The ‘Cuckoo’ Man

Adapted from the papers & photographs of my late Grandfather

William Frederick IVEY

1903-2000

There are lots of characters I could mention from my early days in Helston, but one I can`t fail to miss was called the CUCKOO MAN.

His real name was GEORGE HOLMES, a street entertainer who made the sound of the cuckoo as part of his act.

He tried to sing, but not very well and I remember him once telling me he had collected only fourpence after a day on the streets of Helston.

I don`t think he impressed many people with his performances and I felt sorry for the old boy.

I think he was just one of those people who had fallen on hard times.