Helston

Template:GBdot Helston (Cornish: Hellys or Henlys) is a small town in Cornwall, UK, at the northern end of the Lizard Peninsula. Depending on the definition of "town" it can be said to be the most southerly town in Great Britain. The former tin mining town is also known for the annual Furry Dance, dating from the seventeenth century at the latest, and is the home of the Flambards Theme Park.

Helston was also the birthplace of Bob "Ruby Robert" Fitzsimmons, the first triple world boxing champion. The house where he lived in Helston is still standing and is denoted by a plaque above the door.

Helston is situated along the banks of the river Cober in Cornwall. It was a market town with access to the sea. However this access was denied when the inlet was blocked by a sand bar (the Loe Bar) creating the biggest natural lake in Cornwall, known as the Loe Pool. This, although damaging to the town, did not destroy it and it continued to prosper through industries like tin mining and coin manufacture. In more recent times the town has become more tourist orientated with many bed and breakfasts and shops. Tourists are attracted to the area because of the wonderful scenery provided by the Penrose walks and the relaxing holidays available in the area. The seaside is only about 4 miles away and the beautiful fishing village of Porthleven. The town also prospers due to the constant development and expansion. There is a major secondary school and three main local primary schools. There are multiple churches including St. Michael's Church, a beautiful old church with stained-glass windows and a tall bell tower.

Many people come to the town as a result of a posting at the Royal Navy air station RNAS Culdrose (HMS Seahawk). This helicopter base provides jobs for a large percentage of the population of Helston.

Helston has good transport links, is not far from main road and rail links and the nearest airport is in Newquay.

Helston elected two members to the Unreformed House of Commons. The Reform Act 1832 reduced this to one. Helston is now part of the St. Ives parliamentary constituency, which covers the southernmost part of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, current member Andrew George (Liberal Democrat).

Since 1968 it has been the twin city of Sasso Marconi, in Italy.