchy of Cornwall worked with construction industry leaders to find a solution — bringing together a consortium of national and local partners to build a brand-new road, free of charge to the club.

This has been a dream of the club’s for over 50 years

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Simon Taylor, Mousehole AFC’s Project Lead, said:

“This has been a dream of the club’s for over 50 years — seeing the diggers here today really is a dream come true. It means so much, not just for the football club but for the whole community.”

“This road will ease traffic through Paul, make matchdays safer and smoother, and help us grow as a proper community hub — with more events, more people, and more opportunities for everyone.”

This is what our industry does best: bringing people together to make a difference

Martin Riley, Project Lead for the contractors’ consortium, added:

“When the Prince of Wales asked us to help, I thought we’d be patching potholes — but it was clear we needed a new road altogether! I called on trusted friends across the industry, and everyone stepped up to deliver something truly special for Mousehole and its community.”

“This is what our industry does best: bringing people together to make a difference where it matters. It’s a privilege to be part of it.”

ISC, part of GRS Group, will be leading the works, having been appointed as the Design & Build Principal Contractor for the new 150m access road. The construction is being carried out at no cost to the club, thanks to generous in-kind contributions from the following partners:

·       ISC (part of the GRS Group) – Specialists in enabling works, earthworks and civil engineering across the UK.

·       Maen Karne (part of the GRS Group) – Cornwall’s leading supplier of bagged and loose aggregates and waste removal services.

·       Tarmac – The UK’s leading sustainable construction materials, road contracting and building products business.

·       Griffiths – A major civil engineering contractor with a large-scale plant fleet and decades of experience.

·       Holcim (Aggregate Industries) – Experts in asphalt and paving solutions with a strong focus on sustainability.

·       Colas – Global leaders in transport infrastructure and highway maintenance, with local operations in Cornwall.

·       Cormac – Cornwall-based contractors delivering road building, surfacing and civil engineering services.

·       Keyline – National civils and drainage suppliers with a strong presence in Cornwall.

It’s something we’re very proud to be involved with

Jon Fisher, Chief Executive of GRS Group, said: “This project is a powerful example of the difference we can make when we bring together our national capability and expertise. It reflects what we’re all about – building infrastructure that improves lives and connects communities – and it’s one of many grassroots initiatives we’re proud to support nationwide. Improving this access road will benefit the wider community around Mousehole, and it’s something we’re very proud to be involved with.”

The new road is expected to be completed in time for Mousehole AFC’s 2025/26 season in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South.

PRINCE WILLIAM CHAMPIONS NEW ACCESS ROAD FOR MOUSEHOLE AFC

An ambitious infrastructure project backed by HRH The Prince of Wales is set to transform access to Mousehole AFC, creating new opportunities for sport, community events, and reducing congestion in the local village of Paul.

Construction work began today (30 June 2025) on a new access road that will serve Mousehole AFC, the club’s seasonal campsite, and neighbouring Paul Cricket Club. For years, the only route to the club has been via a narrow, pothole-ridden lane through the village—leading to traffic issues, damaged vehicles, and logistical headaches for visiting teams and supporters.

After hearing about the issues being faced by the local community, The Prince and the Duchy of Cornwall worked with CRH, a global leader in building materials, to see if they could help develop a lasting solution.

Simon Taylor, Project Lead for Mousehole AFC, said:
“Within a week, I was in a Teams meeting with Martin Riley, who’d been invited by HRH to see what could be done to help fix the existing road.
Two weeks later, Martin visited the club. After experiencing the lane for himself, he quickly realised a full repair wasn’t viable. With planning permission already secured for an alternative access point, we turned our attention to the possibility of building a brand-new road.
Countless meetings—both on-site and virtual—later, we’ve pulled together an incredible consortium of local and national companies who’ve committed their time, resources, and expertise to bring this dream to life.”

The construction is being carried out at no cost to the club, thanks to generous in-kind contributions from the following partners:

·       ISC (part of the GRS Group) – Specialists in enabling works, earthworks and civil engineering across the UK.

·       Maen Karne (part of the GRS Group) – Cornwall’s leading supplier of bagged and loose aggregates and waste removal services.

·       Tarmac – The UK’s leading sustainable construction materials, road contracting and building products business.

·       Griffiths – A major civil engineering contractor with a large-scale plant fleet and decades of experience.

·       Holcim (Aggregate Industries) – Experts in asphalt and paving solutions with a strong focus on sustainability.

·       Colas – Global leaders in transport infrastructure and highway maintenance, with local operations in Cornwall.

·       Cormac – Cornwall-based contractors delivering road building, surfacing and civil engineering services.

·       Keyline – National civils and drainage suppliers with a strong presence in Cornwall.

The Prince of Wales said:

“I have seen time and time again that community hubs are essential in providing the spaces for people to come together, to build stronger communities and to allow people to thrive. It is a privilege to be able to help the local community access Mousehole AFC. I’d like to personally add my thanks for all the hard work that’s gone into making it happen. I look forward to seeing the new road for myself as soon as I can.”

The route has also been made possible thanks to the generosity of local landowner Paul Pond, who has granted access to part of his land, and the years of tireless campaigning by Vice Chair Deryk Heywood.

In addition to improved access, the project will deliver new parking facilities, which will enable the club to expand its offering of sporting, social, and cultural events for the wider community.

Simon Taylor adds:
“This project is transformative—not just for Mousehole AFC but for the entire area. The cricket club will also benefit from the new road, and we’ll now be able to host more events at Interiora Trungle Parc, turning it into a true community hub. Most importantly, it will take matchday and holiday traffic out of the village, improving the experience for everyone.
I’m incredibly grateful to our consortium—there are too many individuals to name—but their support has been extraordinary. Special thanks go to Martin Riley for his dedication and guidance, GRS Group CEO Jon Fisher—without whose project leadership we could not have moved forward—and of course to HRH The Prince of Wales, whose involvement made this possible.”

Jon Fisher, Chief Executive of GRS Group, which is leading the works, said:
“This project is a powerful example of the difference we can make when we bring together our national capability and expertise. It reflects what GRS is all about – building infrastructure that improves lives and connects communities – and it’s one of many grassroots initiatives we’re proud to support nationwide. Improving this access road will benefit the wider community around Mousehole, and it’s something we’re very proud to be involved with.”

The new road is expected to be completed in time for the start of Mousehole AFC’s 2025/26 season in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South this August.

WHERE FOOTBALL DREAMS BEGIN: THE CORNISH CLUB THAT BUILDS FUTURES

What connects a scout at Brentford FC, performance analysts at Peterborough United and Tranmere Rovers, a presenter at FC Barcelona, and a photographer working at Wimbledon’s Centre Court? The – perhaps surprising – answer is a small village football club in the far west of Cornwall.

Mousehole AFC currently compete in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South. They’ve made remarkable progress in recent years, climbing three divisions in seven seasons. But it’s not just on the pitch where this ambitious club is making waves. Alongside developing footballing talent, Mousehole is also nurturing the next generation of professionals across the wider football industry.

Kieran Stephens at Mousheole AFC

Take Kieran Stephens, for example — a former pupil at Redruth School who approached Mousehole while still a student, offering his services as a football analyst. Manager Jake Ash took him up on the offer, and Stephens quickly proved himself invaluable. He continued working remotely while at university and eventually secured a role at Ipswich Town. Since graduating, he’s completed an internship at Everton and is now the Lead Analyst at Tranmere Rovers.

His current role includes filming and analysing matches and training sessions, producing tactical and set-piece reports for players and coaching staff, and delivering live matchday feedback to inform real-time tactical decisions.

Kieran credits Mousehole for his professional grounding:

Mousehole and Jake really gave me the building blocks to understand the role of an analyst in football. Working with Mousehole has massively shaped the way I work and how I approach analysis. I still use many of the techniques I learnt there to this day, and they’ve helped me establish myself in the professional leagues.”

A forward-thinking and welcoming club with a truly professional set-up.

It’s a similar story for Scott Neave, now Lead Academy Analyst at Peterborough United. He leads the club’s analysis for age groups from U9s to U21s, focusing particularly on the U18 and U21 squads. His duties include analysing training and matches, delivering pre-match briefings and tactical plans, and supporting player development through detailed performance data.

Scott at Peterborough

He, too, looks back fondly at his time in West Cornwall:

Being at Mousehole massively helped me practice key skills and gain hands-on experience with a professional coaching staff who really believed in what I could offer. I was incredibly lucky to continue my development at such a forward-thinking and welcoming club with a truly professional set-up.

Scott at a Mousheole away match

“I remember my time at Mousehole as some of the best years of my life

Mousehole’s influence doesn’t stop at tactical analysis. Gareth O’Neill, currently part of the physio team at Aston Villa, spent several seasons with Mousehole as head of Strength and Conditioning. Further afield, in early 2024, FC Barcelona launched a new English-language video platform to expand its global reach. One of the faces fronting that project is presenter and journalist Pablo Wools-Blanco. Originally from Bristol, Pablo studied journalism at Falmouth University and spent his final two years filming matchday content at Mousehole. His easy-going nature and professional delivery quickly made him a favourite at the club and a respected figure in Cornish football media.

He became a regular on the Cornish Soccer podcast, a BBC Cornwall matchday reporter and commentator, and even hosted the BBC Cornwall sports show on several occasions. Speaking from his new home in Spain, Pablo reflects warmly on his time at Mousehole:

“I remember my time at Mousehole as some of the best years of my life. I made lifelong friends and found a second family and community that I still visit when I can. Professionally, I can’t overstate how helpful it was — the hands-on experience was exactly what I needed to build a strong portfolio and gain invaluable experience, all while working with some amazing people.

Pablo at Barca One

Another recent alumnus to move up the football pyramid is Robert Brandt. Originally from Germany, he joined Mousehole as a scout for the 2024–25 season. He’s since taken on a new role as Academy Recruitment Coordinator at Brentford, overseeing recruitment from U9s to the B team.

Robert at Interiora Trungle Parc

For Robert, working in non-league football was an eye-opener:

“Decision-making in non-league is completely different. With no contracts or transfer windows, everything moves quickly. You get less time to make decisions and protect your squad, but more flexibility to correct mistakes. In the pro game, it’s the other way around. There’s also more personal accountability — players you recommend might actually get signed, which isn’t always the case at bigger clubs.”

Opportunities at Mousehole extend beyond football-specific roles, too. At the time of writing, Benj Gilbert — a recent graduate of Falmouth University’s editorial photography degree — is installing a camera on the roof of Centre Court at Wimbledon. Benj has built an impressive sports photography portfolio, including work with the England cricket team and several professional football clubs.

Last season, he spent time at Mousehole, capturing everything from matchday action to behind-the-scenes moments. His ability to capture celebration, reflection, and frustration added a professional edge to the club’s content output. His time in Cornwall gave him the chance to sharpen his skills in a live sports environment.

Kevin Bishop, who leads Mousehole’s media team, believes the club provides a unique springboard for young creatives and professionals:

“What we do here mirrors what people will encounter much further up the line in the wider world of football. We let people get stuck in from day one — they’re often thrown in at the deep end and given access to all areas of the club. They get to experiment, make mistakes, and learn. As a former journalism lecturer, I know how valuable that is for building skills and confidence.”

They’ve made us better as a football team — and we’ve helped them become better too,

Manager Jake Ash agrees. For him, the environment at Mousehole is central to everything:

“It’s just a great environment, isn’t it? People who work with us are given the opportunity to develop, and that’s so important. We’re really proud that so many people who’ve worked within the football department have used us to build their skills. In doing so, they’ve made us better as a football team — and we’ve helped them become better too, judging by the amazing roles they’ve gone on to. It’s something to be massively proud of.”

Although this crop of alumni has now moved on to the higher leagues, a new generation is waiting in the wings behind them. There are always opportunities at Mousehole if you want to develop your football career. Why not come along and have a look and see how we do things?

MOUSEHOLE AFC ANNOUNCES NEW CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR

Mousehole AFC is pleased to announce the appointment of Craig Harrison as the new Chairman of the Club, with Deryk Heywood stepping in as Vice Chairman.

Craig is the sales director and co-owner of Redruth-based Boosters Ltd, where he leads a team of professionals dedicated to helping businesses increase their brand awareness and generate sales through promotional merchandise.

He brings with him a wealth of experience in business leadership, strategic growth and team development. With a professional background spanning multiple sectors and a passion for grassroots sport, Craig’s appointment signals an exciting new chapter for the Seagulls. His enthusiasm for community-driven football and long-term vision for sustainable success align perfectly with the club’s values and ambitions.

When I first visited the club , I could feel the energy and passion straight away

Craig shared this message on taking on the new role:

“I’m really passionate about every project I take on, and getting involved with Mousehole was a no-brainer, I live just a few minutes away in Penzance, and when I first visited the club in February, I could feel the energy and passion straight away. Back in 2019, after moving to Cornwall, I was managing Illogan Ladies and one of our early games was at Trungle — the facilities and the spirit around the club really stood out. I’m excited to help build on that over the next 12 months and beyond.”

Joining Craig as Vice Chairman is a familiar face to many — Deryk Heywood, who previously served as Chairman and now returns to the club he has dedicated his life to for many years. Deryk’s deep-rooted passion for Mousehole AFC and his understanding of our community and culture will be invaluable as we move forward under new leadership.

As we welcome Craig and Deryk into their new roles, we also extend our heartfelt thanks to Billy Jacka and Simon Taylor, who have served the club with dedication and distinction as Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively. Their steady guidance and tireless efforts have helped shape the club’s recent progress both on and off the pitch.

This is your club. Be proud of it.”

Billy shared a message to the committee, volunteers and supporters:

“I’m extremely proud to be part of the team that has helped build a lasting legacy at Mousehole — a fabulous ground and facility for future generations, a thriving business that will sustain football here for years to come, and above all, a reputation as a truly decent club to visit. That’s something money can’t buy — it’s what you’ve built through your hard work and dedication. So thank you all. Keep doing what you do — it’s massive and irreplaceable. That’s why Mousehole is what it is. Walk tall and say to yourselves, ‘I’ve helped achieve this’ — because you have. This is your club. Be proud of it.”

While Billy and Simon are stepping back from official duties, we very much hope they will remain regular faces around Interiora Trungle Parc, continuing to contribute in their invaluable way to the ongoing success of Mousehole AFC.

We look forward to this next chapter in the club’s journey and thank all our supporters, volunteers and community members for their continued backing.

💚 2025/26: COMMITTED.

We’re proud to confirm the return of the following players for the new season:

🔒 Aaron Ibbetson
🔒 Hayden Black
🔒 Hayden Turner
🔒 Jack Calver
🔒 Jack Symons
🔒 Jacob Kevern
🔒 James Ward
🔒 Lewis Moyle
🔒 Mark Goldsworthy
🔒 Ollie Chenoweth
🔒 Oscar Massey
🔒 Paulo Ranalli
🔒 Ryan Barrett
🔒 Tallan Mitchell
🔒 Tim Nixon

Also rejoining the group is Josh Otto, who is hopeful of making his return after the injury that has kept him out since last pre-season.

Jake Ash:
“Every summer, the main priority is to ensure we retain the core of the team. These boys best understand what this club stands for and our culture – and that’s so important. We’re really pleased they’ve all committed to the journey next season. It gives us a brilliant platform to build the squad.”

“With some trialists lined up and at least three new additions expected, there’s still more to come. But as always — they’ll need to fit what we’re about and what we want to achieve”

PRYNN BRINGS FIREPOWER BACK TO CORNWALL

Mousehole AFC have secured the signing of Liam Prynn from Tavistock in a move that reunites the striker with his former PE teacher and now manager, Jake Ash.

Prynn, 28, brings a proven goal threat to Trungle Parc as Mousehole prepare for their third season at Step 4.

“I came to Penryn College in Year 7 and left in Year 11” said the forward.. “I ended up signing for Torquay United and working with Jake Ash very closely.”

Prynn was a student at Penryn during Ash’s early years as a teacher, and credits that period as a turning point in his football development.

“Jake kind of revolutionised what football was about at school. The coaching sessions were always first class, set a real precedent and a real professionalism around school football — which I think was a first. That ultimately led to our team going far in the National Cup, and eventually me signing for Torquay.”

After signing as a scholar at 16, Prynn spent two years with Torquay United and earned a one-year professional contract. He went on to play for St Austell, Launceston, and then spent eight years at Tavistock.

Prynn during his time at Torquay Utd

“I think my USP is a natural instinct for goal,” he said. “If I get chances, more often than not they’re going to end up in goals. I think I’ve got a little bit of everything. I can be a bit of a target man if I need to, and I’m quite clever, so I can also play in a good footballing side. Ultimately, I love scoring goals.”

“I want to play at the highest level possible. I think at Mousehole we’ve got the best chance. I want to win this league, go up to the league above and push on from there.”

Ash, who has kept a close eye on Prynn’s progress since school, said the striker will add both quality and experience to the squad.

“We know exactly what we will get from Liam. He’s a player who has been top scorer in this league. He has the ability to create a goal out of nothing, and that’s a special skill.”

“But the thing that’s impressed me most, having watched him over the past few years, is his game intelligence — he is such a clever player. I love that and know how much our other boys will learn from him.”

The move also made sense logistically for Prynn, who lives locally and now works alongside Ash in the PE department at Penryn College.

“Despite working with him, we’ve never properly spoken about it,” said Ash. “But knowing he is working on his house, and how much less travelling it would be for him to come to us, it felt like the right time for us, and I’m so pleased he felt it was for him too.”

Prynn had a final message for the Mousehole supporters:

“It’ll be nice to meet you all down at Trungle, and also to start making some memories. We’re going to go on some good away days, score some goals and have a lot of fun along the way.”

MOUSEHOLE AFC RAISES PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS

Mousehole AFC is proud to partner with Prostate Cancer UK for National Non-League Day, raising awareness about prostate cancer and the importance of early detection. 

To mark the occasion, the team will warm up in special shirts featuring the Prostate Cancer UK logo. Also, a unique Subbuteo set of Mousehole AFC players in themed kits has been created by club secretary Dan Tatarsky.  

Fans attending the match can access free prostate cancer advice at the ground, with discounted entry available for those who purchase a special badge and complete an online risk survey. 

“We’re proud to be involved in such an important initiative,” said Dan. “This campaign saves lives, and we hope to encourage more men to take control of their health.” 

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK. Here are four key points to understand:​  

  • Prevalence: Over 50,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually in the UK, and more than 12,000 men die from it each year. 
  • Age: Primarily affects men aged 50 and over.​ 
  • Ethnicity: Black men face a higher risk, with about 1 in 4 diagnosed in their lifetime.​ 
  • Family History: A family history of prostate cancer increases risk.   
  • Symptoms: Early-stage prostate cancer often presents no symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include urinary issues, blood in urine or semen, and erectile dysfunction. ​  
  • Detection: Regular screenings, such as PSA blood tests and digital rectal examinations, are crucial for early detection, especially for those at higher risk. ​ 

Understanding these factors is vital for early diagnosis and effective treatment.​ 

AS IF IT WERE ONLY YESTERDAY! A FAMOUS SEVEN-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

A ‘retrospective preview’ of the Mousehole v St Austell Cornwall Senior Cup semi-final on Wednesday 5th March at Porthleven

As recalled by Andrew Large

Mousehole’s forthcoming Cornwall Senior Cup semi-final against St Austell brings back vivid and emotional memories from the clash between the same sides at the same stage of the Competition almost exactly seven years ago – on Wednesday 7th March 2018 

What was it all about?  In the 2017/18 season Mousehole were playing at Step 7 in the South West Peninsula League Division One West – three Leagues below where they are now.  That season, they finished 4th with just three defeats in the last 24 matches – but it was their performance and results in the Cup competitions that stood out.  They notched up ‘giant killing’ wins against several opponents from the League above, reaching the semi-finals of the SWP League Cup, with wins against Premier Division sides Camelford and Launceston in the earlier rounds before losing 2-0 to higher-league Tavistock at Mount Wise Newquay. 

The icing on the cake!  And right at the end of May they lifted the Cornwall Charity Cup for the second time in three years with a 5-0 humbling of Wadebridge Town at Penryn Athletic, remarkably the same scoreline as in their first triumph against St Dennis at Priory Park Bodmin in that sensational double-winning 2015/16 season. 

But that’s not the most important bit!  A much bigger and dramatic story unfolded in the Cornwall Senior Cup, the County FA’s prestigious 120-year-old knock-out competition.   

There’s a first time for everything!  Mousehole reached the semi-finals of the CSC for the first time in their near-100 year history with wins against lower-level Cornwall Combination League sides RNAS Culdrose and West Cornwall, followed by a spectacular 5-0 trouncing of Premier Division Newquay.   

What about St Austell?  The Lilywhites were undoubtedly one of the most impressive sides in the County at the time.  Their recent history was peppered with successful achievements.  They had become SWP Premier Champions and then Runners-up in consecutive seasons; reached the national FA Vase semi-finals before missing out on a Wembley Final appearance by the narrowest of margins over two legs; and in terms of their pedigree in the CSC they had claimed the trophy for an incredible 14th time.   

The stage was set.  The Mousehole/St Austell Senior Cup semi-final took place on a very wet evening on neutral territory at Helston Athletic’s Kellaway Park.  It was then a rare occurrence for The Seagulls to play under floodlights, and equally rare to play in front of a crowd as big as the 381 on this occasion.  The difference in status and track record between the two teams would have suggested a comfortable passage through to the Final for the illustrious Lilywhites.  They would surely brush their opponents aside with their talented, strong and experienced squad.  Maybe Mousehole, the minnows,  would just have to be content with a sense of pride in participating? 

How things turned out differently – the key moments: 

Improbably, Mousehole take the lead in the 6th minute, Jake Andrew nodding a corner back from beyond the far post for Luke Johnson to lash a low drive home from ten yards. 

Ominously, an equaliser arrives on 17 minutes as Martin Watts lofts an inswinging free kick towards the six-yard box in the direction of St Austell’s towering defenders, and Martin Giles powers home an unstoppable header.  

If you are a Mousehole fan, you start to worry.  But player/manager Calum Elliot’s cohorts keep their composure and give as good as they get up to half time. 

Just after the hour, competitiveness boils over with St Austell’s Chris Reski provoking a mass confrontation after a violent tackle, earning himself a straight red card in the process.   

Five minutes later it’s ten-versus-ten as Liam Andrew receives his second yellow card in the blink of an eye.   

The greater space on the pitch now seems to suit Mousehole better, with careful stewardship of the ball and flexible movement on the slick surface. 

Is this a significant moment?   It’s a 75th minute substitute appearance of Steven Ziboth.  A darting winger replacing a focal-point striker.  Immediately, his energy, movement and pace keeps St Austell’s usually watertight defence guessing, twisting and turning.

Mousehole hit the woodwork before the end of regular time, but never mind that, a 1-1 scoreline is already a magnificent achievement for The Seagulls.  

The half hour of extra time beckons, intriguingly.  

It’s still level at the half-way point.  Who, in the second period, will have most left in the tank, seize on a half chance, or make an unforced error?  Could it end up with one of those nerve-wracking penalty shoot-outs? 

Here’s the answer: On 115 minutes, Mousehole’s elegant Frenchman William Vouama slaloms past labouring defenders and chips a delicate pass into the path of his alert compatriot Ziboth for a cool low shot past keeper Jason Chapman.  A 2-1 lead, and as this fascinating tie has progressed, now more deserved than unexpected: a triumph of skill, courage, decision-making and fitness.

 But can the men in green hold on to their precious lead for the last five minutes, plus whatever’s added on?  It’s hearts-in-mouth stuff past the 120 minutes mark as the entire St Austell team including keeper Chapman are up for a last-chance corner.  Martin Giles’ header in a grid-locked penalty area is hacked off the line by Tyler Tonkin.  Seagulls’ keeper Steve Parker-Billinge gets to the loose ball first.  Instead of playing for time he instantly throws out to Steven Ziboth on the left.  With the freedom of Kellaway Park ahead of him, and no defenders or the goalkeeper ever likely to catch him, the Usain Bolt of West Cornwall speeds towards the other end, ball seemingly tied to boot laces. For the rest of us on the sidelines, time stands still.  We nearly stop breathing.   But our man calmly rolls the ball into the unguarded net from the 18-yard line to clinch a 3-1 victory with 123 minutes on the stopwatch. 

Seconds later, the final whistle: hugs, handshakes and hoarse voices from the sizeable and noisy Mousehole contingent – and a few tears in the eyes having witnessed first-hand this most improbable dream-come-true. 

 And so, on to a historic first-ever Senior Cup Final. “Giant-Killing Mousehole Soar Into Historic Cornwall Senior Cup Final” was the headline.  The Final was on Easter Monday at St Blazey’s Blaise Park against serial Senior Cup winners Saltash United: a story for another time. 

On to today – how times have changed!  For this 2025 repeat encounter, Mousehole will be deemed favourites, being currently among the play-off promotion contenders at Step 4 in the Southern League.  St Austell, plying their trade as a mid-table side at Step 5 in the Western League, will be the ones, this time, looking to turn the tables and create a giant-killing upset. 

Players’ details 

  • St Austell’s team in 2018 included two players who have since become Mousehole stalwarts:  Jack Calver and Mark Goldsworthy
  • Of the Mousehole squad for that tie, two players are still at the club:  Paulo Ranalli Sousa and Josh Otto – the latter an unused substitute on the night
  • Mousehole’s line-up was:  Steve Parker-Billinge (GK), Tyler Tonkin, Billy Curtis (Captain), Calum Elliot (Player-Manager), Liam Andrew, Kevin Lawrence, Jordan Adlard, William Vouama, Luke Johnson, Jake Andrew, Paulo Sousa.  Substitutes: Steven Ziboth (for Jake Andrew 75’), Connor Davey, Caleb Marsden, Josh Otto. 
  • St Austell lined up as:  Jason Chapman (GK), Will Tinsley, Martin Watts, Martin Giles, Tom Chambers, Ross Lye, Jordan Dingle, Chris Reski, Liam Dingle, Mark Goldsworthy, Jack Calver.  Substitutes: Flack (for L Dingle 85’), Searle, Powell, Lean

Match Officials:  Referee – Neil Hunnisett;  Assistant Referees – Steve Nute & Keith Houghton; Fourth Official – Steve Ennis

INTERIORA PARC IS THE NEW NAME FOR THE HOME OF MOUSEHOLE AFC

Mousehole AFC are delighted to announce that Trungle Parc is being renamed Interiora Parc. The renaming is part of a new partnership deal we’ve entered into with local bathroom showroom Interiora.

A Newlyn-based business, run by Megan Dack, Interiora design and install beautiful bathrooms. They have been associated with The Seagulls for a few years already and this is a natural progression in strengthening that bond.

Megan Dack with Mousehole Vice-Chairman Simon Taylor and players Ryan Barrett, Julio Fresneda and Medo Konte

For the traditionalists you’ll still need to “Get ready to Trunnnnngggggllle” but now we want to hear you “InteriROARa!”

To learn more about the inspiring work that Megan and her team produce please visit interiora.co.uk

Megan Dack told us why she has entered into this exciting new collaboration.

“As I sit down to reflect on the journey of our company, Interiora, I can hardly believe we are celebrating our tenth anniversary. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of providing beautiful bathrooms and exquisite tiles to countless homes, helping our clients create spaces that bring them joy. However, as we reach this milestone, I feel a strong desire to give back to the community that has supported us throughout our journey.

This year, we’re excited to announce that Interiora has decided to sponsor the Mousehole AFC ground. The decision wasn’t difficult; it stems from a personal connection to the club. My son has recently developed a huge interest in football, and we’ve witnessed a remarkable transformation in his confidence since he joined the Mousehole Merlin U9’s youth team. The joy he feels on the pitch and the friendships he has formed are invaluable, and I can’t help but think about how important it is to support the club that has made such a positive impact on his life.

Sponsoring Mousehole AFC is not just about promoting our business; it’s about nurturing the community and encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams. Who knows? One day, my son might don the colours of the men’s team. It’s a thought that fills me with pride and excitement. By supporting the club, we’re investing in the future of these young footballers, ensuring they have the resources and encouragement they need to succeed.

At Interiora, we believe in the power of community and the importance of fostering local talent. We’re thrilled to partner with Mousehole AFC, and I can’t wait to see how our support will help the club grow and thrive. Here’s to many more years of creating beautiful spaces and supporting the passions that bring us together!”