"Prag yth yw Kernewek da rag Kernow" or "Why Cornish is good for Cornwall"

As it campaigns to persuade the Government to reverse its decision to withdraw funding for the language, the council has released a leaflet identifying five key reasons why the language, Kernewek, is important.

The Government announced in April that it was cutting all Cornish language funding despite previously reassuring the council that an alternative funding route would be identified, leading to a petition signed by more than 8,000 people.

The council's reasons for reinstating funding are: Rag negys, or for business, as Cornwall thrives on its distinctiveness and Kernewek differentiates Cornish produce and identity, increasing income and jobs.

Rag agan kemeneth, or for our community, giving children a stronger bond with where they come from and enabling Cornwall to take part in international projects not open to other counties in England.

Rag adhyskans, or for education, as a second language can enhance children's academic performance, developing communication skills and enhances the ability to learn other languages.

Rag agan kerghynnedh, or for our environment, as the landscape would not be recognisably Cornish without elements such as Tre, Pol, and Pen, and this understanding helps us understand the history of our environment.

Rag gonisogeth ha ertach, or for culture and heritage, as Cornwall has a very strong cultural identity and a regeneration programme based on its heritage, and Kernewek underpins this, encouraging creativity and making funding bids stand out.

Julian German, Cornwall Council's portfolio holder for economy and culture, said: “The Cornish language is a great source of pride for Cornwall and is part of what makes Cornwall and the Cornish unique.

“Over the last five years use of the language has increased and this is reflected in street names, signage and on mainstream and social media. Just as importantly, it supports our local and visitor economy as the increase in the use of the language in marketing and tourism has proved. “

“In fact, if you need evidence of the importance of the Cornish language and the growing interest in its use, you need only look at the publicity generated by the first Cornish speaking television advert produced by Kelly’s which was broadcast on national television this week”.

That national prime time advert, which features an ice cream seller speaking Cornish while selling his product, was created with support from Mark Trevethan, from the Council’s Cornish Language Office, who said: “Although the advert is fun and entertaining, it is also making a serious point about the important role of language in celebrating culture and heritage.“