A recent incident at a Tesco supermarket in Helston, Cornwall has sparked debate after Welsh language signage was mistakenly displayed instead of Cornish. The bilingual signs, which included terms like “bwyd môr” for seafood and “tatws melys” for sweet potato, drew both amusement and concern from local shoppers. While some Cornish speakers can understand Welsh due to linguistic similarities, local officials emphasised the need for appropriate representation of the Cornish language.
Local Reactions to the Signage Mix-Up
Councillor Loveday Jenkin expressed her disappointment at the oversight, stating that any bilingual signage should reflect the local language, Kernewek, rather than Welsh. She noted that the error could serve as a catalyst for advocating for Cornish representation in major retail outlets. Jenkin remarked, “This highlights an opportunity for supermarkets to support the Cornish language more directly,” as she called for greater awareness and use of Cornish in everyday settings.
The signs have since been removed, following an apology from Tesco for the mix-up. The supermarket chain acknowledged the mistake and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that any bilingual signage aligns with local languages.
The Importance of Bilingual Signage
Jenkin, who is affiliated with the Mebyon Kernow party, pointed out that bilingual signs could contribute to normalising the use of Cornish in public life. She noted, “Cornish speakers can understand some of the Welsh because some of the words are similar,” indicating a cultural connection between the two languages. Furthermore, she advocated for the inclusion of Cornish in public signage to raise awareness and appreciation for the language, even among those who do not speak it fluently.
Dr Garry Tregidga, co-director of the University of Exeter’s Institute for Cornish Studies, acknowledged the embarrassment for Tesco but welcomed the intention behind the signage. “This is a sign of the increasing number of people who are using and recognising Cornish,” he said. He also offered support for anyone at Tesco needing assistance in creating accurate Cornish signage.
Recent Developments in Cornish Language Recognition
The incident comes on the heels of a significant development for the Cornish language, which was recently granted further protection under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. This accord places Cornish on par with other recognised Celtic languages, including Welsh, providing a framework for its preservation and promotion.
Currently, there are approximately 400 to 500 proficient speakers of Cornish and between 2,500 and 5,000 individuals with basic knowledge of the language. The Cornish people are classified as a national minority under the European Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities, granting them a similar status to that of the Welsh, Irish, and Scots within the UK. In the 2021 census, over 100,000 people identified as Cornish, highlighting the language’s cultural significance.
Why it Matters
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges and opportunities in promoting minority languages in the UK. The error made by Tesco highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and accuracy in a diverse society. As communities like Cornwall seek to revitalise their linguistic heritage, the need for proper representation in public spaces becomes increasingly vital. This situation may prompt larger discussions about the role of businesses in supporting local languages and cultures, ultimately fostering a greater sense of identity and belonging among residents.
