Aussie ‘Pirate’ Noel Visits Penzance

Aussie ‘Pirate’ Noel Visits Penzance

Spotted by taking an interest about the Mennaye Field by Cornish Pirates’ COO Robin James, Australian visitor Noel Skewes was promptly invited to look around the Pirates ‘Westholme’ clubhouse.

Noel greatly appreciated the opportunity, and meeting club archivist Phil Westren was especially interested to hear about the 1947/48 Wallabies who spent nearly three weeks in Penzance at the start of their tour.

A member of the Pirates RFC in Tamworth, New South Wales, Noel’s club was founded in 1962, when he played for the side.

Visiting the UK and Ireland with his wife, Noel’s family originated from Cury, near Helston. A grandfather, as was the case for so many Cornishmen, emigrated to Australia to work in the mines.

During his brief but enjoyable visit, Noel also advised that Tamworth is some 280 miles from the sea, so the chosen Pirates RFC name was perhaps unusual. Also, apparently, there were some most peculiar club rules back in 1962, including no training and a different captain nominated to lead the team each week.

Over the years, however, the Pirates Rugby Club in Tamworth regardless made its mark in Central Northern Rugby and has developed a wonderful team spirit. Improvements and success have also been achieved by what is proudly a family club.