BAFTA-winning film director Mark Jenkin has taken Cornish stories to international screens, yet most home games you will still find him behind the goal at Interiora Trungle Parc cheering on the boys in green. His connection to the club runs deeper than a passing interest. Family roots, childhood memories on the old pitch, the pull of community, and the sheer pleasure of watching Mousehole play the game the right way have made him a familiar face at home matches.
We sat down with Mark to talk Cornwall, filmmaking and his devotion to the club. The full interview will appear in the next edition of Seagulls. For now, here is a quick-fire round that says plenty about the man in the Mousehole shirt.
Best ever memory at the club?
Either promotion to the Southern League or a home game against Falmouth. I arrived late after the Gorsedh ceremony — I’m a bard — and squeezed in behind the goal even though the F-Troop had taken it over. We came from behind and won it with a last-minute scramble, right in front of them. They went silent, we went mad. A brilliant moment.
Worst memory?
Any game that’s called off for weather. Nothing worse than walking up the hill only to hear it’s off — especially that New Year’s Day fixture against Tavistock a couple of seasons back. Totally gutting, though obviously nobody’s fault.
Favourite player of all time?
Goldie. A club legend. I’ve thought I’d watched his “last game” about five times. His leadership, his talking, his work off the ball — even when he was playing with his arm hanging off, he made the team better. When he does finally retire, it’ll leave a huge hole.
Favourite player at the moment?
I won’t single anyone out — but let’s just say I’m really looking forward to seeing Jack Calver back on the pitch.
Which team do you support other than Mousehole?
Argyle. I was brought up watching them because Cornwall was a rugby county — if you wanted football, you crossed the border. I used to think I was a West Ham fan who watched Argyle, but eventually realised it was the other way around. Still West Ham as well though — that’s inherited from my dad.
What do you think of the new kit?
I love it. As long as it’s green, I’m happy. It’s got a retro, late-1980s graphic designer vibe — a bit like that Dutch ’88 kit. Looks great.
What’s on your running playlist?
Nothing. Music makes me too aware of time passing. I listen to audiobooks or podcasts — it’s how I consume most of my reading.
Mark Jenkin’s new film, Rose of Nevada, premieres next Spring
