Ann Szoka shares memories of childhood adventures, family heritage, and community life in Cornwall.
Ann fondly recalls summer holidays spent playing on a local farm, where she and her friends built camps from hay bales. One amusing story involves her friend Jeanette losing a shoe in the hay, only for it to resurface the next day on Charlie’s milk and vegetable cart as he asked each household, “Is this your girl’s shoe?” The shoe’s return caused great embarrassment for Jeanette and amusement for all.
Ann also reflects on her Polish surname, Szoka, which often baffled people. Her young son could spell it from an early age because they were constantly having to explain it. She shares the story of her Polish father-in-law who endured the upheaval of war fighting alongside the British during the Second World War. After the war, he settled in Cornwall, where he met and married Thelma. Despite family resistance due to his foreign background, they married—though Thelma’s father refused to attend the wedding.
Ann also speaks about her involvement at Heartlands, where she volunteered to revitalise a neglected polytunnel. What was once an empty space is now a vibrant community growing area, shared by 12 members who each have their own plot. Through teamwork, a watering system, and a WhatsApp group, the group now cultivates everything from tomatoes to courgettes in a spirit of mutual support and friendship.
She shares another touching story about a quilt made over 35 years ago and finally, Ann recalls her childhood in Pool, where she grew up in a row of houses full of children.
